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Should testing be approved for human genetic engineering?
Before this question can be answered, we must explore the differences between Genetic Engineering and Human Cloning. Over the last century there have been remarkable advancements in the field of scientific research. While this new knowledge has produced technology that has benefited and made our lives better with items such as: the electric motor; Freon-based refrigeration; silicon chips; communication devices; and much more; it has also produced a new field of study, called Genetic Engineering.
The area of research known as Genetic Engineering is a vast and ever-growing field of study. It encompasses a wide variety of specific areas of scientific investigation; with many being practiced regularly in our daily lives. These areas of study include: Natural Selection; Selective Breeding; Genetic Manipulation; True Genetic Engineering; and finally Active Cloning, (or playing God). Many people become frightened when they hear the term Genetic Engineering. Immediately, they become confused by the terminology. They mistake the generic label for this area of research, Genetic Engineering, with the very specific, name Genetic Cloning. Although cloning can be a specific target for scientists practicing in this field, the term genetic engineering does not necessarily mean cloning. This can be very bewildering for the everyday layperson.
In an effort to avoid confusion on my thoughts regarding Human Genetic Cloning, I will define the individual areas of study relating to Genetic Engineering.
Natural Selection
Natural selection is the term we use to describe the evolutionary process for living organisms. Reproducing organisms, (such as plants and animals),autonomically evolve by duplicating specific, species related, favorable traits within their genetic coding. These characteristics are then inherited, or passed on, to its primary offspring. Each successive generation continues to re-duplicate the chosen characteristic until it becomes a common or dominant trait for that species. During this period of genetic restructuring, weaker or unfavorable traits are inherited less often. Eventually, these undesirable characteristics become less common, or recessive, in new generations.
True Natural Selection behaves primarily on the phenotype or observable characteristics of individual species. Examples of phenotypes may include blue eyes; blond hair; aggressive behavior; skin pigmentation; or any other characteristic governed strictly by genetic inheritance. The scientifically accepted theory of natural selection is based solely in the belief that individuals with favorable phenotypes are more likely to survive and reproduce. Individuals with less favorable phenotypes will not survive or reproduce. Favorable or preferred genetic phenotypes are therefore more likely to become permanently adapted to the host species.
The autonomic selection of preferred, or dominant genetic phenotypes; and removal of weaker, or recessive genetic phenotypes result in species specific adaptations. These adaptations allow species to find unique ecological niches in which they can survive. This unique combination of genetic mutation and ecological migration, in theory, will eventually produce new species. It is this very process that is known as True Natural Selection. It is the foundation of today's accepted study of modern biology.
Selective Breeding
Selective breeding or "Un-Natural Selection", is the most rudimentary human effort at genetic engineering. It has been used by people, since the late 1800's. It began with the discovery of Charles Darwin's- ON THE ORIGIN OF SPECIES BY MEANS OF NATURAL SELECTION, or, THE PRESERVATION OF FAVOURED RACES IN THE STRUGGLE FOR LIFE (24 November, 1859). It is the process of gradually producing a refined breed of plant or animal; separate from its original species. It is used to produce new heartier lines of livestock; healthier or more desirable breeds of domesticated dogs; and as a tool for zoologists attempting to preserve species in danger of extinction. Although this method of genetic engineering has been very successful, it can take many generations to bring about the desired changes in a chosen species.
"Un-Natural Selection" is achieved by enhancing the desired genetic markers or traits of a species by eliminating individuals, in the local population, that do not possess the characteristic dominantly. This is generally achieved by one of two methods of selective breeding. The first, known as line breeding, is accomplished by sequestering one specific bloodline or genetic strain from all others. The second, known as, in breeding, is generally thought to be the most cruel form of "Un-Natural Selection". This method of genetic isolation is accomplished by the forced breeding of genetically related individuals within a species.
Continuing murmurs have existed within the scientific community, suggesting "Un-Natural Selection" as a possible solution for genetically engineered human beings. This theory believes the support of hormonal therapy can assist couples with the mass production of fertilized eggs. Eggs would then be "grown" in a laboratory for a specified period of time. Individual eggs could then be tested for desired genetic traits; prior to utero implantation. In theory, this process could help to eliminate genetic diseases and disorders. There are a large number of flaws to this theory, including: damage caused to the human body, due to prolonged use of hormone therapies; moral dilemmas relating to the disposal of undesired fertilized eggs; unexpected mutations that may occur during the "fermentation and incubation periods" of viable embryos; as well and as many other unforeseen difficulties caused by this procedure.
