Positioning within scientific research

In terms of a reflection of the scientific-theoretical positioning, an arrangement of three different layers, each addressing specific aspects of research, can be distinguished (a) the meta-methodological layer, (b) the methodological layer and (c) the theoretical layer (Hofinann, 2004 11 Schanz, 1990 173).  

The meta-methodological layer marks the initial point of a research process, since it refers to the fundamental objectives of scientific progress (Hofinann, 2004 12). Within the meta-methodological layer basic attitudes of scientific research are expressed. Thus the basic character of the first layer is stamped by basic sciences, like philosophy, ethics and sociology, which takes account of the fact that different scientific disciplines have specific research traditions that in turn have an impact on the methodological and theoretical layer (Remenyi et al, 1998 32 Weber, 2000 23f.).  

In comparison, Saunders et al. (2003 83f.) introduce a research process onion where the research s underlying philosophy, approach and strategies are distinguished. 

For the philosophy of science and the influence of scientific tradition on research methods refer to Hayes (2009). 

A discussion of the different interpretations of critical rationalism is provided by Prim Tilmann (1997). 

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Although basic scientific research deals with variation and its sources, the results of research work are mainly described and compared in terms of mean values supplemented with information about whether specific factors have a significant impact or not. Most research studies focus on individual factors in isolation and there are limited data in the literature on the interaction of a number of factors, particularly in relation to on-farm production practice. Consequently, the meaningfulness of previous results is often limited and often does not allow general conclusions to be drawn. As the relevance of the various factors changes between different production systems it is even more difficult to assess the ranking position of each factor within each production system in relation to the variation of product and process quality traits. 

JAM and PIG acknowledge the Flemish National Fund for Scientific Research for research positions as Research Associate and Senior Research Associate, respectively. This work was sponsored by the Belgian Government within the frame of GOA (a concerted action on Catalysis). 

While Part 5 deals with the regulation of lead in the human environment, it is not meant to be a statutory and governmental executive history of the element in various environments. The focus is on the processes by which regulatory actions for lead have occurred and are occurring within interactive, positive feedback loop cycles with the other two main topics in this book—scientific research and human health risk assessment. The extent to which these interactive relationships will continue to feed overall protections for public health is also discussed. 

Synthetic pigments traditionally used by food processors continue to be utilized with success however, with the increasing consumer preference for natural food additives, natural colorants from plants now present big business and most of the research efforts within the scientific field of colorants are conducted on natural materials. Among microalgal production methods, marine background is a very positive aspect in the success of P-carotene produced by Dunaliella salina. 

In 1952 G. M. Shmm, head of the British Research Council on the campus of the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, offered Khorana the opportunity to form his own research group on whatever topic he wished. His group became very successful in developing methods for synthesizing phosphate ester derivatives of nucleic acids, and in 1959 he and John G. Moffatt announced the synthesis of acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl CoA), a molecule essential to the biochemical processing of proteins fats and carbohydrates. Prior to this work, the coenzyme had to be extracted from yeast by a very laborious and expensive process, so this discovery led to Khorana s international recognition within the scientific community and he received many job offers as a result. He accepted the position of codirector of the Institute for Enzyme Research at the University of Wisconsin. 

The entire experiment fits well within a three-hour lab period. On average the students were able to cut atomically sharp, usable tips within three attempts. The students were able to achieve molecular resolution within 30 minutes of starting the experiment. The students used an Excel spreadsheet to keep track of their data, which also allowed for easy mathematical manipulation in terms of calibration and averaging. From the students who have attempted this experiment, the feedback has been quite positive. Most students were intrigued with the hands-on use of a STM, which is typically reserved for research purposes. The students also stated that the experiment helped to solidify the somewhat abstract, scientific concepts of electron tunneling and molecular conductance. 

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