The National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) is the U.S. Government's crosscutting program that coordinates Federal research and development (R&D) activities in nanoscale science, engineering, technology, and related efforts among various participating agencies. The Federal Government launched the NNI in FY 2001 with an initial $500 million…

Solar photovoltaic cells have been called the ultimate energy technology, environmentally benign and without moving parts, solar cells directly convert sunlight into electricity. Photovoltaic energy conversion is fundamentally different from all other forms of electricity generation. Without turbines, generators or other mechanical equipment, it…

The flow of technology out of the United States is discussed. Methods of technology flow, such as licensing and investing, are identified, and the advantages and disadvantages of technology transfer are discussed, especially in relation to the government's role. (MLH)

United States scientists are being pressured by the government to cut back on scientific exchanges with the Soviet Union for both "natural security" and political reasons. Various aspects of the issue are discussed, suggesting that science itself will be the big loser in the government's shift of attitude toward science communication.…

Scientific and technical journals in biology and medicine in recent years have extensively covered a debate about whether and how to determine the function and order of human genes on human chromosomes and when to determine the sequence of molecular building blocks that comprise DNA in those chromosomes. In 1987, these issues rose to become part…

Discusses the first years of Erich Bloch's command of the National Science Foundation (NSF). Describes his past associations with science and technology and his ability to lead in these areas. Indicates that he has committed the NSF to a technological course and has changed the character of the foundation. (MVL)

Outlines the history of government-to-government relations between United States and Japan. Discusses the reasons why there are so few American researchers in Japan, the interactions between the two countries' Research and Development systems by private industries, and the problem of access and the future of the relations. (YP)

Describes the status of the United Nation's fund for science and technology which started operation in May 1980; includes funds raised, current projects, and educational programs supported by the funds. (SK)

Reviews the issue of how to preserve the fruits of research in high technology while at the same time avoiding restrictions on researchers' freedom. One solution proposed by Congress and the current administration would prevent technical data from being transferred overseas as well as other restrictions. (Author/SK)

Many believe that throughout history, science and technology have been major factors in shaping American society and the way of life. By changing the ways in which one interacts with another, science and technoiogy may affect the way one defines the general welfare, the way in which one views the realm of government, and the nature of the rights…

This six-chapter book presents background papers used by participants at a meeting designed to examine the prospects for and roadblocks to scientific and technological innovations as the 21st century is approached. They include: (1) "Research Universities and Industrial Innovation in America" (Steven Muller); (2) "The Role of…

The International Program for Agricultural Knowledge Systems (INTERPAKS) research team is developing a descriptive and analytic framework to examine and assess agricultural technology systems. The first part of the framework is an inductive methodology that organizes data collection and orders data for comparison between countries. It requires and…

The key to New Zealand's future prosperity lies in the promotion of science and technology. Two major issues are identified: (1) the need to close the scientific and technological manpower gap that is increasingly being experienced; and (2) the need for a re-organized system of vocational education. The implications for teaching and learning in…

The Oregon Council for Knowledge and Economic Development (OCKED), a collaborative effort among Oregon's higher education institutions, economic development department, and the private sector, is charged with developing strategies to enhance Oregon's economic competitiveness in a knowledge-based, global economy. This report describes the council's…