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The Gulf of Mexico, 2004.
This paper discusses the ?dead zone? in the Gulf of Mexico, an area of hypoxic ocean waters, meaning that the area is oxygen-deficient and unable to support marine life.
915 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, now roughly the size of the state of New Jersey, the Gulf of Mexico's dead zone was first discovered in the early 1970s when the phenomenon occurred only once every two or three years; however, due to an increase in environmental pollutants, the dead zone currently occurs every summer in Gulf waters. The author points out that hypoxia occurs when pollutant-ridden water from the Mississippi River flows into the Gulf of Mexico; this carries an excess of nutrients, especially nitrogen, into the salt water, encouraging local algal populations to thrive by killing off the fish. The paper stresses that the dead zone in the Gulf affects not only marine life, but also human welfare because fishing and farming industries are the most directly and adversely affected by hypoxia.
From the Paper
"The effects of the Gulf dead zone are far-reaching. For example, the algal blooms cause shellfish poisoning, which can cause permanent memory loss. The dead zone is also an aesthetic problem, including the sight of millions of dead fish. Elizabeth Carlisle (2000) notes that hypoxia in the Gulf causes ?food chain alterations, loss of biodiversity, and high aquatic species mortality.? The consequences are therefore long-term and affect not only the local ecosystem, but ecosystems across the globe."
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Human Cloning, 2004.
An overview of the ethical factors surrounding the issue of human cloning.
2,838 words (approx. 11.4 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 84.95
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Abstract
As with most ethical debates, the argument regarding cloning stems from the fact that it is not completely bad, nor is it completely good. In fact, for many scientists, the cloning of human beings was not a motivating factor. It was the possibility of good things that cloning could bring that was foremost in most scientists? minds. This paper examines the arguments for and against human cloning, using several sources as references for these views, including Bill McKibben's "Enough" and Gilbert Meilaender's essay, ?Human Cloning Would Violate the Dignity of Children?.
From the Paper
"Many individuals have considered what cloning would mean to society as a whole. Cardinal John O?Connor believes that cloning also risks changing society in ways we cannot imagine. What we think and how we feel about one another hinges on the results of cloning. O?Connor has clear objections to human cloning, noting it is a ?drastic invasion of human parenthood? (O?Connor 10). He feels that cloning is a deliberate act that creates children without parents and is therefore disrespectful not only to human dignity but to marriage as well. O?Connor demonstrates that during history, the ?Judeo-Christian tradition has respected the divine design of life-giving love.? In his view, cloning replaces the ?personal, unitive, two-in-one flesh dimension of life-giving material love? (10) with ?technological replication? (10)."
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Depression, 2004.
Examines the neurobiological causes of depression.
1,970 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 11 sources, APA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
Depression is often assuaged by a change in circumstances or a visual, olfactory, or gustatory stimulus. This essay identifies the underlying neurobiological and clinical causes of depression, especially, chronic depression. It also explores the medications that either have been used in the past or are currently in use. It also considers other factors that cause depression, such as sociological concerns, adverse reactions to drugs, and an emotional crisis.
From the Paper
"Non-neuronal hormones are also implicated in depression. This is associated with an increased level of the hormone cortisol that is secreted by the adrenal glands located near the kidneys. Cortisol levels have been shown to decrease when the symptoms of depression go away. Even cortisol secretion finds its origin in the brain. The hypothalamic region in the brain makes corticotrophic-releasing hormone. This then stimulates the pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotrophic hormone. The next step in this pathway is the secretion of higher (than necessary) levels of cortisol. (Mackin & Allan H. Young, 2004)."
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Human Cloning, 2004.
A brief literature review of both sides of the human cloning debate.
827 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how human cloning has always stirred healthy debate and how philosophical theories regarding the issue of cloning range from the technological to the ethical. The value of human life is also juxtaposed with the benefits to those who are suffering. It looks at how some view cloning as an inevitable process that is bound to occur as society forges ahead into the next age of medical discovery, while others see the act of human cloning as a slippery slope that will lead to cloning for spare parts, thus removing the dignity of life itself.
From the Paper
"When we consider these varying views, we discover that many philosophical viewpoints revolve around the issue of values. In other words, cloning devalues life because it degrades others as a means to our ends. John Kilner, in his essay, ?Human Cloning Would Violate Christian Ethics,? staunchly believes, ?human cloning will cause the deaths of human beings?(Kilner 13). In short, the act of cloning, whether or not it saves live, devalues life itself. He asserts that because cloning is not yet a perfect science, many human embryos would be lost and therefore, the ?cost is unacceptably high? (14). He grounds his argument on the ?277 failed attempts? (14) that took place before Dolly was cloned successfully."
