GSC-IS Version 2.0 [.pdf]
http://smartcard.nist.gov/gscis.html
The Government Smart Card-Interoperability Specification (GSC-IS) was released June 27, 2002. Developed in part by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, it provides an overview of the GSC architecture and discusses "solutions to a number of the interoperability problems associated with smart card technology." The main sections of the document offer details about the GSC architectural model, access control model, basic services interface, virtual card edge interface, card capabilities container, container naming, and container data models. There are also examples of Java and C code in the appendixes. [CL]
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Commission on the Future of the United States Aerospace Industry: Interim Report #3 [.pdf]
http://www.aerospacecommission.gov/ir3final.pdf
This is the third in a series of reports issued by the Commission on the Future of the United States Aerospace Industry. These government documents identify industry and national security issues that require immediate attention; however, the scope of this report is space infrastructure, aerospace industrial base, and the 21st century aerospace workforce. After a brief background and some discussion, the commission makes several recommendations in each of these areas. Two appendixes raise concerns about current design and production trends for solid rocket motors and advanced, high-performance aircraft. [CL]
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Applied Soft Computing: Elsevier Science [.pdf]
http://www.elsevier.com/locate/asoc/
Debuting in March 2001, Applied Soft Computing is the official, online journal of the World Federation on Soft Computing. The journal focuses on "Fuzzy Logic, Neural Networks, Evolutionary Computing, Rough Sets and other similar techniques to address real world complexities." Applications of soft computing are very diverse, ranging from pattern recognition to telecommunications. The most recent issue has five articles, in which genetic programming is a prevalent topic. Access to full online text articles will be free until December 31, 2002. [CL]
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Orbital Debris Research at Johnson Space Center [.pdf]
http://sn-callisto.jsc.nasa.gov/index.html
NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC) operates this Web site about their work in orbital debris research. In the past four decades of space exploration, many satellites and other manmade objects have accumulated around the Earth. Extensive information is offered here, grouped into sections for measurement, modeling, protection, and mitigation. For example, a downloadable report about the new NASA orbital debris engineering model was released in May 2002. For a general overview of orbital debris and a few examples, there is a frequently asked questions section that addresses many common issues. [CL]
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Journal of Integer Sequences [.pdf, .ps, .dvi, .tex]
http://www.math.uwaterloo.ca/JIS/
Trying to find patterns in numbers is one of the greatest challenges in mathematics. Some researchers make it their primary area of investigation, perhaps with entire projects devoted to developing algorithms for the task. The Journal of Integer Sequences is a collection of papers written by people such as these, whose work focuses on this or a related topic. Readers will find detailed discussions of factorization methods, proofs, and theories in the published papers. Mathematicians can submit their original papers for possible inclusion in the journal. Issues dating back to 1998 can be viewed online. [CL]
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IBM Research News [.pdf, .mpg]
http://www.research.ibm.com/resources/news/20020611_millipede.shtml
On June 11, 2002, researchers at IBM "demonstrated a data storage density of a trillion bits per square inch -- 20 times higher than the densest magnetic storage available today." The project, called Millipede, uses a technique analogous to punch cards to store data, as opposed to traditional methods of magnetic storage. Although it will not likely be used in commercial applications in the near future, the implications of this achievement in nanotechnology are great. This news release gives a brief summary of the findings of the team. A much more detailed technical paper is given via a link on the page, as are several images and animations that show different portions of the Millipede chip. [CL]
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The Mathematics Preprint Server [.pdf]
http://www.mathpreprints.com/math/Preprint/show/
The Mathematics Preprint Server was launched in May 2001 by Elsevier Science. Anyone can use the site and its free, downloadable research papers and progress reports submitted by others in the math community. Authors, however, must fill out a short online registration form to post their work. Browseable by various topic, articles are categorized under the three main headings -- pure mathematics, applied mathematics, and statistics. Users can rank the articles or post comments about them in individual discussion threads. This site is an excellent tool for finding and distributing current research. [CL]
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Electronic Journal of Geotechnical Engineering
http://geotech.civen.okstate.edu/ejge/index.htm
