Scientific Research Research Articles

A study of lesson design strategies to promote regulated learning in science considering the social context

Going beyond merely imparting information and actually equipping children with the skills to engage in scientific enquiry is important. This is a focus area in Japan, through which scientific literacy and critical thinking in education can be improved. With the right environment, children can be encouraged to pursue self-driven inquiry, reflect on their learning and collaborate with their peers. Professor Ichiro Wada, Division of Advanced Professional Practice in Education, Yokohama National University who is interested in improving childrenâ–™s ability to regulate their own learning based on metacognition and the right environment for this to happen. His current research concerns how the regulation of learning is established within a social context and he is homing in on three important concepts: self-regulation (SRL); co-regulation (CoRL); and socially shared regulated learning (SSRL). Focusing on these types of regulation, Wada and his collaborators developed and examined a science lesson design strategy integrating instruction and evaluation to develop children's ability to solve problems independently and collaboratively. The researchers found that the children's metacognition function was a hub which connected them to one another and enhanced their function through interaction with others. They also discovered that the teacher's feedback function was promoted by the children's evaluation and judgement. This work enabled Wada to capture the interrelated cognitive, metacognitive and motivational variables of these concepts. He has modelled the formation of the internal structure and interaction processes. A key current focus for Wada is evaluative judgement, which requires children to have their own evaluative criteria related to the selection and choosing of information.

Research of the wedging mechanism with additional driven crank and gear transmission in the pressure plate drive of the die-cutting press

ABSTRACT Scientific research has been analysed to improve die-cutting presses’ drive pressure plate mechanisms. An upgraded drive pressure plate mechanism has been proposed based on its results. It involves the application of two wedging mechanisms, an additional pair of driven cranks, and a gear transmission. Geometric synthesis of the proposed mechanism has been carried out, determining its relative and absolute geometric dimensions. A methodology for calculating the kinematic parameters of the combined drive pressure plate mechanism has been created, involving the use of similarity theory. Analytical dependencies for determining the invariants of the kinematic parameters of the mechanism’s operation have been derived. Based on the results of geometric synthesis, a 3D model of the mechanism has been designed, and a virtual experiment has been conducted using the SolidWorks software. Engineering calculations of the proposed press plate drive mechanism model in a die-cutting press with cyclicity of 60 cycles per minute showed that with a displacement of 80 mm, the maximum speed is 0.372 m/s. At the same time, the inertial loads during the plate’s reversal are minimal, with a negative acceleration value of −0.139 m/s2. A comparative analysis of the results of analytical research on the kinematic parameters of the pressure plate drive mechanism and the results of the virtual experiment has shown their absolute identity. It confirms the correctness of the completed synthesis and calculation methodology of the kinematic parameters of the proposed combined drive mechanism operation.

Preservation of Medicinal Plants of The Shipibo-Konibo Culture in Primary School Students

Objective: The purpose of the research is to determine the preservation of knowledge about medicinal plants of the Shipibo-Konibo culture in students of the 4th cycle of the Educational Institution No. 64872 B. Nuevo Paraíso of the Masisea district-2021 Theoretical Framework: The topics addressed are explained on the variable medicinal plants with a theoretical basis resulting from scientific research, taken from reliable sources published in impact journals and measurable results. Method: The study belongs to the quantitative approach, descriptive type and simple descriptive design. The population is made up of 160 students, from which a sample of 50 students was taken between third and fourth grade, to collect the information the survey technique and its instrument the survey form were applied to collect information on the knowledge of medicinal plants of the Shipibo Konibo culture. Results and Discussion: The results show that children maintain their knowledge of medicinal plants and there is a tendency to lose their use and knowledge of medicinal plants of the Shipibo Konibo culture. Implications of the research: Despite the existence of conventional medicine, the use of medicinal plants in the jungle is current, and their healing properties must be investigated in depth. Originality/Value: The importance of the research stands out fundamentally because the ancestral knowledge of medicinal plants is relevant and is an alternative and raw material for research in the field of medicine.

