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Primate Intelligence, 2002.
A discussion of the parameters involved in defining intelligence and determining cause for cognitive growth in primates.
2,239 words (approx. 9.0 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 69.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how it has long been recognized that primates are more cognitively advanced than other mammals and how that the degree of cognitive awareness and ability grows significantly from prosimians to humans. It looks at the debate of which parameters should be used to define and compare intelligence as well as the causal factors leading to this cognitive growth. It analyzes how studying today's population of primates can shed some light on cognitive evolution and how it can also provide additional information on what makes humans unique and what can be done to eliminate primate extinction and enhance human evolution.
From the Paper
"New world monkeys spend most of their time in the treetops. Living at such heights, they feed almost entirely on leaves and fruit. There is ample food and few large predators, aside from larger snakes and some birds of prey. New world monkeys have not developed the complex communities and family groups found among old world monkeys and apes. Most species give birth to twins and live in groups of 4-20 individuals. Social structure varies from one male-one female to multi-male-multi-female groups, with usually only one breeding adult female at a time. Groups are territorial and defend their home range through calls, fur displays, scent marking and facial expressions (ibid)."
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Do Animals Have Language?, 2002.
An examination into the question of whether animals have a language of communication, focusing on dolphins.
1,220 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper argues that higher mammals like primates, dolphins and whales are capable of and have evolved a complex language of their own. Towards this, the paper looks at the recent research done regarding the ?whistling? and other auditory communication among dolphins. In arguing that this ?whistling? constitutes and fulfills the functions of language, the paper uses the framework on the syntactic structures and the various aspects of language. Through an application of Chomsky?s criteria, this paper argues that dolphins have evolved a communication system made of whistling sounds that serve many of the purposes of human language.
From the Paper
"For Chomsky, human language is characterized first and foremost by structural principles like grammar, an underlying system of rules that govern the communication exchange. By understanding the rules that govern this communication, humans are able to develop a "creative ability" that allows them to speak or understand sentences that they have not heard previously (Chomsky 19-21)."
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DNA Application, 2002.
A research project examining the application of DNA in solving cold cases in California with forensic science.
6,156 words (approx. 24.6 pages), 51 sources, APA, $ 144.95
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Abstract
This research paper explains what DNA is and how it is used to solve criminal cases. Additionally, it discusses the implications of DNA fingerprinting in solving cold cases, with a focus on collection methods and applications in the state of California. The research analyzes and discusses the feasibility of DNA testing in solving cold cases and studies the impact that DNA fingerprinting has had on the forensic science community as a whole. The research is driven by studies and collection methods already implemented by the scientific community as well as future methods of collecting and testing DNA evidence as it relates to the investigation of unsolved murders.
From the Paper
"Adding to an already heavy burden, most states including California are attempting to take DNA samples from a prison population approaching 2 million. This DNA information is being used in order to create state and national DNA databases. ?All 50 states have passed laws requiring collection of DNA from convicted sex offenders, and 34 states have enacted statutes requiring that DNA be taken from those convicted of other crimes.? (Price) Although most are in support of creating such a database, others feel that it is a violation of the American Constitution. Additionally, many proponents of DNA in criminal murder cases feel that DNA is still an unproven science with many inherent flaws that could convict innocent people and allow some to literally get away with murder."
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Joints and Muscles, 2002.
The paper discusses the important role the joints and muscles play in the makeup of the human body.
858 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 30.95
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Abstract
The paper explores the nature and purpose of muscles and joints and how they are responsible for the different movements made by the body. The paper looks at the three distinct categories of muscles and the way that the pace of a movement requires different combinations of actions by the muscles. The paper also analyzes various muscle and joint disorders such as cramps and arthritis.
From the Paper
"Joints, which work closely with muscles, are just as important to movement. Every bodily action is based on the principal of the lever--the bone acting as the lever, the joints as the fulcrum where the lever pivots and muscle contractions as the force. Joints are located where two bones intersect. They define direction and extent of skeletal movement. One type of joints, synovial, are covered by a viscous, slick fluid so they can easily slide back and forth. For example, hinge joints are found in the elbows. The wrist and ankle have gliding joints. The hip and shoulders move because of ball-and-socket joints and the thumb due to saddle joints. The layer of dense tissue, or periosteum, covering most of the skeletal bones is replaced at these joints by a thin layer of cartilage. The cartilage can absorb the shock of activities such as running and jumping."
