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I respond to three points of criticism that have been raised against the concept of meta-empirical confirmation. I argue that meta-empirical confirmation can be set up in a coherent way and is sufficiently discriminating for rendering it a non-trivial indicator of a theory's viability. Moreover, I argue that acknowledging the significance of meta-empirical confirmation provides an argument for the pursuit of alternative research programs rather than for their suppression.

Automatically adapting an interactive application to its use context is highly dependent on the existence of a declarative model. The Model-Based User Interface Development research made important progress in fully declarative specifications on interactive applications. However, the Abstract User Interface declarative models, such as task-based or communication-based models, are unfamiliar to designers and developers. This paper presents early explorations into a research program aimed at achieving fully declarative interactive applications: outlining a static concrete user interface and deriving the interaction from its affordances. The basic assumption is that for a well-designed user interface, the UI function can be derived from its form through affordance mechanisms. As the static aspects like the UI initial form are already being described declaratively in industrial practice, fully declarative interactive applications would result from the new research program., QC 20230307

During the last decades the question of defining life has gained increased interest but, at the same time, the difficulty in reaching consensus on a possible answer has led many to skeptical positions. This, in turn, has raised a wider debate about why defining life is so hard and controversial. Such a debate (or ‘meta-debate’) introduces additional aspects to be considered, like the role and nature of a definition of life itself. In this paper, we will focus on those aspects, arguing that progress can be made (and has, indeed, been made) if we conceive definitions of life as open heuristic tools that contribute(d) to develop specific research strategies in the biological sciences and, more generally, to increase our understanding of life’s complexity. In contrast with pragmatic or operationalist approaches, we will defend that definitions of life comprise a set of ontological assumptions, together with an inherent unifying vocation, so they should be subject to comparison and critical assessment, closely related to the success or failure of the corresponding research programs, but also to the success or failure in establishing well-grounded interconnections among the latter. We consider that the search for a more coherent, integrated and generalized theory of biology cannot be pursued without keeping an empirical standpoint, and the exercise of defining life should not be taken as an obstacle but as a valuable (and, of course, evaluable) instrument to achieve that goal.

To date, the only way to argue polynomial lower bounds for dynamic algorithms is via fine-grained complexity arguments. These arguments rely on strong assumptions about specific problems such as the Strong Exponential Time Hypothesis (SETH) and the Online Matrix-Vector Multiplication Conjecture (OMv). While they have led to many exciting discoveries, dynamic algorithms still miss out some benefits and lessons from the traditional “coarse-grained” approach that relates together classes of problems such as P and NP. In this paper we initiate the study of coarse-grained complexity theory for dynamic algorithms. Below are among questions that this theory can answer. What if dynamic Orthogonal Vector (OV) is easy in the cell-probe model? A research program for proving polynomial unconditional lower bounds for dynamic OV in the cell-probe model is motivated by the fact that many conditional lower bounds can be shown via reductions from the dynamic OV problem (e.g. [Abboud, V.-Williams, FOCS 2014]). Since the cell-probe model is more powerful than word RAM and has historically allowed smaller upper bounds (e.g. [Larsen, Williams, SODA 2017; Chakraborty, Kamma, Larsen, STOC 2018]), it might turn out that dynamic OV is easy in the cell-probe model, making this research direction infeasible. Our theory implies that if this is the case, there will be very interesting algorithmic consequences: If dynamic OV can be maintained in polylogarithmic worst-case update time in the cell-probe model, then so are several important dynamic problems such as k-edge connectivity, (1 + ε)-approximate mincut, (1 + ε)-approximate matching, planar nearest neighbors, Chan's subset union and 3-vs-4 diameter. The same conclusion can be made when we replace dynamic OV by, e.g., subgraph connectivity, single source reachability, Chan's subset union, and 3-vs-4 diameter. Lower bounds for k-edge connectivity via dynamic OV? The ubiquity of reductions from dynamic OV raises a question whether we can prov, QC 20200713

The Schumpeterian and neo-schumpeterian theories represent pillars on which the subject of innovation developed and gained expression. Moreover, innovation is an independent area both in national and international congresses. The objective of this essay is to investigate – from two criteria of delimitation (Popper and Lakatos) – the scientificity of innovation theory. Innovation is analyzed from three macro themes: (1) the neoclassical current of economic theory; (2) the introduction of innovation theory and reviews of the more recent Schumpeter manuscripts; (3) the contributions brought by the neo-chumpeterian innovation current. In concluding that the subject of innovation as analyzed meets the criteria listed to categorize the scientificity according to Popper and Lakatos, implications for the field of innovation studies are discussed, such as the construction/transmission of knowledge, the escape from “common sense”, and the use of the “method” as a resource for building scientific knowledge., O objetivo deste artigo é pesquisar – a partir de dois critérios de delimitação (Popper e Lakatos) – a cientificidade da teoria da inovação. Analisa-se a inovação a partir de três temas macro: (i) a corrente neoclássica da teoria econômica; (ii) a introdução da teoria da inovação e dos manuscritos mais recentes de Schumpeter; e (iii) as contribuições da corrente neo-chumpeteriana da inovação. Conclui-se que o tema da inovação responde aos critérios para categorizar a cientificidade, e que isto tem implicações no campo dos estudos sobre o tema em aspectos como: a construção / transmissão do conhecimento, a evasão do "sentido comum", e o uso do "método" como recurso para construir o conhecimento científico., El objetivo de este artículo es investigar –a partir de dos criterios de delimitación (Popper y Lakatos) – la cientificidad de la teoría de la innovación. La innovación se analiza a partir de tres temas macro: (i) la corriente neoclásica de la teoría económica; (ii) la introducción de la teoría de la innovación y los manuscritos más recientes de Schumpeter; y (iii) las contribuciones aportadas por la corriente neo-chumpeteriana de la innovación. Se concluye que el tema de la innovación responde a los criterios para categorizar la cientificidad, encontrándose que esto tiene implicaciones en el campo de los estudios sobre el tema en aspectos como: la construcción / transmisión del conocimiento, la evasión del "sentido común", y el uso del "método" como recurso para construir el conocimiento científico.