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Evolution of the Domestic Dog, 2004.
Discusses how the domestic dog evolved, based on Darwin's theory.
1,910 words (approx. 7.6 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 60.95
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Abstract
Although the ideas behind evolution were discussed much earlier, Charles Darwin was the first to present a coherent scientific theory of the process. Since then, due in large part to genetic science, Darwin?s theory has been revised. However, theories are constantly subject to testing, modification, and refutation as new evidence and ideas emerge. This paper discusses how scientists are debating the evolution of the domestic dog, since new propositions are being suggested. The paper shows that the true derivation of this animal, which has so greatly impacted the lives of humans, remains to be seen.
From the Paper
"The debate on the evolution of dogs is going to continue until enough evidence arises that gives most credence to a particular theory. In the meantime, scientists will continue to collect information and data. For example, Israeli archaeologists recently found a woman who was buried 12,000 years ago with what many believe is a puppy in her hands. Nearby, archaeologists found a man from the same era buried with two small canids, also presumably dogs. Coppinger is not swayed by this latter find because the bones are too wolflike. Yet Tamar Dayan, an archaeologist at Tel Aviv University, points out that the specimens have some key dog characteristics, such as crowded teeth and shorter jaws (Pennisi, 1540)."
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Autism, 2004.
This paper discusses that, although the etiology is unknown, a number of theories are being suggested for autism, a mental handicap that results from abnormalities in brain development.
1,575 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that autism is not a disease in itself, but rather a condition or a disorder of development; children afflicted with this disorder exhibit a strange behavioral complex, do not form normal social relationships, and have seriously impaired communication ability. The author points out that the biological theory of autism includes a broad array of causative factors, including genetic anomalies, viral infections, metabolic conditions, congenital abnormalities, and biochemical imbalances. The paper concludes that the rapid advancement in molecular genetics is shedding new light in the study of autism; there is no question that this will further the understanding the neuropsychology of autism.
Table of Contents
Thesis
Introduction
Biological Theory of Autism
Genetic Causes of Autism
Genetic Conditions that Cause Autism
The Central Coherence Theory
Conclusion
From the Paper
"A growing amount of literature has furthered our understanding of the mental states particular to autism and other related disorders. It is known that 75% of people with autism have intellectual disability, and 30% of people having intellectual disability have autistic disorders. When compared with other subjects individuals with autism perform well in tasks that require analytical processing rather than global processing. A recent study by N.van Lang et al analyzed the connection between autistic disorder or autism on central coherence. For the study 43 subjects were chosen from special education schools. The whole pool of subjects having intellectual disability were neatly identified into two groups, one which fell under the autistic spectrum and other which have learning disabilities that fell outside the autistic spectrum. The study result supported the ?central coherence theory? by confirming that the subjects with autism or comorbid disorders related to the autistic spectrum, performed well in highly analytical and detail focused tasks."
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Human Cloning, 2004.
This paper makes extensive use of the writings of Darwin and Hitler to introduce a discussion on human cloning and its ethics.
4,460 words (approx. 17.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 116.95
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Abstract
This paper states that cloning appeared to be the closest realization and rationalization of Hitler?s delusion of a master race. The author points out that cloning seems to be quite tempting to a dictator-parent who wants her offspring to replicate her exclusively or to a narcissistic father who wants to see himself in an exact-duplicate offspring that repeats him like a mirror. The paper stresses that, even when the public is sufficiently educated on the genetic cloning of human beings to handle the darkest suspicions and fears, questions arise as to the social and moral interests and rights of human clones, the moral consequences of human cloning itself, and the probability that people would become more motivated to reproduce children by cloning than in the way nature intends, which is sexually and at random.
From the Paper
"Hitler thought that people could cooperate with nature?s law by not mating with those of either higher or lower biological orders, but by letting the higher order ?triumph.? He wrote: ?The stronger must dominate and not mate with the weaker, which would signify the sacrifice of its own higher nature. Only the born weakling can look upon this principle as cruel, and if he does so, it is merely because he is of a feebler nature and narrower mind (Hitler).? He stood firmly on what he considered a most perceivable and empirical progression in nature and that, if this were not the position taken, the higher development of organic life would not be conceivable or possible at all."
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Osmoregulation in elasmobranchs, 2004.
Looks at the elasmobranch species of fish and its ability to adapt to decreases in environmental salinity.