PES and The Restoration of Degraded Areas: Challenges and Prospects For Small Rural Producers in the SF1 Watershed

Objective: The primary objective of this study was to analyze PES projects in the restoration of degraded areas, focusing on the participation of small rural producers in the SF1 watershed. Theoretical Framework: This research is grounded in scientific studies through data collection, literature review, and analysis of existing laws in the initial phase, followed by exploratory research with local data from the SF1-WRB (Water Resources Management Unit). Method: A combination of techniques was used, including theoretical research in scientific journal databases and exploratory research through local data collection and official websites related to PES Projects (ANA). Results and Discussion: According to the presented data, the SF1-WRB stands out at both national and state levels in the context of PES, with a direct relationship between social mobilization and the achieved outcomes. Research Implications: This study highlights the relevance of PES for maintaining and expanding environmental conservation, emphasizing the need to align the interests of landowners and local communities involved. Originality/Value: This article emphasizes the importance of PES projects for environmental restoration and conservation, as well as their sustainability through the social inclusion of local small rural producers and surrounding communities. Additionally, it includes georeferenced and multi-criteria analysis of project implementation.

Visualisation technology for physical exercise

Art and science are separate yet interrelated. In order to feel something, an artist relies on their body’s sense organs. Using a chair as an example, one is conscious of the sensation of the skin in contact with the chair but cannot feel blood vessels being crushed, the lungs being compressed or an uneven load on the spine. Indeed, designing a chair requires scientific methodology. This line of thinking underpins the work of Professor Yoshihiro Shimomura, Humanomics Lab, Design Research Institute, Chiba University, Japan. He is conducting joint research with more than 120 institutions in the fields of medical devices, automobiles, home appliances, and environment design and lifestyle related to energy. He is working on several projects developing visualisation technology for physical exercise. In his design work he places emphasis on physiological functions in order to examine the nature of health, fatigue and comfort, and create designs that go beyond appearance and aesthetic appeal, boasting real meaning. A key project the team is currently working on concerns the development of an alternative method to surface electromyography (EMG) to measure muscle vibrations called mechanomyography (MMG). The researchers are developing a technology that allows users to observe the spatial distribution between muscles and can be applied in different ways. Patients can use the technology to monitor their muscle activity and work on their rehabilitation.

The Effect of Scaffolding Strategies on Learning Outcomes in Science Learning: A Systematic Literature Review

Science learning must be designed so that students can understand natural phenomena that are constantly changing. This study aims to explore scaffolding strategies related to research trends, influence on learning outcomes, appropriate learning models, research designs used, and profiles of the use of scaffolding in science learning at various levels of education. The research is a systematic literature review (SLR) to collect, analyze, and compile findings on scaffolding strategies in science learning. The literature review results show that scaffolding strategies are effective in helping students understand scientific concepts better. Providing structured scaffolding to students effectively improves students’ learning outcomes. The literature review results show that in the 2014-2024 time span, research on the application of scaffolding mostly uses quantitative methods with a non-equivalent control group design. The learning model that is widely used with scaffolding is Problem-Based Learning (PBL). Scaffolding positively impacts students' cognitive and affective learning outcomes, concept understanding, science process skills, argumentation skills, critical thinking skills, higher-order thinking skills (HOTS), learning independence, learning motivation, scientific literacy, problem-solving skills, and misconceptions. The scaffolding strategies can improve science learning effectively.

Combinatorial perturbation analysis of CD4+ T cell regulatory networks based on bifurcation theory

Exploring the dynamics of the CD4+ T regulatory network holds paramount significance in scientific research, as it deepens our understanding of the immune system’s intricacies and drives the development of innovative interventions for immune-related disorders. Despite the numerous studies conducted, further research is essential to elucidate the roles of exogenous cytokines in immune dynamics. This endeavor is of great importance in advancing targeted therapies and optimizing disease treatment regimens. Based on the bifurcation theory, we conduct a systematic perturbation analysis of the CD4+ T cell regulatory network. Initially, we treat exogenous cytokines as model parameters and conduct single-parameter bifurcation analysis to identify specific exogenous cytokines that can trigger various cell fate transitions. Additionally, based on relevant biological backgrounds, combinatorial perturbation analysis is performed to screen synergistic perturbation combinations. Three distinct types of synergistic combinations are successfully identified. The mechanisms by which different types of combinatorial perturbations exert their effects are also distinct. The individual and combinatorial perturbation analysis provides insights into how exogenous cytokines act synergistically and how these interactions influence the dynamics of CD4+ T cell networks.

