Laboratory Materials Research Articles

Designing an introductory statistics subject for students with diverse educational backgrounds and chosen qualifications

This is a case study on the design of a first-year undergraduate statistics subject at La Trobe University, entitled Making Sense of Data, which is taken by students from various disciplines. To account for students' diverse educational backgrounds and chosen qualifications, this subject is designed such that all students complete core statistics concepts, while a third of the subject contains stream-specific content. This subject design provides students with a solid foundation in statistics, while addressing the demand for a flexible first-year statistics subject which is accessible and relevant for students enrolled in a variety of tertiary degrees. This structure allows for stream-specific lectures, computer lab material, assessments, and even statistical software programs to be used across different streams. The design also incorporates strategies for addressing statistics anxiety within the curriculum. In this paper, we present the outcomes of this subject design in terms of student performance, engagement and satisfaction. We also present iterative and reflective changes that have been made to the subject over time, in response to student and staff feedback, and discuss the impact these changes have had on student outcomes.

Removal of Pyrocatechol from Aqueous Solution Using Activated Carbon Coated with Aluminum Nanoparticles by a Green Method

Background: Pyrocatechol, a phenol derivative, is commonly found in industrial effluents at various concentrations due to its extensive use in multiple industries. These toxic compounds are resistant to biological degradation and pose significant threats to environmental and human health when they enter aquatic environments. Objectives: This study explores the removal of pyrocatechol from aqueous solutions using activated carbon coated with aluminum nanoparticles. Methods: Laboratory materials included oak wood (collected from the mountains around Lorestan province, Iran), pyrocatechol, H3PO4, HCl, Al2O3, NaCl, NaOH, graphite oxide, and NH3. This experimental study was conducted on a laboratory scale. Oak wood was used to synthesize activated carbon, while aluminum oxide and oak moss were employed to produce aluminum nanoparticles using a green method. The characteristics of the adsorbents were examined using XRD, FESEM, FTIR, and BET analyses. Parameters such as contact time (5 - 40 min), pH (3 - 11), initial concentration of pyrocatechol (20 - 200 mg/L), adsorbent dose (50 - 250 mg), and ionic strength were investigated. The residual concentration of pyrocatechol was measured using a spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 275 nm. Results: The results indicated that maximum adsorption efficiency was achieved with a pyrocatechol concentration of 100 mg/L, a pH of 7, a contact time of 20 minutes, and an adsorbent dose of 250 mg. Isotherm and kinetic analyses showed that the adsorption data correlated well with the Langmuir model and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, respectively. Conclusions: Activated carbon derived from oak wood and coated with aluminum nanoparticles using a green method is highly efficient in removing pyrocatechol from aqueous solutions. This method is recommended as an effective, rapid, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly approach for the removal of pyrocatechol from aqueous environments.

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Impaired free recall of neutral but not negative material tested 105 min after cortisol administration

Pharmacological studies have consistently shown memory retrieval impairment after administration of cortisol, particularly pronounced for emotional laboratory material (i.e. list of emotional words). However, it is unclear how pharmacological elevation of cortisol affects memory retrieval of ecologically-relevant emotional material (i.e. similar to a newspaper article about an emotional event). In the present study, we aimed to explore whether cortisol administration affects the recall of ecologically-relevant emotional and neutral material, and when memory retrieval occurs after a longer delay (105 min). In this double-blind, pseudo-randomized, placebo-control study, 79 participants learned a negative text and a neutral text. Twenty-four hours later, they were administrated either 10 mg of hydrocortisone or placebo. After 105 min, participants engaged in free recall of both texts. The group with cortisol administration showed significantly reduced free recall compared to the placebo group. Interestingly, this memory retrieval impairment was driven by significantly lower recall after cortisol vs. placebo administration for neutral texts, but not negative texts. The current finding suggests that cortisol administration impairs neutral ecologically-relevant material while leaving emotional material unaffected. These divergent findings, compared to existing literature, emphasize the necessity of employing more ecologically validated material to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between cortisol administration and memory for ecological material.