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Borna Disease Virus, 2002.
Examines methods used for the detection of the Borna disease virus, relating them to the epidemiology of the disease.
5,741 words (approx. 23.0 pages), 32 sources, APA, $ 138.95
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Abstract
The first cases of Borna disease in the 17-19th century in Southern Germany exposed a fatal disease affecting the neurological systems of horses and sheep, causing behavioral and neurological symptoms. It has since been discovered, however, that the disease affects other animals and even human beings. The paper shows that research into the epidemiology and pathogenesis of the BDV is impeded, however, by a lack of universally accepted standard for its detection, especially in humans. This paper covers in detail the various methods used to detect the BDV virus and analyzes their efficiency in doing so. This is done with reference to the epidemiology of the virus that is changing significantly and speedily with the use of analytical techniques. The paper also compares these processes and gives suggestions for future research in the light of modern day studies.
From the Paper
"A reason for renewed interest and research into the pathogenesis and characteristics of the BDV is the possibility recently discovered of the BDV being an etiological factor in human behavioral disorders as well. [J?rgen 1997] Numerous scientific studies are being done to accumulate evidence to clarify this issue. One study showed that 10-15% of psychiatric patients had anti-BDV antibodies as compared to only 2% in the general population. [Schizophrenia and Borna Disease Virus as a Zoonosis? 2000] Another on patients with severe depression detected anti-BDV antibodies in 30% of the hospitalized cases. [Schizophrenia and Borna Disease Virus as a Zoonosis? 2000] BDV was also detected and isolated in patients with mood disorders while BDV nucleic acids and antigens have been detected in both sera and brain tissue of psychiatric patients."
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Psychopharmacology, 2002.
An examination of this practice which uses drugs to improve brain function and its side-effects.
2,587 words (approx. 10.3 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 78.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses this medical innovation which has become a complicated medical issue. It discusses how these drugs are used to improve brain function and how both the appropriate and inappropriate use of these drugs can have a profound effect on both mind and body. It explains why the drugs can have physical as well as behavioral or emotional effects and how sometimes the side effects can be managed well, but sometimes can cause or aggravate another problem.
From the Paper
"The human nervous system has very specific cells that allow the nervous system to communicate within themselves. ?Interneurons" exist only in the brain and spinal cord and receive signals from the rest of the body from sensory neurons as well as from other interneurons. There may be as many as 100 billion interneurons, with up to 1,000 synapses where other neurons can communicate with them (Kimball, 2003). There are many different kinds of interneurons.
Most neurons communicate by releasing neurotransmitters to another cell. The part of the cell that sends the message is called an axon. It does not directly touch another cell?s synapses, but sends out a neurotransmitter. Different synapses are configured to receive different neurotransmitters (Hamilton & Timmons, 1994). The space between the axon of one cell and the synapse of the next is sometimes called the synaptic cleft, and the goal of many psychotropic drugs is to affect this process in one of several ways."
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Malarial Organisms, 2002.
A look at the biology of malarial organisms.
1,305 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how the malarial parasite is a complex organism which infects millions of people every year. It looks at how in recent years, the number of cases of West Nile Fever has increased, prompting many people to examine the cause and transmission of it and similar diseases. It demonstrates how understanding the biology of these organisms is important for scientists in order to prevent and cure future infections.
Outline
Introduction
The Human Malaria Parasite
The Life Cycle
Sequencing of the Plasmodium Genome
Polymorphism
Plasmodium Species
Merozoites
Invasion Process
Plasmodium Sporozoites and Ookinetes
Malaria in Animals
Exploring Malaria Biology
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The mosquito ingests Plasmodium cells in human blood called gametocytes, which are precursors of gametes, and within seconds, gametocytes are induced into gametogenesis, which produces gametes. The gametes then produce sporozoites, which are accumulated in the salivary gland of the mosquito and then injected into the vertebrate blood stream during feeding. These cells will accumulate in the liver of the vertebrate, and then multiply and produce merozoites, which invade, replicated and destroy red blood cells, eventually leading to a decline in asexual replication. After the red blood cells are invaded, some merozoites produce gametocystes, which can potentially restart the total life cycle. These gametocytes are not able to self-replicate and will be die if they are not ingested by a mosquito, which will begin the life cycle again."
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Earthworms, 2002.
A look at the ecology of the earthworm.
