Physical Laboratory Research Articles

Isochoric cooling of air in the University Physics Laboratory

In this paper an alternative way of conducting the physics laboratory exercise for determining the adiabatic index of air using the Clement-Desormes method is proposed. The process of isochoric cooling of air has been studied in terms of the dependence of pressure on time, and hence temperature on time, since it is proportional to pressure at a constant volume and mass of air. A theoretical model of the consid- ered process was also made. The experimental results were processed statistically. The coefficient of determination R2 and the F-test statistic were calculated and their val- ues indicate a very good agreement between theory and experiment. The analysis of the residuals, however, implies that the model could be further improved through the inclusion of higher order terms.

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate in heartworm naturally infected dogs "with or without" Leishmania infantum seropositivity: an observational prospective study.

Canine heartworm disease by Dirofilaria immitis and canine leishmaniosis by Leishmania infantum (CanL) are both vector-borne diseases with frequently overlapping endemicity and able to trigger the acute phase response, being characterized by variations in acute phase proteins (APP). Recently, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), an indicator of inflammation, has gained attention in veterinary medicine, proving useful in several conditions that include CanL active forms in dogs. This study aims to evaluate ESR in heartworm-infected dogs, compare levels with heartworm-infected and L. infantum seropositive dogs as well as clinically healthy dogs, and assess correlations with other laboratory parameters. From October 2022 to January 2023, a prospective observational study was conducted enrolling heartworm-infected (Dirofilaria group) and heartworm-infected L. infantum seropositive (Dirofilaria/Leishmania group) animals subgrouped according to the CanL clinical form (Dirofilaria/Leishmania active and non-active groups). A group of clinically healthy dogs (control group) was also included. For each dog enrolled physical examination and laboratory tests (complete blood count, biochemical panel including APP, serum protein electrophoresis) were performed. Dirofilaria and Dirofilaria/Leishmania groups presented a significantly higher ESR level compared to healthy dogs. Dirofilaria/Leishmania active group had the highest ESR level among the groups considered. Dirofilaria/Leishmania non-active group had an ESR similar to the Dirofilaria group, but significantly higher and lower compared to the control and the Dirofilaria/Leishmania active group, respectively. A significant positive correlation between ESR and C-Reactive Protein has been found in all groups except for the Dirofilaria/Leishmania non-active group. In Dirofilaria/Leishmania active group a strong positive correlation between ESR and gamma globulins percentage as well as a strong negative correlation between ESR and albumin, albumin/globulins ratio were found. Overall, the ESR was confirmed to be an inflammation marker as well as a helpful disease index, being notably increased in heartworm-infected dogs affected by an active form of CanL.

Jejunogastric intussusception associated with jejunojejunal intussusception (double telescoping) occurring 20 years after gastrojejunostomy.

Jejunogastric intussusception (JGI) is a rare but potentially lethal complication following gastrectomy or gastrojejunostomy surgeries. Diagnosis of this condition can be challenging due to its rarity and non-specific symptoms. This article presents a case report of a 60-year-old male with a history of trans mesocolic gastrojejunostomy who developed acute symptoms of JGI. The patient presented with acute epigastric pain, vomiting, and hematemesis. Physical examination and laboratory tests indicated dehydration, tachycardia, and leukocytosis. Computed tomography (CT) revealed intussuscepted loops within the stomach. Emergency laparotomy was performed, and the intussusception was manually reduced without the need for resection. The patient recovered well and was discharged five days post-surgery. Retrograde jejunogastric intussusception is a rare complication, often occurring years after gastric surgery. It can be classified into acute and chronic forms, with the former presenting with intense pain and potential hematemesis. The condition can arise in different surgical contexts and even spontaneously. The cause of JGI remains unclear, but factors such as hyperacidity, abnormal motility, and increased intra-abdominal pressure have been implicated. Diagnosis can be made through endoscopy or alternative imaging modalities such as CT. Surgical intervention is the treatment of choice, with various options available based on intraoperative findings. Retrograde jejunogastric intussusception is challenging to diagnose and treat due to its rarity and lack of understanding of its causes. Imaging techniques and endoscopy play important roles in diagnosis, while surgery remains the primary treatment option. Vigilance is necessary among medical professionals to consider JGI in cases of acute abdominal pain and vomiting following gastric surgery, allowing for prompt diagnosis and intervention to prevent bowel necrosis. Further research is needed to establish optimal surgical strategies and evaluate recurrence rates.