One-Step Laser-Guided Fabrication of 3D Self-Assembled Graphene Micro-Rolls.

Laser-induced graphene (LIG) has been systematically investigated and employed because of the spartan laser synthesis and functional three dimensional (3D) foam-like structures. However, thermally induced deformation during laser processing is generally undesirable and, therefore, strictly suppressed. This work introduces a novel laser-guided self-assembly approach integrated into the fabrication of LIG to generate multiscale 3D graphene foam structures in a single step. Leveraging the photothermal effects of laser ablation on polyimide films, we achieve concurrent LIG production and self-assembly, enabling the transformation of two dimensional films into 3D micro-rolls. The process is finely tuned through interface modification and optimized laser parameters, allowing precise control over the geometry of the resulting structures. Systematic investigations reveal that varying laser power and line spacing effectively adjust the diameters of the LIG micro-rolls. Characterization indicates that the LIG micro-rolls can be fabricated with very large curvature and limited internal space, enhancing the potential for microscale applications. Furthermore, our laser strategy facilitates the creation of symmetric, asymmetric, and double-tube micro-rolls, underscoring its design flexibility. This work highlights the potential of the laser-guided self-assembly strategy in graphene nanomaterials and miniaturized applications, which has been exemplarily verified through the LIG micro-roll supercapacitors.

The Role of Instructional Design in the Delivery of Early Science Instruction

A critical tenet of education research is establishing what works. Another is exploring theorized mechanisms of change to help ascertain why academic programs work, for whom, and under which conditions. In other words, unpacking the black boxes of academic programs. This study explored the quality of teachers’ facilitation of (a) scientific investigations and (b) science discourse during and after the implementation of a systematic, explicit second-grade science program (Scientific Explorers-2). Our results demonstrated that relative to comparison classrooms, Scientific Explorers-2 classrooms delivered significantly higher quality scientific investigations. The quality of science discourse and maintenance effects for both measures were not statistically significant, but favored treatment classrooms in each case. Implications for designing science programs that support the delivery of high-quality science instruction that meets the needs of all students, particularly students with or at risk of learning disabilities, are discussed.

Snapping Endows Magnetoelectric Metamaterials with Passive Power-up Conversion.

Harnessing slowly varying or quasi-static magnetic fields, which typically lack the power to light an LED, to power devices with higher demands seems to be impossible if no additional power is supplied. Obviously, the key to overcoming this challenge is to achieve passive power conversion from low-power inputs into high-power outputs. Here, we propose that snap-through buckling─a mechanical instability phenomenon─within a magnetoelectric metamaterial enables passive power-up conversion. Our experimental results indicate that the instantaneous pulsed output power at snapping remains stable even as the frequency decreases by 100 times and exceeds the maximum magnetic input power by 27 times at a low working frequency of 0.01 Hz. Furthermore, for an array of magnetoelectric metamaterials with varying critical magnetic fields, we demonstrate that a series of pulsed outputs can result in continuous electrical output. We anticipate that these findings will open new avenues for advanced energy conversion technologies, underscoring a pioneering application of mechanical principles in materials science.

