Engineering Science Research Articles

Brazilian bentonite/MgO composites for adsorption of cationic and anionic dyes.

Industrial effluents, especially those containing dyes, have become the main cause of contamination of water resources. In this context, Brazilian bentonite/MgO composites, with excellent adsorptive properties, were prepared and investigated for their effectiveness in removing cationic and anionic dyes from aqueous solutions. The new adsorbents were obtained using Brazilian bentonites and MgO using the mechanochemical method followed by heat treatment (at 700°C for 4h). Different characterization techniques were used for the chemical, mineralogical, thermal, surface, and morphological analysis of the raw clays and the composites. The experimental adsorption isotherms were quantified under different conditions of initial concentration, contact time, pH, adsorbent dosage, and temperature variation to interpret the adsorption mechanism of the crystal violet (CV) and Congo red (CR) dyes. The modeling results were obtained from the empirical Sips equation and Pseudo Second Order (PSO) kinetics, indicating that the adsorption of molecules is a heterogeneous phenomenon that occurs in a monolayer on the surface (ns > 1), with the adsorption rate determined by chemisorption. The composites showed the best removal efficiency performance compared to the raw bentonites, with an increase of 12% for the CV dye and 46% for the CR dye. In addition, the qmax values obtained were 423.02mg/g and 479.86mg/g (AM01). This research underscores the potential of Brazilian bentonite/MgO composites as a promising solution for the removal of cationic and anionic dyes from water, offering hope for future applications in the field of environmental engineering and materials science.

Emergent group understanding: Investigating intersubjectivity in sociotechnical interdependencies

AbstractTeaching with virtual worlds provides new means for collaborative learning but creates challenges for teachers in terms of IT skills. To address these challenges, we developed a teaching model for using virtual worlds in classroom practices and applied it to Minecraft in several rounds of design-based research experiments. Our conceptual framework combines ideas from software engineering (sociotechnical congruence) and social sciences (intersubjectivity and emergence). Empirically, we addressed the problem of how shared understanding evolves in computer-mediated learning activities. We video-recorded classroom activities and analyzed them using interaction analysis. The teaching model engaged the students in two interdependent processes, referred to as objects: (1) a social object (discussions) that led to a shared knowledge object (video-recorded role-play) and (2) a technology object (Minecraft buildings) for staging the role-play. Our findings include an empirical phenomenon that we call emergent group understanding, which arose from the complex social interactions between social and technology objects when Minecraft was used as a virtual world in a social studies classroom. This revealed two connected subprocesses: (1) a spontaneous act of providing information to assist learners in contextualizing their actions and interactions against a common background, and (2) setting localized goals to guide future actions and interactions. This finding extends previous research by identifying fine-grained processes of intersubjectivity that contribute to collaborative learning. More generally, our teaching model addresses the problem of balancing creative and instructional learning goals.

Mapping cognitive activity from electrocorticography field potentials in humans performing NBack task

Objective. Advancements in data science and assistive technologies have made invasive brain-computer interfaces (iBCIs) increasingly viable for enhancing the quality of life in physically disabled individuals. Intracortical microelectrode implants are a common choice for such a communication system due to their fine temporal and spatial resolution. The small size of these implants makes the implantation plan critical for the successful exfiltration of information, particularly when targeting representations of task goals that lack robust anatomical correlates. Approach. Working memory processes including encoding, retrieval, and maintenance are observed in many areas of the brain. Using human electrocorticography (ECoG) recordings during a working memory experiment, we provide proof that it is possible to localize cognitive activity associated with the task and to identify key locations involved with executive memory functions. Results. From the analysis, we could propose an optimal iBCI implant location with the desired features. The general approach is not limited to working memory but could also be used to map other goal-encoding factors such as movement intentions, decision-making, and visual-spatial attention. Significance. Deciphering the intended action of a BCI user is a complex challenge that involves the extraction and integration of cognitive factors such as movement planning, working memory, visual-spatial attention, and the decision state. Examining field potentials from ECoG electrodes while participants engaged in tailored cognitive tasks can pinpoint location with valuable information related to anticipated actions. This manuscript demonstrates the feasibility of identifying electrodes involved in cognitive activity related to working memory during user engagement in the NBack task. Devoting time in meticulous preparation to identify the optimal brain regions for BCI implant locations will increase the likelihood of rich signal outcomes, thereby improving the overall BCI user experience.

