Describes an experiment designed to use the ability of duckweed to convert the secondary hydroxyl moieties into ketone groups. Discusses the preparation of plant material, materials, procedures, and results for this biotransformation experiment for undergraduate students. (CW)

Examines whether the use of computers is more efficient than traditional methodology in terms of time and cost in reaching goals related to: (1) vocabulary; (2) concepts of disease processes; (3) specific organ system pathology; (4) disease morphology; and (5) laboratory testing. (JN)

Describes the construction and use of a life-size model which shows blood flow under normal and pathological conditions. Four experimental procedures (single vessel occlusion, dilation of distal vascular bed, single artery stenosis, and multiple artery stenoses) typical of those demonstrated by the model are discussed and diagrammed. (DH)

Offers an alternative to kymography systems for undergraduates in physiology courses. Explains how an easy-to-build transducer can be used for recording diverse physiological phenomena. Reviews the theory of transducer function and explains the performance of the microcomputer kymography. (ML)

Presented results from the annual survey of physiology department chairpersons on: faculty characteristics (degrees held, tenured/not tenured, unfilled positions); graduate students and postdoctoral fellows; training support; trainee characteristics (race, research area); faculty salaries (various levels, medical/nonmedical); and budgets. (DH)

Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis developed the Weekend College, a program specially planned for working adult learners. Describes this program (which offers courses on Saturdays and Sundays) and a five-credit laboratory course in human physiology. Instructional strategies used and advantages/disadvantages of weekend courses are…

A course, designed to illustrate the correlation of the biochemistry and physiology content of the curriculum with clinical applications, is described. The entire presentation, from introduction and interview of the patient to the correlation of the clinical application with the basic sciences, was managed by the students. (Author/MLW)

Studies have shown that some children are at higher risk for otitis media. Those at risk may include children with some developmental disorders such as Down syndrome, Williams syndrome, Apert syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Turner syndrome, cleft palate, and autism; as well as all children attending childcare. It has been hypothesized that the link…

This newsletter highlights the importance of strength training in keeping older adults healthy and fit, explaining how it can forestall declines in strength and muscle mass, along with their attendant negative impact upon other metabolic functions and activities of daily living. Physical inactivity is common throughout the nation. Approximately 11…

A method of organization of self-instructional units into tiers corresponding to different levels of advancement is described. This arrangement offers greatly increased flexibility in course design, determination of rate and depth of study by both student and teacher, and a resource for continuing education. (Editor)

This study treats the child's vocal and rhythmic development immediately subsequent to birth and forward, and shows how this development relates to musical learning. (Author)

The effects of the menstrual cycle on the performance, heart rate, and body temperature of female athletes are discussed. Biological causes of menstrual problems such as dysmenorrhea and amenorrhea are explained. Research indicates that the higher the level of training achieved, the less effect each cycle phase has on physical performance. (PP)