Strengthening forensic science in the United States : a path forward /

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Bibliographic Details
Imprint:Washington, D.C. : National Academies Press, 2009.
Description:1 online resource (xx, 328 pages)
Language:English
Subject:
Format: E-Resource Book
URL for this record:http://pi.lib.uchicago.edu/1001/cat/bib/11246320
Hidden Bibliographic Details
Other authors / contributors:National Research Council (U.S.). Committee on Identifying the Needs of the Forensic Science Community.
National Research Council (U.S.). Committee on Science, Technology, and Law.
National Research Council (U.S.). Committee on Applied and Theoretical Statistics.
ISBN:0309131316
9780309131315
9780309131353
0309131359
9780309131315
0309131316
Notes:Includes bibliographical references and index.
Print version record.
Summary:Scores of talented and dedicated people serve the forensic science community, performing vitally important work. However, they are often constrained by lack of adequate resources, sound policies, and national support. It is clear that change and advancements, both systematic and scientific, are needed in a number of forensic science disciplines to ensure the reliability of work, establish enforceable standards, and promote best practices with consistent application. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward provides a detailed plan for addressing these needs and suggests the creation of a new government entity, the National Institute of Forensic Science, to establish and enforce standards within the forensic science community. The benefits of improving and regulating the forensic science disciplines are clear: assisting law enforcement officials, enhancing homeland security, and reducing the risk of wrongful conviction and exoneration. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States gives a full account of what is needed to advance the forensic science disciplines, including upgrading of systems and organizational structures, better training, widespread adoption of uniform and enforceable best practices, and mandatory certification and accreditation programs. While this book provides an essential call-to-action for congress and policy makers, it also serves as a vital tool for law enforcement agencies, criminal prosecutors and attorneys, and forensic science educators.
Other form:Print version: Strengthening forensic science in the United States. Washington, D.C. : National Academies Press, ©2009 9780309131353
Description
Summary:

This book presents comprehensive documentation of how cellulosic energy crops (as opposed to sugar, starch or oil crops) can be sustainably produced and converted to energy, both liquid fuels and electricity. It describes adaptation of these crops to different climates and soils, planting procedures and requirements, management, harvesting procedures and end uses.

The book is divided into five sections.

The first provides general background related not only to the challenges and various potential cellulosic feedstocks, but also to technologies for production of liquid fuels and biochemicals or production of heat and electricity.

Section II hones in on each of the herbaceous crops than have been identified a potential cellulosic feedstock for not only bioenergy but also bio-product development. Miscanthus, switchgrass, sugarcane and energy cane, sorghums and crop residues are examined in detail by reviewing their phylogeny, cultural practices, and opportunities for genetic improvement.

Section III follows a similar format although the focus is on woody crops, including eucalyptus, pine, poplar, and willow.

Section IV moves toward the ultimate goal of commercialization by reviewing critical logistical issues associated with both herbaceous and woody feedstocks. Alternate strategies for harvesting, transporting, and storing various cellulosic materials are examined.

Finally, section V tackles the challenge where "the rubber meets the road" that is, moving the technology from the researchers to society as a whole.

To achieve long-term sustainability, emerging cellulosic bioenergy and/or bio-products industries must meet three crucial and equally important challenges. One is that the new enterprise(s) must be economical. The second is they must not have adverse environmental impacts, and finally, they must be socially acceptable.

The final two chapters provide readers with case study examples of an actual bioenergy commercialization project and a glimpse at activities in Brazil, China and India.

Physical Description:1 online resource (xx, 328 pages)
Bibliography:Includes bibliographical references and index.
ISBN:0309131316
9780309131315
9780309131353
0309131359