DNA-Based Complexes and Composites: A Review of Fabrication Methods, Properties, and Applications.

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), a macromolecule that stores genetic information in organisms, has recently been gradually developed into a building block for new materials due to its stable chemical structure and excellent biocompatibility. The efficient preparation and functional integration of various molecular complexes and composite materials based on nucleic acid skeletons have been successfully achieved. These versatile materials possess excellent physical and chemical properties inherent to certain inorganic or organic molecules but are endowed with specific physiological functions by nucleic acids, demonstrating unique advantages and potential applications in materials science, nanotechnology, and biomedical engineering in recent years. However, issues such as the production cost, biological stability, and potential immunogenicity of DNA have presented some unprecedented challenges to the application of these materials in the field. This review summarizes the cutting-edge manufacturing techniques and unique properties of DNA-based complexes and composites and discusses the trends, challenges, and opportunities for the future development of nucleic acid-based materials.

Examining the effect of geopolitical risks on renewable energy consumption in OECD countries

As urgent actions are required to accelerate the transition to a more environmentally friendly energy sector and global economy, the rising geopolitical risks defined as any tensions that disrupt the peace of local and international relations pose greater uncertainty to the rapid renewable energy deployment in supporting the carbon-neutrality ambitions. Thus, this paper investigates the influence of geopolitical risks on renewable energy consumption in OECD countries over the period 1970–2022 to address potential estimation biases from ignoring recent events such as COVID-19 and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The paper applies a system GMM to a cross-country panel dataset while controlling for per capita income, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, economic globalization, and natural resource rents to deal with all possible sources of endogeneity. The results show that geopolitical risks reduce the consumption of renewable energy, with a magnitude of 0.22 percentage points. In addition, CO2 emissions and natural resource rents adversely affect the amount of renewable energy consumption. However, economic growth and globalization promote the demand for renewable energy. Therefore, the empirical findings suggest that geopolitical risks play a crucial role in the consumption of renewable energy. Acknowledgement The financial support from Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) under the project EP/T022930/1 is gratefully acknowledged. Authors would like to thank Prof. David Reiner and the Editor for their constructive comments and suggestions.

Mesoscale Brain Mapping: Bridging Scales and Modalities in Neuroimaging - A Symposium Review.

Advances in the spatiotemporal resolution and field-of-view of neuroimaging tools are driving mesoscale studies for translational neuroscience. On October 10, 2023, the Center for Mesoscale Mapping (CMM) at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Health Sciences Technology based Neuroimaging Training Program (NTP) hosted a symposium exploring the state-of-the-art in this rapidly growing area of research. "Mesoscale Brain Mapping: Bridging Scales and Modalities in Neuroimaging" brought together researchers who use a broad range of imaging techniques to study brain structure and function at the convergence of the microscopic and macroscopic scales. The day-long event centered on areas in which the CMM has established expertise, including the development of emerging technologies and their application to clinical translational needs and basic neuroscience questions. The in-person symposium welcomed more than 150 attendees, including 57 faculty members, 61 postdoctoral fellows, 35 students, and four industry professionals, who represented institutions at the local, regional, and international levels. The symposium also served the training goals of both the CMM and the NTP. The event content, organization, and format were planned collaboratively by the faculty and trainees. Many CMM faculty presented or participated in a panel discussion, thus contributing to the dissemination of both the technologies they have developed under the auspices of the CMM and the findings they have obtained using those technologies. NTP trainees who benefited from the symposium included those who helped to organize the symposium and/or presented posters and gave "flash" oral presentations. In addition to gaining experience from presenting their work, they had opportunities throughout the day to engage in one-on-one discussions with visiting scientists and other faculty, potentially opening the door to future collaborations. The symposium presentations provided a deep exploration of the many technological advances enabling progress in structural and functional mesoscale brain imaging. Finally, students worked closely with the presenting faculty to develop this report summarizing the content of the symposium and putting it in the broader context of the current state of the field to share with the scientific community. We note that the references cited here include conference abstracts corresponding to the symposium poster presentations.

