Scientist William J. Dreyer has hypothesized that the cell surface proteins in the nose that detect odors also help assemble embryos. These olfactory receptors and related proteins act as identifiers, much like the last few digits of a telephone number, that help cells to find their intended neighbors in a developing embryo. Discusses the research…

The effect that pesticides can have on natural ecosystems is discussed. Specific examples are drawn from microbial ecosystems in estuarine regions. (DT)

Discusses various theories about life on Mars and biochemical experiments pertaining to the origin of life. (MLH)

Discusses the conflicting evidence and points of view presented by scientists involved in research on the nature of memory. The research of one group supports a chemical basis for memory, while the other group presents evidence supporting an electro-physiological basis. (JR)

Announces a survey prepared by the National Academy of Sciences on the dangers of formaldehyde in the environment. (SA)

The use of radio telemetry as a research tool for studying the physiology of animals under natural conditions is described. Unexpected insights into animals' physiology, particularly the interaction of heart rates and breathing rates, are detailed. (BT)

Presents arguments against the recent "punctuated equilibrium" point of view expressed by evolutionists Stephen Jay Gould and Niles Eldredge. Reviews evidence for continuous and gradual change, as recently cited by four anthropologists in the July 9 issue of "Nature." (CS)

Describes an exhibit at the Smithsonian Institution, representing 35 epochal scientific advances. The collection includes part of a collection of 11,000 first editions of such works as Darwin's "Origin of Species" and Lyell's "Principles of Geology." (SA)