The Electronic Journal of Geotechnical Engineering (EJGE) is an award winning publication maintained on the Geotech Web server at Oklahoma State University. The journal has been released annually since it was first published in 1996, and the current volume is well underway. With ten full text papers and four more soon to be added, there is a lot of diversity in EJGE content. Authors come from many countries around the world, providing insights into their work and research. Some topics include analyses of laterally loaded piles and performance of clay in earth dams. [CL]
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Extreme Programming: A Gentle Introduction
http://www.extremeprogramming.org/
Extreme programming (XP) is basically a methodology of software development that maximizes programming efficiency. It can be used in any project by almost anyone, but is perhaps best suited for "small groups of programmers." This site offers a very thorough overview of the techniques involved in XP, beginning with a general introduction and explaining what it is and why it is beneficial. Then, specific rules and guidelines are set forth to help individuals or businesses implement the XP process. Lastly, lessons learned from other projects that used XP are listed. Another section also has links to further XP information resources. [CL]
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Sandia MEMS [QuickTime, .avi]
http://mems.sandia.gov/scripts/index.asp
This fun site about MicroElectroMechanical systems (MEMS) is maintained at Sandia National Laboratories. Visitors who don't want to get bogged down with technical aspects of these microscopic machines can browse the image and movie galleries, which show what MEMS look like and how they operate. There is even a live video feed of a microengine system running at Sandia. To learn more about what is involved in MEMS production and operation, the Technical Information section has an informative overview, descriptions of three developing technologies, and examples of prototype systems. The facilities used by Sandia researchers are also described in a virtual tour. [CL]
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Netfiles [RealPlayer, .pdf]
http://www.netfiles.org/
"Net Files is a 30-minute, monthly, news magazine style, in-service, television program" for teachers and educators. Its purpose is to demonstrate ways to integrate the Internet into all types of classes and make the teacher comfortable doing so. The Net Files Web site has all the programs from the current and previous seasons available for viewing in Real Video format. Different sections look at example classrooms, common terms related to the Internet, and safety on the Net. Additionally, there are many lesson plans sorted into appropriate grade levels, ranging from kindergarten to high school. [CL]
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ALLSTAR Network: FIU [Shockwave, VivoActive Player, RealPlayer]
http://www.allstar.fiu.edu/
The Aeronautics Learning Laboratory for Science, Technology, and Research is a highly acclaimed educational site that covers many aspects of aeronautics. Funded in part by NASA and Raytheon, the Web site has material suitable for middle school, high school, and beginning college students. Further, there are three main sections -- aeronautics history, careers and education in aerospace, and principles of aeronautics. Each of the modules has several chapters that focus on specific concepts, such as aircraft propulsion and rocket performance. Multimedia visualizations, videos, and audio clips add to the learning experience. [CL]
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Journal of Statistics Education
http://www.amstat.org/publications/jse/
Provided by the American Statistical Association (ASA), the Journal of Statistics Education (JSE) "disseminates knowledge for the improvement of statistics education at all levels." Articles address such topics as curriculum reform, cooperative learning, and instruction methods, to name a few. Besides the regular articles, there are two extra features titled Teaching Bits and Data Sets and Stories. Teaching Bits give statistics teachers fun, original ideas to incorporate into their classes. Data Sets and Stories have downloadable material that can also be used in the classroom for statistical analysis. Past issues can be viewed from an archive that dates back to 1993. [CL]
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PRIME Mathematics Encyclopedia
http://www.mathacademy.com/pr/prime/index.asp
The Platonic Realms Interactive Mathematics Encyclopedia (PRIME) is an impressive collection of mathematical terms and concepts. To use PRIME, simply type the first six letters of the phrase in question into the search field. Results are displayed alphabetically, starting with the closest match first. To limit the results, users can search in specific categories. These include algebra, calculus, discrete mathematics, geometry, graph theory, and many more. There are even biographies of a few notable mathematicians. Many of the entries are cross listed with other related terms. PRIME is very well presented and easy to use. [CL]
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SQL Interpreter and Tutorial with Live Practice Database
http://www.sqlcourse.com/
The Structured Query Language (SQL) "is the standard language for relational database management systems." A programmer building an online database will undoubtedly need to be very familiar with SQL, and this site is an excellent starting point. People who have never heard of SQL can learn the basics, or more advanced users can refresh their memories. The essential commands and functions are introduced in a very straightforward manner. The focus is on tables: creating them, adding records to them, and deleting records from them. Once the user feels comfortable with this material, a link to the tutorial's sequel is given, which goes into intermediate and advanced topics in somewhat greater detail. [CL]
