Expert Reports
These reports are unique, authoritative expert evaluations. Each report is produced by a committee of experts selected by the Academy to address a particular statement of task and is subject to a rigorous, independent peer review.
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Sustainable Development of Algal Biofuels in the United States (2012)
Biofuels made from algae are gaining attention as a domestic source of renewable fuel. However, with current technologies, scaling up production of algal biofuels to meet even 5 percent of U.S. transportation fuel needs could create unsustainable demands for energy, water, and nutrient resources. Continued research and development could yield innovations to address these challenges, but determining if algal biofuel is a viable fuel alternativ... More >>
Report in Brief
Meeting Critical Laboratory Needs for Animal Agriculture: Examination of Three Options (2012)
Outbreaks of animal disease can have catastrophic repercussions for animal agriculture, the food supply, and public health. Rapid detection, diagnosis and response, as well as development of new vaccines, are central to mitigating the impact of disease outbreaks. The proposed National Bio- and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) is a next-generation laboratory for animal disease diagnostics, training, and research that would provide core critica... More >>
Report in Brief
Nutrient Requirements of Swine: Eleventh Revised Edition (2012)
The latest in a series of National Research Council reports provides updated advice on the energy and nutrient requirements of swine to help maintain an efficient, profitable, and environmentally conscious swine industry. Since 1944, there have been 10 editions of the Nutrient Requirements of Swine, a publication that has guided nutritionists and other professionals in developing and implementing feeding programs for swine. However, since th... More >>
Evaluation of the Updated Site-Specific Risk Assessment for the National Bio- and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan, Kansas (2012)
The updated site-specific risk assessment for the National Bio- and Agro-Defense Facility is a substantial improvement over the original 2010 site-specific risk assessment, but is still inadequate in fully characterizing the risks associated with operating a high biocontainment facility in Manhattan, Kansas. Many of the shortcomings identified in a 2010 National Research Council report have been addressed in this updated assessment and mor... More >>
Report in Brief
Workforce Needs in Veterinary Medicine (2012)
The veterinary medical profession faces several challenges in coming years, including maintaining the economic sustainability of veterinary practice and education, building its scholarly foundation, and evolving to meet changing societal needs, this report finds. In recent years, the dominant focus of the profession has shifted from farm animal health to companion animal care, and concerns are growing that this emphasis is directing resource... More >>
Report in Brief