The cystic fibrosis gene story
Article Abstract:
The genetic code for the protein involved in cystic fibrosis has been identified. Cystic fibrosis is characterized by abnormally thick mucous secretions, particularly in the lungs; it leads to infection and death at an early age. One in every 2,000 children is born with this fatal disease. The identification of the gene involved in cystic fibrosis is a great scientific achievement. It allows further research into the actual defect causing the disease, which will hopefully produce a cure for the disease someday. The discovery also allows greater accuracy of prenatal and natal diagnosis. The methods that were used by the investigators to isolate the gene can also be used to look for genes involved in other diseases. The identification of this gene would not have been possible without techniques developed in basic scientific research. Basic research, which is regarded by some as impractical, often becomes practical, providing the techniques that are used in direct applications. The research on cystic fibrosis was funded by both private philanthropy and public funds. Credit is therefore due to all who contributed. There was competition among the researchers to find the gene, but the nature of the competition led to cooperation, such that three of the laboratories trying to locate the gene joined together and shared information. There is personal satisfaction when scientists cooperatively contribute to the solution of a difficult problem and when an all-out effort is made for a cause such as identifying the gene involved in a fatal disease.
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1989
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The dirty air act
Article Abstract:
Approximately 18 billion disposable diapers are discarded each year, and they make up 2 percent of the total solid waste. Cloth diapers account for only one-one hundredth of the solid waste that disposable diapers do, but the cleaning of these diapers requires the use of detergents, which are polluting, and hot water, which takes energy to heat. A professional diaper service uses gasoline for delivery, and the exhaust from the trucks also contributes to the pollution of the earth. It has been calculated that a diaper service uses three times as much fuel and causes nine times as much air pollution as the use of disposable diapers. There is no question that disposable diapers are more convenient than cloth diapers. Thus, the matter is complex and is being evaluated using cost-benefit analysis. Other environmental problems could also be solved using a cost-benefit approach. For example, shoppers could be encouraged to bring a reusable cloth bag to the grocery store by charging them for the disposable store bags. This debate can serve as a model for other environmental issues. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1990
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Organization
Article Abstract:
Informed consent is basic to good science policy. Legislators have the responsibility to set goals for government-funded research and scientists have the responsibility to advise on the ways to achieve these goals.
Publication Name: Science
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0036-8075
Year: 1993
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