Contains information on research and development (R&D) trends in the United States. Provides an overview of the total R&D effort. Includes graphs and charts on R&D funding by the federal government, particularly on chemistry, physical sciences, and engineering. Assesses R&D spending by industry. Shows where academic institutions get R&D funds. (TW)

Presents 31 science activities for use with high school or college science classes. Topics included are: chromatography, ecology, invertebrates, enzymes, genetics, botany, creep, crystals, diffusion, computer interfaces, acid rain, teaching techniques, chemical reactions, waves, electric fields, rainbows, electricity, magnetic fields, and a Pitot…

Appraises current organic courses and discusses topics which could be strengthened or dropped. Criticizes the current structure of organic texts and stresses the need for inclusion of useful reactions and mechanisms only. (ML)

This article gives a brief description of the process of the removal of corrosion and millscale from the surfaces of ferrous metals by acid pickling. It suggests an experiment to illustrate this process including the procedure and a discussion of the results. (CW)

Indicates that changes in the industrial economy have reflected educational needs for engineering students. Cites technical content, communication and interpersonal skills and industry functions as improvement areas. Describes curriculum changes, course specifics, technology, and management tools. (RT)

Describes the structure of a course for improving oral communication skills of engineering students. Lists suggestions to speakers on preparation, organization, and presentation of material. Additional comments regarding critiques are stated. (RT)

Describes an experiment that provides a fundamental understanding of the kinetics of the enzyme papain. Discusses background, materials, procedures and results. Mentions analogous experiments that can be conducted with enzymatic contact-lens cleaning solutions. (CW)

Described is a microcomputer with two detection systems to enable three variables of the puck's motion to be recorded simultaneously: speed, radius of the orbit, and the ongoing time of measurement. Presented are the experimental setup, a discussion of the computer program, and results. (YP)

Describes how to make a superconducting pellet for classroom use. Details two tests that can use the pellet to demonstrate superconductivity. Discusses some of the mechanics and chemistry of superconductivity. Lists materiads and equipment necessary for these activities. (CW)

Reports on a study designed to determine the effectiveness of two video programs with an audience of varied ages, grade levels, and developmental levels. Indicates that a significant difference was found between concrete, transitional, and formal operational students on pretest scores and developmental levels and results on the posttest. (RT)

Announces the incorporation of a laboratory information management system (LIMS) into the academic environment. Describes the applications of a computer-automated laboratory system at one university. Stresses the benefits to students of the use of such a system in terms of entry into the industrial environment and to professors in grading. (CW)

Discusses the problems inhibiting the path toward a nationwide computer network for research and education. Explains the need and urgency for establishing such a system. (RT)

Provides an overview of basic and applied studies for which primates are appropriate subjects. Summarizes the advantages, limitations, and constraints of using nonhuman primates in research. (RT)

Considers the applicability of the simple emersion/weight-gain method for predicting diffusion coefficients, solubilities, and permeation rates of chemicals in polymers that do not undergo physical and chemical deterioration. Presents the theoretical background, procedures and typical results related to this activity. (CW)

Suggests an approach and methodology for analyzing field and laboratory populations. Describes an experiment using mustard to show how competition and inequality can be assessed. Discusses the variables responsible for determining the abundance of organisms. (CW)