The Schumpeterian and neo-schumpeterian theories represent pillars on which the subject of innovation developed and gained expression. Moreover, innovation is an independent area both in national and international congresses. The objective of this essay is to investigate – from two criteria of delimitation (Popper and Lakatos) – the scientificity of innovation theory. Innovation is analyzed from three macro themes: (1) the neoclassical current of economic theory; (2) the introduction of innovation theory and reviews of the more recent Schumpeter manuscripts; (3) the contributions brought by the neo-chumpeterian innovation current. In concluding that the subject of innovation as analyzed meets the criteria listed to categorize the scientificity according to Popper and Lakatos, implications for the field of innovation studies are discussed, such as the construction/transmission of knowledge, the escape from “common sense”, and the use of the “method” as a resource for building scientific knowledge., O objetivo deste artigo é pesquisar – a partir de dois critérios de delimitação (Popper e Lakatos) – a cientificidade da teoria da inovação. Analisa-se a inovação a partir de três temas macro: (i) a corrente neoclássica da teoria econômica; (ii) a introdução da teoria da inovação e dos manuscritos mais recentes de Schumpeter; e (iii) as contribuições da corrente neo-chumpeteriana da inovação. Conclui-se que o tema da inovação responde aos critérios para categorizar a cientificidade, e que isto tem implicações no campo dos estudos sobre o tema em aspectos como: a construção / transmissão do conhecimento, a evasão do "sentido comum", e o uso do "método" como recurso para construir o conhecimento científico., El objetivo de este artículo es investigar –a partir de dos criterios de delimitación (Popper y Lakatos) – la cientificidad de la teoría de la innovación. La innovación se analiza a partir de tres temas macro: (i) la corriente neoclásica de la teoría económica; (ii) la introducción de la teoría de la innovación y los manuscritos más recientes de Schumpeter; y (iii) las contribuciones aportadas por la corriente neo-chumpeteriana de la innovación. Se concluye que el tema de la innovación responde a los criterios para categorizar la cientificidad, encontrándose que esto tiene implicaciones en el campo de los estudios sobre el tema en aspectos como: la construcción / transmisión del conocimiento, la evasión del "sentido común", y el uso del "método" como recurso para construir el conocimiento científico.

An intercomparison of terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) calibrations was performed among a number of European calibration and testing laboratories that participated in the European Metrology Research Program (EMRP) project "PhotoClass". The purpose of this intercomparison was to evaluate the comparability of calibration and testing services within the stated uncertainties of the individual laboratories. The calibration objects were two world photovoltaic scale (WPVS)-type reference solar cells, one made from crystalline silicon and one made from GaAs. The calibration value (CV) was the short-circuit current under standard test conditions (ISTC). In conclusion, it was found that the CVs are all consistent within the stated uncertainties. This result strengthens the reliance in the calibration chain and in the PV calibration infrastructure in Europe.

metallic tie-rods are installed under all naves to support a portion of the lateral thrust exerted by vaults and arches. After the recent failure of one tie-rod, an extensive research program was carried out to characterize the metallic material and to evaluate the axial forces and the tensile stresses of the tie-rods through dynamic testing and system identification. After a description of the methodology of the dynamic assessment of tie-rods in the Milan Cathedral, the paper presents the main results of the investigation in terms of fundamental frequencies and axial forces in the tie-rods

El presente trabajo constituye la base teórica y conceptual desde la que se ha abordado el estudio de los paisajes fortificados de época moderna en la parte occidental de la frontera luso-galaica y se ha diseñado un programa de investigación para tal fin. Se propone una aproximación al estudio de ambas realidades del registro arqueológico desde una aproximación simbiótica entre la Arqueología del Paisaje y la Arqueología de la Arquitectura, introduciendo los conceptos de espacio construido y Arqueología del Espacio Construido, This work proposes a theoretical and conceptual basis for the study of the fortified landscapes of the GalicianPortuguese border in the Modern Age. From this theoretical framework there was designed a research program that studies these landscapes. It proposes an approach to the study of this type of archaeological record from the Landscape Archeology and the Archeology of Architecture, introducing the concepts of built space and Archeology of Built Space

El objeto de estudio del presente artículo es el recientemente conformado Programa de Investigación 2011-2015 de la Facultad de Diseño y Comunicación de la Universidad de Palermo. Nos proponemos analizar la mencionada iniciativa desde la perspectiva de la relación entre la universidad y el entorno socioeconómico, indicando dentro de qué tipo de modelo de innovación se enmarcaría. En primer lugar, se contextualiza históricamente las diferentes misiones de la universidad y los distintos modelos de innovación. Después, se describe en detalle el Programa de Investigación. Luego, se analiza una entrevista realizada a un informante clave de la iniciativa académica. Finalmente, se esbozan algunas propuestas para el futuro del Programa de Investigación., In the following paper, we analyze the newly formed Research Program 2011-2015 of the School of Design and Communication of the University of Palermo from the perspective of the relationship between the university and the socioeconomic environment, indicating in what kind of innovation model this academic initiative could be framed. First, we historically contextualize the university´s different missions and the various innovation models. Then, we describe in detail the Research Program. Later, we analyze an interview with one of Research Program managers. Finally, some proposals for the future of the research program are outlined.

