Almost three decades ago, the birth of Louise Brown in England marked the beginning of the "in vitro" fertilization (IVF) era. IVF is done to overcome infertility problems that some couples experience. Sperm and eggs are collected and fertilized in the lab. ("In vitro" means "in glass" and is used to refer to…

Third in a series on the prevention and treatment of developmental handicaps, this publication focuses on linkages among the network of university affiliated facilities (UAFs) and Title V Maternal and Child Health Programs. Four papers in Section I address the following developmental issues as of 1985: "Serious Viral Infection in…

Unlike animals, which heal, trees compartmentalize by setting boundaries that resist the spread of invading microorganisms. Discusses the creation of new walls by anatomical and chemical means in response to death of a branch or pruning. Points out that genetic control of compartmentalization has resulted from evolution of resistant species. (DH)

Discusses disease and genetic disorders as evolutionary mechanisms. Emphasizes the archeological evidence from past human populations and societies, mentioning albinism, scurvy, sleeping sickness, bone conditions, various host-parasite relationships, rickets, sickle-cell anemia, diabetes, and influenza. (CS)

The porphyrias are a family of genetic disorders whose genetics and biochemistry are largely identified. Background information on these diseases are discussed including porphyrins, gene expression, population genetics, and historical significance. (CW)

Discusses insights discovered from research into human biology that are raising possibilities for therapy, prevention of disease, and challenges to society in the form of ethical decisions about the appropriate application of genetic information. (Author/RT)

The director of the Birth Defects Center at the University of California at San Francisco addresses the reasons for developing good ways of teaching human genetics. Genetic counseling is discussed within the context of several case histories. (SA)

Discussed is a designer-drug technology called antisense which blocks messenger RNA's ability to carry information to protein producing sites in the cell. The applications of this drug to AIDS research, cancer therapy, and other diseases are discussed. (KR)

Describes several laboratory experiments that are adaptations of clinical tests for certain genetic diseases in babies. Information and procedures are provided for tests for phenylketonuria (PKU), galactosemia, tyrosinemia, cystinuria, and mucopolysaccharidosis. Discusses the effects of each disease on the infants' development. (TW)

"Chronicle of Higher Education" presents an abundant source of news and information for college and university faculty members and administrators. This September 24, 2004 issue of "Chronicle of Higher Education" includes the following articles: (1) "Thank You, Masked Man" (Reilly, Liam); (2) "The Trailing-Spouse…

Provides an overview of basic and applied studies for which primates are appropriate subjects. Summarizes the advantages, limitations, and constraints of using nonhuman primates in research. (RT)