Field Of Science Research Articles

Tales unraveled through threads: Exploring the influence of natural dyes on the carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios of wool fibers from historical rugs

EA-IRMS has been used to find isotope ratio patterns as a way of ascertaining the provenance of materials in several fields of science. In this work, EA-IRMS analysis of δ13C and δ15N was used to study historical rugs’ raw materials. The influence of chromophores in the isotope ratio of wool was studied by dyeing contemporary wool with traditional dyestuff and analyzing it by EA-IRMS. Additionally, aiming towards provenance determination, historical rugs’ samples were analyzed. In general, δ13C and δ15N of contemporary dyed wool showed no significant difference between samples (P > 0.05) which rebutted the hypothesis that chromophore isotope ratios influence those of wool. Furthermore, δ13C and δ15N of both contemporary and historical wool samples were indicative of sheep diets comprised exclusively of C3 unfertilized plants. Exception was made for one rug whose δ15N values were compatible with organically fertilized plants. Particularly, δ13C and δ15N ratios of historical samples showed significant inter-rugs differences (P < 0.05) which could evidence meteorological changes over the years. Intra-rug differences detected in only one of the three rugs studied could be linked to changes in sheep diet and pastures management practices due to drought conditions. In sum, this work's results showed that is possible to use EA-IRMS analysis of δ13C and δ15N to study dyed wool without chromophore interference.

Extraction Optimization, Structure Analysis and Antioxidant Activity of Polysaccharide from Sanghuangporus baumii

Introduction: In this study, we optimized the extraction process, analyzed the structure and assessed the antioxidant activity of Sanghuangporus baumii polysaccharide (SBP). The present results provide important information for the Sanghuangporus baumii polysaccharides in potential natural antioxidant effects. Background: The extraction and structural analysis of polysaccharides from Sanghuangporus has gained significant attention in the fields of chemistry, medicine, and life sciences. There is great significance in maximizing the extraction of polysaccharides from Sanghuangporus and developing their potential products in a scientific and rational manner. Objective: The study was designed to establish an efficient and practical extraction process for SBP, and then investigated the structure and the antioxidant activity. Methods: The Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on Box-Behnken design was used to explore the ultrasound-assisted extraction of SBP, and the structure of SBP was studied by ultraviolet spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy and other instrumental analysis methods. The total antioxidant capacity of SBP was studied by the Ferric Reducing Ability of Plasma (FRAP) method, and the scavenging capacity of ABTS+·, DPPH· and OH· was carried out as the index to investigate its antioxidant activity in vitro. Results: The statistical analysis results showed that the optimal conditions for extracting SBP were an ultrasound time of 20.74 min, ultrasound power of 268.40 W and material-liquid ratio of 1:25.71. Under optimal conditions, the experimental yield of SBP was 3.36 ± 0.01%. The RSM optimization process was applied to the experiment of complex enzyme extraction of SBP, and the yield increased to 4.72 ± 0.03%. Structural analysis showed that SBP mainly consisted of glucose, a small amount of mannose and galactose, and the molecular weight distribution was uneven, mainly concentrating in the three parts of 24.5,6.4,2.5 kDa. Moreover, SBP exhibited dose-dependent and strong reducing power and radical scavenging activity. For DPPH·, ABTS+· and OH· radical scavenging assays, IC50 values were 1.505 ± 0.050 mg/ml, 0.065 ± 0.036 mg/ml and 0.442 ± 0.007 mg/ml, respectively. Conclusion: In the present study, a β-linked heteroglucan (SBP) was extracted using the optimized process combining enzymes from the fruiting bodies of Sanghuangporus baumii. SBP exhibited effective and dose-dependent antioxidant activities. Our findings were of great value in terms of developing polysaccharides with potential natural antioxidants.

Language learning strategies research in English as foreign language contexts: A systematic literature review

The specific processes, techniques, and actions that learners take to facilitate their language learning have been widely explored under the concept of language learning strategies (LLS); however, more exploration is needed about recent investigations in this area, as calls for new theorization of strategies research have emerged. This systematic literature review aimed at exploring the prevailing research methodologies and educational settings appertaining to LLS in English as foreign language (EFL) contexts. The study analyzed 42 articles published from 2017 to 2023 in journals in the field of social sciences in the Scopus and ERIC databases. The findings show how non-intervention quantitative approaches are predominant in LLS research, occasionally accompanied by qualitative data collection methods. Accordingly, most research has favored descriptive and correlational designs, identifying the relationships between the use of strategies and variables such as language proficiency, demographic aspects, motivation, and self-regulation. Grounded on the revision of existing evidence, this article advises future strategy-based research to focus on primary and secondary levels of education, strategy instruction, cultural aspects, and qualitative research designs.

