Images Dated 11th August 2003

Coloured 3-D CT scan of the human spine

Spine. Coloured three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) scan of a healthy human spine, superimposed onto a torso with muscles revealed. The spine (yellow), seen from behind, is made of a column of 33 cylindrical bones called vertebrae. Between the vertebrae are flexible joints that both stabilise the spine and allow movement. Each vertebra has bony projections which provide attachment sites for the muscles and ligaments that hold the spine together. Running through the spine is the spinal cord (not seen), a bundle of nerves from the brain. Three-dimensional CT scans are made by combining multiple X-ray tissue slices using a computer

© Gjlp/Science Photo Library

Japan-Tableware-Lovecup-1

Printempt Ginza department store employee Akiko Fujii displays the heart shaped cup "Love Cup", priced 3, 000 yen (25 USD), in Tokyo 11 August 2003. The lip of the cup is round shape like a normal cup but the body of the cup is shaped the hart which is appeared when the drink is poured into. AFP PHOTO / Yoshikazu TSUNO / AFP PHOTO / YOSHIKAZU TSUNO

© Agence France-Presse (AFP) - All Rights Reserved

Woman holds intrauterine contraceptive device

MODEL RELEASED. IUD. A woman holds an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD), or coil. IUDs consist of a piece of moulded plastic that is inserted into the uterus. Some types, like this one, have a coil of copper wire wrapped around the stem. A piece of plastic string hangs through the cervix, allowing easy removal. Just how IUDs work is not understood, but they are thought to prevent implantation of fertilized eggs in the wall of the uterus. The probability of a pregnancy for each year of use is 2-3%. IUDs with copper coils need to be replaced every 3-5 years

© Saturn Stills/Science Photo Library