Enhancing Science Process Skills in Physics Education: The Impact of the Phyphox Smartphone Application in High School Laboratories

This study explores the effectiveness of smartphones as measurement tools in physics laboratories, focusing on the science process skills of Class XI students at SMA Negeri 1 Wajo. Employing a Pre-Experimental One-Shot Case Study design, we integrated the Phyphox application into the curriculum and analyzed its impact on students' scientific understanding. Our methodology included purposive sampling of 24 students and data collection via science process skill tests, lesson plans, and student worksheets. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses revealed a significant improvement in students' science process skills, with an average score of 72.08. The one-sample t-test showed an essential value of 0.000, indicating a positive effect of the Phyphox application. These findings suggest a potential shift towards technologically integrated learning environments in physics education, enhancing student engagement and comprehension. While promising, the study acknowledges its sample size and context limitations, highlighting the need for further research in diverse educational settings. This study contributes to the growing body of research advocating digital tools in education, aiming to prepare students for a technologically advanced world.

Nuclear Physics Mid Term Plan at LNGS

The Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare—Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso (LNGS) is one of the largest underground physics laboratory, a very peculiar environment suited for experiments in Astroparticle Physics, Nuclear Physics and Fundamental Symmetries. The newly established Bellotti Ion Beam facility represents a major advance in the possibilities of studying nuclear processes in an underground environment. A workshop was organized at LNGS in the framework of the Nuclear Physics Mid Term Plan in Italy, an initiative of the Nuclear Physics Division of the Instituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare to discuss the opportunities that will be possible to study in the near future by employing state-of-the-art detection systems. In this report, a detailed discussion of the outcome of the workshop is presented.

Sigmoidal relationship between liver fat content and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in Chinese adults.

To explore the relationship between liver fat content (LFC) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and determine the new threshold of LFC to diagnose NAFLD. The data from questionnaire survey, general physical examination, laboratory examination, and image examination were collected. Multivariate regression analysis, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, smooth curve fitting, and threshold effect analysis were performed using the R software to investigate the relationship between LFC and NAFLD and to identify the new threshold of LFC to diagnose NAFLD. The prevalence of NAFLD was 30.42%, with a significantly higher prevalence in men than in women. Regression analyses demonstrated that LFC odds ratio [95% confidence interval (CI)] was 1.28 (95% CI: 1.24-1.31) in fully-adjust model. Analysis of the LFC quartile, with Q1 as a reference, revealed that the odds ratios of NAFLD were 1.47 (95% CI: 1.08-1.99), 2.29 (95% CI: 1.72-3.06), and 10.02 (95% CI: 7.45-13.47) for Q2, Q3, and Q4 groups, respectively. Smooth curve fitting and threshold effect analysis displayed a nonlinear relationship between LFC and NAFLD, and the threshold was 4.5%. The receiver operating characteristic curve indicated that when LFC was 4.5%, the area under curve (95% CI) was 0.80 (0.79-0.82), and the sensitivity and specificity of LFC in diagnosing NAFLD were 0.64% and 0.82%, respectively. The relationship between LFC and NAFLD was sigmoidal, with an inflection point of 4.5%.

An Immersive Hybrid Approach to Materials & Solid Mechanics Lab Activities for Undergrad Students

This paper describes two institutions' efforts to provide engineering science students with experiential learning opportunities using low-cost, simple physical lab experiments and its efficacy in improving students perceived understanding levels. A Canadian university developed a "hybrid" lab activity that combined a virtual lab simulator with physical lab experiments to teach materials, solid mechanics, and instrumentation concepts in two different 2nd year undergraduate solid mechanics courses. At a small American college, students in an introduction to materials engineering course completed four individual laboratory exercises using simple and relatively inexpensive material testing setups that explored topics covered in course lectures and readings. Students learned about the behavior of engineering materials and structural analysis using low-cost materials test apparatuses for different loading modes, engaging their senses to aid their understanding. Students then constructed a virtual simulation model using Finite Element Analysis (FEA). Students at both institutions gave positive feedback and reported improved understanding of course topics. The use of low-cost experiments combined with traditional engineering labs shows promise for improving student understanding of engineering science concepts.