Synthesis, characterization, DFT calculations, and anticancer properties of VI-period and f-block elements-substituted zinc oxide nanopowders

Nanotechnology provides promising ways in which a wide range of new materials can be manufactured which appear to have enormous potential in the field of biomedicine and life sciences. ZnO can be applied in many physical and optical processes and used as a good anti-cancer agent. ZnO NPs are recognized as SAFE or GRAS, non-toxic and biocompatible particles. In this study, wurtzite ZnO samples co-doped by rare earth elements (Tb, Er) were prepared via sol-gel auto-combustion route and their crystallographic structure as well as their morphologies were examined using XRD and TEM techniques. The analysis disclosed that all synthesized products crystallized in a hexagonal structure and the crystallites/particles size diminished with the increase of co-doping content. The electronic structure and optical properties of the different products were assessed using DFT calculations. Doping Tb and Er rare earth elements into ZnO has a significant effect on its optoelectronic properties. The computational study showed that the co-doping of Tb and Er on pure ZnO decreased the band gap and increased the refractive index. The extinction spectrum of pristine ZnO showed a peak in the ultraviolet region at 5 eV, while those of the co-doped ZnO samples displayed stronger peaks in the infrared region (near 0.4 eV). The anticancer properties of Tb/Er co-doped ZnO nanoparticles were examined on cervical cancer (HeLa cells) and colon cancer (HCT-116) by using an in vitro MTT assay. The cell viability assay findings indicated a reduction in HeLa and HCT-116 cells after 48 hours of treatment of the synthesized samples. The treatment with co-doped ZnO nanoparticles produced chromatin condensation and formation of apoptotic bodies in HCT-166 cells, which indicates that the prepared co-doped ZnO nanoparticles induced programmed cell death in HCT-116 cells. According to these results, it can be concluded that the prepared Tb/Er co-doped ZnO nanoparticles have promising applications in developing new optoelectronic devices and also in treating cervical and colon cancers.

Думи на водещия

Editor Words DOI 10.55206/EBMA3053 Prof. Dr Ivanka Mavrodieva, DSc Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” Email: mavrodieva@phls.uni-sofia.bg Issue 59 (April 2024) of the Rhetoric and Communication Journal includes eight publications, which announce the results of research, among which surveys of parliamentary rhetoric and communication, which has manifestations in media and on the Internet, in politics and in society. The section “Media and Internet Communication” brings together four articles that contribute to the derivation of concepts, the delineation of the boundaries of new fields of academic research and the renewal of the categorical and conceptual apparatus in several scientific fields, for example through the terms “media culture”, “media transformation”, “cultural software” and “infor¬mation aesthetics”, “cancel culture”, “digital oral histories”, “hybrid risks and threats”. Simeon Vassilev outlines various scientific approaches to the definition of the term “media culture”; he presents theories, concepts, approaches and ad¬vo¬cates the need for a coherent theory of media transformation and media culture; the author draws conclusions about the phenomenon of media culture as a social practice. Desislava Dobreva explores a topic that is characterized by topicality and social sensitivity and examines the notion of “cancel culture”; she studies the phenomenon theoretically and historically; the author analyses current events and identifies rhetorical aspects in this specific virtual communication. Nikolina Ivanova-Bell examines the development of digital oral histories, as well as the opportunities they offer in the field of university education and academic libraries; on the basis of analyses she establishes the potential for enriching research and teaching experience in an academic environment. Andrey Velchev examines hybrid warfare from an interdisciplinary perspective; he analyses the role of the media and the Internet; the author presents the activities of institutions in identifying and neutralising hybrid threats, and in formulating and implementing strategic tasks regarding hybrid warfare. In the section “Political Communication and Parliamentary Rhetoric” two articles are included; they are written on the basis of a theoretical observation and include results of research into concepts in the fields of political science, political communication and parliamentary rhetoric in contemporary Bulgaria. Atanas Zhdrebev’s publication is devoted to populism; he discusses Takis Papas’s concept of populism as democratic illiberalism; the author gives examples of contemporary political phenomena and processes from different countries. Sofia-Nikol Nikolova examines the argumentation and rhetorical figures used by MPs during debates on significant domestic political issues and votes of no confidence and presents the results of an analysis of parliamentarian rhetoric in the 49th National Assembly in Bulgaria. The issue has a section “Contemporary Studies” in which there are options for presenting not only books, but also their contributions at the theoretical, methodological and research levels. The review of Professor Danail Danov’s book “Foundations of Media Pedagogy. A guide to the world of digital culture and its tools” is metaphorically entitled “a guide to the digital modus vivendi” by Simeon Vassilev. Professor Angel Angelov introduces Radeya Gesheva’s book “Enigmas and Paradigms in Some Twentieth-Century Italian Women Writers”. Prof. Dr. Ivanka Mavrodieva is a lecturer in rhetoric, argumentation, PR and virtual communication at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”. She is the author of 15 books (including “Virtual rhetoric: from diaries to social networks”, “Political rhetoric in Bulgaria: from rallies to Web 2.0 (1989 - 2012)”, “Rhetoric and Public Re¬lations”, “Online Course on Rhetoric”) and 120 articles. Her research interests are in the fields of contemporary rhetoric, virtual communication, argumentation, PR and business communication. Rhetoric and Communications Journal, issue 59, April 2024 Read the Original in Bulgarian and English

