Current Issue
October 2024
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ARTICLES
Using Genomic Analysis in Human Herpesvirus-6A and 6B to Determine Potential Glycoprotein-Based Differentiation
Joseph Geddie & Carson Song
Published online October, 2024
Page: 1-18
Abstract:
Human Herpesvirus 6A and 6B (HHV 6A and 6B) are two double-stranded RNA viruses in the Roseolovirus genus that infect a majority of the human population in infancy. The two viruses have very similar genetic makeup, sharing over 90% similarity, but have very different pathogenic qualities, including varying symptoms on both primary and secondary infection. To investigate this pathogenic disconnect, statistical analysis was performed on glycoprotein genes L, H, B, and Q1/Q2, which were acquired through the Integrated Microbial Genomes at Joint Genome Institute (IMG.JGI). All of the glycoprotein genes appear in both HHV 6A and 6B, and statistical analysis was performed on their counterpart gene in the other virus, all of which had different names. Two functions were performed through IMG.JGI in order to determine if these selected glycoproteins were potentially behind the pathogenic disconnect between the two viruses. BLAST was performed to find percent difference between genes and DotPlot was performed in order to identify potential visual mutations. Each function produced desired results without errors and allowed for conclusions to be made. Glycoproteins B, H, and L all had percent differences <5% and showed no apparent visual mutations, while glycoproteins Q1/Q2 had percent difference >25% and had visual mutations resembling a spliced gene. These results were in line with previous works, which leads to the suggestion that glycoprotein(s) Q1/Q2’s protein synthesis and in vitro role in the viruses be investigated in order to further solidify their role in HHV 6A and 6B’s pathogenesis.
The Impact of Climate Change on Marine Biodiversity: A Review
Austin Bautista
Published online October, 2024
Page: 19-34
Abstract:
Among the more pervasive impacts on marine ecosystems, climate change seriously alters species distribution, community structure, and biodiversity. The present paper reviews recent research into the effects of climate change on marine biodiversity, with an emphasis on ocean warming, acidification, and deoxygenation. These changes range from poleward and depth ward shifts in species distribution, and alterations in community composition, to increased extinction risks for some marine species. The paper also discusses the implications for marine conservation and management strategies and underscores critical areas that require future research to mitigate these impacts.
The Influence of Social Media’s Speed and Immediacy on Adolescent Mental Health: Risks, Mechanisms, and Mitigation Strategies
Andrei Bautista
Published online October, 2024
Page: 35-42
Abstract:
The proliferation of social media since the early 2000s has raised concerns regarding its impact on adolescent and young adult mental health. Empirical evidence suggests that excessive social media use correlates with increased rates of anxiety, depression, and physical health issues, including metabolic disorders and sleep disturbances. This paper examines the multifaceted effects of social media’s speed and immediacy on mental health through physiological, psychological, and behavioral lenses. Studies highlight that nighttime usage disrupts sleep quality, a key mediator in mental health outcomes. Pro-eating disorder content and exposure to harmful online material exacerbate negative physical and psychological conditions. Furthermore, fast-paced digital content stimulates dopamine pathways, contributing to attention deficits and addiction-like behaviors, particularly in adolescents. However, when used in moderation, social media offers a platform for social support, enhancing well-being and positive mental health. Research underscores the benefits of structured interventions, such as periodic breaks from social media, which significantly reduce depression, anxiety, and improve overall mental well-being. The findings advocate for mindful and controlled social media engagement, complemented by educational initiatives to raise awareness about its physiological and psychological impacts. By promoting balanced usage and encouraging digital literacy, this study underscores the necessity of mitigating social media’s adverse effects while leveraging its potential to enhance mental health outcomes. The complex interplay between social media and mental health demands further exploration to inform evidence-based strategies for healthier digital environments.
Advances in brain-computer interfaces for Restoring Mobility in paralyzed patients.