Fe3O4@SiO2 Magnetic Nanoparticles Modified with Cysteine: a New Adsorbent for Environmentally Friendly Adsorption/Desorption of Pb(II) ions

In recent years, nanoparticles have become the focus of scientific research because of their wide potential application value. Iron oxides show incredible magnetic saturation, stability, and intuitive properties on the surface, making them ideal for a variety of uses. In this paper, nanometer iron oxide particles are synthesized by co-deposition method, and silica is further used to avoid agglomeration. Functional synthesis of cysteine nanoparticles (FNMs-Cys).The optimum synthesis conditions and adsorption conditions were determined by orthogonal experiments. In addition, the anti-interference and regeneration cycle performance of FNMs-Cys are discussed. The samples were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), N2 adsorption and desorption automatic specific surface and porosity analyzer (BET), thermogravimetric analysis (TG) and hysteresis loop test (VSM). The adsorption process of Pb2+ by FNMs-Cys accords with quasi-second-order kinetics and Langmuir isothermal adsorption model, which shows that the adsorption is mainly through chemical adsorption of monolayer, In the Langmuir model, the maximum single-layer adsorption capacity of FNMs-Cys for Pb2+ reached 174.85 mg/g. After five cycles of adsorption-desorption regeneration, FNMs-Cys still showed good stability and recyclability. At present, it is of forward-looking significance to study the removal effect of Pb2+ in water by using amino acid modified mesoporous magnetic silica materials in laboratory.

Status of Science Laboratories in Secondary Basic Education Public Schools in the Division of Davao Del Sur, Philippines

The science laboratory became a substantial learning environment for science education, especially in realizing the K–12 science curriculum’s goals, which focus on applying and demonstrating scientific knowledge. Thus, this study aimed to determine the compliance rate of science laboratories in the division of Davao del Sur, Philippines based on DepEd Order No. 48 series of 2006 which entails the prescribed science laboratories in basic education and DepEd Order No. 118 series of 2009 which stipulates the science laboratory equipment and materials. The research examined six schools in three economic categories to assess their science laboratory compliance rate. This study involved creating four matrices containing the prescribed laboratory facilities, equipment, materials, and required quantities for each equipment and material. Results revealed that the compliance rate of the sampled schools in terms of their facilities is 69.04% (good), the equipment is 65.59% (good), the materials are 43.33% (fair), and the compliance with the required quantity is 50.39% (fair). Based on the result of the study, it can be concluded that some schools in the division of Davao del Sur are lacking with the prescribed science laboratory. Thus, it is recommended that the Department of Education, Davao del Sur division to conduct a general assessment of all secondary schools to determine the status of science laboratories’ physical infrastructure, equipment, and materials.

Reference materials: A review

Several factors have increased the use of reference materials in laboratories. This can be explained by the fact that the reference materials have several roles, namely: the confirmation of the identity of unknown materials and/or the determination of their properties; the calibration of measuring equipment; the validation of methods; the realization of proficiency tests; etc. To be able to produce and use them, a set of standards and guidelines concerning the subject of reference materials has been established. There are several producers of reference materials in many fields, but finding the right choice is sometimes considered difficult given the multitude of materials to be analyzed that do not correspond perfectly to the reference material, especially in the case of matrices. This makes the market always seek new materials. To develop them, five steps are essential: material preparation, homogeneity study, stability study, characterization, and evaluation of measurement uncertainties. These steps are equally important; the fact of highlighting less than one of them will imply a significant decrease in the quality of the reference material developed. This review seeks to furnish the scientific community with a paper elucidating the functions of these materials in research laboratories, the normative references devised to standardize their production and utilization, the factors influencing their production, and the essential steps for their development.

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Digital Gothic Arch Tracing Device with Open- Source Software for CAD/CAM Denture Fabrication.

Digital or CAD/CAM workflows and protocols are being increasingly utilized because of their improved efficiency and reproducibility. For the fabrication of complete dentures, digital workflows can reduce treatment time and clinical visits while enhancing the reliability and reproducibility of the laboratory phase and materials. However, establishing centric relation (CR) and vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) in a reproducible way is still a challenging step for complete denture fabrication in both analog and digital workflows. This clinical report describes a digital workflow using an individualized gothic arch tracing device (GATD) with open-source software for the fabrication of complete dentures. With this workflow, clinicians can offer customized solutions according to patient rehabilitation, with good reproducibility using gothic arch tracing to be implemented in the digital workflow.