1,600 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the ability of the elasmobranch fish, which includes sharks, skates, and rays, to acclimate to changes in habitat salinities. The paper looks at the different degrees to which different elasmobranch fish can adapt to decreases in in environmental salinity. The process, known as osmoregulation, allows for greater adaptation in some elasmobranch fish than others.
From the Paper
"In the article by Hazon et al (2003, pp. 685-687), the bull shark, Carcharhinus leucas, and the Atlantic stingray, Dasyatis sabina, euryhaline elasmobranchs, are described according to their osmoregulatory strategies for achieving full euryhalinity. Partially euryhaline elasmobranchs, such as Scyliorhinus canicula, the small-spotted catshark, and the skate Raja erinacea, are also characterized for their osmoregulatory mechanisms and ability to acclimate to reduced salinities. The review compared the Na+, Cl-, and urea in the plasma of these species in saltwater and freshwater environments. Body fluid osmolality was also assessed per environmental condition. As these elements of the osmoregulatory system were described, their relationship to the key body systems was expanded upon. While a summation of endocrine control in the osmoregulatory process is limited in scope, peptidergic-hormonal control, including discussion of the peptides CNP, AVT, and Ang II, as well as the elasmobranch specific corticosteroid 1??hydroxycorticosterone (1??OH-B), is the focus of the paper. These methods of review for the osmoregulatory mechanism in euryhaline elasmobranchs clarifies the relevance of certain major peptides, the plasma Na+, Cl-, and urea concentrations, and the gills, kidneys, liver, and rectal gland in relation to maintaining body osmolality in changing salinities."
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Human Cloning, 2004.
This paper discusses the attitudes of scientists toward the ethics of human cloning.
1,550 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper relates that scientists believe if they have the option to work with an unlimited number of human cells through human cloning, they have resources to attempt new procedures and push the limits of scientific knowledge. The author points out that the power of wholesale manufacture of human tissue is the very heart of the debate because human beings are not automobiles, which can roll off an assembly line at the rate of a few per hour. The paper presents the argument of one scientist who compares human cloning to in vitro fertilization: if the human can be conceived outside of the human conjugal act, then why cannot a human be created completely in a laboratory via cloning?
From the Paper
"The most disturbing acknowledgement Pence makes is that, in his opinion, the whole question of cloning human beings needs to be "Fletcherized." Pence makes this reference to align his viewpoint on cloning with the secular viewpoints of Joseph Fletcher, whose "situation ethics" were successful in devolving religious ethics out of the modern mindset. He was responsible for creating secular degradation three decades ago. While secular society may no be free from the 'regulations and restrictions of religious ethics.' our concern for human live, and perspective that all men and women deserve life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness has also been lost somewhere in the argument."
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Bipolar Disorder and Twins, 2004.
Examines the correlation between bipolar disorder and identical twins.
1,830 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 12 sources, APA, $ 58.95
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Abstract
Research has recently indicated that there are multiple genetic pathways leading to the development of bipolar disorder. This paper presents a detailed examination of the incidence of bipolar disorder among identical twins. The author explores bipolar disorder's genetic components and then explores whether or not identical twins have a higher incidence of the disorder than the general population.
From the Paper
"The understanding that mental illness, including bipolar disorder, is genetically based has created curiosity about where the biology is involved. One of the things that have been examined is whether or not identical twins have a higher incidence of the disorder. It is an interesting question because of the fact that identical twins have identical DNA. If a higher incidence or a correlation can be found between identical twins and bipolar disorder, it will be further evidence of the biological basis for the disorder as well as a closer look as to its biological origin being before birth, and not something that happens after birth(Taylor, 2003)."
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Canine Communication, 2004.
A look at how dogs behave and communicate.
1,368 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how elements of natural canid social tendencies and their highly communicative natural behaviors account for their ability to be trained and for the particularly fulfilling relationships that characterize their modern association with humans, whether in the role of social companion or working partnership. It attempts to show how our general appreciation of the full extent to which dogs communicate in their own language is minimal in comparison to the extent of our successful exploitation of their ability to learn to understand our form(s) of communication.
From the Paper
"Dogs use their tails for many more communicative purposes than merely
wagging them to indicate their happiness. Experts still disagree as to the origins of tail wagging, with some even going so far as maintaining that it is strictly an adaptive behavior specifically for communicating with humans and virtually absent in their natural repertoire, despite much evidence that would seem to disprove that belief, conclusively.(Coren, p.105) According to Desmond Morris, the origins of tail wagging has its roots in a manifestation of ambivalence, when nursing puppies still find comfort nestled amongst littermates, while simultaneously seeking their exclusive space and control over their mother?s nipple during suckling."