Some issues of public administration of education and science

Problem setting. The essential globalization changes require new approaches to the management of the educational sphere, which is an integral set of educational structures, relations, activities and consciousness that ensures the reproduction and development of the intellectual potential of society. At the same time, it is necessary to ensure an optimal ratio of newly introduced elements with traditional ones intended for the management of an educational institution. Analysis of recent researches and publications. The article mainly analyzes the provisions of Ukraine’s regulatory legal acts. Among domestic scholars, attention is drawn to the works of: V. E. Khoustova, O. I. Reshetnyak, V. A. Zinchenko, M. V. Kryvanych, I. V. Borisov. Purpose of research is to examine the legal regulation of the system of public administration of education and science at the conceptual level. Article’s main body. The draft Strategy of Innovative Development of Ukraine for 2010-2020 in the context of globalization challenges envisaged the need to reform the management of science and innovation and the need to create a new government body the Ministry of Science and Innovative Development, which would play a coordinating role in the scheme of innovation development management. The newly created ministry would have to formulate state scientific, technological and innovation programs that would be implemented in the interests of all ministries and departments, control and direct budget funds to the scientific, technological and innovation sphere, organize an examination of the effectiveness of scientific teams. Conclusions and prospects for the development. The state has experience in the establishment and functioning of an independent central executive body directly accountable to the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, so the proposal for the functioning of such a specialized body is considered to be worthy of support and is quite possible to implement (using this experience with appropriate adaptation to current global challenges and improvement of certain provisions). In our opinion, the main drawback that contributed to the liquidation of the state committee was the lack of a systematic combination of the powers of the committee and the NAS of Ukraine in the field of science. 2. Specialized bodies for the development of science and innovation in Europe play a crucial role in the development of scientific research, technology and innovation, provide funding and support for scientific and technological projects, contributing to economic growth and social progress, so it is important to adopt this experience to ensure optimization of the management of science and education in Ukraine.

The economic consequences of misinformation an analysis of the impact of fake news on stock market volatility during the covid19 pandemic| International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology

This paper examines the economic consequences of misinformation on stock market volatility during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting how false information significantly disrupted financial markets. The analysis explores specific high-profile cases where misinformation about vaccines, lockdowns, and treatments led to increased market volatility, panic selling, and shifts in investor behaviour. The study delves into the effects on major indices such as the S&P 500 and Dow Jones, revealing the substantial financial losses experienced by retail and institutional investors. It also discusses the regulatory and institutional responses from financial authorities and social media platforms, as well as the challenges they face in curbing misinformation’s rapid spread. The paper concludes with recommendations for enhancing market resilience, emphasising the importance of media literacy, robust fact-checking, and proactive regulatory frameworks to mitigate the impact of misinformation in future crises. This study underscores the ongoing need for vigilant market practices and improved information governance to maintain economic stability.

Perceptions of Women in Science Students towards Online Instruction at A Tertiary Institution

This study delved into the nuanced perceptions of women in science students regarding online instruction at the tertiary level. The study adopted a qualitative paradigm where interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data from Chinhoyi University of Technology undergraduate women in science students. Data was collected from first year students to third year students aged between 19 and 26 years. Discussion of the findings is premised on the feminist approach to enable downscaling and understanding of the perceptions of women in science education on online learning experiences more holistically. Regardless of the benefits and advantages online learning has as opposed to traditional/physical learning, vulnerability, and resistance of women in science students at Chinhoyi University of Technology in the Institute of Materials Science Processing and Engineering Technology is worsened. The study found out that the great difference in how the women in science students perceive their experiences is hinged upon the student’s background, the age gap, academic level, geographical location and even technology proficiency. A gap in knowledge persists in the exploration of the nuanced challenges faced by women in science when transitioning from traditional classroom instruction to online learning at the tertiary level was identified in the study resulting from the socio-economic challenges that the students are experiencing. Insights from this study contribute to a deeper understanding of how women in science navigate online education, offering valuable considerations for educators, policymakers, and institutions striving to create inclusive and effective learning environments.