Медии, медийна култура, комуникации: процеси и трансформации

Abstract: This study aims to explore various scholarly perspectives on defining the concept of media culture and its significance for media, social, and cultural development. The theoretical review presents relevant theories, concepts, ap¬proaches, and important themes in the field of media culture. It argues for the necessity of a coherent theory of media transformation and media culture. The hypothesis posits that modern technologies utilizing artificial intelligence are not equivalent to human capabilities but are increasingly encroaching upon tradi¬tio¬n¬ally human domains such as language, religion, art, and politics. The conclusions drawn from the theoretical review and critical reading are applicable to several scientific fields. Media transformation often involves conflicts and is accom¬panied by crises. Therefore, media transformation can be seen as a process of transitioning from the old to the new. It expresses a new experience over time, accompanied by crises that arise from changes in technical, social, and political structures. These crises lead to a profound transformation in the media system and represent a turning point for the phenomenon of media culture as a social practice constructed by the media, through which meaning is created via different forms of communication. Keywords: transformation, media, media culture, media competence, culture, technology

Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Education Sector

Abstract: Building intelligent computers that can carry out tasks that traditionally require human intelligence is the goal of artificial intelligence (AI), a broad field of computer science. While there are many different approaches to AI, it is an interdisciplinary discipline, and recent developments in machine learning and deep learning in particular are causing a paradigm change in almost every area of the tech industry. Machines equipped with artificial intelligence are able to mimic or even outperform human brain functions. And as generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Google's Bard proliferate and selfdriving car technology advances, AI is quickly becoming a part of daily life and a field that businesses in every sector are investing in.

Carbon nanotubes: properties, synthesis and applications

Carbon nanotubes (NTCs) represent one of the most intriguing and promising structures in the field of nanotechnology and materials science. Discovered in the 1990s, these hollow graphitic carbon cylinders possess unique mechanical, electrical, thermal, and chemical properties that make them suitable for a wide range of applications. Since their discovery, NTCs have revolutionized nu-merous fields, including electronics, medicine, materials engineering, and energy. The importance of NTCs lies not only in their exceptional properties but also in their potential to drive future tech-nological innovations. This monograph focuses on exploring the multifaceted nature of carbon nanotubes, covering their discovery, unique properties, synthesis methods, functionalization, ap-plications, and current challenges. The main objective is to provide an in-depth understanding of NTCs and highlight their transformative impact in various scientific and technological areas.

