Chemicals in the Environment: Toxicology and Public Health (BE.104J), Spring 2005

Abstract:: This course addresses the challenges of defining a relationship between exposure to environmental chemicals and human disease. Course topics include epidemiological approaches to understanding disease causation; biostatistical methods; evaluation of human exposure to chemicals, and their internal distribution, metabolism, reactions with cellular components, and biological effects; and qualitative and quantitative health risk assessment methods used in the U.S. as bases for regulatory decision-making. Throughout the term, students consider case studies of local and national interest.

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Laboratory Safety Principles

Abstract:: This workshop will cover major principles and regulations pertinent to working in laboratories with hazardous materials. It will be divided into 45 minute segments dealing with: Radioactive Materials (Staiger); Toxic, Reactive, Carcinogenic, and Teratogenic Chemicals (Carlson); Infectious Agents (Laver); and Fire Safety Concepts and Physical Hazards (Arnston).

Abstract:: Toxic chemicals are endangering life on Earth, affecting every person and animal. In the "Toxic Blaster" game you need to pilot a Jet-Sub and blast away the threat of human contamination. The game is also available in French, Dutch, Danish, Polish and Finnish languages at http://wwf.panda.org/how_you_can_help/games/.

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Abstract:: The father and son team of Brodie and Brodie track down the predator able to stomach a mysteriously hyper-toxic newt, an example of an evolutionary arms race in action. From Evolution: "Evolutionary Arms Race."