Fibrous Dysplasia: From Historical Approaches to Modern Treatment Perspectives

Objective. This study aims to analyze scientific literature on fibrous dysplasia (FD) and highlight the state of diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic pathology in patients with various forms of FD. Materials and Methods. This article is based on a retrospective review of papers by various authors on the treatment of patients with FD. Articles were selected from scientific databases such as SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The selected articles were reviewed in chronological order according to the topic of the study. Results and Discussion. The article provides a systematic analysis of treatment approaches for patients with FD at different stages of the development of science. Modern diagnostic and therapeutic approaches are also analyzed, with particular attention given to the molecular-genetic aspects of the disease’s etiology, particularly mutations in the GNAS gene, which underlie bone growth regulation disorders. Current treatment approaches, including the use of bisphosphonates and various types of surgical interventions, are discussed. Conclusions. A review of the scientific literature and analysis of historical aspects related to FD indicate both significant achievements of the orthopedic community in the diagnosis and treatment of FD, as well as significant challenges that will require further resolution. Changing views on the etiology and pathogenesis of the disease, as well as the identification of genetic mutations during early fetal development, have led to the recognition of FD as a stem cell disease. This provides new leverage for doctors and researchers to use stem cells in the treatment of patients with this pathology. Research on FD and the identification of this pathology as a result of stem cell disease has allowed scientists to explore new therapeutic approaches based on the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). MSCs can be used to correct bone tissue disorders since they can differentiate into osteoblasts and promote bone tissue remodeling. This opens the possibility for MSC transplantation or modification of their functioning to restore bone structures affected by FD. In our opinion, one promising area is the study of the osteogenic activity of MSCs from pathological sites, as this may help develop new regeneration strategies. There is a limited number of studies indicating the potential for bone defect reconstruction through the combination of MSCs and allomaterial.

Visualization and Parameters Determination of Supersonic Flows in Convergent-Divergent Micro-Nozzles Using Schlieren Z-Type Technique and Fluid Mechanics

Small-scale and supersonic convergent-divergent type micro-nozzles with characteristic sizes of around a few centimeters and exit and throat radii of tenths of millimeters were the subjects of this study. Using the schlieren Z-type optical technique, the supersonic airflows established at the exit of seven nozzles were visualized. The dependence of the shock cell characteristics on the nozzle pressure ratio (NPR), defined as the ratio of stagnation pressure to atmospheric pressure, was analyzed. The dependence of the nozzle thrust and the specific impulse on the NPR ratio and the mass flow rate was also studied using a simple device based on concepts of fluid mechanics. The results obtained are in agreement with similar results obtained in recently published research on double-bell nozzles. The thrust of all nozzles depends linearly on the shock-cell spacing, which is one of the most relevant findings of this research. In other words, the output airflow structure determines the performance of the nozzles, such as the thrust or the specific impulse they produce. These small nozzles offer significant advantages over conventional nozzles in low energy consumption and lower manufacturing cost, making them suitable for scientific research in space micro-propulsion and cooling microelectronic systems, among other applications.

Race to the Bottom: Competition and Quality in Science

Abstract This paper investigates how competition to publish first and thereby establish priority impacts the quality of scientific research. We begin by developing a model where scientists decide whether and how long to work on a given project. When deciding how long they should let their projects mature, scientists trade off the marginal benefit of higher quality research against the marginal risk of being preempted. Projects with the highest scientific potential are the most competitive because they induce the most entry. Therefore, the model predicts these projects are also the most rushed and lowest quality. We test the predictions of this model in the field of structural biology using data from the Protein Data Bank (PDB), a repository for structures of large macromolecules. An important feature of the PDB is that it assigns objective measures of scientific quality to each structure. As suggested by the model, we find that structures with higher ex-ante potential generate more competition, are completed faster, and are lower quality. Consistent with the model, and with a causal interpretation of our empirical results, these relationships are mitigated when we focus on structures deposited by scientists who — by nature of their employment position — are less focused on publication and priority. We estimate that the costs associated with improving these low-quality structures are between 1.5 and 8.8 billion dollars since the PDB’s founding in 1971.