Adoption of AR/VR and gamification in Future Healthcare Applications: A Mini Review

Abstract: In the era of rapidly evolving technology, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) has emerged as a transformative force. Nowadays applications of AR and VR technology along with gamification techniques and incentives in the individual health is popular topic of study in academia. However, there is a need and opportunity to study the usage and challenges of AR/VR along with gamification applications in the healthcare system. To explore this, we did a survey in the software-engineer system. Based on the response, we found some of AR/VR app used in healthcare, as well as information regarding the purpose of using their applications and user experience. This survey is beneficial for both software developer as well as researchers in field of CS and medical science. It can give them information about the existing products in the market and potential problems of AR/VR and gamificationin the healthcare system.

Хибридни войни, медии, интернет: основни понятия и пресечни точки

Abstract: The article is predominantly of a theoretical and review nature and the aim is to bring out notions related to hybrid warfare, the role of the media and the Internet in a complicated and at the same time dynamically developing inter¬national environment through a critical reading of scientific publications, strate¬gies and normative documents. The scientific field implies an interdisciplinary approach. The methods of analysis and synthesis and desk research are used. No empirical research results are presented, but examples are given as illustrations of events and processes related to hybrid warfare. An attempt is made to answer the research questions: What are the characteristics of hybrid warfare in the 21st century? How does the media function in the face of confrontation, cyber threats and cyber security dangers? The article outlines the characteristics of hybrid warfare and describes the specifics of media used for information dissemination and manipulation. The role of institutions is outlined and some of their functions to neutralize the effects of disinformation in hybrid warfare are indicated. Keywords: hybrid warfare, internet, media, social networks, communication.

A review of multi-disciplinary decomposition research and key drivers of variation in decay.

The decomposition of animal remains is a multifaceted process, involving ecological, biological, and chemical interactions. While the complexity is acknowledged through concepts like the necrobiome, it's unclear if this complexity is reflected in research. Appreciation of the complexity of decomposition is crucial for identifying sources of variation in estimations of time since death in medico-legal science, as well as building broader ecological knowledge of the decomposition process. To gain insights into the extent of multidisciplinary research in the field of decomposition science, we conducted an examination of peer-reviewed literature on four key drivers of variation: volatile organic compounds, microbes, drugs/toxins, and insects. Among 650 articles, we identified their scientific discipline, driver/s of variation investigated, and year of publication. We found that 19% explored relationships between two drivers, while only 4% investigated interactions between three. None considered all four drivers. Over the past three decades, there has been a steady increase in decomposition research publications, signifying its growing importance. Most research (79%) was linked to forensic science, highlighting opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration in decomposition science. Overall, our review underscores the need to incorporate multidisciplinary approaches and theory into contemporary decomposition research.

Prompt engineering – a disruption in information seeking?

Purpose The purpose of this column is to inform librarians and other information professionals about prompt engineering (PE) and to challenge them to consider how it relates to the work that they are doing and consider if it might enhance their current ability to serve users. Design/methodology/approach PE is a new job category in the fields of technology and artificial intelligence. Prompt engineers use various approaches to elicit the best possible outputs from large language module technologies such as ChatGPT. This column examines the various elements present in effective prompts and how the skills, knowledge and abilities relate to the work that librarians already do, where there are disruptions and how the field of library and information science may approach studying the emergence and effectiveness of PE in resolving information needs. Findings While PE shares many of the goals, procedures and skillsets that librarians already know and use, it is a disruption in information-seeking processes. It is a highly complex undertaking that requires a mix of knowledge, skills and abilities. If done well, PE will allow information seekers to achieve a whole new level of results both in terms of the information retrieved and the content that is produced based on that information. Originality/value Librarians are currently generally not considered to be prime candidates for PE positions. However, this column introduces the idea that many librarians already have the knowledge, skills, abilities and aptitude to do PE. This may be as prompt engineers or by integrating PE into their existing professional practice.

Molecular Insights into [2.2]Paracyclophane‐Based Functional Materials: Chemical Aspects Behind Functions