1,294 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how the earthworm is considered the environment?s natural recycler since it turns dead animals and plants into useful fertilizer within the soil. It examines how many people and companies throughout the world now use worms as a natural way to make composite out of leaves and other organic materials and how scientists are studying these creatures in an effort to replenish nutrients in soil that has been ruined with chemical agents.
Outline
Introduction
History of the Earthworm
Intelligence
The Digestive System
Make-up of the Soil
In the Soil
Survival of Earthworms
Species of Earthworms
An Important Job
Revitalizing Life
Conclusion
From the Paper
"There are over 3,600 species of earthworms worldwide and many scientists believe twice that number may exist (McCarthy, 2002). One variety that lives near the Equator can grow to be 8 feet long and weigh over a pound. Nightcrawlers are different from most earthworms since they live deep in the soil and dig vertical tunnels over six feet deep. They also can grow to be a foot long and live over 5 years. Most earthworms live near the top of the soil, dig horizontal tunnels, and are short. Nightcrawlers do not need to completely leave their holes to feed. They keep their tails in their tunnels and bob back and forth looking for food and if grabbed by a predator, will hold on to the walls of their tunnels with amazing strength. At night, these worms can be heard as they rustle leaves while searching for food."
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Neural Networks, 2002.
An examination and explanation of the technology known as neural networks - also known as an artificial neural network (ANN).
1,952 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper begins by explaining this unique technology, which has already started altering the way people think about artificial intelligence. It says that this computer provides a unique computing architecture whose potential has only begun to be tapped. Artificial neural networks take their name from the networks of nerve cells in the brain, which they are trying to imitate.
From the Paper
"The more time scientists spend designing computers, the more they marvel at the human brain. Tasks that stump the most advanced supercomputer such as recognizing a face or reading a handwritten note are child's play for the 3-lb. organ. This is because the brain operates through a serried of interconnected neural networks made up of dendrites, rather than the typical computer program that performs operations through elaborate series of individual steps. Unlike any conventional computer, the brain can learn from its mistakes, and forge new network connections. Researchers have tried for years to program computers to mimic the brain's abilities, but without success. Now a growing number of designers believe they have the answer: if a computer is to function more like a person and less like an overgrown calculator; it must be built more like a brain, which distributes information across a vast interconnected web of nerve cells, or neurons."
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Animal Testing, 2002.
A paper on the need for animal testing to advance medicine.
1,790 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 57.95
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Abstract
This paper advocates the benefits gained from using animals in medical and scientific testing. The paper points out that while, ideally, it would be better to not use animals, the benefits outweigh the costs. The paper outlines the contribution animal testing has made so far to the medical profession and why there is a need for animal testing at all. The paper then offers some alternatives to animal testing which should be used wherever possible.
From the Paper
"Animal research has been vital for medical advances in the past (?Today's Research for Tomorrow's Medical Advances?). For example, it has helped provide antibiotics and vaccines, insulin for diabetes, treatments for leukemia, local and general anesthetics, anticoagulants, heart valve replacements, and has made possible advances in medical technology such as blood transfusion, kidney dialysis, and the heart lung machine. See Figure 1 on the following page for a complete list of the contributions animal testing has made to developing vaccines, medicines, surgery enhancements and medical technology."
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Artificial Donor Insemination, 2002.
An examination of the issues concerning donor insemination and the rights of donor insemination-born people.
1,856 words (approx. 7.4 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
This paper aims to provide background information about a particular assisted reproductive technology, which is donor insemination. It discusses the uses, techniques, screening tools and confidentiality practices. It also analyzes the long-term effects of donor insemination, particularly the psychological, physiological, emotional and social effects on people born out of donor insemination procedures. Its stance is that couples/parents who subsisted to donor insemination procedures should tell their children about their biological origins (i.e., real parent) in order to avoid the negative effects that may result in the child?s psychological, physiological, emotional and/or social being.
From the Paper
"In the period of human civilization wherein most of the medical ills and problems that people usually encounter can be cured, the advent of assisted reproductive technology (ART) as a result of genetics and technological advancement led to the formulation of procedures that aim to solve problems of genetic disorders and infertility. Examples of these assisted reproductive technologies are In Vitro Fertilization, Gamete/Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer, Blastocyst transfer, Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, Assisted Hatching of Embryos, and Donor gametes. The last enumerated reproductive technology, donor gametes, is one of the most prevalent techniques used in assisted reproductive technologies."
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Acid Rain, 2002.
