The neural networks of several invertebrate animals are currently being studied for clues to cerebral function. The major goal of the studies is an understanding of the neural mechanisms behind learning. Organisms used, examples of research studies, and implications are discussed. (Author/JN)

Provided is a list of winners of the 43rd annual Westinghouse Science Talent Search. Highlights of several research studies conducted by the winners are included. (JN)

Highlights activities and scientific accomplishments at the Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, England. Includes comments by staff scientists about their current research endeavors. (JN)

The discovery of a superconducting organic compound is reported. The compound, (TMTSF)-2, has no metal in its composition, and the author believes that it is the precursor of a family of superconducting organics. (Author/SA)

The effects of heavy metals on fish are being investigated by the Columbia National Fishery Research Laboratory in Missouri. This article describes the process and some techniques that are being used in the research. (SA)

Discusses helioseismology, the study of solar oscillations. Describes several different projects devoted to this science. Highlights new research and information about the sun. Several illustrations are presented to illustrate events and oscillations. (CW)

Cosmology is the theory by which the structure and history of the universe is described. Discusses the relationship between cosmology, gravity, and quantum mechanics, and whether the relationship can be formulated through Einstein's theory or a modification of it. Also discusses progress made in these scientific areas. (JN)

Universities are looking to industry for help in funding scientific research, but the new partnerships have raised questions about the role of universities. Issues related to these university-industry relationships are discussed, including fundamental differences between academic/industrial goals and possible conflicts arising from these…

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

Reviews cases which support the view that parts of the left hemisphere control languages, no matter how it is expressed, while right-side regions are involved only in skilled nonlinguistic movements and perceptions. Compares recent findings with previously held theories. (ML)

Reviews research done on the nature of vision from a neurologic perspective. Proposes a multiplex filter model to explain patterns in the signals transmitted to the brain from the retina. Describes experiments done to test the model. (CW)

Describes research on the causes, treatments, and diagnoses of autism. Describes a statewide outpatient program in North Carolina which includes elements of behavior modification, developmental assessment, problem-oriented goal setting, community support, and the training of both child and parent. (Author/DS)

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)

Reviews the findings of the White House Science Council's survey of the condition of the United States university-research community. Indicates the problems that threaten the quality of academic research and outlines recommendations for its improvement. Funding changes, tax credits, and scholarships are among the panel's suggestions. (ML)

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)