AbstractMany of the functions and features of practically useful materials are the province of molecular‐level chemistry and their modulation at different length‐scale. This report illustrates the molecular‐level chemistry behind functions and features of the [2.2]paracyclophane‐based materials with a particular focus on the most recent explorations on through‐space conjugated small‐molecule organic emitters, π‐stacked macrocyclic molecules and polymers, poly(p‐phenylenevinylene)s featuring well‐defined donor‐acceptors sequence control, and surface engineering of technologically‐relevant parylenes that finds broad applications across the field of chemical science and technology. This report largely deals with the potential and opportunities associated with molecular features and functions of planar chirality, conformational behaviors, strain‐induced non‐planarity of the aromatics, the profound impacts of through‐space conjugation and π‐electron interactions/delocalization on optoelectronic properties of the π‐conjugated organic emitters, polymers and extended structures consisting of cyclophanes. A special focus is put on the concept of supramolecular polymers using chemically‐programmed chiral cyclophanes via non‐covalent stacking and controlled conformational arrangements. Illustrating cyclophane as precursors/monomers and fabrication strategies for their incorporation in structurally‐controlled (poly(p‐xylylene)s formed via chemical vapor deposition polymerization and post‐deposition fabrication for interface engineering is described. Demonstrating a rather different approach of electronically‐dictated ring‐opening metathesis polymerization employing strained cyclophane‐diene precursors that generate conjugated poly(p‐phenylenevinylene)s with well‐defined (i.e., low dispersity) and donor‐acceptor sequence control is also discussed. This report will serve as an indispensable one‐stop reference for organic, and polymer chemists, as well as material scientists working with cyclophanes for research innovations.

Equitable infrastructure: Achieving resilient systems and restorative justice through policy and research innovation

Abstract Recent major investments in infrastructure in the United State and globally present a crucial opportunity to embed equity within the heart of resilient infrastructure decision-making. Yet there is a notable absence of frameworks within the engineering and scientific fields for integrating equity into planning, design, and maintenance of infrastructure. Additionally, whole-of-government approaches to infrastructure, including the Justice40 Initiative, mimic elements of process management that support exploitative rather than exploratory innovation. These and other policies risk creating innovation traps that limit analytical and engineering advances necessary to prioritize equity in decision-making, identify and disrupt mechanisms that cause or contribute to inequities, and remediate historic harms. Here, we propose a three-tiered framework toward equitable and resilient infrastructure through restorative justice, incremental policy innovation, and exploratory research innovation. This framework aims to ensure equitable access and benefits of infrastructure, minimize risk disparities, and embrace restorative justice to repair historical and systemic inequities. We outline incremental policy innovation and exploratory research action items to address and mitigate risk disparities, emphasizing the need for community-engaged research and the development of equity metrics. Among other action items, we recommend a certification system – referred to as Social, Environmental, and Economic Development (SEED) – to train infrastructure engineers and planners and ensure attentiveness to gaps that exist within and dynamically interact across each tier of the proposed framework. Through the framework and proposed actions, we advocate for a transformative vision for equitable infrastructure that emphasizes the interconnectedness of social, environmental, and technical dimensions in infrastructure planning, design, and maintenance.

Ceramic Films and Coatings: Properties and Applications

Ceramic films and coatings play an important role in the field of materials science [...]

Automated decision-making as domination

Machine learning ethics research is demonstrably skewed. Work that defines fairness as a matter of distribution or allocation and that proposes computationally tractable definitions of fairness has been overproduced and overpublished. This paper takes a sociological approach to explain how subtle processes of social-reproduction within the field of computer science partially explains this outcome. Arguing that allocative fairness is inherently limited as a definition of justice, I point to how researchers in this area can make broader use of the intellectual insights from political philosophy, philosophy of knowledge, and feminist and critical race theories. I argue that a definition of injustice not as allocative unfairness but as domination, drawing primarily from the argument of philosopher Iris Marion Young, would better explain observations of algorithmic harm that are widely acknowledged in this research community. This alternate definition expands the solution space for algorithmic justice to include other forms of consequential action beyond code fixes, such as legislation, participatory assessments, forms of user repurposing and resistance, and activism that leads to bans on certain uses of technology.

Artificial Intelligence Curriculum Development for Intelligent System Experts in University

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a pivotal technology for enhancing national and industrial competitiveness in the digital transformation era. Consequently, the cultivation of specialized talent in AI has garnered significant attention. This study analyzed AI-related department curricula at major universities worldwide, identifying critical courses for each academic semester. The data we collected included course titles, syllabi, and learning objectives, which were refined and analyzed afterward. Furthermore, we comparatively examined university AI education programs based on the content of Computer Science Curricula 2023, a widely recognized framework for computer science education. The insights gleaned from our analysis revealed that AI curricula are built upon a foundation of computer science, emphasizing the importance of a deep understanding of various related domains within the field of computer science. Based on these findings, we proposed a curriculum for AI departments, considering the need for a comprehensive understanding of computer science alongside specialized AI courses. This study aims to provide foundational data for advancing AI education and guide educational program improvements. Ultimately, it aspires to contribute to developing specialized professionals in the AI field, thereby bolstering national and industrial competitiveness in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Synthesis of long straight‐chain alkane substituted ferrocene with ultra‐robust oil solubility as multifunctional organometallic additive

