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Pharmacogenomics, 2007.
A look at the human genome project with respect to gene expression profiling.
2,700 words (approx. 10.8 pages), 35 sources, MLA, £ 57.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at gene expression profiling which is defined as a basic research method that effectively measures messenger RNA that has been made up of many different genes belonging to many different cell types. It discusses how this technology is being widely accepted and used as a diagnostic test to help the technician to easily identify the various subgroups of tumor types and to help predict which patients would better respond to treatment, and also which patients may be at an increased risk of a relapse of cancer.
From the Paper
"Any cells, within an organism, like for example, within a human being, works especially in order to increase the basic functioning and efficiency of that organism. For example, Nerve cells, or in other words, neurons, are capable of expressing neuron specific proteins, and this would allow it to perform neuron duties more efficiently. Similarly, skin or epithelial cells have their very own and specific proteins, and this enables them to work better. It must be noted that both neurons as well as epithelial cells possess the genes-encoding for neural and epithelial-specific proteins, and this makes sure of their effective and efficient and protective functioning. However, each cell can only express that particular gene that it may require, and not any other tissue specific genes. What this may be taken to mean is that a given DNA sequence can only provide specific information about what 'could be', and not what actually 'is'."
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Genetic Nightmares, 2007.
An examination of the film "Gattaca" by A. Niccol, 1997.
896 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 1 source, MLA, £ 22.95
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Abstract
The paper describes how the film "Gattaca" is a look into a possible future based on the concerns people have today about DNA testing, genetic engineering, privacy and similar issues. The paper discusses how the film raises a number of questions about what these trends might lead to in the near future and the film plays directly on fears that have been expressed by many people today. The world depicted in the film is centered on a huge corporation that monitors its employees closely and that makes decisions on the basis of genetics. The paper highlights the danger that a few scientific facts can become an excuse for unlimited social control.
From the Paper
"The main character is Vincent, who has found a way around the system and is passing as a man named Jerome. Every morning, he goes through a ritual to install the hair, skin cells, and urine of a crippled man named Jerome, a man who would have had a bright future if he had not been crippled in an accident. Jerome dreams of going into space, which is the business of Gattaca, and he is about to fulfill that dream unless he is uncovered and his true genetic make-up discovered. This might happen because the director of the project has been murdered, and the police investigation could discover the truth about Vincent's DNA."
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Genetically Modified Food, 2007.
A metadata analysis of the capacity of intensification of agricultural production via genetic engineering to feed a growing population.
16,724 words (approx. 66.9 pages), 19 sources, MLA, £ 178.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the assumption that the gene revolution--represented by the integration of genetic engineering techniques into the field of agriculture--is capable of positively affecting the current human population crisis. The study examines this very ideological assumption that has not largely been challenged in the popular or critical literature on the subject. It then attacks that assumption and illustrates its erroneous base.
Table of Contents:
Chapter One: Introduction and Statement of Problem
1.1 Statement of Problem
1.2 Purpose of the Study
1.3 Importance of the Study
1.4 Scope of the Study
1.5 Rationale of the Study
1.6 Definition of Terms
1.7 Overview of the Study
Chapter Two: Literature Review
2.1 Scope of the Literature Review
2.2 Intensification of Production is Favourable
2.3 Intensification of Production is Unfavourable
Chapter Three: Methodology
3.1 Approach
3.2 Data Gathering Method
3.3 Database of Study
3.4 Validity of Study
3.5 Originality and Limitations
Chapter Four: Data Analysis
Chapter Five: Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations
From the Paper
"In order to fully examine that relationship, it was necessary to critically examine literature, statistics, and historical examples that might shed some light on the relationship that exist between food production and population growth. Additionally, studies were consulted that spoke to the capacity for genetically modified foods to increase agricultural production. In all, the range of information required for this study was significant and at times may have appeared to stray beyond the limited scope of genetically modified food. However, in order to demonstrate the manner by which genetically modified food would have its greatest negative impact upon human societies, it was essential to take a broader look at the role that genetically modified foods have played in the intense push to intensify agricultural production year after year in order to presumably keep up with geometric population growth by always generating more food than is needed."
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Toxicology, 2006.
This paper discusses the science of toxicology or the science of poisoning.
1,102 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 9 sources, MLA, £ 27.95
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Abstract
The writer begins this essay with a discussion of the metabolism of toxic substances. The writer explains that the rate of metabolism in effect defines the concentration of the toxic substance. The slower the metabolic rate the more easily the toxic substance enters systemic circulation. Further, in this paper the writer discusses possible poisoning from chemicals such as aspartame or aspirin. The writer concludes this study with a look at the Bhopal carbide plant disaster in 1984.