Genetic Manipulation
Genetic Manipulation, is also known as: Genetic Engineering; Recombinant DNA Technology; Genetic Modification and Manipulation; and Gene Splicing. It is a relatively new discipline in the study of genetic engineering. It is the construction of hybrid organisms, and is sex-based . Although it is becoming more common in its use, it is not as widely accepted as other forms of genetic engineering. Genetic manipulation is the art of introducing new genetic material into a cell, altering its existing genetic coding. This scientific discipline, revolves around the isolation, manipulation, and alteration of DNA. After being altered, DNA is reintroduced into a host organism, with the hope that this organism will excrete or develop the desired proteins.
The purpose of this type of Genetic Engineering, is to physiologically or physically introduce new traits or characteristics into a host subject. This procedure can be used either to enhance existing traits or produce new traits within an organism. An example of this would be genetically modifying a plant such as wheat to become less resistance to cold environments. There have been many successful trial experiments using this technique. These have included: the manufacturing of human insulin by bacteria; the manufacturing of erythropoietin in Chinese hamster ovary cells; and the genetic modification of staple crops, allowing for increased planetary food production.
Although the scientific community has enjoyed numerous successes in this area of research, there has been a large public outcry against further studies. Many grassroots groups have sprung up across the United States and Europe demanding Genetic Manipulation Research be stopped. However, the worldwide scientific community believes this research is essential to the future of scientific evolution. Available information relating to to this area of research, is primarily focused on its use in farm animals. Literature can be found can be found both for and against its continuing applications in the scientific community.
Active Cloning or Playing God
The last area of Genetic Engineering that I will define is known as Active Cloning or Molecular Cloning. This scientific discipline involves the research, which will allow scientific communities, to not only define a genetic sequence, but also to replicate that initial sequence multiple times. This method of genetic engineering has been regularly and triumphantly utilized to amplify specific DNA fragments. It has numerous uses and practical applications within the scientific community. However, its expansion makes Active Cloning possible.
Active Cloning involves a four step process, which includes: DNA fragmentation; DNA ligation; DNA transfection; and DNA screening and selection. It is this area of research, which frightens most people, and has been outlawed in the United States. This process was used in the cloning of a tadpole; a carp ; and the subsequent 1996, cloning, of a sheep named Dolly. It has since been used to clone a female Rhesus monkey; two bulls , known as Alpha and Beta; a cat known as Little Nicky; a mule; and a horse; just to name a few. The immediate result of these cloning experiments is the moral dilemma of "should we."? Just because scientific research provides us with the technology to do something, does this mean that we should attempt it?
There has been a world wide outpouring of controversy on this subject. The scientific community has touted the implications of this technology; stating it can be effectively used to reproduce donor specific organs-increasing the quality of life for ailing citizens. Scientific expert's have also said this technology can be used, effectively, to eradicate horrific diseases such as, cancer and AIDS. However, many religious organizations have entered this dispute, devoutly opposed to the use of any type of cloning. Statements made by world renowned religious icons, such as the Pope, indicate a belief that life begins at conception; not invention. Political groups have also entered this highly charged controversy, indicating a concern for protecting the individual human identity. Hollywood has even entered the discussion, by producing such movies as, Arnold Schwarzenegger's "Sixth Day" The average layperson has concerns that rest somewhere between those expressed by the most vocal activist groups.
So, where do I stand in all of this? I guess you would have to say, my views, lay somewhere in the middle. I have spent endless hours educating myself on the advancements the scientific community has made in area of HUMAN GENETIC ENGINEERING - OR CLONING. Yet, I have spent even longer hours searching my soul, to define my moral beliefs on the subject. While I believe we have the technology to continue our scientific march towards the evolution of a "perfect" human being, I also believe our race for technology has clouded our humanity. Technology should only be used to assist us as human beings. It should not, and cannot be used to replace us. The moment we begin to clone ourselves, we lose the ability to discern our soul-the core of our very being.
I cannot imagine a world, where it's possible to replace the individuality, that makes each human being unique. I worry about a government who's leader has become ill and died; being instantly replaced by a cloned version of himself or herself, without public knowledge. The conspiratorial implications of a tool this dangerous must not be overlooked. The most dangerous aspect of this technology is man's sole desire for power. It is this desire, deep within the inner heart of man, which makes this technology such a volatile concept. I do not believe the human race has the ability to police its own desire for perfect power-and it is in that desire that this technology poses the greatest threat to all.
