Discusses the importance of and need for genetics education for both medical professionals and the public. The nature nurture controversy is included in terms of environmental conditions causing the expression of certain genetic predispositions. (MA)

The broad area of biochemistry is surveyed. Subtopics include nuclei acids, peptide hormones, cell surfaces, and enzymology. (MDR)

In this review educational researchers are apprised of some potentially important developments in evolutionary biology. The field is outlined as it is spelled out in two recent books on sociobiology and behavior. The relationship between the two areas is discussed. (Author/GC)

A twin-based analysis of personality inventory scales yields information relevant to construct validity. Criteria for construct validity derived from adolescent twin statistics are illustrated with Wiggins' MMPI Content Scales. A type of discriminant validity indicates that some scales are not distinct in terms of influences of familial…

A sample run of a program intended for use by students with access to a teletype or visual display computer is shown. The program is satisfactory for the testing of the law for up to about 20 generations using any valid set of frequencies for genotypes. (AJ)

The special problems and implications associated with genetic screening of blacks in the U.S. are discussed. (Author/AM)

Reviewed are advances in the past century in cellular genetics. (CL)

Presents current findings and theories on the causes of Down Syndrome. Reviews research which focused on chromosome 21 and the pathologies associated with it. (ML)

Explains an experiment in which the rotation of a patch of skin on a tadpole results in a frog with rotated spots, proving that the spot pattern is determined long before it becomes visible. Procedures used are included. (DH)

Research suggests predisposition toward alcoholism and drug abuse by inherited behavioral propensities or temperaments which, through interaction with the physical and social environments, shape the development of the personality. Certain personality characteristics, specifically antisocial and neurotic traits, are also linked with the risk for…

Describes an elective undergraduate course that focuses on specific technologies' impact on society and the political system. Outlines the topic areas of computers, microelectronics, and genetic technology in terms of background information and political and public policy issues. A comprehensive reading list for the major technology areas is also…

Argues that the sociobiological argument (i.e., that suicide is associated with reduced reproductive potential) seems to have little explanatory value and to misrepresent the variability in cross-cultural patterning of suicidal behavior. Proposes a biocultural theory of suicide which addresses both the specific situational stressors and the…

The behaviors and interactions of preschool-aged siblings in object-oriented and body-oriented conditions were observed to discover if the child's siblings significantly influenced motor skill development. This study focused on categories of sibling behaviors and interactions. (Author/DF)

Describes a relatively simple method of extraction and purification of bacterial DNA. This technique permits advanced secondary-level science students to obtain adequate amounts of DNA from very small pellets of bacteria and to observe some of its polymer properties. (ML)

Updates knowledge on nitrogen fixation, indicating that investigation of free-living nitrogen-fixing organisms is proving useful in understanding bacterial partners and is expected to lead to development of more effective symbioses. Specific areas considered include biochemistry/genetics, synthesis control, proteins and enzymes, symbiotic systems,…