Recent research has identified a karrikin (a butenolide derative) known as 3-methyl-2H-furo[2,3-c]pyran-2-one, formed from burning cellulose, that stimulates seed germination. Here, I present ideas on how to investigate the influence of karrikins on seed germination in the laboratory.

In this essay I explore a number of questions about purposes and methods in science education research prompted by my reading of Wesley Pitts' ethnographic study of interactions among four students and their teacher in a chemistry classroom in the Bronx, New York City. I commence three "lines of flight" (small acts of Deleuzo-Guattarian…

Significant discoveries and developments regarding oxygen and organic compounds are recounted to show that research in this specific area is worthwhile and relevant and to point out that research in other areas of organic chemistry deserves continued encouragement as well. (DT)

The Langmuir-Hinshelwood equation is fundamental to the study of heterogeneous catalysis, and forms a basis of the study of bimolecular heterogeneous reaction rates. (BB)

Provides a general overview of fluoro-organic biochemistry and illuminates areas where further study is desirable. (BB)

The Gordon Research Conferences were established to stimulate research in universities, research foundations, and industrial laboratories. The topics for the conferences are listed as well as the locations and scheduled presentations at each conference. (CS)

This article is designed to inform chemical educators not engaged in this technology as to the nature and methods used in the technology, the reasons for scientific and social concern, and the attempts made to assuage concerns involving recombinant DNA research. (author/BB)

It is urged that chemistry teaching and research be conducted with a sense of social responsibility, but not at the expense of basic research. (CP)

A discussion of the periodic table of the elements and the role it has played in the synthesis of man-made elements. (BB)

Provides a brief review of the latest developments in nuclear chemistry. Nuclear research today is directed toward increased activity in radiopharmaceuticals and formation of new isotopes by high-energy, heavy-ion collisions. (Author/BB)

Discusses dichlorodiammineplatinum's ability to inhibit bacterial cell divisions and its use as an antitumor agent. (SL)

Reviews the need for continued financial support for the sciences and scientific research. (SL)

Discusses the conflicting evidence and points of view presented by scientists involved in research on the nature of memory. The research of one group supports a chemical basis for memory, while the other group presents evidence supporting an electro-physiological basis. (JR)

The section on research and development (R and D) of the annual report on the chemical industry presents data related to: chemical R and D spending, R and D as per cent of sales, R and D employment, company R and D spending, R and D costs, and all industrial R and D employment. (PR)

The year-old volunteer council on Undergraduate Research has published a directory of facilities available in chemistry departments of 93 private colleges. The council is weighing other projects, such as, a quarterly newsletter, a national conference on undergraduate research, and the expansion of the council to include physics and biology.