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Curious and Useful Math
http://personal.cfw.com/~clayford/
This site is a fun diversion from the tedious monotony of everyday math. It is basically a collection of many mathematical curiosities, some of which are useful, but most are simply interesting tidbits to amaze and perplex others. Many of the items will make readers wonder, "How in the world is that possible?" Fortunately, the author provides explanations, which can help teach mathematical skills that ordinarily are never exercised. Some sections are suited for grade school students, such as multiplication, division, and squaring tricks. This site is, if nothing else, original; so take a few minutes to check it out. [CL]
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IEEE-USA: Today's Engineer
http://www.todaysengineer.org/
IEEE-USA, a unit of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, maintains this monthly Webzine to inform industry workers and professionals about issues relevant to their careers. Business trends, ethics, public policy, engineering performance, and management are just a few of the focus areas addressed in Today's Engineer. Reader polls provide insight into thoughts and values of engineers around the country. The Web site also keeps archives of both career and policy feature stories that date back to January 2001. [CL]
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Mike's Electric Stuff [.avi]
http://www.electricstuff.co.uk/
Mike's Electric Stuff is a popular Web site with various odds and ends about electronics and related equipment. Ever wondered just how much fun microwaving a CD can be? That's just the beginning of the wild things you can find. The site is divided into three main sections: antique glass (e.g., nixie tubes and neon lamps), Tesla coils and high-voltage stuff, and miscellaneous items such as lasers. Detailed instructions are given for several projects (perhaps crazy experiments would be the better term). A particularly well documented project shows how to build old-fashioned nixie tube clocks, and printed circuit board layouts are included. This site is also reviewed in the July 19, 2002 Scout Report. [CL]
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Bulletin of American Society of Information Science and Technology
http://www.asis.org/Bulletin/index.html
This publication of the American Society for Information Science and Technology (ASIST) is released every two months. Some of the articles are specific to ASIST activities, but most examine issues and "non-research developments" that are relevant to anyone with an interest in this field. The June/July 2002 issue has a special section that reviews the recent Summit on Information Architecture. Another notable article is a follow-up to the fourth part of a five part series titled "Information and the War Against Terrorism." Readers can access all previous parts to this series, as well as complete back issues from seven years past. [CL]
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XML.org: The XML Industry Portal [.pdf]
http://www.xml.org/
The Extensible Markup Language (XML) is widely used for Web design and authoring, and its uses go far beyond the confines of the Internet. It is a versatile metalanguage that is spreading across many different industries. XML.org is one of the best resources of XML information for curious beginners or advanced users. For the first group of people, there are plenty of frequently asked questions lists, tutorials, and articles to get started. The registry contains many specifications and schemas that are specific to a particular industry. To make the collection as comprehensive as possible, developers can submit content to share with other users. In addition to these features, the Web site offers many more useful items. [CL]
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ATM Technology: The Foundation for Broadband Networks [.pdf]
http://www.atmforum.com/
Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), one of the key technologies in the transition to broadband telecommunications, is used to transmit "data, video and voice at ultra high speeds." This home page for the ATM Forum is a good place to learn about the technology and its many applications. For people unfamiliar with ATM, the Beginner's Guide to ATM explains some of the basic principles involved in digital communication. More informed readers can download specifications, white papers, case studies, or a user handbook. Those interested in compatibility issues will find discussions of ATM's interworkings with Gigabit Ethernet, DSL, and other wireless mediums. [CL]
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Clean Coal Technology Compendium [.pdf]
http://www.lanl.gov/projects/cctc/
Operated by the National Energy Technology Laboratory, the Clean Coal Technology (CCT) Program works with new coal burning methods of energy generation that minimize environmental impact. The material on this Web site outlines some of the findings of the CCT program. Most of the information is contained in the topical reports, which deal with environmental control technologies, advanced electric power generation, coal processing for clean fuels, industrial applications, and other general topics. There are almost twenty of these reports, and they can be freely downloaded. The quarterly Clean Coal Today newsletter is also available, as well as news updates and Department of Energy Assessments. [CL]
