As the crusade to outlaw the teaching of evolution changed to a battle for equal time for creationism, the ideological defenses of that doctrine also shifted, from biblical to scientific grounds. The development of "scientific creationism" is described, focusing on the intellectual leaders of creationism, particularly those claiming scientific…

The author describes specific examples of the use of technology in science such as fiberoptic spectroscopy to observe galaxies and conduct three-dimensional maps of the universe. Adduces the following examples of technology influencing scientific investigations: gene cloning, gene sequencing, radioimmunoassays, patch-clamping of neurons, scanning…

Describes the case of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) versus the state of Arkansas concerning this state's law requiring equal time for the teaching of creationism and evolution. ACLU contends this law violates the separation of church and state clause of the First Amendment. (DS)

Presents a discussion of the development of basic research in the U.S. since World War II. Topics include the creation of the federal agencies, physics and astronomy, chemistry, earth science, life science, the environment, and social science. (BB)

By using intense pulsed coherent x-ray sources it will be possible to obtain magnified three-dimensional images of living elementary biological structures at precisely defined instants. Discussed are sources/geometrics for x-ray holography, x-radiation interactions, factors affecting resolution, recording the hologram, high-intensity holography,…

Presents the first of a series of occasional articles about mathematics as seen through the eyes of its prominent scholars. In an interview with Gian-Carlos Rota of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology he discusses how combinatorial mathematics began as a field and its future. (HM)

Offers suggestions to graduate students to aid in surviving in a very competitive scientific job market. Identifies attractive options for science Ph.D. holders. (ZWH)

Thermal features of and beneath the surface of a sample can be detected and imaged with a thermal-wave microscope. Various methodologies for the excitation and detection of thermal waves are discussed, and several applications, primarily in microelectronics, are presented. (Author)

Desorption ionization (DI) is used to obtain mass spectra of molecules whose vaporization by heating may lead to thermal degradation. Discusses DI techniques, characteristics of DI mass spectra, ion production, current applications of DI in mass spectroscopy, developments in DI, and prospects for future evolution of new DI techniques. (Author/JN)

Describes goals and decisions for implementation developed by the International Soros Science Education Program (ISSEP). ISSEP is an initiative directed to the education of basic sciences in Russia and other newly independent states of the former Soviet Union. Focuses on ensuring the recognition of gifted young students at the high school level…

This article reports the adoption of new policies to restrict experiments on animals in the elementary or secondary school classroom. The controversy involving animal welfare groups is discussed as it relates to animal abuse by students. (SA)

Proposes that an undergraduate core curriculum minimizes science and does not provide students with an adequate background for understanding contemporary science and technology. Critiques Harvard's science requirements in that it does not reflect the vertical or intensive nature of learning that is essential in science education. (ML)

Computer applications in scientific instrumentation are traced from early data processing to modern computer-based instruments. Probable pathways toward instruments with increased "intelligence" include, among others, implementation of hierarchical computer networks and microprocessor controllers and the simplification of programing. The…

The premedical and preclinical phases of the present scheme of medical education are described as wasteful of time and money, intellectually deficient, and in need of change. Suggestions are presented relating to establishing a national commission to reform the scheme. (Author/SA)

Discusses the high school framework and standards developed by the National Science Teachers Association in the subjects of physics, chemistry, biology, and earth and space sciences. (MKR)