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Posted by Sandra at
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Posted by Sandra at
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The boys are great today. "Drew" is playing with the little girl next door. So far, she has had no fits, and there have been no fights. "Doogie" is kind of quiet. He fell down the front stairs yesterday, so his back is pretty sore. He was not injured enough for an emergency room visit - but bad enough we are attempting to keep him in bed for the day. We were going to take them to the drive in movie theater tonght, but got some good movies instead. Night at the Museum for "Drew", and Ghostrider for "Doogie". I think I am just going to have hubby make chef salad and everybody enjoy dinner around the tele. Tomorrow should be a big day, so I want "Doogie" ready for it. His daddy is going to have a dad and son day with him. He plans on taking him clothes shopping, out to lunch, and a few games of bowling. He may have to adjust the bowling part, but I'm sure he can think of something else to fill that time. While they are gone, "Drew" and I will be doing a paper mache' pinata and setting up the aerogarden. It will be very nice to have "alone" time with him. One on one he is very attentive to what we are accomplishing. It is my favorite time with him. I ordered some new story books for him - off Amazon.com, but they aren't here yet. I was hoping to have time reading new material with him. I guess we can do that next weekend. He got his butterfly garden this week, so I think I will take our reading time to add that to our project list. It should be a great experience for him. He does so well with hands on projects.
Well, I'll check back in at the end of the day tomorrow. |
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Posted by Sandra at
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This is a delicious Chinese favorite. Please enjoy it.
Ingredients:
2 cups water
1 cup walnuts
1/4 teaspoon sugar
2 whole (boneless) chicken breasts
1 egg white
2 teaspoons corn starch
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon white pepper
2 ounces CHINESE pea pods
2 stalks celery
2 green onions (with tops)
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon corn starch
1 tablespoon water
1 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon diced pimento
Cooking Instructions:
1. Heat 2 cups water to boiling
Add walnuts
Heat to boiling
Boil for 1 minute
Drain
Rinse under cold water
Remove skin from walnuts
Sprinkle walnuts with sugar
2. Cut chicken into 3/4 inch pieces
3. Mix egg white, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, salt, and white pepper in medium bowl
Cover and refridgerate for 20 minutes
4. Remove strings from pea pods
Cut large pea pods into 3 pieces
Place pea pods in boiling water
Boil for 30 seconds
Drain
Immediately rinse in cold water
5. Cut celery stalks diagonally, into 1/4 inch slices
Cut green onions, diaganolly, into 1 inch pieces
6. Mix oyster sauce 1 tablespoon corn starch and 1 tablespoon water
7. Heat vegetable oil in a wok to 350 degrees.
Add walnuts
Fry until walnuts are light brown
Remove walnuts from oil (using slotted spoon)
Drain on paper towels
8. Heat vegetable oil, in wok to 350 degrees
Add chicken
Fry until chicken turns white (stirring to separate pieces)
Remove chicken from oil (using slotted spoon)
Drain on paper towels
9. Pour oil from wok - reserving 2 tablespoons
rinse wok for next step
10. Heat wok until very hot
Add 2 tablespoons reserved vegetable oil
Tilt wok to coat side
11. Add celery
Stir-fry 1 minute
Add broth
Heat to boiling
Cover and simmer 1 minute
12. Add chicken
Add pea pods
Add green onions
Add pimento
Heat to boiling
Stir in corn starch mixture
Cook and stir until mixture thickens
13. Stir in walnuts
Makes 4 servings
Serving suggestions: Best with fresh long grain rice |
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Posted by Sandra at
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According to the AP (AP - Thu Jun 21, 6:32 PM ET). There have been approximately 3,545 American soldiers who have died in our government's current campaign of war. This number includes seven military civilians.