From the Paper
"The human liver plays an important role in metabolizing and breaking down food material, (including toxic substances) before it can reach the circulatory system and affect the entire body. Nature has defined the liver as a first line defense mechanism against food materials and toxic substances that we may consume unknowingly. The metabolizing enzymes in the hepatocytes are very efficient and this defense mechanism is known as 'first pass effect'. Typically, Phase one reactions are mainly oxidative, reductive or hydrolytic processes and form substrates for phase two conjugations. The cytochrome p450 enzymes are mainly responsible for the Oxidative phase one reactions. These are a group of enzymes that are actually a family of proteins that can act upon a wide range of substrates. Lipophilic chemicals are oxidated to yield water-soluble chemicals. These enzymes also perform heterocyclic hydroxylations and analkylation reactions. The end products of the phase one reactions are ready for conjugation with glycine, glucuronic acid, etc and are easily excreted from the body via urine."
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Medical Technology, 2006.
A discussion on the pros and cons of medical advancements in nanotechnology and therapies.
860 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, £ 21.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses new medical technology and advancement, from the approach of Bill McKibben, in his book "Enough". The paper discusses nanotechnology and its uses and well as various types of therapies, particularly germ-line therapy. The paper describes the pros and cons of these medical advancements and whether we may achieve more in the future.
From the Paper
"McKibben actually sees a number of bad outcomes to the use of this technology, from the end of much of the existing economy to a possibility of the technology getting out of hand and reproducing itself to the detriment of all life. He sees an imbalance between technology and humanity that is the real threat."
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Drilling in Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, 2006.
The paper examines the debate regarding drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
2,563 words (approx. 10.3 pages), 7 sources, MLA, £ 55.95
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Abstract
The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is the most promising onshore area for oil exploration and one of the wildest areas remaining in the United States. Therefore, the conflict between the need to develop energy resources and the desire to preserve wild areas has led to the prolonged debate over the merits of programs to lease the region for oil exploration and development. According to the paper, drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge would cause environmental costs that include some elements that are essentially certain, as well as elements that are uncertain, such as the unpredictable effects on the number and health of certain important species. The paper concludes that development is environmentally damaging no matter the cautions, because it alters the wild state of the region forever.
From the Paper
"When Alaska entered the Union in 1958, Congress transferred an exceptionally large amount of land to the new state, and at the same time, the Department of the Interior used its authority to administratively reserve land for federal use, resulting to decades of controversy and disputes (Grover). Since 1957, the United States Department of the Interior has exercised primary administrative authority over most of the land comprising modern-day ANWR Grover). This fact has meant that a great deal to people who care about the Refuge (Grover). Federal management has produced a land that is valued as much for its unique wilderness character as it is prized for its suspected mineral wealth, and in particular, it has precluded significant petroleum exploration and development of the Refuge (Grover)."
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Animal Testing, 2006.
An argument against laboratory testing of animals.
1,396 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 5 sources, MLA, £ 33.95
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Abstract
The paper holds the view that animal testing cannot provide firm evidence that a new product is safe and effective. The paper goes on to suggest that the testing methods used are immoral, and violate an animal's rights and that scientists should attempt to use alternative methods, and stop their cruel animal testing.
From the Paper
"Laboratory animals and humans are different. Laboratories use primates such as monkeys and chimpanzees for modeling human diseases related to the brain and the nervous system because these animals are the most closely related to humans. However, human's and primate's brains are not same. "The primate brain is not a scaled-down version of human's brain. Chimpanzee's brains and human's are similar in structure, but that does not mean they perform the same functions."(Coghlan) Therefore, scientists cannot acquire human medical insights accurately from the studies of primates. "Scientists have learned a lot about human's physiology through comparisons in animals. But they argue that the quest for drugs that modify human behavior and brain function requires a subtlety not available through the study of primate brain."(Coghlan) In addition, other animals used for testing drugs, chemicals, and cosmetics are also not identical to humans and cannot form some of the same health problems even though these animals are biologically similar to humans. In spite of this fact, many laboratories still continue animal experiments on new products, producing unreliable results. Although the scientists prove the safety of the products on animals, the products may be harmful to humans."
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Fossils, 2006.
A discussion on fossils from the Pre-Cambrian period.
794 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 5 sources, MLA, £ 20.95
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Abstract
This study discusses the Pre-Cambrian Period, roughly some two billion years ago, and in particular, fossils that have been found from that time period. The paper discusses three types of fossils that have been left behind -- body, trace and chemical and that these can be readily found within rocks formed during the Archaean and Proterozoic Periods.