Biological Containment for African Swine Fever (ASF) Laboratories and Animal Facilities: The Italian Challenge in Bridging the Present Regulatory Gap and Enhancing Biosafety and Biosecurity Measures

The African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) is a DNA virus of the Asfarviridae family, Asfivirus genus. It is responsible for massive losses in pig populations and drastic direct and indirect economic impacts. The ever-growing handling of ASFV pathological material in laboratories, necessary for either diagnostic or research activities, requires particular attention to avoid accidental virus release from laboratories and its detrimental economic and environmental effects. Recently, the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/689 of 17 December 2019 repealed the Commission Decision of 26 May 2003 reporting an ASF diagnostic manual (2003/422/EC) with the minimum and supplementary requirements for ASF laboratories. This decision generated a regulatory gap that has not been addressed yet. This paper aims to describe the Italian National Reference Laboratory (NRL) efforts to develop an effective and reliable biological containment tool for ASF laboratories and animal facilities. The tool consists of comprehensive and harmonized structural and procedural requirements for ASF laboratories and animal facilities that have been developed based on both current and repealed legislation, further entailing a risk assessment and internal audit as indispensable tools to design, adjust, and improve biological containment measures.

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A weekly roundup of information on newly offered instrumentation, apparatus, and laboratory materials of potential interest to researchers.

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A weekly roundup of information on newly offered instrumentation, apparatus, and laboratory materials of potential interest to researchers.

Comparison of DNA extraction methods from soil samples

This paper reviews and compares various methods of extracting total DNA from soil samples using laboratory materials and reagents. The methods of DNA extraction were analyzed in different modifications and combinations with each other and with pretreatment of soil samples. It is shown that for effective DNA extraction, pretreatment of samples with calcium salts is necessary, in particular, the addition of CaCl2 to the extraction buffer to precipitate humic acids. DNA was extracted from the soil by all the methods, but the greatest amount of DNA was observed using a technique based on ethylenediaminetetetraacetic acid (EDTA), hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), and chloroform.

Case Study of Inventory Management for Biology Laboratory Materials using ERP System

Efficient inventory management is essential for biology laboratories to ensure the availability of materials for research and experiments. This case study explores the implementation of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system for inventory management in a biology laboratory. The objective is to enhance inventory control, streamline processes, and improve overall efficiency. The ERP system was implemented to address inventory management challenges and improve the accuracy and transparency of material tracking. The study assessed the impact of the ERP system on inventory control, procurement processes, and decision-making related to material planning. The findings of the case study demonstrate the benefits of implementing an ERP system for inventory management in a biology laboratory. The system provided real-time visibility of stock levels, enabling efficient tracking and monitoring of laboratory materials. It also automated procurement processes, reducing manual errors and streamlining the procurement cycle. The ERP system facilitated informed decision-making through data analytics, aiding in material planning and resource allocation. The successful implementation of the ERP system in the biology laboratory serves as a model for other similar laboratories seeking to enhance their inventory management practices. The case study emphasizes the significance of leveraging technology, such as ERP systems, to optimize inventory control and improve operational efficiency. The benefits include improved accuracy, reduced wastage, and increased productivity. This case study contributes to the existing knowledge on inventory management for biology laboratory materials and provides practical insights for organizations considering the implementation of an ERP system.

Clinical management of vital and non-vital discolored tooth preparation stump shades: A clinical case series.

Traditional and modern-day laboratory techniques can be used to mask vital and non-vital discolored teeth. Two clinical case reports are presented showing different treatment approaches to differing clinical scenarios of partial coverage veneer and full coverage crown restorations, respectively. Feldspathic ceramics should be considered when customization of stump shade correction and equalization is required with minimum facial reduction with veneer restorations. Translucent zirconia (5 mol% Y2 O3 ) can be used to mask metal posts and core restorations on non-vital teeth using an opaquer material that is infused into the intaglio surface in the green state. Different clinical scenarios will present to the clinician in regard to discolored stump shades where understanding what laboratory material treatment options are available that will help guide definitive restoration types and ultimately tooth preparation design.

Web-Based Virtual Laboratory Design in Class XI Chemistry Subject

Practicum activities are crucial for supporting students’ success in the teaching and learning process. To conduct the practicum, several factors are required, which vary depending on the field of practice. Adequate facilities and equipment are also necessary. The purpose of this research is to develop a web-based interactive virtual learning application for chemistry lab experiments. The stages involved in creating an application using the multimedia development life cycle (MDLC) method include planning, designing, collecting material, manufacturing, testing, and distribution. Creating applications using Unity software and designing assets with Adobe Illustrator. Virtual labs can help overcome the lack of costs associated with procuring laboratory equipment and materials, reduce the risk of work accidents, and can be accessed from anywhere.

