Increased frequency and higher magnitude of correlations for siblings and the stability over time of the correlations among the data for siblings underscore the possibility of a genetic basis for the similarity of intellectual functioning among siblings. (Author)

When the findings of sociobiology and ethology are properly interpreted, they are surprisingly compatible with commonsense ethical values, adding to our understanding of moral and ethical principles as an essential element of human social behavior. This paper provides a brief overview of the broader scientific interpretation to illustrate this…

Studies of a biological basis of social behavior have involved biologists in emotional debate. The author outlines the controversy surrounding one sociobiologist, Edward Wilson, and questions the charge that such research should not be conducted because of its potential for abuse. Condensed from "Smithsonian" magazine, September 1980,…

Provides background information about the current state of a new field of science, genetic toxicology. Discusses mutations and cancer, the history of the field, and detection of genetic damage. (CS)

The Genetics Society of America has released a statement saying that the possibility of a "genetic difference in intelligence between races" is still an open question and warning against "the misuse of genetics for political purposes". (Editor)

Reviews history of "recombinant DNA" research, including early experiments and origins of bioethical debates between concerned scientists. Discusses National Institutes of Health (NIH) guidelines and accompanying Environmental Impact statement regarding recombinant DNA research and possibilities of human error covered by neither…

Explains the allium test in which roots are excised from onion bulblets grown in aqueous solutions of a test agent. Root tips are then isolated and stained with aceto-orcein, and chromosomal aberrations are microscopically observed. (Author/AIM)

Describes instructional materials developed to address two major needs in biology education--how to form scientific opinions and providing a link between students and literature. Presents two essays, rats and potatoes and butterflies and corn, introduces students to article searching, reading peer-reviewed scientific studies, writing, critical…

Defines symbiosis and describes the connection between symbiosis and evolution, how it is described in science textbooks, and genetic variability. Discusses educational policy and science curriculum content. (YDS)

Presents a lesson on toothpick chromosomes as a way to model genetics concepts in a more tangible and accessible way for middle school students. (KHR)

Describes an activity that would be useful for any level biology class discussing recombinant DNA technology to help students visualize the step-by-step process involved. (JRH)

This editorial contemplates some of the implications of the possibility that child abuse and neglect might be a genetic disorder by describing a 1996 study (Brown, et al.) that seemed to identify a nurturing gene in mice and described the symptoms of its absence. Parallels between mouse and human displays of non-nurturing behavior are discussed.…

Presents a laboratory procedure that involves students extracting their own DNA from a single hair follicle, using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify a polymorphic locus, performing electrophoresis on the PCR products on an agarose gel, and visualizing the alleles to generate a "DNA fingerprint." Discusses theoretical background,…

Focuses on bridging the gap between classical and molecular genetics for two traits: wrinkled seeds in garden peas and white eye color in fruit flies. Discusses the molecular details of the underlying basis of these traits. Contains 15 references. (JRH)