Though the global financial crisis induced the emergence of a new set of stylized facts, and propitiated the use of techniques and tools emerging from other disciplines, it did not unleash a crisis of the current research program in financial macroeconomics. This article is an attempt to explain that turn of events. It does explore two interlocked hypotheses: the structural asymmetry between paths linking the hard core of a research program with its protective belt; what goes from the hard core onto the periphery never stops flowing under the guise of basic modules required to build up new models, whereas the periphery´s findings never make their way up to the hard core. The second one is an observable fact: both, the strongest contender for the DSGE models econophysics and the heterodox research programs, are outsiders in mainstream economics., La crisis llevó a la aparición de nuevos hechos estilizados, y al uso de técnicas y herramientas provenientes de otras disciplinas, pero no provocó una crisis del programa dominante en macroeconomía financiera. Este artículo intenta explicar por qué se siguió ese rumbo y explora dos hipótesis: la asimetría entre los caminos que unen el núcleo firme de un programa de investigación con los cambios en el cinturón protector; lo que va del núcleo firme a la periferia nunca deja de fluir en la forma de módulos básicos para hacer nuevos modelos, y lo que se encuentra en la periferia nunca afecta al núcleo firme. La segunda es un hecho observable: tanto el programa rival más fuerte la econofísica, como los programas heterodoxos están por fuera de la economía dominante.

Though the global financial crisis induced the emergence of a new set of stylized facts, and propitiated the use of techniques and tools emerging from other disciplines, it did not unleash a crisis of the current research program in financial macroeconomics. This article is an attempt to explain that turn of events. It does explore two interlocked hypotheses: the structural asymmetry between paths linking the hard core of a research program with its protective belt; what goes from the hard core onto the periphery never stops flowing under the guise of basic modules required to build up new models, whereas the periphery´s findings never make their way up to the hard core. The second one is an observable fact: both, the strongest contender for the DSGE models econophysics and the heterodox research programs, are outsiders in mainstream economics., La crisis llevó a la aparición de nuevos hechos estilizados, y al uso de técnicas y herramientas provenientes de otras disciplinas, pero no provocó una crisis del programa dominante en macroeconomía financiera. Este artículo intenta explicar por qué se siguió ese rumbo y explora dos hipótesis: la asimetría entre los caminos que unen el núcleo firme de un programa de investigación con los cambios en el cinturón protector; lo que va del núcleo firme a la periferia nunca deja de fluir en la forma de módulos básicos para hacer nuevos modelos, y lo que se encuentra en la periferia nunca afecta al núcleo firme. La segunda es un hecho observable: tanto el programa rival más fuerte la econofísica, como los programas heterodoxos están por fuera de la economía dominante.

This report extends the 2007 investigation of I-wall performance during flood loading to I-walls located in regions of the United States outside New Orleans, Louisiana. Specifically, this study investigates I-walls embedded in level ground consisting of four different soils that are stronger and stiffer than the fine-grained New Orleans soils that were inspected during the 2007 Interagency Performance Evaluation Task Force (IPET) study. A focus of the study summarized in this report is the investigation of the development of a zone of separation along the flood side of the soil-to-I-wall interface. The effects of this zone of separation on the resulting deformation and stress conditions in the soil regime on both the flood side and landside of the I-wall system were then examined. This study is restricted to level soil flood wall sites. The landside is referred to as the protected side in some figures in this report. This investigation relies on a complete soil-structure interaction (SSI) method of analysis. In this procedure, the soil foundation, I-wall, and interface between the I-wall and the soil (on both sides of the I-wall) all are modeled using finite elements; both the soil and interface properties are modeled as nonlinear materials; and flood loadings are incrementally raised to the design flood pool elevation. A hydraulic fracturing criterion is applied to determine if a gap develops on the flood side of the I-wall and if it propagates down the soil-to-I-wall interface during the incremental flood loadings. Soil stresses, the level of mobilized shear strength, gap depth, I-wall deflections, shear forces, and bending moments internal to the sheet piling are computed in the complete SSI analyses at the incremental flood elevations. Results presented in this report will be used to prepare a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) guidance document for flood I-walls., The original document contains color images.

This paper presents a unique system approach applied in a joint academic - industrial research program, E4 Mistra, to reach the goals of energy efficiency and low emissions exhaust aftertreatment system for heavy duty vehicles. The high energy efficiency is achieved by heat recuperation, on-board hydrogen production for use in both an auxiliary power unit and for NOx reduction and by finding new solutions for making the after-treatment system active at low exhaust temperatures. To reach low particulate emissions a mechanical filter using a sintered metal filter is developed. Low NOx emissions are achieved by an efficient NOx reduction catalyst. The system is based on four technological advances: Thermoelectric material s for heat recuperation, catalytic reduction of NOx over innovative catalyst substrates using hydrocarbons from the fuel and H2 from a high efficiency fuel reformer, and particulate filtration over a porous metal filter., QC 20150710

This experimental activity is part of a large research program aimed at developing a passive control method for viscous drag reduction of aerodynamic bodies. The drag reduction, accomplished by delaying the laminar-turbulent transition of the boundary layer, is obtained by generating stable laminar streamwise streaks inside the boundary layer, which are known to stabilize the growth of Tollmien-Schlichting waves as well as localized disturbances. A first series of experiments have shown that by means of suitable roughness elements it is possible to generate stable steady streaks of amplitudes up to 12% of the free stream velocity. In this paper we explore the possibility to generate streaks of much larger amplitude by using a row of Miniature Vortex Generators (MVGs). Experiments have been performed showing that amplitudes up to 30% can be obtained without having any secondary instability acting on the streaks. The induced drag due to the streaky base flow is quantified and it is demonstrated that the streaks can be reinforced by placing a second array of MVGs downstream of the first one., QC 20120215

In the case of a severe accident with vessel melt-through, the Molten Core Concrete Interaction (MCCI) may take place and become a threat to the integrity of the containment, which is the ultimate barrier between the corium and the environment. During SARNET project (EURATOM 6th Framework programme) 41/2 years, experimental programs related to MCCI issues have been pursued on the VULCANO, HECLA, COMETA and ARTEMIS facilities and several benchmark exercises have been conducted, in particular on reactor scale applications. This issue has been considered within the SARNET project (2004-2008) to have a high priority. Within the new project SARNET2 (2009-2013), a significant experimental program on MCCI, coupled with joint interpretation, modelling and code applications, has been proposed in view of understanding these phenomena and towards closing the safety issue. This research program has been designed to ensure complementarity with the ongoing MCCI-2 project of the OECD-NEA. It will address the following issues: effect of the concrete nature on 2D ablation profiles, role of the metallic layer on the MCCI, and efficiency of water cooling to terminate the ablation of concrete. It will also have a specific focus on the transposition of R&D results to the reactor scale. More than 17 European organizations will contribute to these activities, which will include a significant experimental program both in simulant and in prototypic materials., QC 20120111