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National Imagery and Mapping Agency [.pdf]
http://www.nima.mil/
The National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA) "provides timely, relevant, and accurate Geospatial Intelligence in support of national security." NIMA's Web site has a wide range of resources in this area, including detailed interactive maps, public access to databases, and publications. The Geospatial Engine, for example, allows custom views of almost any area in the world from regional to local perspectives. An online guide to geodesy provides visitors with an introduction to surveying techniques and geodetic systems. There are also many standards and specifications used by the military that can be viewed online. [CL]
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The Manufacturing Report
http://lionhrtpub.com/tmr.html
Lionheart Publishing, Inc. offers this free report about important happenings in the manufacturing industry. There are feature stories that cover market analysis, management strategies, new and growing technologies, and case studies. Manufacturing products are noted and reviewed as they come on the market. News about major business developments is covered, and dates of upcoming conferences and conventions are often added on the online calendar. The main problem with this site is that it is not updated at a regular interval; however, it is still quite current and a good source for manufacturing news and products. [CL]
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Copy Protection
1. All About Copy Protection: Link Data Security
http://www.linkdata.com/index.htm#theory
2. DVD CCA: DVD Copy Control Association [.pdf]
http://www.dvdcca.org/
3. RIAA/ Home: Recording Industry Association of America
http://www.riaa.org/
4. DigitalConsumer.org
http://www.digitalconsumer.org/
5. Content Protection Status Report [.pdf]
http://judiciary.senate.gov/special/content_protection.pdf
6. Final Report of the Co-Chairs of the Broadcast Protection Discussion Subgroup to the Copy Protection Technical Working Group [.pdf]
http://www.eff.org/IP/Video/HDTV/bpdg-report/pdf/BPDG_Report.pdf
7. Wired News: CD Crack: Magic Marker Indeed
http://www.wired.com/news/technology/0,1282,52665,00.html
8. Andreessen: Copy Protection Efforts are Doomed
http://www.siliconvalley.com/mld/siliconvalley/3031836.htm
With the recent shut down of the peer-to-peer file sharing utility Audiogalaxy, copy protection of all kinds of data is a very hot topic. Distribution of music, movies, and software is running rampant, and many believe the solution lies in better copy protection.
To learn the basics of copy protection, visit Link Data Security (1). This company specializes in secure products that reduce piracy, and this article explains the characteristics of good protection. The DVD Copy Control Association (2) manages the Content Scramble System (CSS), which prevents illegal duplication of DVD movies. Many documents about CSS and other projects are available on their Web site. One of the most high-profile fighters against piracy is the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) (3). The RIAA home page asserts the rules of music on the Internet and stresses the importance of obeying copyright restrictions. The other side of the argument is presented on this site (4). These activists state that recent changes to copyright laws have deprived citizens of basic rights, and they present their proposed Consumer Technology Bill of Rights, along with plenty of other information. Released on April 25, 2002, a report by the Senate examines the progress of content protection (5). The three original goals of content protection are outlined, and the status of various efforts to achieve them is discussed. Another report by the Broadcast Protection Discussion Group (6) summarizes its findings about "preventing unauthorized redistribution of unencrypted digital terrestrial broadcast television." A recent article in Wired News (7) looks at how a state-of-the-art copy protection technology was broken with a remarkably easy approach. The views of a Netscape co-founder offers a bleak forecast of copy protection in this article (8), but also implies that it might not be as big a problem as many people think. [CL]
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Below are the copyright statements to be included when reproducing annotations from The NSDL Scout Report for Math, Engineering, and Technology.
The single phrase below is the copyright notice to be used when reproducing any portion of this report, in any format:
From The NSDL Scout Report for Math, Engineering, & Technology, Copyright Internet Scout Project 1994-2002. http://scout.cs.wisc.edu/
The paragraph below is the copyright notice to be used when reproducing the entire report, in any format:
Copyright Susan Calcari and the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents, 1994-2002. The Internet Scout Project (http://scout.cs.wisc.edu/), located in the Computer Sciences Department of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, provides information about the Internet to the U.S. research and education community under a grant from the National Science Foundation, number NCR-9712163. The Government has certain rights in this material. Permission is granted to make and distribute verbatim copies of the entire Scout Report provided this paragraph, including the copyright notice, are preserved on all copies.
Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, or the National Science Foundation.
For information on additional contributors, see the Internet Scout Project staff page:
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