WAVE TRANSMISSION COEFFICIENT OF INCLINED PILE BREAKWATER BASED ON A PHYSICAL MODEL

WAVE TRANSMISSION COEFFICIENT OF INCLINED PILE BREAKWATER BASED ON A PHYSICAL MODEL

Effectiveness of web-based virtual laboratory on grade eight students’ self-regulated learning

Self-regulated learning (SRL) is an important factor in online learning and is defined as the process of actively managing one’s own learning process to achieve a desired outcome. However, many issues remain unsolved about how to improve cognitive strategies and self-regulation in online learning environments where teachers are not physically present. As a result, this study aims to explore the effectiveness of a web-based virtual laboratory on enhanced students’ SRL. A quasi-experimental pre-/post-test with a control group design was employed involving 40 female students aged 14-15 years old. While the students in the experimental group carried out the practical activities using a specially developed web-based virtual laboratory, the students in the control group used a physical laboratory. The results obtained indicated that the virtual laboratory significantly enhanced metacognitive self-regulation, effort regulation, peer learning, and overall SRL more than the physical laboratory. These findings could be attributed to how students learn using the virtual laboratory. For instance, students can navigate the virtual lab website at their own pace at anytime and anywhere.

The formation of research in the field of chemical technology of ceramic and composite materials in Komi Scientific Research Center of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (1980-1990-ies)

The work is devoted to the history of the formation of one of the scientific directions currently developing at the Institute of Chemistry of the Federal Research Center "Komi Scientific Center of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences". The subject of the study is the process of formation and development of research in the field of materials science and chemical technology of ceramic and composite materials in the Laboratory of Chemistry and Solid State Physics of the Department of Chemistry of the Komi Scientific Center of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences in the 1980s and 1990s. The main attention is paid to the study of the prerequisites for the creation, conditions and main stages of the laboratory, the mechanisms of interaction between a research institution and industrial enterprises of the republic, the analysis of the influence of external factors on the choice of subjects and the development of scientific research, the role of the personality of a scientist in the history of science. The methodological basis of the research is the principle of historicism, a problem-chronological approach, according to which the formation of a scientific direction in an academic institution was studied in the context of the history of industrial development of the region. Based on the documents stored in the funds of the Scientific Archive of the Komi Scientific Research Center of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences and published works, the history of the organization and operation of the laboratory of chemistry and solid state physics was reconstructed for the first time. It is established that one of the main factors that determined the process of formation and development of research in the laboratory during this period was the availability in the republic of promising reserves of mineral raw materials suitable for use in obtaining functional ceramic and composite materials; the necessary research base; the development of high-tech industries in the Komi ASSR. Scientists have been working on the creation of physico-chemical bases for the production of high-tech materials with special properties (magnetic, electrophysical, etc.) based on the mineral raw materials of the republic. New materials with special physical and chemical characteristics obtained in the laboratory were introduced into production, which contributed to the development of the region's industry.

Clinical profile of central nervous system space-occupying lesions and their association with CD4 counts in patients with HIV: A prospective observational study.