As part of a broader research program dealing with initial atmospheric corrosion of metals induced by organic acids, infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy (IRAS) has been used to study the initial interaction of acetic acid with zinc in 90% relative humidity and 120 ppb acid concentration under in situ condition. Efforts were made to quantify the identified reaction product species, mainly zinc oxide and zinc acetate. The experimentally obtained results were quantified through calculations using a linear relationship between IRAS peak intensity and layer thickness, and assuming optical constants of zinc acetate dihydrate (Zn(CH 3COO) 2•2H 2O). In all, the in situ studies performed by IRAS provide information on the identity and quantity of reaction products formed., QC 20141014

The purpose of this work is simple and complex at the same time. Simple in the sense of being an attempt to spread out some reflections in relation to the role that plays the theory within anthropology, to determine its epistemological status, to determine, also, its value inside the anthropologic current panorama, to rethink finally its potential to generate anthropologic knowledge. A complex subject linked to its development, provided that the aim of thinking the importance of the theory inside the anthropologic knowledge involves giving expression to the mental construction of the discipline. It means an overall anthropological reflection of the different ideas or ¿types¿ of theories, its usefulness and how they work out, something that usually is of a common acceptance., La finalidad que persigue este trabajo es bastante sencilla y compleja a una misma vez. Sencilla al tratar de realizar algunas reflexiones al respecto del papel que juega la teoría dentro de la antropología, de determinar su status epistemológico, de estipular su valoración dentro del panorama antropológico actual, de pensar su potencialidad para generar conocimiento antropológico al fin y al cabo. Y compleja en lo concerniente a su desarrollo, dado que esta finalidad de pensar la importancia de la teoría dentro del conocimiento antropológico obliga a hacer expresa la propia construcción mental de la disciplina, del saber antropológico, las distintas ideas o ¿tipos¿ de teoría, de sus utilidades y funcionamientos, algo que normalmente suele darse por sentado con frecuencia

This article is about the concept of gnoseological production space, as an element to categorize the research carried out in the education fi eld at international level, during the last fi ve years. Periodical publications fi les of four Venezuelan universities were consulted through an intentional sample. As a result, 26 international magazines on educational topics were found. 986 titles were scheduled. Among them: research reports, theoretical articles, essays and books. Concepts on research line and topic area were analyzed in order to establish the grouping criteria. Additionally, the concept of gnoseological production space was proposed due to its study limitations. This research led to the identifi cation, defi nition and illustration of twelve (12) gnoseological production space in education., Dans cet article, on développe le concept d¿espace gnoséologique pour catégoriser les recherches faites dans le cadre de l¿Éducation, pendant les cinq dernières années, à l¿échelon international. À travers un échantillonnage intentionnel, on a consulté les archives de publications périodiques de quatre universités vénézuéliennes. On y a relevé vingtsix (26) revues internationales spécialisées dans les thèmes éducatifs. On a inventorié neuf cents quatre-vingt six (986) titres, constitués de comptes-rendus de recherches, d¿articles théoriques, d¿essais et de livres. On a analysé les concepts de laboratoires de recherche et de champs thématiques afi n d¿établir le critère de groupement. De la même façon, on a proposé le concept d¿espace de production gnoséologique en Éducation., En el presente artículo se desarrolla el concepto de espacio de producción gnoseológica, para categorizar las investigaciones que se han llevado a cabo en el campo de la Educación, en los últimos cinco años a nivel internacional. Mediante un muestreo intencional, se consultaron en cuatro universidades venezolanas los archivos de publicaciones periódicas, ubicándose veintiséis (26) revistas internacionales especializadas en temas educacionales. Se inventariaron novecientos ochenta y seis (986) títulos, entre reportes de investigación, artículos teóricos, ensayos y libros. Con la fi nalidad de establecer el criterio de agrupación, se analizaron los conceptos de línea de investigación y área temática; dada su limitación para el estudio, se propuso el concepto de espacio de producción gnoseológica. La investigación permitió identifi car, definir y ejemplificar doce (12) espacios de producción gnoseológica en Educación.

The purpose of this work is simple and complex at the same time. Simple in the sense of being an attempt to spread out some reflections in relation to the role that plays the theory within anthropology, to determine its epistemological status, to determine, also, its value inside the anthropologic current panorama, to rethink finally its potential to generate anthropologic knowledge. A complex subject linked to its development, provided that the aim of thinking the importance of the theory inside the anthropologic knowledge involves giving expression to the mental construction of the discipline. It means an overall anthropological reflection of the different ideas or ¿types¿ of theories, its usefulness and how they work out, something that usually is of a common acceptance., La finalidad que persigue este trabajo es bastante sencilla y compleja a una misma vez. Sencilla al tratar de realizar algunas reflexiones al respecto del papel que juega la teoría dentro de la antropología, de determinar su status epistemológico, de estipular su valoración dentro del panorama antropológico actual, de pensar su potencialidad para generar conocimiento antropológico al fin y al cabo. Y compleja en lo concerniente a su desarrollo, dado que esta finalidad de pensar la importancia de la teoría dentro del conocimiento antropológico obliga a hacer expresa la propia construcción mental de la disciplina, del saber antropológico, las distintas ideas o ¿tipos¿ de teoría, de sus utilidades y funcionamientos, algo que normalmente suele darse por sentado con frecuencia