Austin Bautista
Published online October, 2024
Page: 42-51
Abstract:
Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) is a groundbreaking approach to allow individuals suffering from paralysis move. By creating a direct communication pathway between the brain and the device, BCIs enable paralyzed patients to regain control over prosthetic limbs, exoskeletons, and other assistive technologies. This paper provides an in-depth review on the advancements in BCI technology. It focuses on the mechanisms of neural signal acquisition, sophisticated signal processing algorithms, and the integration of BCIs with different assistive devices. This paper examines the current clinical trials, considerations, and the direction BCI technology should go, and with a vision toward fully autonomous systems that offer improvements in the quality of life for paralyzed patients.
Past Issue
June 2024
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ARTICLES
Feeling Left Out: Rise of Right-Wing Extremism and Populist Nationalism in the European Union and How It Can Be Tackled
Ada Duru Ak
Published online June, 2024
Page: 1-11
Abstract:
This paper explores the alarming rise of right-wing extremism and populist nationalism in the European Union, emphasizing its implications for democratic integrity and social cohesion. With the new European Parliament elections, the interplay of economic distress, misinformation, and cultural anxieties has catalyzed support for far-right parties, threatening the foundational principles of the Union. Historical parallels are drawn to past socio-political upheavals, illustrating how contemporary grievances regarding immigration and economic insecurity have empowered extremist ideologies. The analysis underscores the urgent need for coordinated policy responses at both national and EU levels to mitigate these challenges, safeguard democratic norms, and promote inclusivity. The paper concludes with projections for the evolution of these trends by 2025, highlighting the potential for increased polarization, authoritarian governance, and the erosion of civil liberties if proactive measures are not implemented.
Nanotechnology for Drug Delivery Systems
Austin Bautista
Published online June, 2024
Page: 12-20
Abstract:
Nanotechnology has emerged as the revolutionary methodology in the framework of medicine, more so in drug delivery systems. This paper discusses the principles of nanotechnology, applications within drug delivery, and benefits derived from the methodology as opposed to conventional methods. Among the most important nanocarriers discussed in the paper are liposomes, nanoparticles, dendrimers, and nanogels, their modes of action also being debated. The paper also discusses the pitfalls and prospects that face nanotechnology in drug delivery systems in light of possible improvement of therapeutic efficiency and patient compliance.
Past Issue
Feburary 2024
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ARTICLES
A Comparative Analysis of Counting Systems in Goidelic and Brythonic Celtic Languages
Vishrut Mehrotra
Published online Feburary, 2024
Page: 1-11
Abstract:
This study compares the counting systems of 6 extant Goidelic and Brythonic Celtic languages. Despite common Proto-Celtic roots, these languages evolved distinct features due to migrations and cultural influences. The analysis highlights similarities, differences, and key features in their numeral systems
Enhancing Courage and Confidence in Nursing: Strategies for Improved Outcomes and Workforce Resilience
Andrei Bautista
Published online Feburary, 2024
Page: 12-23
Abstract:
Nurses form the backbone of healthcare systems, constituting the largest sector of the workforce and bearing significant responsibility for patient outcomes. Yet, challenges such as moral distress, burnout, and undervaluation hinder their confidence and courage, essential traits for navigating complex clinical environments. This paper explores the interplay between confidence and courage in nursing, emphasizing their impact on psychomotor skills, patient outcomes, and workplace dynamics. Drawing on interdisciplinary research, we discuss the philosophical and psychological underpinnings of courage, highlighting confidence as a foundational element. Simulation-based learning and diversity training emerge as actionable strategies to cultivate these qualities. Simulation enhances clinical competence, self-confidence, and decision-making, directly reducing medical errors and improving care delivery. Diversity training fosters cultural competence, enabling nurses to connect with patients from varied backgrounds, further strengthening trust and care quality. Moral courage is particularly critical, empowering nurses to advocate for patient safety, even when confronting hierarchical barriers. We also address the role of moral sensitivity in mitigating burnout and enhancing ethical decision-making. Moreover, fostering a supportive work environment with collective confidence amplifies team efficacy and collaboration. By bridging gaps in training and addressing systemic inequities, these interventions can elevate nurses’ resilience and their ability to confront ethical and clinical challenges effectively. This study underscores the urgent need for structured programs to enhance confidence and courage, advocating for their integration into nursing education and organizational policies to build a robust and empowered nursing workforce.