The Efficiency of Intellectual Capital Formation at the Scientific Institutions of Engineering and Computer Sciences

The research of the formation of intellectual capital (IC) of engineering and computer sciences (E&CSs) at scientific institutions (SIs) in Latvia in the present situation is highly topical. The object of the research is the formation of IC of E&CSs at SIs while the subject of the research is the comparative analysis of the efficiency of the involvement of academic staff and students in the formation of IC of E&CSs at SIs of Latvia. The objective of the research is to study the involvement of academic staff and students in the formation of IC of E&CSs at SIs in Latvia in the period from 2013 to 2018. The following tasks were determined to reach the objective: to study the formation of IC of E&CSs at SIs; to identify the concept of the efficiency of the involvement of academic staff and students in the formation of IC of E&CSs; to calculate main indicators thereof, and, to carry out the comparative analysis of indicators characterising the efficiency of the involvement of academic staff and students in the formation of IC of E&CSs at SIs in Latvia. Research methods used in the paper are content analysis, economic analysis, and economic experiment.

Semiconducting Heusler Compounds beyond the Slater-Pauling Rule

Heusler compounds with semiconducting properties represent an important class of functional materials. Usually, research on these systems is guided by simple electron-counting rules, such as the Slater-Pauling principle. Here, we report on the discovery of Heusler-type semiconductors, significantly deviating from the Slater-Pauling rule. We theoretically predict the occurrence of nonmagnetic semiconducting ground states in various highly off-stoichiometric full-Heusler alloys, where self-substitution leads to a band-gap opening. This unexpected trend is confirmed experimentally by thermoelectric transport measurements on a multitude of Fe2−2xV1−xAl1+3x samples with up to 20% substitution of Fe and V atoms. The band-gap opening leads to an exceptionally large Seebeck coefficient in p-type Fe2VAl thermoelectrics, previously limited by bipolar conduction and low-density-of-states effective mass. Consequently, our work presents a paradigm to tune the band gap of Heusler compounds by self-substitution and introduces a hitherto unexplored class of semiconductors with exceptional thermoelectric properties, offering significant potential for advancements in energy science and sustainable-energy technologies. Published by the American Physical Society 2024

A BIOPIRATARIA NA ÉPOCA DAS CIÊNCIAS ÔMICAS

Other nations have appropriated Brazil’s natural resources since the arrival of the Portuguese on Brazilian soil. Throughout history, countless explorers have arrived here to appropriate Brazil’s riches, especially its biodiversity. With advances in genetic engineering and omics sciences, there has been a change in how biopiracy is practiced, moving from the trafficking of fauna and flora species to the appropriation of genetic information from species belonging to the natural genetic heritage with biotechnological potential. This change has important repercussions on the global patent registration system and poses new challenges to monitoring and protecting Brazil’s genetic heritage.

Data Science Techniques for Predictive Analytics in Financial Services

Business intelligence has become one of the crucial technologies in financial services and with the help of predictive analytics; the organisations have been able to improve a lot in various fields. In this paper, the author focuses on the role of prediction in financing, as well as explaining the main data science approaches and technologies that support innovations in this area. In more detail, the specifics of using the predictive model in the estimation of risks and in investment are discussed through case studies, which allow to reveal the advantages and positive results of the application. In addition, the paper a examines the issues that arise in the implementation of financial data analytics including data issues, compliance and growth factors. Through a consideration of these issues, we hope to orchestrate the best understanding of today and tomorrow’s perspectives on prediction analysis for financial services.

The development of polymers and fibers: an interview with Stephen Cheng.

Polymer and fiber science has evolved significantly since the 1920s, with polymers becoming integral to both industry and daily life. China's fiber research, initiated in the 1950s, has made substantial societal and technological contributions, particularly in chemical fibers. How will future advancements in polymers and fibers address ongoing challenges and drive further innovation? NSR spoke to Prof. Stephen Cheng, a member of the National Academy of Engineering (U.S.) and former Dean of the College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering at the University of Akron. He is currently Dean and Honorable Professor at South China University of Technology. His research interests center on the condensed states in polymers, liquid crystals, surfactants and hybrid materials, focusing on the interactions, responses, dynamics and structures of materials at varying lengths, energy and timescales, in which the material itself embodies the technology.