The present article examines some contemporary ideas on the scientific method enrolled in the "Critical Rationalism" school. In this sense, they emphasize the expositions proposed by Karl Popper; as well as the later contributions made by its followers: Kuhn, Lakatos and Feyerabend, among others. It is advisable to stand out that the positions of these philosophers are not absolutely coincident between them; nevertheless, in essence, their elementary proposals keep certain correspondence, which allows them to be identified within this approach of the scientific research. The analysis was oriented to define the theoretical foundations developed by these philosophers for the epistemologic discussion, and the study of the controversial and coincidental aspects between them. Finally, the conclusions stand out the complex structure of the research programs postulated by Lakatos, like the rigid popperian ahistorical rationalism, that resists with the relativism and the central interest in the history of Kuhn, but on the other hand has many meeting points with the anarchical position and the absence of method proclaimed by Feyerabend., El presente artículo tiene como objetivo examinar algunas ideas contemporáneas sobre el método científico inscritas en la corriente de pensamiento denominada ¿Racionalismo Crítico¿. En este sentido, destacan los planteamientos propuestos por Karl Popper, máximo representante de esta tesis; así como también las aportaciones posteriores realizadas por sus seguidores, entre los que se mencionan: Kuhn, Lakatos y Feyerabend, entre otros. Es conveniente resaltar que las posiciones de estos filósofos no son del todo coincidentes entre si; sin embargo, en esencia, sus propuestas elementales guardan cierta correspondencia, lo que permite identificarlas dentro de este enfoque de la investigación científica. La metodología de análisis se orientó a definir los fundamentos teóricos desarrollados por dichos filósofos para la discusión epistemológica. Para luego, centrar la reflexión entorno al estudio de los aspectos controversiales y coincidenciales entre éstos. Por último, se presentan las conclusiones, las cuales reflejan estas diferencias y semejanzas, entre las que resaltan: la compleja estructura de los programas de investigación postulada por Lakatos, semejante en parte al rígido racionalismo ahistórico popperiano, que contrasta con el relativismo y el interés central en la historia de Kuhn, que por su parte tiene muchos puntos de contacto con la posición anárquica y la ausencia de método proclamadas por Feyerabend.

Designing an integrative research program requires that research leaders negotiate a balance between the scientific interest of research and the practical interests of non-scientific partners. This paper examines the ways integrated research is formally categorised, and analyses the tangible expressions of the practical politics involved in reconciling scientific and practical interests. Drawing on a comparative study of two Australian Cooperative Research Centres, I argue that categories used by the research leaders to describe the research programs embody three different strategies for structuring the relationships between researchers and their partners. These include matching research program categories to partners’ implementation program categories, reproducing existing integrative partnership models, and filling gaps in understanding with new technical approaches. These strategies offer different advantages and disadvantages. The cases suggest that the integrative approach favoured by each Centre depended on issues such as the geographic scope of policy arenas, sources of scientific credibility, and the political risks facing partners. The practical politics of research organisation offers a new lens for understanding both the practice and theory of integrated research.

The present work tries to establish a theoretical similarities in complementary among an epistemological approaches between - the methodology of the programs of research of Lakatos - and (a psychological-cognitivist) and - the theory of the conceptual fields of Vergnaud. It - aimsing at the understanding of the programs of research Llamarckian and Ddarwinian programmes of research in theirr respective validity fields. Through the analysis of the historical-conceptual structure of the two programs and itsyour conversion for the school environment, verified and discussed problems in the text books of Biology are identified and discussed as is and in the current research on the concept of Evolution among students atof several school levels. As a result of these reflections the theory of the conceptual fields is pointed out as a fruitful analytical instrument of the conceptualization process inof the subjects front to situations involving evolutionary processes., O presente trabalho tenta estabelecer uma complementaridade teórica entre uma abordagem epistemológica - a metodologia dos programas de pesquisa de Lakatos - e uma psicológico-cognitivista - a teoria dos campos conceituais de Vergnaud - objetivando a compreensão dos programas de pesquisa lamarckiano e darwiniano em seus respectivos campos de validade. Através da análise da estrutura histórico-conceitual dos dois programas e sua transposição para o ambiente escolar, são constatados e discutidos problemas nos livros didáticos de Biologia e na pesquisa atual sobre o conceito de Evolução entre alunos de diversos níveis escolares. Como resultado destas reflexões é apontada a teoria dos campos conceituais como um instrumento analítico frutífero do processo de conceitualização dos sujeitos diante de situações envolvendo processos evolutivos.

We carry out a comparison between the scientific research programs, described by Lakatos (1978 and 1979), and the educational programs of active critical action-research, seeking an epistemic profile and pointing out where science can clarify our practice and identify problems of learning and teaching. Taking into account Lakatos' ideas, we seek features to structure an educational action-research program for initial teachers as well as establishing guidelines for a rational reconstruction of teachers' own practice. We do not intend to prioritize natural sciences over social sciences because it would not solve the teaching problems since both present different points of view. We are seeking an epistemic foundation for educational practice., Procuramos fazer uma comparação entre programas de investigação científica em Lakatos (1978 e 1979) e programas de investigação-ação educacionais crítico-ativos, buscando assim o perfil epistemológico da prática educacional em ciências naturais, apontando em que a ciência pode iluminar a nossa prática, os nossos problemas de ensinar e aprender. Nas idéias de Lakatos, buscamos complementos para a estruturação de um programa de investigação-ação educacional na formação inicial de professores, bem como a orientação para a reconstrução racional da própria prática educacional. Não estamos querendo priorizar as ciências naturais sobre as ciências sociais, mesmo porque essa visão de mundo não daria conta dos problemas no ensino, pois são visões distintas. Buscamos bases epistemológicas para o fazer educativo.

Designing an integrative research program requires that research leaders negotiate a balance between the scientific interest of research and the practical interests of non-scientific partners. This paper examines the ways integrated research is formally categorised, and analyses the tangible expressions of the practical politics involved in reconciling scientific and practical interests. Drawing on a comparative study of two Australian Cooperative Research Centres, I argue that categories used by the research leaders to describe the research programs embody three different strategies for structuring the relationships between researchers and their partners. These include matching research program categories to partners' implementation program categories, reproducing existing integrative partnership models, and filling gaps in understanding with new technical approaches. These strategies offer different advantages and disadvantages. The cases suggest that the integrative approach favoured by each Centre depended on issues such as the geographic scope of policy arenas, sources of scientific credibility, and the political risks facing partners. The practical politics of research organisation offers a new lens for understanding both the practice and theory of integrated research.

