Presents a study to determine the methods inquiry geneticists use to solve dynamic complex computer-generated transmission genetics problems; specifically, their strategies and conceptual knowledge. Develops a hierarchical framework and pathway for solving problems through geneticist solution protocols and interviews. (Contains 32 references.)…

Deconstructs mainstream twin studies to show the relationship between twins research and race, gender, and class issues related to intelligence and IQ measures. The paper notes that genetic determinism drawn from twin studies based on the assumption that genetics predominates the environment in the transmission of human intelligence is…

Summer institutes with follow-up continuing education sought to increase nursing faculty's knowledge and teaching of genetics. Outcome measures following four summer institutes (n=126) revealed significant improvements in genetics knowledge, increased genetics content in curricula, and development of new elective genetics courses. (Contains 22…

Argues that Jeremy Rifkin's "Algeny" is epideictic rhetoric, related to the European "Jeremiad," a traditional lamentation mode. Notes that Rifkin draws a parallel between genetic engineering and alchemy and adopts a world view dominated by a static hierarchy. Suggests that the teaching of the epideictic genre underscore both…

The evolution from classical genetics to biotechnology, an area of research involving key macromolecules in living cells, is chronicled and the current state of biotechnology is described, noting related advances in computing and clinical medicine. (MSE)

Describes the initial site, and symptoms of the human immunodeficiency virus. Explains the diverse behavior and destructive consequences of the disease through discussion, diagrams, and pictures of the life cycle of the virus and the genetic material that controls it. (RT)

A theory of the development of anomalous dominance and its biological associations is explained and the literature is reviewed in an attempt to apply this theory to the study of autism. The review supported the increased incidence of left-handedness, learning disabilities, and immune disorders postulated by the theory. (Author/DB)

Presents and analyzes an example from the literature on genetics studies in order to highlight the difficulties in classifying biological materials and the personal equation that finds its way into the measurement. (JRH)

Describes the use of a spreadsheet in running a hands-on prey/predator simulation that enables students to see the effect of selection pressure on one allele in a gene pool. Discusses setting up and running the simulation, class discussion issues, exploring assumptions, and extensions. (JRH)

Describes strategies used by the Biotechnology Working Group during their efforts to influence state and local policy concerning biotechnology issues. Strategies address methods for framing the issue, educating self and others, recruiting allies, and developing citizen pressure. (MDH)

Data from 236 pairs of black twins and white twins aged 13-17 years were used to examine genetic and environmental factors influencing cranial size, an indirect estimate of brain volume. Genetic factors are required to account for the phenotypic variance in cranial capacity. (SLD)

The relationship between mental retardation and brain size is discussed. Research suggests that a common path for many otherwise idiopathic mild retardation cases (genetic or environmental) could be small brain size, indicating reduced information processing capacity. Suggestions are made for further research on neuron number. (SLD)

Studies of families, twins, and adoptees support a genetic predisposition to alcoholism. Alcohol metabolism may affect the regulation of alcohol intake, because interference with production or elimination of the alcohol metabolite acetaldehyde has behavioral effects. Ongoing research is examining individual and tribal differences in alcohol…

This case study describes a 12-year-old boy with autism in association with the folate-sensitive fragile site fra(2)(q13). Cytogenetic results of blood analysis are described, and two possibilities are discussed: the fragile site may be a coincidental finding unrelated to the autism, or may represent an area of potential gene damage. (JDD)

Discusses ecological, social, and moral issues associated with destruction of rural communities, industrial agriculture, gene patenting and international trade. Analyzes agricultural ramifications of the Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. Cites these and other measures as the struggle of industrialized…