Describes the method, present status, and application of positron emission tomography (PET), an analytical imaging technique for "in vivo" measurements of the anatomical distribution and rates of specific biochemical reactions. Measurements and image dynamic biochemistry link basic and clinical neurosciences with clinical findings…

Reviews the pros and cons of using animals or alternatives in scientific research. Such alternatives (as indicated in congressional bill HR 556) include mathematical models, isolated organs, tissue and cell cultures, computer simulations, mechanical models, and "lower" organisms among others. (SK)

Discusses unpaid postdoctoral researchers, especially those in biology and medicine, addressing reasons why they work without pay, how they receive funding, efforts to help them, their impacts on the field, and personal concerns. (DC)

Discussed is a projected overabundance of physicians by 1990 and a possible cut in funding in medical schools because of this overabundance. Also discussed is the shortage of clinical investigators who are physicians because salaries for physicians are much higher than for clinical investigators. (DS)

Discusses the rising trend supporting for-profit hospitals. Compares for-profit and not-for-profit hospitals in regards to hospital costs, quality of care, care for the poor, education and research, and the role of the physician. (TW)