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Bioethics, 2004.
A discussion of the article, ?Bioethics, Public Health, and Firearm-Related Violence: Missing Links Between Bioethics and Public Health".
1,115 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This is an analysis of the concepts, treatment, and findings of a paper, entitled ?Bioethics, Public Health, and Firearm-Related Violence: Missing Links Between Bioethics and Public Health". The writer looks at the arguments, their rationality, and impact on current American society. The author powerfully criticizes the negligence of the practitioners of bioethics in addressing the more important issues of concern to their science.
From the Paper
"It is agreed that practitioners have neglected the more serious issues concerning public health and should be more interested in them than the more superficial and less serious issues. Public health, social medicine and community health sciences deserve a lot of these practitioners? time and attention in the form of honest-to-goodness investigative work and purposeful resolution of problems, especially firearm-related violence in these fields. Besides physicians who are the first to confront victims of combat wounds and gun-related injuries or deaths, it is the bioethics practitioner who must exhibit the strongest concern over the prevalence of such violence in the US."
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C-Reactive Proteins, 2004.
An analysis of C-reactive proteins as a marker for heart disease.
2,033 words (approx. 8.1 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 64.95
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Abstract
This paper defines c-reactive protein (CRP), an acute phase plasma protein that responds to inflammatory conditions by binding to damaged cells and activating complement, increasing proportionately to inflammatory stimuli. It explains that CRP as an indicator of heart disease risk or onset of myocardial infarction could be valuable in terms of early detection and potential future use of CRP inhibitors for therapeutic value. This paper also shows that evaluation, on an individual basis, for the serum testing of CRP should be based on findings from the physical exam and medical history to determine the true nature of CRP elevations, with positive implications for disease prevention and treatment.
From the Paper
"Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the Western World, killing approximately 17 million people per year. It can take the form of high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, peripheral vascular disease, stroke, or rheumatic heart disease. Risk factors include old age, smoking, obesity, heredity, race, physical inactivity, hyperlipidemia, poor diet, high blood pressure, increased alcohol consumption, diabetes, and stress. The medical history would consider these risk factors, with a physical exam noting the patient?s condition relative to the presented risk factors. Combined, these elements could warrant further testing to diagnostically determine the patient?s risk or development of heart disease, its stage, and characterization."
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Genetically Modified Food, 2004.
This paper is an extensive discussion of genetic modification (GM) of food, also known as genetic engineering, genetic manipulation, gene technology, and recombinant DNA technology, which is the most recent application of biotechnology to food.
8,045 words (approx. 32.2 pages), 14 sources, MLA, $ 173.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, for many centuries, farmers fought pests using everything from usual plant-breeding techniques to chemicals, such as pesticides and herbicides; but, as new chemical treatments increased health and environmental concerns, gene modification became the agro-scientists? tool for advancing molecular biology. The author points out that over 40 plant varieties have completed all of the federal requirements for commercialization as per the FDA and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The paper explains that, although customers in the U. S. are accepting GM foods, customers in Japan are beginning to show a strong liking for unmodified fruits and vegetables in supermarkets offering both GM foods and unmodified foods.
Table of Contents
Do We Need Genetically Modified Food?
Does the Human Race Need GM Food?
Background Information on the Types of Plant Genetic Engineering
The Worldwide Issue of GM Food, Advantages and Disadvantages
How Prevalent are GM Foods?
What Plants Are Used?
Genetic Engineering Techniques
Other Issues
How GM foods are Regulated and the Government?s Role
What Limits are Put on Farmers?
How they are Labeled for the General Public?
Ethical and Social Aspects Involved and Implications for the Third World
From the Paper
"Genetically modified foods (GM foods or GMF) provide opportunities to swiftly enhance crop nature such as yield, pest resistance, or herbicide tolerance, which is not successful with conventional methods. From the predecessor to plastics to consumable vaccines, GM crops can be molded to make completely artificial substances. The methods of modern genetics have made it probable for the direct action of the genetic makeup of organisms. Using genetic engineering, plants from wild relatives, other distantly related plants, or almost any other organism can be relocated with simple genetic qualities into the crop."
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Darwin Today, 2004.
An analysis of Darwin's theories in light of modern chemical, neurological, and biological innovations.