Whole mount multiplexed visualization of DNA, mRNA, and protein in plant-parasitic nematodes

BackgroundPlant-parasitic nematodes compromise the agriculture of a wide variety of the most common crops worldwide. Obtaining information on the fundamental biology of these organisms and how they infect the plant has been restricted by the ability to visualize intact nematodes using small molecule stains, antibodies, or in situ hybridization. Consequently, there is limited information available about the internal composition of the nematodes or the biology of the effector molecules they use to reprogram their host plant.ResultsWe present the Sperling prep - a whole mount method for nematode preparation that enables staining with small molecules, antibodies, or in situ hybridization chain reaction. This method does not require specialized apparatus and utilizes typical laboratory equipment and materials. By dissociating the strong cuticle and interior muscle layers, we enabled entry of the small molecule stains into the tissue. After permeabilization, small molecule stains can be used to visualize the nuclei with the DNA stain DAPI and the internal structures of the digestive tract and longitudinal musculature with the filamentous actin stain phalloidin. The permeabilization even allows entry of larger antibodies, albeit with lower efficiency. Finally, this method works exceptionally well with in situ HCR. Using this method, we have visualized effector transcripts specific to the dorsal gland and the subventral grand of the sugar beet cyst nematode, Heterodera schachtii, multiplexed in the same nematode.ConclusionWe were able to visualize the internal structures of the nematode as well as key effector transcripts that are used during plant infection and parasitism. Therefore, this method provides an important toolkit for studying the biology of plant-parasitic nematodes.

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Designing an internet of things laboratory to improve student understanding of secure IoT systems

In response to an alarming shortage of workers in cybersecurity and a growing skills gap, the U.S. Department of Defense is taking steps to build cybersecurity capacity through workforce training and education. In this paper, we present an approach to address this shortage and skills gap through the development of cybersecurity education courseware for internet of things (IoT) applications.To attract students and workers into the field of cybersecurity, it is important to design courseware that is exciting and tied to real-world problems. We describe our design for an embedded systems course taught at the graduate level for engineering and computer science students. The innovation in our approach is to select the fast-growing domain of healthcare and feature different IoT sensors that are seeing increased usage. These include barcode scanners, cameras, fingerprint sensors, and pulse sensors. These devices cover important functions such as patient identification, monitoring, and creating electronic health records. We use a password protected MySQL database as a model for electronic health records. We also demonstrate potential vulnerabilities of these databases to SQL injection attacks.We administered these labs and collected survey data from the students. We found a significant increase in student understanding of cybersecurity issues. The mean confidence level of the students in cybersecurity issues increased from 2.5 to 4.1 on a 5-point scale after taking this course, which represents a 65% increase. The instructional lab material has been uploaded to the web portal https://clark.center designated by the National Security Agency for dissemination. Our approach, design, and experimental validation methodology will be useful for educators, researchers, students, and organizations interested in re-skilling their workforce.

Rancang Bangun Sistem Informasi Inventarisasi dan Peminjaman Peralatan Laboratorium

A laboratory is a building or a room where scientific experiments, analyses, and research are carried out. Muria Kudus University has several laboratories which are used by lecturers and students to carry out several activities including learning, practicums, trials, and other lecture activities. Apart from being a place for practical activities, the laboratory is also used as a place to store various practical equipment and materials that require inventory. The process of borrowing practicum tools and materials has become a routine activity for practitioners who will carry out practicum activities. In the process of borrowing tools and materials in the Muria Kudus University laboratory, conventional methods are still used, namely by writing in a borrowed book or on borrowed paper. Apart from that, the inventory of laboratory equipment and practical materials is also not well documented because conventional methods are still used in the inventory process of laboratory equipment and materials. The research focuses on designing and creating an information system for inventory and borrowing tools and materials in the Muria Kudus University laboratory. This research discusses how to provide facilities to laboratory assistants in managing laboratory assets digitally and make it easier for students or lecturers to carry out practical activities in the laboratory. This management system is web-based and created using the PHP, JavaScript and MySQL programming languages as the database.