In preparation for the Voyager flybys in 1989, the pace of ground-based investigations of the moons of Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto has quickened considerably. Information derived from these investigations is presented. (JN)

Cartilage is a fundamental biological material that helps to shape the body and then helps to support it. Its fundamental properties of strength and resilience are explained in terms of the tissue's molecular structure. (JN)

Historically described are research studies which led to the current explanation of the two kinds of intracellular transport-axoplasmic flow and axoral transport. Models explaining their fundamental mechanism and the kinds of materials they convey are presented. (BT)

In this new theory the gravitational force arises from a symmetry relating particles with vastly different properties. The ultimate result may be a unified theory of all the basic forces in nature. (Author/BB)

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)

Discusses how the discovery of chaos has created a new paradigm in scientific modeling and how findings are contributing to changes in thought about many different branches of science. Includes explanations and examples of how chaotic behavior can be understood. (ML)

New advances in molecular biology have established a biotechnology industry and have changed ways people think about living things. In support of this theme, a discussion on historical development and current practice of gene cloning is presented. The role of nucleic acids, viruses, and therapeutic intervention is also considered. (DH)

Although the cost of basic science to the taxpayer is only about five percent of the cost of applied research and development, it contributes deeply to technology, the education of scientists, and the general enrichment of the culture. Examples of such research are provided to illustrate these contributions. (JN)

Discusses whether machines can think in the same sense that humans think. Provides four conclusions based on axioms of differences between computer programs and human minds. Compares claims of strong and weak artificial intelligence. (YP)

Discusses how handedness at one level may give rise to handedness at another. Presents examples from plants and animals, molecules, atoms, to elementary particles. Examines the chiral symmetry in life and when it starts. (YP)

Discusses the irregularity and unpredictability of the human body. Presented are pictures showing the fractallike structures and research findings on the mechanism for chaos in the human body. Lists four further reading materials. (YP)

Points out that large earthquakes can take place not only on faults that cut the earth's surface but also on blind faults under folded terrain. Describes four examples of fold earthquakes. Discusses the fold earthquakes using several diagrams and pictures. (YP)

Summarizes the development of the Earth's age calculation including the work of Archbishop Ussher, James Hutton, Lord Kelvin, Ernest Rutherford, Bertram Boltwood, and Arthur Holmes. Describes the changes in radioisotope dating methods. (YP)

Discusses the use of radioactive isotopes to graphically represent changes in the amount of blood flowing in areas of the human cerebral cortex, reflecting changes in the activity of those areas. Numerous illustrations are included. (Author/MA)

Chemical messengers mediate long-range hormonal communication and short-range neural communication between cells. Background information on peptides, steroids, neuropeptides, and specialized enzymes is given. Investigations reveal that the two systems have many common intercellular messenger molecules. (DH)