Reported is a study of cold fusion in which trace amounts of helium, possible evidence of an actual fusion reaction, were found. Research methodology is detailed. The controversy over the validity of experimental results with cold fusion are reviewed. (CW)

A discussion of two classes of natural opiate peptides (endorphins and enkephalins) recently found in the brain, and the role they may play in linking emotion and memory. (BB)

The functional architecture of the primary visual cortex has been explored by monitoring the responses of individual brain cells to visual stimuli. A combination of anatomical and physiological techniques reveals groups of functionally related cells, juxtaposed and superimposed, in a sometimes complex, but presumably efficient, structure. (BB)

Describes the procedure to test the hypothesis that subjects' brain waves in response to a television flicker (distraction) would be smaller in amplitude during television programs of high, in contrast to low, interest. Results from 12 viewers support the hypothesis. (CP)

Six articles describe issues which have arisen recently to influence the relation of science with the society. Unless serious thinking is given to the matter, the development of basic research in science might lose support from the public. (PS)

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)

The biological research, of Gottfried Schatz at the University of Basel and Gunter Blobel at Rockefeller University, which explains a mechanism by which mitochondrial proteins are transported across membranes is described. Results indicate that the construction and heredity of mitochondria have surprising differences from other cell processes. (BT)

Researchers who study the fossil record are seeking to determine whether the impact made by a comet or meteor really did decimate up to half of the life on this planet at the end of the Cretaceous period. Questions whether the extinction of plant and animal life was abrupt, started before the impact, or was a gradual change. (KR)

Hominid fossils found in late 1990 in Ethiopia are reported. A controversy surrounding these remains and those of earlier expeditions, including Lucy, over whether more than one species of hominid are represented is discussed. (CW)

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)

Expresses the opinions of several successful research scientists towards research. All agree that, while the thrill of discovery is essential to science, excitement competes increasingly with the frustrations of big science. There is a belief that the spirit of science is thwarted by activities such as grantsmanship games. (MA)

This is the first article of a two-part series on how research can help reduce the hazards of earthquakes. It deals with attempts to predict quakes so that people can get out of the way. (Author/HM)

Describes a tandem mirror concept for nuclear fusion. Its basic features is a solenoidal plasma plugged at both ends by "baseball magnets." Could become the basis for a future reactor. (GA)

Reports on a series of suggestions to save skylab from falling into the earth's atmosphere and being destroyed. (CP)

Describes the use of dogs in helping chronic psychiatric patients who have difficulty in establishing interpersonal relationships. (SL)