The [delta] subunit of the GABA[subscript [Alpha]] receptor (GABA[subscript [Alpha]]R) is highly expressed in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Genetic deletion of this subunit reduces synaptic and extrasynaptic inhibition and decreases sensitivity to neurosteroids. This paper examines the effect of these changes on hippocampus-dependent trace…

This paper describes the use of interactive, Physlet[R]-based curricular material designed to help students learn concepts of thermodynamics with a particular focus on the use of kinetic theory models. These exercises help students visualize ideal gas particle dynamics and engine cycles, make concrete connections between mechanics and…

This article discusses how soap bubbles can be used to teach scientific principles such as phases of matter and the reflection of light. The study of soap bubbles addresses the National Science Education Standards for grades 5-8 related to the properties and changes of properties in matter. The exercises suggested here can be flexible in terms of…

The four main forms of carbon--diamond, graphite, buckyballs, and carbon nanotubes (CNTs)--are an excellent vehicle for teaching fundamental principles of chemical bonding, material structure, and properties. Carbon atoms form a variety of structures that are intrinsically connected to the properties they exhibit. Educators can take advantage of…

Nanotechnology is an emergent technology that holds much promise and excitement. The ability to control and manipulate matter at the most basic level--atoms and molecules--offers possibilities that transcend traditional science discipline boundaries. This interdisciplinary nature of nanotechnology provides many avenues for teachers to connect the…

Describes the use of disc or ring magnets magetized axially and iron discs, in conjunction with an overhead projector, as a model of nuclear structure and of complete molecules. (GS)

Describes how to use the distinctive properties of osazone formation in conjunction with molecular model construction to demonstrate the relationship between the three-dimensional structures of simple sugars and the shapes of crystals they form. (BR)

Describes an experiment, for the general chemistry laboratory, intended to introduce the student to infrared spectroscopy. After being introduced to the theory of molecular vibrations on an elementary level, each student receives a list of 5-7 nickel (II) ammines to be prepared, analyzed and characterized by infrared spectoscopy. (MLH)

Describes an experiment designed for second-level summer school chemistry students enrolled in Great Britain's Open University. (GS)

Describes a dry-lab experiment in which the student is provided with a set of fluorescence spectra of quinine for study and interpretation. (MLH)

Discusses two different uses of information theory in chemistry to present entropy and chemical structure analysis. (GA)

A number of phase transfer catalysis reactions are illustrated. (CP)

Proposes use of the Hammett relationship in the framework of a frontier orbital method for explanation of chemical reactivity. (CP)