I have a few questions relating to these numbers. First of all, and most important - are these deaths REALLY necessary? Is this war really going to produce the outcome of peace our government claims is possible? Countries and tribes in this region have been at war for centuries. They have had inner battles amongst their own tribes, and they have engaged in outward battles against neighboring countries - as far back as history can take us. Are any more deaths really going to change this? Is a forced democratic government really going to change the path of war for these countries? Is it our place to change that path? I believe the struggles in our own country should take precedence over the problems of the middle east. However, now that we have embarked upon this destructive path of ignorance, can we ever really leave this region without the fear of another attack on our own soil? Our government would like us to believe the time will come when all of our soldiers will be safely at home and out of harms way... and in the end, the middle east will be peaceful without threat of attack upon our citizens. I don't believe that! How narcissistic of our government to believe that we - as a country - have so much influence and power - that we can change the in bedded behaviors of an entire civilization of people. We are losing our young men and women for an unobtainable goal. At what point can the simplest person look down the road and realize this path is the folly of fools? Please, don't get me wrong. I do support our troops - my husband is a retired soldier - However , I support the use of our troops in necessary endeavors. I don't believe in losing precious lives for the pompous infamy of one man. Each time a soldier falls on foreign soil we lose one more valuable assett to our own society's well being. This loss is too enormous now. The problem is: now that we are there, how do we get out without further endangering our own people? If we leave it the way things are IT WILL BECOME A BREEDING GROUND FOR HATE AND ATTACKS UPON US! We have fouled the water - per say - by appearing to be the over zealous aggressors. Most countries and people in the middle east have a poorer opinion of our country than they had before this war began. Leaving this zone unchecked, at this point, will ultimately lead to another attack upon us. So, what do we do? We can NOT stay in the region indeffinitely. However, we also can NOT continue to aimlessly lose the lives of those who protect us. We are in quite the quandry. We can NOT depend on the newly placed Iraqi government to do our bidding. After all it is only in place because we forced it to be. Yet, we also can NOT claim ownership of this country and place it under forced American control and laws ... or is that what we have already done? If it is, how much more dangerous will this zone become out of rebellion and hatred than it has already been. If it is one thing history should have taught us by now - it is this - when any culture or civilization is oppressed under forced rule of another country or people - there is rebellion, anger, and hatred. These JUSTIFIED feelings ultimately lead to a formal rebellion with attacks against the oppressor. Think about this - WE ARE OPRESSING A PEOPLE WHO DID NOT ATTACK US! Iraq is not Bin Laden. Iraq was NOT responsible for the twin towers. Iraq did NOT threat our country or people - until we attacked them. We lead them to believe thier lives would be better if we took control. Did we honestly make their lives better - or have we made it harder for most Iraqi citizens? Have we honestly fulfilled the promises we made to these people? In leaving unfulfilled promises and expectations what do we honestly expect is going to happen the moment we FULLY withdraw our troops from this region? No matter which way we go now - this is an unwinable endeaver which has further endangered our own country and it's people. At what point - as a society do we honestly come together to attempt a solution to this now inflated problem? There are no easy answers. It is going to take our entire country to come together with one solution and stand behind it through its completion. As a society of diverse peoples are we capable of this daunting feat? It is my hope that we are. Our governement was enstated .. by the people ... and for the people... the means it is THE PEOPLE'S RESPONSIBILTY ... to take the reigns of control when our elected leaders drive us into danger due to their own corrupted need for power! . If we don't, it then becomes our responsiblity to clean up the mess. It is time we band together to accomplish this. |
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Posted by Sandra at
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This recipe is a great- low calorie Summer Soup.
Ingredients:
2 medium cucumbers (approximately 8 inches long) peeled and seeded
3 medium scallions (white and green parts)
1 cup vegetable broth
6 sprigs fresh dill (cut in half) or 1/2 teaspoon dry dill weed
1 cup buttermilk
1/4 Worcestershire Sauce
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/8 teaspoon pepper
Cooking Instructions:
1. Place cucmbers, scallions, vegetable broth, and dill in a blender container.
Cover and blend until smooth.
2. Add buttermilk, Worcestershire Sauce, salt, and pepper to mixture.
Cover and blend until combined.
3. Chill until set.
Variations:
substitute fresh cilantro for dill
use additional broth in place of buttermilk and use red pepper instead of black pepper.
add thin peeled carrot slices to top of soup as additional color - when serving. |
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Posted by Sandra at
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This is a new take on a very old recipe:
Ingredients:
2 slices whole wheat bread
16 medium white mushrooms (between 14 and 16 ounces)
1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Cooking directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees
2. Tear the bread into pieces and place in a blender or food processor container - fitted with a steele blade.
Cover and process into crumbs. This should produce approximately 1 cup of fresh bread crumbs.
(pre-made seasoned bread crumbs will also work for this recipe)
3. Wash mushrooms and wipe clean with a clean damp cloth.
Separate the mushroom caps from the stems.
4. Chop enough mushroom stems to equal 1/3 cup
Create Filling:
5. In a medium skillet, heat oil over medium high heat.
Add chopped mushroom stems and garlic
Cook, until softened, stirring constantly (about three minutes)
Remove from heat.
6. Stir bread crumbs into skillet with cooked stems.
Stir in cheese, salt, and pepper.
7. Spoon filling into each mushroom cap.
Place caps on a baking sheet.