STAFF MOTIVATION IN THE PROVISION OF QUALITY EDUCATION IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN BUNDA DISTRICT, TANZANIA

This study dealt with staff motivation in the provision of quality education in primary schools in Bunda District, Tanzania. Despite the efforts by the government, NGOs, parents and other stakeholders in promoting quality education, the quality of education in Bunda primary schools, in particular, is still a challenge. It employed a descriptive survey research design. The target population was 109 primary schools, 1290 teachers, 2450 parents and 1 district education officer. The researcher used 30% to get a sample size of 28 out of 109 head teachers. The researcher also considered using Saunders, Philip, and Adrian's (2003) table to get a representative sample of 278 teachers from the population of 1290 and 370 parents from 24650, respectively. Data collection instruments were questionnaires and interview schedules. Validity was established by giving the instruments to the experts in the Department of Education Administration Planning and Economics of Kisii University to ascertain. The reliability was ascertained by a pilot study conducted in the same district among the head teachers who were not included in the final study population. From the schools where the five head teachers were stationed 10 teachers were randomly selected for the pilot study, and 13 parents were also randomly selected. Split-Half technique was employed for the test. Pilot questionnaires were divided into two equivalent halves, and their correlation coefficient for the two halves was computed using the Spearman-Brown prophecy formula, describing the internal consistency of the test and then showing that the instrument was reliable. A correlation coefficient of 0.70 was obtained and recommended as reliable. The findings revealed that 16 (57.1 %) of headteachers reported that pupils are motivated by the provision of certificates whenever they do anything exemplary, while 12 (49.9 %) indicated that they are motivated by providing them with special meals. The study concluded that motivation was done by rewarding performing head teachers and staff in various ways. The study recommended that motivation by rewarding performing head teachers, staff and pupils be encouraged in various ways. The researcher sought permission from the National Council for Science Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI) through Kisii University as required. The researcher equally got permission from the Bunda District Education Officer. The respondents were assured of strict confidentiality. The researcher acknowledged all sources referred to so as to avoid plagiarism.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0745/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Digitization of herbarium collection of Manash Kozybaev North-Kazakhstan university as a result of digital technology integration in herbarology

Nowadays, all areas of human knowledge are firmly interacting with digital technologies. These technologies open up new approaches to study and research methods in most scientific fields.The article shows the integration of digital technologies in herbarium science. The relevance of digitization of herbarium collections is described. An algorithm for creating a digital herbarium is presented and a method for publishing the data is proposed. The limiting factors and advantages of working with electronic herbarium are noted.

Recent Toolboxes for Chemoselective Dual Modifications of Proteins.

Site-selective chemical modifications of proteins have emerged as a potent technology in chemical biology, materials science, and medicine, facilitating precise manipulation of proteins with tailored functionalities for basic biology research and developing innovative therapeutics. Compared to traditional recombinant expression methods, one of the prominent advantages of chemical protein modification lies in its capacity to decorate proteins with a wide range of functional moieties, including non-genetically encoded ones, enabling the generation of novel protein conjugates with enhanced or previously unexplored properties. Among these, approaches for dual or multiple modifications of proteins are increasingly garnering attention, as it has been found that single modification of proteins is inadequate to meet current demands. Therefore, in light of the rapid developments in this field, this review provides a timely and comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in chemical and biological approaches for dual functionalization of proteins. It further discusses their advantages, limitations, and potential future directions in this relatively nascent area.

Recent Advances in the Development of 1,4-Cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM) and Cyclic-Monomer-Based Advanced Amorphous and Semi-Crystalline Polyesters for Smart Film Applications.