Neurological manifestations are one of the major concerns for patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The secondary spectrum includes space-occupying lesions (SOL), including tuberculoma, cryptococcosis, candidiasis, toxoplasmosis, primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). To assess the neurological manifestations, disease outcome, and their associations with cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) counts in patients with HIV. This single-center, prospective, observational study was performed in the Department of General Medicine of a tertiary care institute, over a period of 2 years (January 2017 to December 2018). The study included 150 known or newly diagnosed HIV patients with CNS SOL. The physical examination, laboratory investigations, and imaging were conducted on every patient, and the findings were noted. The patients mainly presented with hemiparesis (52%), had involvement of the frontal region (38.7%), and were diagnosed with tuberculoma (29.3%). Other diagnoses were toxoplasmosis (22.7%), PML (17.3%), PCNSL (15.3%), brain abscess (10%), and neurocysticercosis (5.3%). Of 150 patients, 136 (90.7%) were survivors, while 14 (9.3%) were non-survivors. The mean CD4 count was significantly less in patients with toxoplasmosis (P < 0.0001) and PCNSL (P = 0.02), and significantly higher in patients with tuberculoma (P < 0.0001) and brain abscess (P = 0.0009) relative to other causes of SOL. Moreover, the mean CD4 count was not significantly associated with survivors and non-survivors (P = 0.28). In patients with HIV, CD4 count was significantly low in toxoplasmosis and PCNSL, and high in tuberculoma and brain abscess.

Intradiscal administration of autologous platelet-rich plasma in patients with Modic type 1 associated low back pain: A prospective pilot study.

Various treatments for chronic low back pain (LBP) have been reported; among them, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) as a regenerative medicine has attracted much attention. Although Modic type 1 change (MC1) is associated with LBP, no treatment has been established so far. In addition, no studies have administered PRP to intervertebral discs (IVDs) in patients with LBP, targeting MC1 only. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the safety and efficacy of PRP administration to the IVDs in patients with MC1 experiencing LBP. PRP was injected intradiscally to 10 patients with MC1 experiencing LBP. Patients were followed prospectively for up to 24 weeks after primary administration. Physical condition, laboratory data, and lumbar x-ray images were evaluated for safety assessment. Furthermore, to evaluate the effectiveness of PRP, patient-reported outcomes were considered. In addition, changes in MC1 were assessed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). There were no adverse events in the laboratory data or lumbar X-ray images after administration. The mean visual analog scale, which was 70.0 ± 13.3 before the treatment, significantly decreased 1 week after PRP administration and was 39.0 ± 28.8 at the last observation. Oswestry disability index and Roland Morris disability questionnaire scores promptly improved after treatment, and both improved significantly 24 weeks after PRP administration. Follow-up MRI 24 weeks after treatment showed a significant decrease in the mean high-signal intensity of fat-suppressed T2-weighted imaging from 10.1 to 7.90 mm2 compared with that before PRP administration. The safety and efficacy of PRP administration to the IVDs of patients with MC1 experiencing LBP were identified. Post-treatment MRI suggested improvement in inflammation, speculating that PRP suppressed inflammation and consequently relieved the patient's symptoms. Despite the small number of patients, this treatment is promising for patients with MC1 experiencing LBP. The study protocol has been reviewed and approved by the Certified Committee for Regenerative Medicine and the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (Japan Registry of Clinical Trials [jRCT] No. jRCTb042210159).

A novel mutation in GTPBP3 causes combined oxidative phosphorylation deficiency 23 by affecting pre-mRNA splicing

BackgroundCombined Oxidative Phosphorylation Deficiency 23 (COXPD23) is a rare mitochondrial disease caused by mutations in the GTPBP3 gene. The rare incidence of the disease and the high clinical heterogeneity pose challenges in making a precise diagnosis. Investigations into the rare COXPD23 patients are of pathophysiological and etiological value. In this study, we investigated the genotype-phenotype relationship in a COXPD23 patient from a Manchu family, with GTPBP3 mutations. MethodsRoutine physical examinations, laboratory assays and imaging analyses were performed. The metabolic profiles of amino acids in blood, acylcarnitine in blood and organic acids in urine were used to determine the presence of inherited metabolic diseases. Genetic variations in the family were investigated using whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing. Splicing disruption by a mutation was predicted and verified using a minigene assay. ResultsThe patient presented with severe lactic acidosis, neurological symptoms, multiple symmetrical lesions in the brain and serious mitochondrial energy metabolism disturbances. The c.689A > C (p.Q230P) and c.809-1_809delinsA compound heterozygous mutations were detected in GTPBP3. The novel c.809-1_809delinsA mutation was located at the splicing site of exon 7 and intron 6 and multiple tools predicted that it would disrupt the normal splicing. The minigene assay proved that the novel mutation resulted in two aberrant transcripts that created premature termination codons. ConclusionsThe clinical manifestations, brain imaging change, mitochondrial metabolism disturbances and the detection and validation of the GTPBP3 mutations expand the profile of COXPD23 and the pathogenic mutation spectrum. Our study improves the understanding of the pathophysiology and etiology of COXPD23.

