Discusses the findings of a study that involves the testing of the pharmaceutical Ampakines on laboratory rats. Rats administered Ampakines learn remarkably quickly to navigate new mazes. The question now is does the drug make the rats alert or memory enhanced. Implications for treatment in humans is discussed. (ZWH)

Describes how the statistical technique of meta-analysis can be used to help resolve conflicting studies in social sciences. (ZWH)

Discusses trends that have converged to transform our understanding of genetic and environmental influences on personality traits. Presents five main determinants of personality. (ZWH)

Describes a recent move of scientists and university administrators in Japan to allow external peer review in an effort to convince government bureaucrats that Japan's academic research is up to world standards and therefore deserves more money. (ZWH)

Reports on the possibility of restructuring physics and chemistry departments and merging others at British universities. Suggests modifications of the course content for greater acceptance by students. Concludes that the logic of the committee's recommendations rests in the subsequent ability of certain departments to grow. (RT)

Described is research conducted on cluster-assembled matter. The differing character of these arrangements of matter are discussed. Methods used to produce clusters are reviewed. (CW)

Described are the Howard Hughes Medical Institute programs for providing funds to assist science education. One program is designed to assist private liberal arts colleges that are not affiliated with a graduate school. Other programs have been established to provide support for postdoctoral research and laboratories. (RH)

Research which makes possible a quantification of the size, composition, and growth of the underclass is discussed. Trends in the quality of life and the growth of the underclass are presented. (CW)

Discussed is the movement against the use of dissections in science laboratories. Examples of protests across the United States are included. Compared is the plight of using animals in a biology classroom and the demise of the teaching of evolution in some areas. (KR)