The present article examines some contemporary ideas on the scientific method enrolled in the "Critical Rationalism" school. In this sense, they emphasize the expositions proposed by Karl Popper; as well as the later contributions made by its followers: Kuhn, Lakatos and Feyerabend, among others. It is advisable to stand out that the positions of these philosophers are not absolutely coincident between them; nevertheless, in essence, their elementary proposals keep certain correspondence, which allows them to be identified within this approach of the scientific research. The analysis was oriented to define the theoretical foundations developed by these philosophers for the epistemologic discussion, and the study of the controversial and coincidental aspects between them. Finally, the conclusions stand out the complex structure of the research programs postulated by Lakatos, like the rigid popperian ahistorical rationalism, that resists with the relativism and the central interest in the history of Kuhn, but on the other hand has many meeting points with the anarchical position and the absence of method proclaimed by Feyerabend., El presente artículo tiene como objetivo examinar algunas ideas contemporáneas sobre el método científico inscritas en la corriente de pensamiento denominada ¿Racionalismo Crítico¿. En este sentido, destacan los planteamientos propuestos por Karl Popper, máximo representante de esta tesis; así como también las aportaciones posteriores realizadas por sus seguidores, entre los que se mencionan: Kuhn, Lakatos y Feyerabend, entre otros. Es conveniente resaltar que las posiciones de estos filósofos no son del todo coincidentes entre si; sin embargo, en esencia, sus propuestas elementales guardan cierta correspondencia, lo que permite identificarlas dentro de este enfoque de la investigación científica. La metodología de análisis se orientó a definir los fundamentos teóricos desarrollados por dichos filósofos para la discusión epistemológica. Para luego, centrar la reflexión entorno al estudio de los aspectos controversiales y coincidenciales entre éstos. Por último, se presentan las conclusiones, las cuales reflejan estas diferencias y semejanzas, entre las que resaltan: la compleja estructura de los programas de investigación postulada por Lakatos, semejante en parte al rígido racionalismo ahistórico popperiano, que contrasta con el relativismo y el interés central en la historia de Kuhn, que por su parte tiene muchos puntos de contacto con la posición anárquica y la ausencia de método proclamadas por Feyerabend.

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program was created in 1982 to stimulate research and development among small businesses while providing the government innovative technical and scientific solutions to challenging problems. In the SBIR Program, Phase I awards are made for research projects that evaluate the scientific and technical merit of an idea. Phase II awards are made to further develop selected Phase I projects that demonstrate the greatest potential. In Phase III, the small business or research institute is expected to obtain funding from the private sector and/or non-SBIR government sources to develop the prototype into a viable product or service for sale in the military or private-sector markets. This study identifies and measures the variables that shape the success of the Naval Air System Command's (NAVAIR) SBIR program from the stakeholders' point of view. As different stakeholders have different perspectives on how they perceive success in this program, the authors used a qualitative approach to identify the variables that shape the success of NAVAIR's SBIR program from the small firms' viewpoint. The analysis and results were generated based on the interviewees' perceptions and responses to questions asked in telephone interviews. The authors interviewed a representative sample of firms that had successfully reached Phase III in the SBIR Program. On completion of the interviews, the samples were transcribed and subjected to qualitative comparative analysis. The results were used to identify the variables that represent the main factors leading to program success. The study concludes with the factors influencing firms' success in the NAVAIR SBIR program, and presents several recommendations from the findings. (3 tables, 6 figures, 27 refs.), The original document contains color images.

This paper describes a way of co-operation between industries, universities and government that has proven to be very fruitful. The Swedish Gas Turbine Centre (GTC) is constituted as a research consortium between technical universities and gas turbine industry. The overall goal of the centre, that was founded in 1996 on a governmental initiative, is to build up a basis of knowledge at Swedish universities to support the industrial development in Sweden of gas turbines of the future with expected requirements on low emissions, high efficiencies, high availability, and low costs. Since the start the research has had a focus on high temperature components of gas turbines (combustion chamber and turbine). This is also reflected in the on-going development phase where the research program consists of four project areas: cooling technology, combustion technology, aeroelasticity, and life time prediction of hot components. The projects are aiming at developing design tools and calculation and verification methods within these fields. A total of eleven research students (among them one industrial PhD student) are active in the centre at present. Numerical analysis as well as experimental verification in test rigs are included. The program has so far produced eleven Licentiate of Engineering and five PhD. On-going activities and recent results of the research in the four research areas are presented: A new test rig for investigation of time-dependent pressures of three-dimensional features on a vibrating turbine blade at realistic Mach, Reynolds and Strouhal numbers and first experimental results. Results of numerical simulations of heat loads on turbine blades and vanes, especially platform cooling. First results of numerical investigations of combustion and thermo-acoustic instabilities in gas turbine chambers. Experimental investigation of crack propagation in gas turbine materials using the scanning electron microscope (SEM)., QC 20141212

The Air Force future vision for information fusion is presented in the context of results of a study of long-term challenges in the science and technology of command and control and the programs of the Air Force designed to meet them. A new approach to research is presented that takes advantage of scientific challenge problems that are operationally validated in collaboration with research laboratories in government and industry., Presented at the International Conference on Information Fusion (5th) held in Annapolis MD on 8-11 July 2002. Published in the Proceedings of the International Conference on Information Fusion (5th), p557-561, 2002. The original document contains color images.