The Role of BIM 6D and 7D in Enhancing Sustainable Construction Practices: A Qualitative Study

The construction industry in Kuwait is experiencing a transformative shift with the adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technologies, particularly BIM 6D for sustainability analysis and 7D for facility management. This study investigates the integration of these dimensions to address sustainability challenges in Kuwait’s construction sector, aligning practices with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through qualitative interviews with 15 stakeholders—including architects, engineers, and contractors—and analysis of industry reports, policies, and case studies, the research identifies both opportunities for and barriers to BIM adoption. While BIM offers significant potential for lifecycle analysis, waste reduction, and energy efficiency, its adoption remains limited, with only 27% of construction waste recycled. Challenges include high initial costs, a shortage of skilled personnel, and resistance to change. The study highlights actionable strategies, including enhanced regulatory frameworks, university curriculum integration, and professional training programs led by the Kuwait Society of Engineers, to address these barriers. It also emphasizes the critical role of collaboration among government bodies, industry leaders, and institutions like the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research. Drawing from successful international BIM projects, the findings offer a practical framework for improving sustainability in arid regions, positioning Kuwait’s experience as a model for other Middle Eastern and North African countries. This research underscores the transformative role of BIM technologies in advancing global sustainable construction practices and achieving a more efficient and eco-friendly future.

Time‐Multiplexed Reservoir Computing with Quantum‐Dot Lasers: Impact of Charge‐Carrier Scattering Timescale

Reservoir computing with optical devices offers an energy‐efficient approach for time‐series forecasting. Quantum dot lasers with feedback are modeled in this article to explore the extent to which increased complexity in the charge‐carrier dynamics within the nanostructured semiconductor can enhance the prediction performance. By tuning the scattering interactions, the laser's dynamics and response time can be finely adjusted, allowing for a systematic investigation. It is found that both system response time and task requirements need to be considered to find optimal operation conditions. Further, lasers with pronounced relaxation oscillations outperform those with strongly damped dynamics, even if the underlying charge‐carrier dynamics is more complex. This demonstrates that optimal reservoir computing performance relies not only on a high internal phase space dimension but also on the effective utilization of these dynamics through the output sampling process, quantum dot laser, reservoir computing, feedback delay, effective scattering rate, relaxation oscillation.

Automatic Monitoring in Construction Projects: Scientometric Analysis and Visualization of Research Activities

Abstract This paper presents a comprehensive scientific analysis of research on automatic monitoring in construction projects. Through a methodical examination of 857 bibliographic records from three databases, we find important trends, novel themes, and key research areas in this field. Our findings reveal that machine learning (ML), building information modelling (BIM), and deep learning are the most the most popular techniques for automatic monitoring. Furthermore, we identify construction technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) as the primary research foci. So, the study uncovers collaboration patterns among researchers and institutions, highlighting key players and their contributions, identifies research gaps and challenges, such as the need for integrating AI, big data, and cloud computing into construction project monitoring, and proposes future research directions to address these challenges and enhance the effectiveness of automatic monitoring systems. By providing a systematic review and insightful analysis, this study contributes to the advancement of construction project monitoring. It offers valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to foster innovation, improve project performance, and ensure sustainable construction practices.

Spatio-Temporal Distribution and Spatial Spillover Effects of Net Carbon Emissions: A Case Study of Shaanxi Province, China