Past Issue
October 2023
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ARTICLES
The Melody of Math
Grace Myers
Published online October, 2023
Page: 1-9
Abstract:
This study researches aspects of sound and how they relate to mathematics. It not only discusses sound waves, but also how the human ear receives them, the differences in sound wave makeup based on instrument, and the relationships between different notes and their frequencies. These relationships can create consonance or dissonance.
Quantum Computing and Its Future Impact on Science and Technology
Austin Bautista
Published online October, 2023
Page: 10-14
Abstract:
Soon, quantum computing will be one of the most promising areas of science and technology due to its promise to solve intractable problems inaccessible at all by conventional computers. This paper investigates the underlying principles of quantum computing, its present status, and the future anticipated impact it may have on various fields like cryptography, material science, the study of drug discovery, artificial intelligence, and complex systems modeling. Further, the paper considers some of the remaining technological challenges, along with implications for the developments within society and industry.
Renewable Energy Innovations: Breakthroughs in Solar Power Efficiency
Austin Bautista
Published online October, 2023
Page: 15-21
Abstract:
The increasing demand from around the world for cleaner, renewable energy sources has been driving rapid advances in technologies using solar power to better tap the sun's rays and provide a viable economic alternative to fossil fuels. The paper covers recent breakthroughs regarding solar cell efficiency: perovskite solar cells, multi-junction cells, and bifacial panels. Some other innovations in manufacturing, energy storage, and energy conversion technologies that are changing the solar power landscape will also be discussed. The paper concludes by examining the future prospect of solar power, and what bottlenecks remain in scaling these innovations at a global level.
Past Issue
April 2023
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EDITORIAL
Table of Contents
Advancing Knowledge: Insights from JISR
Justin J. Huang
Published online April, 2023
Page: 1-2
ARTICLES
Development of an Efficient and Economical Method for DNA synthesis Through the Utilization of Temperature Variations.
Sargun Kaur
Published online April, 2023
Page: 3-23
Abstract:
This study investigates the impact of temperature on the growth of synthesized e.coli DNA and its response to varying temperature conditions. Synthetic DNA involves recreating existing biological entities. The hypothesis posits that higher temperatures would lead to enhanced absorption rates since enzymes accelerate metabolism, causing bacterial cells to grow rapidly in size when subjected to warmer temperatures.
The experiment employs a growth media comprising Luria Broth, ampicillin, and isoamyl alcohol, which acts as the synthetic DNA component by altering the DNA. The study divides the e.coli samples into four temperature groups (120℉, 100℉, 70℉, 50℉). Each group receives the growth media, and the e.coli is introduced into the respective tubes before being placed in their designated temperature zones.
The results indicate that the highest absorbance rates were observed in the hotter temperature zones of 120℉ and 100℉, as evidenced by a spectrophotometer reading of 0.8, indicating greater absorbance and less light passing through the samples. The 70℉ group exhibited lower absorbance rates, with a spectrophotometer reading of 0.3, while the 50℉ group demonstrated the lowest absorbance, recording a spectrophotometer reading of 0.2. Thus, the hypothesis was validated by the experimental findings.
Examining the Impact of Various Disinfection Agents on the Germination of Soybeans.
Anshuman Mohanty
Published online April, 2023
Page: 24-33
Abstract:
This research paper investigates the impact of various disinfectants on the germination of soybean seeds. The experiment aims to determine whether different disinfectants promote or hinder seed germination. The hypothesis posits that a 3% concentrated hydrogen peroxide solution will be the most effective disinfectant for seed sterilization and subsequent germination. The motivation for this study arose from previous research suggesting that disinfectants might impede germination due to potential harmful chemical effects. However, the experiment reveals that disinfectants can actually benefit the germination process.
The experiment involved five groups of soybean seeds, each treated with a different disinfectant solution: filtered water (control), 3% hydrogen peroxide, 6% hydrogen peroxide, 1.84% bleach, and 7.5% bleach. The seeds were soaked in the respective disinfectant solutions for 15 minutes, and then the disinfectants were filtered out. The sterilized seeds were placed in seed trays with moistened tissue paper for germination. The trays were covered with a dome and kept in a dark room with controlled temperature.