Polyester-based advanced thin films have versatile industrial applications, especially in the fields of textiles, packaging, and electronics. Recent advances in polymer science and engineering have resulted in the development of advanced amorphous and semi-crystalline polyesters with exceptional performance compared to those of conventional polymeric films. Among these, 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM) and cyclic-monomer-based polyesters have gained considerable attention for their exceptional characteristics and potential applications in smart films. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in the synthesis, characterization, and applications of CHDM and cyclic-monomer-based advanced polymers for smart film applications. It discusses the structure-property relationships of these innovative polyesters and highlights their unique characteristics, including thermal, mechanical, and barrier characteristics. Furthermore, this article also emphasizes the solution, melt, and solid-state polymerizations of the polymers. Special emphasis is placed on the influence of the addition of a second diol or second diacid on the performance characteristics of synthesized polyesters/copolyesters to explore their versatile industrial applications. Additionally, the impact of the stereochemistry of the monomers is explored to optimize the characterization of polyesters suitable for industrial applications. Furthermore, this article explores the potential of these advanced polyesters to be considered as materials for smart film applications, especially in the field of flexible electronics. Finally, this article examines the challenges and future recommendations for the development of CHDM and cyclic-monomer-based polyesters for smart film applications. It discusses potential avenues for further research, including in-depth studies for the synthesis and characterization of polyesters, the development of sustainable and biodegradable alternatives to cyclic monomers, alternative green approaches for the synthesis of polymers, etc. This review article provides valuable insight for researchers in academia and industry who are working in the fields of polymer science and materials engineering.

Self-Aligned Ionic Doping of TiO2 Thin-Film Transistors for Enhanced Current Drivability via Postfabrication Superacid Treatment.

Oxide semiconductor thin-film transistors (TFTs) have shown great potential in emerging applications such as flexible displays, radio-frequency identification tags, sensors, and back-end-of-line compatible transistors for monolithic 3D integration beyond their well-established flat-plane display technology. To meet the requirements of these appealing applications, high current drivability is essential, necessitating exploration in materials science and device engineering. In this work, we report for the first time on a simple solution-based superacid (SA) treatment to enhance the current drivability of top-gate TiO2 TFTs with a gate-offset structure. The on-current of these transistors is limited by the relatively low mobility of TiO2 due to its d-orbital conduction nature. It is found that the on-current of TiO2 TFTs is nearly doubled via a quick dip in a SA solution at room temperature in ambient air. A series of experiments, including comparative I-V measurements of TFTs with different treatments and gate structures, C-V measurements, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, and device simulation, were performed to uncover the underlying reason for the current enhancement. It is believed that the protons (H+) from SA are doped into the offset region of TiO2 TFTs, forming an electron double layer and thus boosting the on-current, with the top gate serving as a self-aligned mask for ionic doping. Furthermore, the ionic size and the proportion of the offset region to the channel play crucial roles in the effectiveness of ionic doping, while the position of the incorporated ions, whether in the channel or dielectric, may result in distinct shifts in the turn-on voltage (VON) and affect the functionality of ionic doping. This study provides a pathway for enhancing the current drivability of TiO2 TFTs via selective ionic doping enabled by SA treatment and deepens our understanding of ion incorporation in electronic devices. This approach could be applicable to other material systems and may also benefit TFTs with miniaturized dimensions, thus opening up unprecedented opportunities for TiO2 TFTs in future applications requiring high current drivability.

Concept of flexible no-code automation for complex sample preparation procedures

Driven by demographic changes and dwindling Science Technology Engineering Mathematics enrolments, our research introduces no-code automation as a strategic response, aimed at mitigating labor shortages while enhancing productivity and safety in the laboratory environment. Employing a user-friendly, no-code software platform, we automated a complex HPTLC assay, enabling laboratory personnel to configure and modify workflows without requiring specialized programming skills. The manuscript outlines the deployment of a collaborative robot (cobot), a programmable logic controller (PLC), and the utilization of self-developed open-source hardware components to establish automated stations for sample handling, incubation, spraying, detection, and storage within the assay process. The research addresses challenges such as the handling of fragile HPTLC plates and the seamless integration of automated stations, solved through innovative design solutions and adaptive programming methods. This investigation demonstrates the feasibility and efficiency of no-code automation in overcoming skilled labor deficits.