Using Drones in a First-Year Physics Lab

Using Drones in a First-Year Physics Lab

A Multi-user Cross-platform hands-on virtual lab within the Metaverse – the case of machining training

Distance learning has become a popular learning channel today. However, while various distance learning tools are available, most of them only support a single platform, offer only the trainer’s perspective, and do not facilitate student-instructor interaction. As a result, distance learning systems tend to be inflexible and less effective. To address the limitations of existing distance learning systems, this study developed a cross-platform hands-on virtual lab within the Metaverse that enables multi-user participation and interaction for distance education. Four platforms, HTC VIVE Pro, Microsoft HoloLens 2, PC, and Android smartphone, are supported. The virtual lab allows trainers to demonstrate operation steps and engage with multiple trainees simultaneously. Meanwhile, trainees have the opportunity to practice their operational skills on their virtual machines within the Metaverse, utilizing their preferred platforms. Additionally, participants can explore the virtual environment and interact with each other by moving around within the virtual space, similar to a physical lab setting. The user test compares the levels of presence and usability in the hands-on virtual lab across different platforms, providing insights into the challenges associated with each platform within the Metaverse for training purposes. Furthermore, the results of the user test highlight the promising potential of the architecture due to its flexibility and adaptability.

Investigating the trends of developing students’ experimental competency through inquiry-based laboratory approach: A systematic literature review

This systematic literature review aims to analyze research trends in inquiry-based laboratory on the development of students’ experimental competency. The review followed a PRISMA approach. This study applied PRISMA by conducting a comprehensive literature search across two prominent online databases SCOPUS and ERIC. As a result, we identified 48 studies published between 2011 and 2021, which are categorized into eight distinct themes: (1) the traditional laboratory and inquiry-based laboratory (IBL), (2) IBL implementation and curriculum, (3) types of IBL, (4) students’ perceptions of teaching assistants and benefits of IBL, (5) IBL to enhance skills and knowledge, (6) students’ attitude towards IBL, (7) the factors support student learning in IBL, (8) IBL to improve students’ autonomy and self-efficacy. Hence, it is suggested that future research focus more on applying IBL for General Physics Laboratory courses to improve physics teacher education students’ experimental competency.

2022 CEOS International Thermal Infrared Radiometer Comparison. Part I: Laboratory Comparison of Radiometers and Blackbodies

Abstract An international comparison of field deployed radiometers for sea surface skin temperature (SSTskin) retrieval was conducted in June 2022. The campaign comprised a laboratory comparison and a field comparison. In the laboratory part, the radiometers were compared with reference standard blackbodies, while the same was done with the blackbodies used for the calibration of the radiometers against a transfer standard radiometer. Reference values were provided by the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), traceable to the primary standard on the International Temperature Scale of 1990. This was followed by the field comparison at a seaside pier on the south coast of England, where the radiometers were compared against each other while viewing the closely adjacent surface of the sea. This paper reports the results of the laboratory comparison of radiometers and blackbodies. For the blackbody comparison, the brightness temperature of the blackbody reported by the participants agreed with the reference value measured by the NPL transfer standard radiometer within the uncertainties for all temperatures and for all blackbodies. For the radiometer comparison, the temperature range of most interest from the SSTskin retrieval point of view is 10°–30°C, and in this temperature range, and up to the maximum comparison temperature of 50°C, all participants’ reported results were in agreement with the reference. On the other hand, below 0°C the reported values showed divergence from the reference and the differences exceeded the uncertainties. The divergence shows there is room for improvement in uncertainty estimation at lower temperatures, although it will have limited implication in the SSTskin retrieval.