Studies the effect of acid rain on tropical forests.
1,393 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
Due to the fact that the world?s tropical rainforests are located in areas far from the United States, many people ignore the fact that their future may depend on the future of these forests. Rainforests are being destroyed at an increasingly fast pace, much faster than any other ecological zone on earth. This paper examines the effect of acid rain on rainforests, mainly as a large contributor to deforestation, particularly in localized industrial areas in Africa, China, southeast Asia and northern South America.
From the Paper
"Researcher also believe that we should be concerned about the impact of acid rain on forest soils, as there is evidence that acid rain has already caused significant changes in the chemistry of some sensitive soils. As acid rain seeps through the soils, it can erode vital plant nutrients through chemical reactions, presenting a threat to future forest productivity."
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Brain and Language, 2002.
An examination of how the brain functions in order to develop and produce language.
1,260 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the functions of the three areas of the brain - the fore brain (Prosencephalon), the mid brain or the mesencephalon and the hind brain or the rhombencephalon; and explains how each region within the brain is adapted for a special task. The paper then analyzes the connection with the brain and language development and discusses some conditions such as ?Broca Aphasia?, with which people have the ability to understand language but find it difficult to express themselves.
Introduction
Brain and Language
The Broca?s and Wernicke?s Areas
The Critical Period
The Split Brain Condition
Conclusion
Bibliography
From the Paper
"Our principal way of communication with the world is through language. Language is the medium through which we express our feelings to the outer world. The neural basis of our language and communicating ability is an interesting aspect of study and researchers have unearthed vital information pertaining to the language processing ability of the brain. The whole process of thinking and speaking is a bit complex though it seems rather simple to us. In short we are actually executing all the minor details like jaw movement, construction of the semantics, and the sound generation everything in split second that we fail to recognize the complex task that the brain handles so effectively. Researchers have found out that we produce about one sound every tenth of a second and yet with only an error margin of one sound error per million sounds. [David Caplan] This astounding performance speaks of the power and the capacity of the human brain."
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Xenotransplantation, 2002.
A paper on the benefits of Xenotransplantation, or the transplanting of animal organs into humans.
2,251 words (approx. 9.0 pages), 17 sources, MLA, $ 69.95
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Abstract
This paper explains the process of Xenotransplantation -- the process of transplanting organs across species. The paper offers reasons for supporting this process, with the main purpose being to save lives. The paper also includes a review of the opposition to Xenotransplantation. This paper offers the argument in support of animal-to-human organ transplant. Included are medical and scientific research facts which support the theory.
From the Paper
"In human to human transplant situations, the main concern is blood-type (including Rhesus factor) matching. Except in bone-marrow transplants, where the genetic-matching is also necessary, there are concerns in animal to human transplants. First is the question of the human immune system. It is already problematic getting the immune system to accept an organ from another human. Patients must take medications so that the new organ will not be rejected, or less violently so, by their own immune systems. The risks involving an animal organ will be all the greater. Second, there is the question of to what extent an animal organ could function in a human body."
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Zoos, 2002.
A paper discussing the role of zoos in the preservation of endangered animals.
1,353 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
An argumentative paper promoting the idea of zoos as an important place for the preservation of endangered species, as well as a place of education and entertainment. It also examines arguments against the traditional purpose of a zoo from anti-animal cruelty activists.
From the Paper
"If the world was ideal, all wildlife would roam freely and safely in their natural habitats. Unfortunately, however, the world is a place of commercialization and ignorance. Many species through the years have been hunted and poached to near extinction, and zoos have become a place of refuge and regeneration. Zoos today include natural wildlife parks and wildlife conservation parks. These parks ?encourage animals to behave more like they do in the wild by creating conditions as close as possible to the natural habitat? (Biology pg). Moreover, zoos and wildlife parks provide healthier diets with foods similar to what is found in the wild. Conditions are often designed to enable animals to live with others of their species. Furthermore, many zoos and parks provide a refuge for ill and injured animals that can be returned to the wild, by creating a secluded area to avoid ?human imprinting (when exposure to humans makes the animal prefer human company over its own species)? (Biology pg). These new natural zoos and parks not only give the public a more educated and realistic idea of how a particular animal lives in the wild, but, provide a more nurturing world for an animal to live and mature (Biology pg)."
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Addiction, 2002.
A discussion of the physiological causes of addiction and how this knowledge may be utilized.