This paper reviews major activities outside the United States on human health issues related to chemical mixtures. In Europe an international study group on combination effects has been formed and has started by defining synergism and antagonism. Successful research programs in Europe include the development and application of statistically designed experiments combined with multivariate data analysis and modeling in in vitro and in vivo studies on a wide variety of chemicals such as petroleum hydrocarbons, aldehydes, food contaminants, industrial solvents, and mycotoxins. Other major activities focus on the development of safety evaluation strategies for mixtures such as the use of toxic equivalence factors or alternatives such as the question-and-answer approach, fractionation followed by recombination of the mixture in combination with a mixture design, and quantitative structure-activity relationship analysis combined with lumping analysis and physioiogically based pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modeling for studying complex mixtures. A scheme for hazard identification and risk assessment of complex mixtures and a consistent way to generate total volatile organic compound values for indoor air have also been developed. Examples of other activities are carcinogenicity studies on complex mixtures (petroleum middle distillates, foundry fumes, pesticides, heterocyclic amines, diesel exhaust, solid particles), neurotoxicity studies of mixtures of solvents alone or in combination with exposure to physical factors, and toxicity studies of outdoor air pollutants, focusing on particulates. Outside the United States, toxicologists and regulators clearly have a growing interest in the toxicology and risk assessment of chemical mixtures.

This study ends an intensive 11-month senior service, college-level research program of three Military Research Fellows. At the direction of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, the program has dual purposes: first, to provide professional military education for selected officers from the Army, Navy and Air Force; second, to conduct research in a subject of interest to the U.S. defense acquisition community. The program includes a 12-week resident Program for Management Development (PMD) course at the Harvard University Graduate School of Business.

An experimental hatchery for bivalves and the different techniques used in Arcachon are described: sea water treatment, phytoplankton culture, conditionning of oysters for spawning and larval culture. This experimental unit has been organised to study the reasons why natural reproduction is disturbed in the bay. The quality of the oysters and the sea water was analysed to ascertain their capacity to acquire normal oyster development. Also, the influence of different micropollutants which may disturb the environment were studied. Observations during larval stage at various concentrations of chemicals include: percentages of fertilized eggs; percentage of D larvae former; percentages of normal and surviving larvae, larval growth, establishing growth curves at different concentrations of each product. The possibilities of introducing applied biology of these hatchery techniques of bivalve larvae are considered to be very great., L'écloserie expérimentale d'Arcachon et les techniques qui y sont employées sont décrites : prise et traitement de l'eau de mer, culture du phytoplancton, conditionnement des géniteurs, déclenchement des émissions et élevages larvaires. Cette unité expérimentale a été mise en place pour rechercher les causes des échecs répétés de la reproduction naturelle dans le bassin d'Arcachon. Elle a permis de tester la qualité des géniteurs de la baie, ainsi que la qualité de l'eau prélevée en différents points et à différentes dates. De même la toxicité de divers micropolluants susceptibles de contaminer le milieu a été étudiée. Les observations portent, au cours des élevages larvaires, sur : les pourcentages d'oeufs fécondés et de larves D formées, les taux de mortalité et de larves anormales, la taille des larves avec établissement des courbes de croissance. Les perspectives qu'offre une unité de reproduction en milieu contrôlé de ce type, au niveau de la recherche appliquée, sont importantes.

An experimental hatchery for bivalves and the different techniques used in Arcachon are described: sea water treatment, phytoplankton culture, conditionning of oysters for spawning and larval culture. This experimental unit has been organised to study the reasons why natural reproduction is disturbed in the bay. The quality of the oysters and the sea water was analysed to ascertain their capacity to acquire normal oyster development. Also, the influence of different micropollutants which may disturb the environment were studied. Observations during larval stage at various concentrations of chemicals include: percentages of fertilized eggs; percentage of D larvae former; percentages of normal and surviving larvae, larval growth, establishing growth curves at different concentrations of each product. The possibilities of introducing applied biology of these hatchery techniques of bivalve larvae are considered to be very great., L'écloserie expérimentale d'Arcachon et les techniques qui y sont employées sont décrites : prise et traitement de l'eau de mer, culture du phytoplancton, conditionnement des géniteurs, déclenchement des émissions et élevages larvaires. Cette unité expérimentale a été mise en place pour rechercher les causes des échecs répétés de la reproduction naturelle dans le bassin d'Arcachon. Elle a permis de tester la qualité des géniteurs de la baie, ainsi que la qualité de l'eau prélevée en différents points et à différentes dates. De même la toxicité de divers micropolluants susceptibles de contaminer le milieu a été étudiée. Les observations portent, au cours des élevages larvaires, sur : les pourcentages d'oeufs fécondés et de larves D formées, les taux de mortalité et de larves anormales, la taille des larves avec établissement des courbes de croissance. Les perspectives qu'offre une unité de reproduction en milieu contrôlé de ce type, au niveau de la recherche appliquée, sont importantes.

Risø har siden 1978 haft ansvaret for mange projekter under de energiministerielle forskningsprogrammer. I denne rapportgives en status for de igangværende projekter samt en omtale af en række afsluttede, dels ved en almen beskrivelse af arbejdet, dels ved en summarisk omtale af de opnåede resultater. En nøjere gennemgang af mange projekter kan findes i referencelisten. Sluttelig omtales Risøs bidrag til organisation og administration af energiforskningsprogrammerne.

A description is given of work in the fields of radiation chemistry and reaction kinetics, physical dosimetry, radiation physics and technological application of radiaticn, radiation bacteriology research and irradiation technology, as well as of the operation of various irradiation facilities.

A description is given of work in the fields of radiation chemistry and reaction kinetics, physical dosimetry, radiation physics and technological application of radiaticn, radiation bacteriology research and irradiation technology, as well as of the operation of various irradiation facilities., A description is given of work in the fields of radiation chemistry and reaction kinetics, physical dosimetry, radiation physics and technological application of radiaticn, radiation bacteriology research and irradiation technology, as well as of the operation of various irradiation facilities.

A description is given of work in the fields of irradiation chemistry, physical dosimetry, radiation physics and technological application of radiation, radiation bacteriology research and irradiation technology, as well as of the operation of various irradiation facilities.

The activities of the Metallurgy Department at Risø during 1982 are described. The work is presented in three chapters: General Materials Research, Technology and Materials Development, Fuel Elements. Furthermore, a survey is given of the department's participation in international collaboration and of its activities within education and training. A list (with abstracts) of publications and lectures by the staff during 1982 is included.

