The story of biology is far more complex and fascinating than straightforward facts or neatly labeled diagrams of structures and systems. Although exams can motivate students, the key to using these extrinsic motivators to increase student understanding lies in the way the assessments are designed and what they measure. Those involved in…

Describes the history of comparative methods and their use in biology as an investigative philosophy. Discusses Bernard's and Krogh's ideas and supports Jorgensen's arguments. Explains conceptual change in the comparative studies which is referred to as "comparative phylogenetic method". (Contains 33 references.) (YDS)

Reviews possible biochemical markers for suicide risk but notes that none has clear application for clinical work in suicide prevention. Comments on other biological aspects of suicide including genetics, plasma drug levels, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and psychoimmunology. Encourages ECT use. Cautions against hasty clinical use of other…

New information reveals that dinosaurs have a pelvic structure similar to that of animals that walk upright. Science teachers should remember that theories and assumptions are always provisional and tentative. (JN)

The author discusses past contributions technology has made to society and ways it will contribute to society's future. Included in these areas are basic biological research, laser technology, information systems, and space technologies. (CT)

Highlights the unanswered questions of science. Summarizes current leading research that demonstrates that those questions are inherently limited in scope, and the chain of discovery and human curiosity that drives the quest for knowledge shows not the slightest sign of ending. Argues that we have yet to recognize and ask many of the most profound…

Thirteen articles in this special issue discuss aging theories, biomarkers of aging, aging research, disease, cancer biology, Alzheimer's disease, stress, oxidation of proteins, gene therapy, service delivery, biogerontology, and ethics and aging research. (SK)

Summarizes some recent scientific achievements in particle physics, bioinorganic chemistry, geology, and the life sciences. Discusses research as it applies to the needs of society, including areas of concern for the future. Describes the role of the National Science Foundation as supporting research and education in the sciences and engineering.…

Presents viewpoints of scientists and postdoctoral students on issues involving the commercial applications and ventures related to recombinant DNA research. Suggests that how universities deal with issues could impact future school/business relationships as well as the future conduct of basic research. (SK)

Examines the ethics, economics, manpower needs and future regulation of biotechnology. Discusses the new tests of the basic premise of the universality of knowledge gained from university research as attempts are made to patent and temporarily withhold publication of proprietary discoveries made with taxpayer support. (CW)

"Science Citation Index" is a service that lists the contents of over 3,000 of the most important science journals and proceedings. A computer search of the Index was conducted using the terms "creationism,""scientific creationism,""special creation,""biblical creation," as well as related terms.…

Throughout history, attempts have been made to use "science" to justify white European and American domination of other racial/ethnic groups and inequities of gender and class. Points out the lack of science and objectivity in the research of Linnaeus, Agassiz, Morton, Broca, Jensen, and Lynn. Suggests implications for antiracist…

The rapid progress in the biological sciences has resulted in many social, ethical, and legal issues. In medical practice, public health programs, research laboratories, law enforcement, insurance, the patenting process, agriculture, genetic counseling, and other fields, legal controversies and public policy debates have developed. Some of these…

Biologists at Center for Biological Research found ways to improve their scientific writing without benefit of an English-language program. By tapping Internet biology forums for comprehensible input, and using computer-assisted retention strategy to profit from error correction, writing improved. Scientific dialog on Internet has helped group…