8. Bake caps approximately 12 minutes or until heated through.
Serving variation:
Sprinkle caps with a light dusting of parmesan cheese before serving.
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Posted by Sandra at
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This recipe is best prepared the day before:
Ingredients:
2 ouces simi- sweet chocolate - chopped
4 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup vegetable shortening
1 cup - packed - light brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
2 LARGE eggs
1/3 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, macadamia nuts, or almonds (optional to taste)
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat
2. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt
3. In a large bowl, cream the vegetable shortening and two sugars.
Beat in the eggs one at a time.
Beat in the milk and vanilla extract.
Beat in the melted chocolate.
Gradually bled in the dry ingredients.
Gently fold in nuts (with fork)
4. Divide the dough in half.
Form each half into a 2 inch thick log
Wrap in wax paper and chill for eight hours or over night.
5. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
6. Cut each chilled log into 1/4 inch thick slices and place 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet.
7. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until lightly colored.
Transfer to wire racks for cooling. |
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Posted by Sandra at
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Quick And Fun Clam Dip
This recipe is less calories and less fat than regular clam dip, as it substitues low calorie cream cheese for fatty mayonaise. The taste is fantastic, and it keeps well.
Ingredients:
16 oz. Philly - reduced fat cream cheese
16 oz. Low fat - sour cream
4 cans minced or diced clams
1/4 package - artificial crab meat
Instructions:
1. In large mixing bowl combine cream cheese and sour cream.
2. Open and drain clams, putting aside a small portion of the juice.
3. With mixer on high speed whip sour cream/cream cheese mixture, adding clam juice (1 tsp at a time), until light and fluffy.
4. Using a fork, fold clams and artificial crab into cream cheese mixture.
5. Regridgerate for 30-40 minutes before serving.
Best served on a variety of crackers, or stuffed in cold celery stalks. |
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Posted by Sandra at
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Summer is here!. The boys are so excited. They want to go to Six Flags so badly. They really have earned it this year, but so far they think we are not going. I was thinking of "springing" it on them at the last minute. I just love the look on their faces when something really excites them. We are going to take the all-purpouse camcorder and record the whole day. Not sure how Bo-Bo (working dog) is going to do, but hopefully by the time we go, Terry will have had time to work long enough with him that he does not go crazy in the crowds. I am really proud of "doogie"! He completed two school years in one this year. So far, if he continues on the path he is on now, he will deffinitely graduate at 15 years old. Although he has scholarships already, I don't believe we will allow him to 'test the water" of the college environment until he is maybe 17. I don't thnk he will be ready emotionally, but we will see. "Drew" has had a very productive school year as well. He has made slow progress in his occupational and speech therapies, but, he has made progress. To me that is the most important thing. We are deffinitely adding socialization therapy to his schedule - for the coming school year. I am hoping we can get him to the point he is comfortable around other children. Some Autistic children never learn this - but I'm so sure he will. I want to do something special for him when he graduates his thearapy (for the summer). I am just thinking maybe a little "vacation" party will help him transition from his "school schedule" to his "summer schedule". He will make the chage better maybe? He has taken to greeting the little girl who moved in next door. He plays with her sometimes, but does not understand when she throws fits. He just stares at her like he has never witnessed anything like this in his life - of course not realizing he threw his own fit an hour before - grin. Maybe it will be good for him by showing him what he looks like when he has fits. If he doesn't like the sounds and crying when she throws one - maybe he will connect that he sounds the same. A mom can hope - anyhow - grin. At least he recognizes her, and, at times, wants to play with her. This is a step in the right direction.
Well, have to go find my coffe - will write more tomorrow - or later today. |
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Posted by Sandra at
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While playing online with my children a few weeks ago, we began doing research on planetary allignments. In our research "Doogie" mis-typed the name of a well-known search engine. The awful result was pornography appearing on our monitor. Of course, we shut the browser immediately. However, the site's aggressive programming allowed it to continue to open our browser for several minutes after we closed it. It was while confronting this problem we got the idea of this website. We are attempting to create a chlild-safe network, where children can come and chat, play games, or just "hang out". We are hoping to offer many new games and services. However, our current traffic load does not support this improvement. We are looking for good ideas on things we can add to make the site more comfortable, homey, and fun. Please feel free to post here, if you have suggestions or ideas you feel will help us reach our ultimate goal. Please do not be alarmed if it takes me several hours to answer you. I am legally blind, so sometimes I require help in reading things on the screen. I will respond however, to each and every email we receive. We thank you so much for participating in the community we are attempting to create. |
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Posted by Sandra at
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