1,097 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how, in order to develop effective treatment programs for drug addicts, it is essential to maintain a basic knowledge of the physiological basis of their cravings. It evaluates how the ability to explain the neuro-scientific effects of drug use allows those that are responsible for prevention to provide potential users with deterrents that are less dogmatic and more circumspect. It looks at how neuroscience has developed a new understanding of the reasons for addiction and how behavioral neuroscience has taught us that humans, like other animals, crave certain pharmaceutical agents. Studies have enabled scientists to better understand the neuro-chemistry of pleasure and of cravings.
From the Paper
"Cocaine and amphetamines also increase DA availability at synapses of the mesolimbic circuit, causing the same addictive effect. Self-administration of psycho-stimulants declines when this system is damaged. The normal function of this system is to energize appetitive behavior ? that is ? to provide motivation for action. This function is integral to the brain, in that the chief end of the human brain is to provoke action by making these actions appetizing. The psycho-stimulant allows animals to bypass other brain functions that contextualize desire and appease the brain?s desire centers directly. These brain systems might normally motivate an animal to explore and to vigorously pursue courses of action. Therefore, the effect of self-stimulation is duo-fold: it not only taxes brain centers that are responsible for the creation of appetite, but are eventually pulled from their innate desires to better themselves through pro-active conduct. "
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Nutritional Substances, 2002.
Explains the benefits of carbohydrates, lipids, monosaccharides, protein and cholesterol to the human body.
918 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
When it comes to nutrition, terms like carbohydrate, lipid, monosaccharides, protein and cholesterol can sound almost like a foreign language. With all the conflicting reports of what affects ones body and what does harm, it is no wonder that people are so confused. The paper shows, however, that the importance of these substances is so vital that by understanding what they are, as well as how they are used by our bodies can certainly benefit our health and overall well being.
From the Paper
"By definition, a carbohydrate is group of chemical compounds that exist when hydrogen and oxygen (H2O) are then combined with carbon (Ed., Encarta). Carbohydrates are the largest group of organic compounds found in nature (Encarta). Humans, animals, plants and bacteria all use carbohydrates, and the uses for them varies depending on the organism using them. Plants use them for structural uses ? as in the cellulose and hemicellulose that are their main structural elements (Encarta). The cell coatings of the connective tissues in vertebrate animals have carbohydrates in them; both animals and plants use various forms of carbohydrates to store energy (Encarta). Chitin is a carbohydrate, and is the primary ingredient for the exoskeleton of invertebrate animals (Encarta)."
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Amino Acids, Carbohydrates and Protein Synthesis, 2002.
This paper explores the proper timing of amino acids and carbohydrates in regard to protein synthesis.
3,175 words (approx. 12.7 pages), 13 sources, MLA, $ 91.95
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Abstract
This paper attempts to explore the proper timing of amino acids and carbohydrates in regard to protein synthesis. It does this by examining the causes of catabolism and what happens during this process, by looking at the building blocks and the types of proteins involved in the process and by studying the function of insulin and how it functions in relation to the intake of carbohydrates.
From the Paper
"The field of Biochemistry which ?studies the structure, synthesis and degradation of large molecules found in living cells, their metabolic regulation, and their expression (Spencer, 1997)? is known as molecular biology. These large molecules, or macromolecules, include DNA, RNA, proteins and carbohydrates, and their complexes."
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Nature vs. Nurture, 2002.
The paper looks at studies involving twins in order to compare the influences of nature and nurture.
788 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 28.95
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Abstract
The paper shows that studying twins has been one of the most fruitful methods for comparing the differences between nature and nurture. The paper analyzes studies involving identical twins and twins separated at birth. It also examines studies involving twins that show there is a correlation between genetics and intelligence.
From the Paper
"The most famous results of the twin studies have been those involving intelligence. Generally, we tend think of intelligence as something that is not genetically inherited, but cultivated through intense study. In the Enlightenment, thinkers believed that people began life as a totally clean slate and that anything could be impressed upon them through proper education, religious indoctrination, and a solid and respectable upbringing. This concept, often referred to as tabula rasa, or ?the mind before it receives the impressions gained from experience? seems soundly refuted by the Minnesota Study of Twins reared apart (Webster?s II 1177). Instead of finding support for the Enlightenment notion, the study found that twins? intelligence tended to correlate very strongly despite differences in upbringing, and subsequent studies have supported this conclusion."
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