An experimental hatchery for bivalves and the different techniques used in Arcachon are described: sea water treatment, phytoplankton culture, conditionning of oysters for spawning and larval culture. This experimental unit has been organised to study the reasons why natural reproduction is disturbed in the bay. The quality of the oysters and the sea water was analysed to ascertain their capacity to acquire normal oyster development. Also, the influence of different micropollutants which may disturb the environment were studied. Observations during larval stage at various concentrations of chemicals include: percentages of fertilized eggs; percentage of D larvae former; percentages of normal and surviving larvae, larval growth, establishing growth curves at different concentrations of each product. The possibilities of introducing applied biology of these hatchery techniques of bivalve larvae are considered to be very great., L'écloserie expérimentale d'Arcachon et les techniques qui y sont employées sont décrites : prise et traitement de l'eau de mer, culture du phytoplancton, conditionnement des géniteurs, déclenchement des émissions et élevages larvaires. Cette unité expérimentale a été mise en place pour rechercher les causes des échecs répétés de la reproduction naturelle dans le bassin d'Arcachon. Elle a permis de tester la qualité des géniteurs de la baie, ainsi que la qualité de l'eau prélevée en différents points et à différentes dates. De même la toxicité de divers micropolluants susceptibles de contaminer le milieu a été étudiée. Les observations portent, au cours des élevages larvaires, sur : les pourcentages d'oeufs fécondés et de larves D formées, les taux de mortalité et de larves anormales, la taille des larves avec établissement des courbes de croissance. Les perspectives qu'offre une unité de reproduction en milieu contrôlé de ce type, au niveau de la recherche appliquée, sont importantes.

An assessment of several promising techniques that use surface tension forces to enhance film condensation heat transfer on horizontal tubes is made. Recent progress on integral-fin tubes is stressed, including experimental findings on fin spacing, geometry, and material and the latest theoretical developments for predicting performance. Condensation heat transfer enhancement on wire-wrapped tubes is also examined, as well as the use of nonwetting strips and porous drainage devices. The effect of condensate innundation on plain and enhanced tubes is reviewed briefly, and future research directions are discussed.

The progress, goals and techniques being used in the Japanese fifth-generation computer program are assessed. The research is being performed in three phases: tool building, construction of parallel architecture machines, and evaluation and refinement. The first phase is well under way and has yielded designs for two prototype machines: a Personal Sequential Interface (PSI) workstation and the Delta machine (DM), a relational database machine. Kernel Language 0 (KL0), used for the PSI, is being expanded to KL1. The Mandala language is being applied in the DM. Applications have not received a great deal of attention at the government-funded research center, although the techniques developed are already being implemented in industry for machine and computer design and communications systems. 18 references.

The report describes the work of the Health Physics Department at Risø during 1984. The activities cover dosimetry, instrumentation, radioecology, risk by nuclear activities and nuclear emergency preparedness. Lists of staff and publications are included. The main emphasis in the report has been placed on scientific and contractual work. Of lesser importance, but still quite significant, are the service functions.

The activities of the Metallurgy Department at Risø during 1982 are described. The work is presented in three chapters: General Materials Research, Technology and Materials Development, Fuel Elements. Furthermore, a survey is given of the department's participation in international collaboration and of its activities within education and training. A list (with abstracts) of publications and lectures by the staff during 1982 is included.

An experimental hatchery for bivalves and the different techniques used in Arcachon are described: sea water treatment, phytoplankton culture, conditionning of oysters for spawning and larval culture. This experimental unit has been organised to study the reasons why natural reproduction is disturbed in the bay. The quality of the oysters and the sea water was analysed to ascertain their capacity to acquire normal oyster development. Also, the influence of different micropollutants which may disturb the environment were studied. Observations during larval stage at various concentrations of chemicals include: percentages of fertilized eggs; percentage of D larvae former; percentages of normal and surviving larvae, larval growth, establishing growth curves at different concentrations of each product. The possibilities of introducing applied biology of these hatchery techniques of bivalve larvae are considered to be very great., L'écloserie expérimentale d'Arcachon et les techniques qui y sont employées sont décrites : prise et traitement de l'eau de mer, culture du phytoplancton, conditionnement des géniteurs, déclenchement des émissions et élevages larvaires. Cette unité expérimentale a été mise en place pour rechercher les causes des échecs répétés de la reproduction naturelle dans le bassin d'Arcachon. Elle a permis de tester la qualité des géniteurs de la baie, ainsi que la qualité de l'eau prélevée en différents points et à différentes dates. De même la toxicité de divers micropolluants susceptibles de contaminer le milieu a été étudiée. Les observations portent, au cours des élevages larvaires, sur : les pourcentages d'oeufs fécondés et de larves D formées, les taux de mortalité et de larves anormales, la taille des larves avec établissement des courbes de croissance. Les perspectives qu'offre une unité de reproduction en milieu contrôlé de ce type, au niveau de la recherche appliquée, sont importantes.

A description is given of work in the fields of irradiation chemistry, physical dosimetry, radiation physics and technological application of radiation, radiation bacteriology research and irradiation technology, as well as of the operation of various irradiation facilities.

Risø har siden 1978 haft ansvaret for mange projekter under de energiministerielle forskningsprogrammer. I denne rapportgives en status for de igangværende projekter samt en omtale af en række afsluttede, dels ved en almen beskrivelse af arbejdet, dels ved en summarisk omtale af de opnåede resultater. En nøjere gennemgang af mange projekter kan findes i referencelisten. Sluttelig omtales Risøs bidrag til organisation og administration af energiforskningsprogrammerne.

Recreational and Scientific Activity in Cave Creek Canyon, Chiricahua Mountains, Arizona, 1978-1979

A description is given of research in the fields of reaction kinetics, physical dosimetry, radiation physics and technological application of radiation and irradiation technology, as well as of the operation of various irradiation facilities.