An elective course focusing on exercise physiology and cardiovascular fitness offered at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine consists of weekly lectures and student self-designed fitness programs. Student participation correlates with significantly increased levels of student maximum oxygen consumption, a moderate training effect.…

Discusses one mechanism proposed for the two-step initiation/promotion scenario of the development of cancer called oncogenes and a possible alternate mechanism that may prevent tumors from developing. Uses the example of retinoblastoma to illustrate the mechanisms. States that these mechanisms may not be caused by the activation of oncogenes. (CW)

Describes the diversity of plants. Outlines novel developmental and complex genetic processes that are specific to plants. Identifies approaches that can be used to solve problems in plant biology. Cites the advantages of using higher plants for experimental systems. (RT)

Discusses methods that can be used to encourage students to use chemical principles to evaluate claims made in advertising. Considers weight loss diets, structure and properties, and reproducibility of evidence. (CW)

A 1975-76 Swedish study of 643 handicapped persons born in 1918 or earlier and a follow-up study conducted 5-8 years later found a higher mortality rate than the general mortality in the same age group. Population changes are described, focusing on institutionalization, need for services, functional level, hearing, and vision. (Author/JDD)

Contains the abstracts of five papers dealing with medical physiology curricula. Includes presentations dealing with the role of physiology in medical education, current perspectives of the curriculum, the role of student laboratories, the changing face of physiology, and future trends in physiology teaching. (TW)

Discusses: how artificial intelligence (AI) can advance education; if the future of software lies in AI; the roots of intelligent computer-assisted instruction; protocol analysis; reactive environments; LOGO programming language; student modeling and coaching; and knowledge-based instructional programs. Numerous examples of AI programs are cited.…

Modeled after the program "Mastermind," this program teaches students the art of protein sequencing. The program (written in Turbo Pascal for the IBM PC, requiring 128K, a graphics adapter, and an 8070 mathematics coprocessor) generates a polypeptide whose sequence and length can be user-defined (for practice) or computer-generated (for…

Compared 12 right-handed adolescent females with a history of idiopathic precocious puberty to 12 closely pair-matched normal controls of similar maturational status to test the association of physical maturation with cognitive abilities and the mediation of this association by hemispheric specialization. (HOD)

Describes a computer-based instructional unit in cardiovascular physiology. The program (which employs simulated laboratory experimental techniques with a problem-solving format is designed to supplement an animal laboratory and to offer students an integrative approach to physiology through use of microcomputers. Also presents an overview of the…

Presents the full questionnaire sent to chairmen of physiology departments, with statistical data (grand totals and means per department) provided for each item on the questionnaire. Includes histograms of faculty salaries and data on departmental budgets and space. (JN)

A study of the effectiveness of Washington State University's aerobic dance program showed that participation in the program did not improve students' cardiovascular fitness. Aerobics instructors should be trained to use pulse rate and other principles of exercise physiology to make their work more effective. (PP)

Specific suggestions are offered for introducing the urban child to units on the biology of man, including characteristics of plants and animals and their relationship to man. (LBH)

Use of medications that target specific behaviors affecting learning and social development has been the most extensively studied form of intervention available to children with behavioral and learning problems. Drawing from extensive research literature spanning the past 30 years, this guide for psychologists and other professionals who work with…