There is both intuitive and hard evidence which suggests that the quality of human learning has been shaped by evolution, biology, and genetics. Consideration of genetic argument applied to learning processes, however, leads to models of education more optimistic about the role of schooling than those derived from a genetic abilities-based theory.…

Guinea pigs are presented as versatile classroom animals. Suggestions for animal behavior and genetics studies are given. Also included is information concerning sex determination and the breeding of guinea pigs, and hints on keeping these animals in the classroom. References and illustrations complete the article. (MA)

This article discusses research into the question of whether the expectation of hereditary factors in man's unique form of communication is supported by any evidence. The research is divided into three broad categories, dealing with voice, with speech, and with language. (CFM)

The 10-year longitudinal case study describes the history, speech therapy program, and treatment results for an adult male with Wilson's disease, a genetically based metabolic progressive neurological disorder which includes severe speech problems. (DB)

Examines the interplay between genes and environment and argues that the development of much individual variation can be explained in terms of relatively simple forms of underlying regulation. Looks at "sensitive periods," during which variation is produced by experience received at a particular age. Includes a discussion of the…

Describes the nature and action of hematopoietic proteins which regulate the production of specific sets of blood cells. Discusses the production of these hematopoietins by recombinant-DNA methods in an effort to enable physicians to treat patients by eliciting production of specific types of blood cells. (CW)

A patent awarded to Harvard University for the genetic alteration of mice in cancer research is the first ever issued on an animal, at the same time that legislation putting a moratorium on animal patents is pending in Congress. (MSE)

Fifteen cognitive abilities tests of the Hawaii Family Study of Cognition were factor analyzed concerning between-family means and within-family differences, using 370 sibling pairs of Americans of European ancestry and 116 sibling pairs of Japanese ancestry. The similarity of between-family and within-family structures suggests that the genetic…

Reviews the history of the establishment of the concept of race. Traces the origins to the work of 17th- and 18th-century writers. Concludes that the notion of race became popular because it was associated with national identity and emerging ideas regarding evolution. (JDH)

Discusses recent advances in the study of mammalian immunology. Explains the roles of two families of lymphocytes, the B cells and T cells. Also examines evolutionary mechanisms related to the immune system. (ML)

Discovery that mutations accumulate at steady rates over time in the genes of all lineages of plants and animals has led to new insights into evolution at the molecular and organismal levels. Discusses molecular evolution, examining deoxyribonuclei acid (DNA) sequences, morphological distances, and codon rate of change. (DH)

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)

Highlights major accomplishments and developments in various disciplines during 1984. These disciplines include: genetics; medicine; the biosciences; astronomy; evolution; the geosciences; behavior; physics; chemistry; the environment; mathematics; and the space sciences. (JN)

Argues that knowledge from studies of individuals with sex chromosome abnormalities can further understanding of aspects of normal human development. Studies of XO girls, XXY boys, XXX girls, and males with a fragile X chromosome are summarized to demonstrate how results contribute to knowledge about normal cognitive development and about…

Genetic and environmental influences on heart rate were studied in samples of twin pairs in middle childhood. Heart rate was measured in resting situation and under two task conditions. Heart rate was related to parental ratings of shyness, emotionality, and selective attention measure. Multivariate analysis suggested that covariance between heart…