2,713 words (approx. 10.9 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 81.95
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Abstract
This paper proposes that Darwin's theories need to be re-analyzed and considered together with today's advances in science and with the advantage of hindsight and modernity. The paper explains what Darwin's theory is and then explores the issues and problems with the theory in light of today's knowledge.
Contents
Introduction
Anthropomorphic Animal Understanding
Assumed Intelligence or Programmed Response
Environmental Stresses as a Precursor to Change
The Difference Between Animals and Humans
Darwin?s Assumption
Examples in Plant Life
Positive Response to Environmental Stress
Chemical and Biological Programming for the Well-being of the Species
Examples in Animal Life
Well-Fed Bears
Maladaptive Response to Reward Training
Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper
This hypothesis does not take into consideration the positive nature of adverse conditions. This hypothesis does not address that learned behaviors, a mental cognitive function, may not be the only factors influencing the animal?s behaviors. In humans, we have the ability to use our mental abilities to overcome fears, to relearn habits, and to change behaviors. Humans have the ability to, as a result of stresses or reward, chart an individual course of action unrepentant of environmental stimuli. As a facilitator of the success of individualization, we also have the ability to overcome environmentally adverse conditions if necessary in order to complete our mentally cognitive chosen course of action.
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Circadian Rhythms, 2004.
This paper discusses three Internet sites that examine the role ?biological clocks?, or circadian rhythms, play in regulating the human body?s internal activities.
785 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 27.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that an important point that is illustrated in the "Biological Clocks, Brain Briefings" web site is the role that light, specifically sunlight, plays in affecting the activities, not only of humans, but also of mammals in general. The author points out that the Circadian Rhythm Information Web centers its attention on circadian rhythm disorders and provides three categories containing links to web sites that provide information about the topic. The paper concludes that further studies about this phenomenon may be applied to the studies of jet lag and alteration of biological clocks in the context of aging.
From the Paper
"The article cites scientific experiments conducted on animals to illustrate how circadian rhythms, and any alteration or irregularity in its pattern, may result to changes in the body?s internal rhythm. The article?s simple, yet illustrative, explanation of circadian rhythm disorders among animals show how sleeping disorders such as jet lags are understood on a scientific basis. Apart from circadian rhythm disorders, the article also centered its discussion on the biochemical reactions that take place in the human body in response to these circadian rhythms."
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Human Cloning, 2004.
A brief discussion of the issue of human cloning in light of Darwin's theory of natural selection.
950 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper looks explains Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection and how the issue of human cloning fits in with it. The writer argues that, if you can clone a human, and Darwin's theory is correct, then the human race will be made up of only perfect human beings, cloned and perfected, while the imperfect are naturally selected out of the race.
From the Paper
"To this point, Darwin raises the question, ?Can?individuals having any advantage, however slight, over the others?have the best chance of surviving and procreating their kind?? Darwin?s theory of natural selection thus emphasizes two points to the benefits of advantage: the improved likelihood of survival and the ability to generate greater numbers of the modified species. He surmised that, ?modifications in the structure or habits of one inhabitant would often give it an advantage over others,? but any change in productivity would ?seriously disturb the relations of the former inhabitants.? By this, Darwin considers the broader picture of diversity, indicating that the change would impact other species, as well as the parent group, and that nature selects diversity to maximize survival and species regeneration."
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Cloning, 2004.
Summary of an article by Gregory E. Pence, "Will Cloning Harm People?"
1,170 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper summarizes the pro-cloning arguments presented in Gregory Pence's article on cloning. The arguments Pence makes about the positive aspects of cloning and why cloning should not be considered immoral or unethical are outlined, as well as some of the responses Pence provides to the moral and ethical arguments made against cloning.
From the Paper
"Cloning human beings raises a host of ethical problems and brings to mind heinous Frankenstein-like scenarios. Gregory E. Pence argues that science fiction, fear-mongering, and ignorance are at the root of common fears and prejudices against the science of human cloning. According to Pence, cloning is really no different from other means of tampering with the reproductive process such as in vitro fertilization. Furthermore, many of the arguments once used against in vitro fertilization are now being raised against cloning, proving that it is only a matter of time before cloning is accepted by the bioethical community and the general population. In his essay ?Will Cloning Harm People?? Pence offers pithy rebuttals to common moral arguments against cloning, focusing mainly on the potential well-being and rights of the cloned individual, as this is a central issue of concern in bioethics. Pence asserts that there is no inherent difference between a cloned human and a monozygotic twin or a baby conceived through in vitro fertilization and that there is no reason to assume that a cloned person would be treated any differently from his or her natural-born counterpart."
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