This paper discusses measures that capture the impact of university technology transfer activities on a university?s local and regional economies (economic impact). Such assessments are of increasing interest to policy makers, researchers and technology transfer professionals, yet there have been few published discussions of the merits of various…

Discusses the problem of increased governmental constraints on the flow of scientific and technical information. Suggests that attempts to limit scientific communication may hinder the very dynamism our society seeks to promote. (JN)

Issues related to reports and proposed regulations seeking to limit openness in scientific work because of national security interests are discussed. Although administration officials argue that free flow of scientific information allows United States' adversaries to grow stronger at our expense, imposition of controls may undermine U.S. vitality…

In a comprehensive nationwide effort, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) seeks to increase public and private sector benefits by broadening and accelerating the secondary application of aerospace technology. Discussed are NASA's Applications Centers, publications, technology applications, and Computer Software Management and…

The evolutionary character and complexity of technological development is discussed, focusing on the steam engine and computer as examples. Additional topics include characteristics of science/technology, cultural factors in technological development, technology transfer, and problems in technological organization. (JN)

A unusual technology transfer, involving sailboats and commercial wind energy systems, highlights space-related spinoffs for home, consumer, and recreational use. These include clothing for cooling athletes, high-intensity lighting, an advanced welding tool, and a water filter. (Author/JN)

In a transition economy, Estonia is taking a systematic approach to research and development and technology transfer through two programs: a science park for incubation of small enterprises and a technical university innovation center. (SK)

Details the state of the art in interactive video technology. Discusses possible applications in the area of distance education. (CH)

A National Academy panel evaluates trade-offs between dangers to national security that arise from technology transfers and threats to the openness of scientific communication that are caused by too much secrecy. Major conclusions/suggestions are discussed. A list of acquisitions from the West affecting Soviet military technology is included.…

Describes Japan's industrial development and science/technology policy. Topics include policies for promoting industries, rationalization policy for industry, catching up with advanced technology, progression from imitation to creative technology, Japan's advantages in technological development, and problems faced by developing countries today.…

The excitement and intense competition surrounding the search for new applications of superconductors resembles the entrepreneurial atmosphere of the early 1970s, when faculty were launching profitable companies based on developments in biotechnology and semiconductors. (MSE)

Increased university efforts to help faculty members transfer the results of their research from the laboratory to the marketplace are posing ethical dilemmas for both institutions and scholars. Stanford's Office of Technology Licensing is cited, as are biotechnology developments, and secrecy and competitiveness issues. (LB)

Contains eight articles on keeping up with new technologies in agricultural education. Articles discuss keeping perspective, staying current, nontraditional careers, examples, machinery technology, the need to keep up, and teaching technology. (CH)

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…

A line of biomedical devices based on aerospace expertise leads a sampling of spinoffs in the field of medicine. These include a National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)-developed computer program used by the Centers for Disease Control, medical products research, crawling aid, portable medical system, and human tissue stimulator.…