From the Paper
"During this time, a number of life forms emerged and left behind three types of fossils--body, trace and chemical, which can be readily found within rocks formed during the Archaean and Proterozoic Periods. Some of these fossils are actual cellular remains, something which Donovan admits is extremely rare in rocks of this age. The oldest have been dated as about 3.5 billion years and can be found in cherts from the Warrawoona Group near the North Pole, being northwest of Australia, and in the Onverwacht Group in eastern Transvaal (South Africa)."
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Endangered Species Act, 2006.
This paper discusses the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
2,954 words (approx. 11.8 pages), 10 sources, MLA, £ 62.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer looks at the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) that was designed to protect plant and animal species that were - and are - threatened by extinction and to provide punitive measures for persons and organizations that violate the Act. This paper focuses on just the animals that are endangered (not those on the "threatened" list), not the plants, although there are numerous plant species listed as endangered and thousands of species of plants already extinct. The writer looks at the animals this act concerns and discusses the proposed legislation. The writer discusses challenges and complications related to the Act.
Contents:
Introduction
Animals Placed on the Endangered Species List
Removed from the Endangered Species List
Legislation Proposed will Radically Change the ESA
Grizzly Bears in Yellowstone Park
Cut Throat Trout Numbers Shrinking in Yellowstone Park
Florida Home Builders Association Sues
Florida Native Americans Sue Interior Secretary Gale Norton
International Marine Mammal Project
Marketing Endangered Species and Wildlife Conservation
From the Paper
"One of the animals that may soon come off the ESA's list in a certain, prescribed area, is the Grizzly Bear. The Department of Interior (DOI) (which runs FWS) has decided to remove the 600 or so Grizzlies "in and near Yellowstone National Park" from the federal endangered list. Why? It would put protection of the bears in the hands of state wildlife officials in Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho, according to a USA Today article.
The other reason for taking the Grizzly off the federal protected list is that the bears' population in the Yellowstone area has increased from around 200 in 1975, to about 600 today. The Grizzly once number around 50,000 throughout the western United States and now there are about 1,200 remaining. They live primarily in four regions: Yellowstone, Glacier National Park (Montana), the Selkirk Mountains (Idaho), and in the Cabinet Mountains in Montana. The Grizzlies in those other three areas will remain on the ESA list of protected animals."
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Mummies, 2006.
This paper discusses the mummies of ancient Egypt.
1,574 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, £ 36.95
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Abstract
The writer of this essay looks at how art fulfilled a functional and religious purpose for the ancient Egyptians, rather than an artistic or personally expressive purpose. The writer maintains that this can be seen in the Egyptian art and rituals devoted to the preservation of mummies. The writer describes that the ancient Egyptians believed that mummifying a person's body after death was essential to ensure a safe passage to the afterlife. In this article, the writer discusses the process and ritual of mummification. The writer concludes that although mummies do not conform to common Western notions of what constitutes art, they were certainly artful and time-consuming to produce and reflect the cultural values and mythology of the ancient Egyptians.
From the Paper
"Every step of the process was rigorously prescribed by ritual. Only priests were qualified to prepare a mummy, and this was because of their ceremonial and religious office, not only their craftsmanship. The art of Egyptian mummification began with the body of the dead being washed and ritually purified. The deceased person's inner organs were removed through a cut lit in the left side of the body. The intestines, the liver, the stomach and the lungs were embalmed using natron "which served to dry out the organs and discourage bacteria from decaying the tissues."
Elaborately decorated canopic jars held these organs in the tomb. "The lids of these jars were fashioned after the four sons of Horus, who were each entrusted with protecting a particular organ:" the falcon headed son Qebehsenuef, guarded the intestines, the jackal headed Duamutef the stomach, the baboon head Hapy the lungs, and Imsety, a human head, guarded the liver."
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Stem Cell Research, 2006.
This paper is an extensive discussion of stem cell research, especially its benefits, both medical and economic, and the question of funding especially from the government.
