Discusses various brain imaging techniques, including computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, measurement of regional cerebral blood flow, single photo emission tomography, and position emission tomography. Describes the uses of these techniques in helping to understand brain functioning. (TW)

Discusses the problems posed for scientifically untrained judges and lawyers in ensuring the scientific validity of scientific evidence. Cites recent cases which indicate the results when courts do not hold expert witnesses to the standards and criteria of their own disciplines. (CW)

Discusses reasons for the small contribution to science and technology from Latin America which is essential for promoting the economic and social development of the region. Reviews the origin of Latin American educational and research systems, and the obstacles faced by the scientific communities in the recent past. (LZ)

A brief history of science and technology in Latin America that begins with the Mayan civilization and progresses through the colonial period to the present. Compares increased scientific productivity in the Latin American and Caribbean regions to productivity in the United States and European Union. (LZ)

Addresses implications drawn from contemporary research in cognitive psychology which deal with the impact of nonconscious mental structures and processes on an individual's experience, thought, and action. Discusses the information-processing perspective, automatic processes, subliminal perception, implicit memory, hypnotic alterations, and the…

Reviews efforts of Britain's Committee on the Public Understanding of Science (COPUS) and identifies specific initiatives of the program. Evaluates aspects of the Royal Society's report and examines the status and future direction of the program in enhancing the public image of science. (ML)

Discusses the relationship and contributions of research and development (R&D) to productivity growth in the United States. Focuses on the impacts of industrial R&D and presents study results on trends in productivity. (ML)

Describes the origin, occurrence, and effects of radon gas. Cites studies which attribute 5,000 to 20,000 deaths per year to radon exposure and the synergistic effect between radon and smoking. Explains ways to reduce risks. (RT)

Describes the highly complex mixture of gaseous and particulate matter found in urban air. Explains progress made in the understanding of the physics and chemistry of air pollution, the effects of precursors on ozone, the role of biogenic hydrocarbons, and the principal benefit of methanol-fueled vehicles. (RT)

Discusses the increasing trend toward the pork-barrel funding of science projects, particularly for grants to academic institutions. Addresses the new strategies being employed by opponents of such funding. Describes some of the possible ramifications of the various strategies and the perceived link between science funding and economic growth. (TW)

Describes computerized differential classifications of a variety of subtle brain dysfunctions. Provides objective corroboration that may be a useful adjunct to psychiatric diagnoses. Discusses independent criteria for diagnostic validity, evaluation of treatment efficacy and more individualized treatment. Outlines the implications of this…

Explores how the United States can become more competitive through better development and deployment of technology. Discusses the competitive decline and the eroding standard of living, the link between technology and productivity, the importance of manufacturing in an innovative style, and competitive resistance in the U.S. (CW)

Described is the role of technology in the Human Genome Project. A poster of the human genome as is known in 1990 is provided with a list of representative genes and a glossary of terms. (CW)

Discusses widespread concern for the economic, social, aesthetic, and ecological consequences of acid rain. Eastern North America is the geographical focus of the concern. (RT)

Discusses many of the scientific questions surrounding the greenhouse effect debate and the issue of plausible responses. Discussion includes topics concerning projecting emissions and greenhouse gas concentrations, estimating global climatic response, economic, social, and political impacts, and policy responses. (RT)