Scientifically evaluating net carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is the pivotal strategy for mitigating global climate change and fostering sustainable urban development. Shaanxi Province is situated in central China, and boasts robust energy resources in the north and a significant carbon-sink zone in the southern Qinling Mountains. Therefore, uncovering the spatial distributions of net CO2 emissions and identifying its influencing factors across cities in Shaanxi Province would furnish a crucial theoretical foundation for advancing low-carbon development strategies. In this research, the net CO2 emissions of cities in Shaanxi Province from 2005 to 2020 are calculated using the carbon-emission-factor calculation model, then the Geodetector is utilized to evaluate the single-factor explanatory power and two-factor interactions among the fourteen various influencing variables, and then the spatial econometric model is employed to analyze the spatial spillover effects of these key factors. The results show the following: (1) The net CO2 emissions present significant regional differences among the ten cities of Shaanxi Province, notably Xi’an City, Yulin City, and Weinan City, which have recorded remarkable contributions with the respective totals reaching 72.2593 million tons, 76.3031 million tons, and 58.1646 million tons. (2) Regarding temporal trend changes, the aggregate net CO2 emissions across whole province underwent a marked expansion from 2005 to 2019. Yulin City and Shangluo City exhibit remarkable surges, with respective average annual growth rates soaring at 7.38% and 7.39%. (3) From the perspective of influencing factors, GDP exhibits the most pronounced correlation spanning the entire province. Meanwhile, foreign investment emerges as a significant contributor specifically in Xi’an and Yulin City. Moreover, interaction detection reveals most factor combinations exhibit bi-enhancement, while a few exhibits intricate and non-linear enhancement. (4) The SDM regression and fixed-effect analysis reveal that city GDP had a positive spillover effect on neighboring cities’ net CO2 emission, while investment in scientific research and technology services, along with per capita construction land, exhibit notable negative spillovers, suggesting potential emission reduction benefits across cities.

The need for ethical guidelines in mathematical research in the time of generative AI

Abstract Generative artificial intelligence (AI) applications based on large language models have not enjoyed much success in symbolic processing and reasoning tasks, thus making them of little use in mathematical research. However, recently DeepMind’s AlphaProof and AlphaGeometry 2 applications have been reported to perform well in mathematical problem solving. These applications are hybrid systems combining large language models with rule-based systems, an approach sometimes called neuro-symbolic AI. In this paper, I present a scenario in which such systems are used in research mathematics, more precisely in theorem proving. In the most extreme case, such a system could be an autonomous automated theorem prover (AATP), with the potential of proving new humanly interesting theorems and even presenting them in research papers. The use of such AI applications would be transformative to mathematical practice and demand clear ethical guidelines. In addition to that scenario, I identify other, less radical, uses of generative AI in mathematical research. I analyse how guidelines set for ethical AI use in scientific research can be applied in the case of mathematics, arguing that while there are many similarities, there is also a need for mathematics-specific guidelines.

Biocultural Evolution and the Imagination: Outlining Scientific Perspectives for Theological Reflection

AbstractThe human imagination is studied widely across both the sciences and the humanities, yet there is a lack of conceptual clarity for interdisciplinary engagement. This article surveys a sample of recent scientific research on the imagination, focusing on creativity and storytelling, to demonstrate how an understanding of the biocultural evolutionary context may yield helpful insights for contemporary theological anthropology. Niko Tinbergen's levels of analysis (mechanism, function, phylogeny, and ontogeny) are used as a guiding framework to structure the scientific content. The final section sketches some of the recent trajectories in theological anthropology that are supported by a biocultural evolutionary perspective on the imagination, namely those that emphasise the hybridity of human being and resist human/non‐human binaries. This exercise in examining scientific perspectives for theological construction is reflected upon in the context of a broader science‐engaged theology methodology.

Construction of Internet Plus Wound Care Service Quality Evaluation System Based on Donabedian and SERVQUAL Models-A Delphi-Analytic Hierarchy Process Study.

The objective of this study was to develop an Internet Plus wound care service quality evaluation system within the context of digital and intelligent medical care services. We utilized the Donabedian and SERVQUAL models as the theoretical framework, establishing an initial evaluation system through a literature review and semi-structured interviews. This evaluation system was refined through two rounds of Delphi expert consultations, and the weights of each level of indicators were determined using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The statistical results indicated a return rate of 100%, with authority coefficients of the experts at 0.898 and 0.906, respectively. The experts' opinions were relatively concentrated and consistent. After two rounds of consultations, the importance values of indicators exceeded 4.5 points, the variation coefficient was below 0.25, and the Kendall coordination coefficients for secondary and tertiary indicators were 0.163 and 0.131, respectively, all with p < 0.001. The final indicator system comprised 3 primary indicators, 10 secondary indicators, and 59 tertiary indicators, demonstrating strong scientific validity and reliability.