3,295 words (approx. 13.2 pages), 14 sources, APA, £ 67.95
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Abstract
This paper stresses that any consideration of the costs of stem cell research must be balanced against the societal costs of the diseases and afflictions, which stem cell research might cure, and the economic benefit of a massive order of a cure, far exceeding what is being spent on stem cell research. The author points out that getting funding for stem cell research is currently uncertain, especially from the government because of actions by President Bush and questions about the availability of private funding. The paper states that Bush's calculations might be taken at face value as moral decisions, since he has likened the use of stem cells to abortion, which he also opposes on moral grounds; however, the decision also is clearly a political one intended to keep his conservative right-to-life base behind him. The paper includes several long quotations.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Stem Cell Research
Problems Addressed
Costs
Economic Costs and Benefits
From the Paper
"Numerous avenues of research are in the works, and spending on Parkinson's research will exceed $5.6 billion this year. The Food and Drug Administration has approved nearly a dozen drugs for treating Parkinson's. In 1997, approval was granted for a device that is surgically implanted in the brain to lessen the violent shaking experienced by some Parkinson's patients. In 1996, a gene was discovered that is believed responsible for a form of Parkinson's, and this may result in future innovative treatments. In spite of the range of therapies available to ease the disease's debilitating symptoms, treatments now on the market can neither replace the faulty nerve cells that cause the disease nor stop Parkinson's from progressing."
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Ecological Competition, 2006.
A discussion on the principle of competition as it pertains to ecology.
3,078 words (approx. 12.3 pages), 7 sources, MLA, £ 64.95
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Abstract
The paper defines and describes the principle of competition as it pertains to ecology and outlines the underlying physical, chemical, and/or biological principles that operate within the ecological principle. The paper includes a description of general textbook observations that support this principle. In the conclusion, the paper describes four real world studies from specific scientific articles published in research journals that demonstrate the principle, including an examination of how the principles discussed here are investigated by ecologists.
From the Paper
"Competition is described as an interaction that leads to an increase in one species population density and also to a decrease in the per capita growth rate and population density in another. It has also been suggested that species richness in a habitat decreases with increasing levels of competition- the more competition there is for a particular resource, the fewer individuals there will be in a species population. Further, the number of species in a habitat will become excluded due to the intensity of competitive activity."
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Stem Cell Research, 2006.
This paper discusses stem cell research and issues that such research raises.
2,278 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 12 sources, MLA, £ 50.95
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Abstract
The writer discusses the controversy surrounding stem cell research and cloning that has caused a great amount of debate and concern throughout the world. The writer notes that stem cell research offers the possibility of renewing body parts and curing life-threatening and debilitating ailments such as Parkinson's disease. At the same time, stem cell research is a problem that confronts human society on many levels - including religious, ethical, psychological and sociological areas.
The writer concludes that the debate about stem cell research seems to fluctuate between two extreme viewpoints. Notwithstanding the various scientific objections, those who object to stem cell research make an important point in that this form of research may have a profound impact on social morals and norms and therefore should not be entered into lightly and without considerable debate. On the other hand, the advances that have been made with regard to stem cell research and the possibilities that it offers for sufferers of diseases such as Parkinson's disease, also offer a telling argument for the cautious advancement of this form of medical research.
From the Paper
"One of the most serious assertions against stem cell research and cloning in general is that it threatens the disruption and even the destruction of human institutions such as the family and parenting. On another related level, cloning is sometimes viewed as a threat to religious perceptions and challenges the very meaning of what it is to be a human being. Stem cell research therefore presents two main areas for debate. The first is the medical argument that it holds the real possibility of curing serious diseases and ailments. On the other hand as part of the larger cloning debate it raises numerous ethical, moral and social questions."
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Endocarditis, 2006.
This paper discusses endocarditis, the heart-related infection of the mitral valve.
1,895 words (approx. 7.6 pages), 7 sources, MLA, £ 43.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer studies endocarditis, that is a heart related infection of valves and some of the lining inside the muscle of the heart, or the 'endocardium'. The writer explains that this infection is uncommon, although not rare, and it can be serious. Infection may either be caused due to contraction during dental or medical procedures and/or in someone with a predisposing heart abnormality, but this is not always a given factor according to medical sources. The writer looks at the management of endocarditis. The matter of postoperative care is discussed in this paper and the writer also looks at diagnosis.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Incidence of the Disease
Etiology of the Disease
Pathophysiology of the Disease Process
Clinical Manifestations Associated with the Disease Process
Nursing Care
Conclusion
References
From the Paper
"This disease was chosen as the topic of this research because a family member, specifically a child of the researcher has a high-risk of this disease due to mitral-valve with regulation and an ASD repair performed two years ago. Endocarditis is a heart related infection of valves and some of the lining inside the muscle of the heart, or the 'endocardium'. This infection is uncommon, although not rare, and it can be serious. Infection may either be caused due to contraction during dental or medical procedures and/or in someone with a predisposing heart abnormality, but this is not always a given factor according to medical sources.
Natural heart defense is present in the lining however, some bacteria do manage to break that barrier and feed on the blood of the individual also releasing what is called 'vegetations' which act as clot in the blood...thereby affecting heart valves and causing problems."
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