Action Needed to Preserve US Lead in Supercomputing
US needs for supercomputing to strengthen defense and national security cannot be satisfied with current policies and levels of spending, says a report from the National Academies' Computer Science and Telecommunications Board. The federal government should provide stable, long-term funding and support multiple supercomputing hardware and software vendors in order to give scientists and policymakers better tools to solve problems in areas such as intelligence, nuclear stockpile stewardship, and climate change.
Internet Domain Name System Must Face Challenges
The domain name system that helps users find their way across the Internet -- by substituting user-friendly names for computer-friendly addresses -- has performed well, says a report from the National Academies’ Computer Science and Telecommunications Board. However, the report emphasizes that the system should be managed by a non-governmental organization, and not be used for broader purposes like controlling spam, protecting intellectual property rights, or regulating e-commerce.
E-Voting Has Promise, But Government Commitment Required
While electronic voting systems have improved, federal and state governments have not made the commitment necessary for them to be widely used in future elections, says a new report from the National Research Council. More funding, research, and public education are required if e-voting is to become viable.
Electronic Voting Will Present Challenges for November
Many jurisdictions will face unprecedented challenges as they prepare to use new electronic voting equipment for the November elections, says a new report from the National Research Council. Because it will be the first time electronic voting is used on a large scale, jurisdictions must ensure backup procedures are available if the equipment fails.
Thwarting Counterfeiters in the Digital Age
A new National Research Council report identifies emerging counterfeiting threats linked to advances in digital imaging technologies. The report explores a variety of new currency features that the US Bureau of Engraving and Printing could employ to keep ahead of the threat.
EPA Models Should Undergo 'Life-Cycle' Evaluation
Although the computer-model results behind many U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations will always be constrained by computational limitations, assumptions, and data gaps, models can be improved through continuous evaluation, says a new National Research Council report. Peer review should be considered at each stage of a model's life, uncertainties should be communicated clearly, and all stakeholders should be ensured access to information about the models, the report adds.
Report Recommends Research to Stay Ahead of Online Hackers
A broad research agenda that includes traditional, problem-specific studies as well as unconventional ideas is necessary to combat current and future cybersecurity threats, says a new report from the National Research Council. The report assesses why previous attempts to secure the online world have often failed, and offers a Cybersecurity Bill of Rights to guide future efforts.
For additional information visit The National Academies Subject page.