A Model for Teaching and Evaluation of Programming Courses in Online mode

To protect community health in the face of the recent spread of COVID-19 epidemic, the world has shifted towards online education. Academics must handle the difficulties presented by the switch from conventional to online learning to preserve the learning process and guarantee that all learning goals are met. One of the key components of engineering education that is significantly impacted using online learning is practical experience. Due to the university's closing and the need for social distance in covid era, students were not able to access physical laboratories. In the present post-covid times, with the rising interest in online courses for skill enhancement and personal growth, institutions and ed-tech companies offering practical courses are finding it difficult to impart programming subjects to students. Another equally important aspect is the choice of right assessment technique for assessing the skill set acquired during the course. This paper proposes a model for conducting lab sessions for practical courses of computer programming, and assessment structure through which coding efficiency of a student can be judged.

Level of Satisfaction and Confidence After Using Virtual Reality Simulation of Wound Care Skills in Nursing Students

Virtual laboratory practice using virtual reality provides conveniences and increases learning outcomes, beside physical laboratories requires expensive costs, ineffective and efficient, and limited space causes a decrease in learning levels and impacted to satisfaction and confidence. This study aims to identify satisfaction and confidence of nursing students in learning using Virtual Reality of Wound Care Skills. The research design using descriptive quantitative. In this study, 56 nursing students used as samples using quota sampling technique. Student Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning Scale (SCSL) is the instrument used in this study. Meanwhile, data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS software version 26 with univariate analysis method and presented in the form of distribution frequency tables, yield percentages, mean, and deviations standard. This study shows that students are very satisfied (M = 4.400; SD = 0.670) and very confident (M = 4.357; SD = 0.622) in learning using Virtual Reality of Wound Care Skills. Results obtained from the use of virtual reality learning simulations on student satisfaction and confidence obtained high scores. Therefore, this learning method can used as an alternative to learning and support student skills and knowledge in another nursing skills.

Final conclusions of the own investigations of combined antihypertensive treatment on clinical state in patients with arterial hypertension without and with diabetes mellitus: use of own materials in education in nation. and Engl. languages at pre- and po

General practice – family medicine department. Object of investigation – patients with confirmed diagnosis of arterial hypertension without and with diabetes mellitus of second type, which were under observation at the primary medical care centers. &#x0D; The aim of the investigation was the study of efficiency of the combined (calcium channel blocker – amlodipin besilat and angiotensin II receptor antagonist – valsartan) antihypertensive treatment in patients with arterial hypertension combined with diabetes mellitus from the start of the treatment in the practice of primary care physician.&#x0D; Methods of the investigation included physical examination, general clinical, instrumental and laboratory methods, monitoring of side effects.&#x0D; As a result it was found, that combined antihypertensive treatment (amlodipin and valsartan) is effective and safe in patients with arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus of 2 type, which helps to reach the target level of arterial pressure in 72 % of patients and can be recommended from the beginning of the treatment in the practice of family physician. Maximal effect of the treatment in patients with arterial hypertension of II-III degree and diabetes mellitus of 2 type was observed only at 12th week of treatment. At combined antihypertensive treatment (amlodipin and valsartan) they observed tendency to the reduction of left ventricle hypertrophy. Despite the rate and percentage of the reaching of target arterial pressure were lower in the group of patients, which have diabetes mellitus of 2 type, it is necessary to recommend more active modification of the way of life in the named group of patients. It was found reduction of heart and vascular risks in the group of patients with arterial hypertension II–III degree with diabetes mellitus 2 type. This makes the basis for more active modification of life style and using from the start of the treatment combined antihypertensive therapy immediately. Consider all found results using from the start of the treatment combined antihypertensive therapy immediately by the primary care physician is proved for patients with arterial hypertension combined with diabetes mellitus.&#x0D; Accumulated materials (including theoretical reviews, demonstrative poster reports etc.) are used at training of interns in speciality «general practice – family medicine», during practical classes for higher courses education in national and English languages