Tailoring of organometallics structure toward desirable properties continues to be both fascinating and challenging in the field of materials science. Herein, a novel ferrocene derivative with long straight‐chain alkane mono‐substituent is synthesized and used as multifunctional organometallic additive in the base oil. This ferrocene‐based organometallic compound (MFc) is synthesized via the Friedel‐Crafts acylation of ferrocene with myristyl chloride, followed by reduction with sodium borohydride. The chemical structure, crystallizability, surface morphology, and the thermal properties of the as‐synthesized compound are systematically characterized. As the iron‐containing standard substance, the MFc was preferable dissolve in lubricating oil with the iron element content as high as 2*105 ppm. Resultantly, the MFc/oil solutions exhibited excellent stability even after high‐speed centrifugal treatment, long‐term storage up to 3 months, and ultra‐low temperature treatment at −40°C for 24 h. Moreover, the MFc as a functional lubricant additive could reduce the average wear scar diameter, wear volume, and coefficient of friction with 40%, 73%, and 18%, respectively, as compared to the corresponding pure base oil. This synthetic strategy provides a novel perspective for the design of functional organometallics, and the as‐synthesized novel ferrocene derivative may find a wide range of advanced potential applications in analytical chemistry, tribology, and interfacial science.

Social Quality Management in the Lens of Philosophy and Methodology of Science

Relevance. Quality problems have been relevant for many centuries. At the same time, quality is viewed from the perspective of various sciences and industries indirectly: as a category identified with any sphere. Quality management is also of interest to many scientists and specialists, but most often in the technical or economic sphere. At the same time, its social aspect is obvious. Moreover, in the context of social management (social) quality management is an effective tool aimed at ensuring and improving the quality of life. However, despite the widespread application and adaptation of (social) quality management in various fields of science and practice, philosophical understanding is presented quite selectively. In this regard, in this study, it is advisable to present social quality management from the perspective of philosophy and methodology of science.Purpose. In the work, the author sets himself the purpose of conducting a comprehensive analysis of social quality management from a philosophical and methodological perspective.Objectives. To achieve this goal, it is relevant to solve the following tasks: analysis of social quality management as a post-non-classical concept of the philosophy of complexity; assessment and interpretation of social quality management in a broad plane of humanitarianism; attempt to define the philosophical understanding of social quality management.Methodology. To achieve this goal, the author uses in his work such methods and methodologies as the theory of complexity (complexity), the semiotic-digital dimension, and the methodology for constructing sociotechnical landscapes of digital reality. Results. The paper presents the results of a comprehensive analysis of social quality management from a philosophical and methodological perspective.Conclusions. Based on the results of the study, the author's understanding of social quality management in a philosophical and methodological context is substantiated; social quality management is presented as a concept of the complexity paradigm; the interrelationships of social quality management and the sociotechnical landscape of digital reality in a single field of modern humanities are established.

Chromatin structure and dynamics: one nucleosome at a time.

Eukaryotic genomes store information on many levels, including their linear DNA sequence, the posttranslational modifications of its constituents (epigenetic modifications), and its three-dimensional folding. Understanding how this information is stored and read requires multidisciplinary collaborations from many branches of science beyond biology, including physics, chemistry, and computer science. Concurrent recent developments in all these areas have enabled researchers to image the genome with unprecedented spatial and temporal resolution. In this review, we focus on what single-molecule imaging and tracking of individual proteins in live cells have taught us about chromatin structure and dynamics. Starting with the basics of single-molecule tracking (SMT), we describe some advantages over insitu imaging techniques and its current limitations. Next, we focus on single-nucleosome studies and what they have added to our current understanding of the relationship between chromatin dynamics and transcription. In celebration of Robert Feulgen's ground-breaking discovery that allowed us to start seeing the genome, we discuss current models of chromatin structure and future challenges ahead.