The results show that 7.5% bleach had no significant effect on the germination rate compared to filtered water (control). The 6% hydrogen peroxide and 1.84% bleach exhibited a greater germination rate (60%), while the 3% hydrogen peroxide had the highest germination rate (70%), supporting the research hypothesis. The descriptive statistics indicate that the 3% hydrogen peroxide disinfectant had the largest mean value, indicating the highest germination rate among the disinfectants tested.
In conclusion, the experiment demonstrates that hydrogen peroxide disinfectants, particularly the 3% concentration, are the most effective in sterilizing soybean seeds and promoting germination. The study provides valuable insights for farmers and researchers interested in optimizing seed sterilization techniques to enhance germination rates. Moreover, it highlights the potential benefits of using cleaning disinfectants or medical disinfectants in seed germination processes for agricultural practices.
Enhancing Bean Plant Yield: A Comparative Study of NPK Fertilizer Ratio
Aryan Arusam
Published online April, 2023
Page: 34-46
Abstract:
The aim of this experiment is to determine the most effective fertilizer, using NPK ratios, to enhance the yield of bean plants. With the global population projected to exceed 9.1 billion people by 2050, ensuring sustainable food production becomes crucial for the future. Fertilizers have proven to be a practical method for increasing plant growth and food production at a faster rate. However, with numerous fertilizers available, selecting the most suitable one is essential.
In this study, four fertilizer groups were examined: 3-2-1, 10-10-10, 24-8-16, and a control group (0-0-0). Each treatment group consisted of eight plants to ensure accurate data collection. The experiment maintained constants, such as the light source (2 luminescent light bulbs), water supply (1.5 cups every 3 days), and location (a residential home in Louisville, Kentucky). The entire experiment spanned 10 weeks.
The dependent variable in this investigation was the bean plant's growth, measured by the number of beans produced, which was recorded weekly in a spreadsheet. The hypothesis posited that the 3-2-1 fertilizer would outperform the other fertilizers, a proposition that was statistically supported. On average, the 3-2-1 fertilizer yielded 0.975 beans per week, while the 10-10-10, 24-8-16, and control groups produced 0.388, 0.388, and 0.238 beans per week, respectively.
Past Issue
Feburary 2023 Issue
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EDITORIAL
Table of Contents
Exploring New Frontiers in Technology, Mathematics, and Environmental Science
Justin J. Huang
Published online February, 2023
Page: 1-2
ARTICLES
Cost-Effective Baseball Analytical Tool Developed Using Computer Vision and Python
Anirudh Iyengar
Published online February, 2023
Page: 3-21
Abstract:
The engineering goal of the project was to develop an affordable baseball analytical tool that can convey statistics on different baseball metrics of a person recorded baseball swing. The goal was to be within 2 percent error of a commercial product called Hittrax measurements. The research targeted towards providing a cheaper resource that produces the same results to help in the development of high school and collegiate athletes. 3 different metrics were tested to compare the created product vs the Hittrax, which include Exit Velocity, Launch Angle, and Projected Distance. The created product measurements were compared to Hittrax measurements, by seeing the percent difference the created product measurements were from the Hittrax. 2 of the 3 metrics met the goal as it was observed that the percentage difference in terms of the means of the data collected was at around 1%. This was verified through a Two One-Sided T Test (TOST), which tests for equivalency. The TOST test showed significance for the Exit Velocity and Launch angle measurements, and Projected Distance was shown as non-significant meaning its percentage error was greater than 2%, accepting the null hypothesis. This is due to lack of accounting for drag and outside factors such as lighting that have a large impact on the computer’s ability to track and follow a baseball. Further experimentation includes implementing a live analysis tool, using a Neural Network Approach, and adjusting equations and methods to achieve greater precision in accuracy.
How do Parameters Affect the Dynamic Stability of a Mathematical Population Model
Justin Huang
Published online February, 2023
Page: 22-27
Abstract:
This project’s idea was to test whether the population dynamics depend on three model parameters: α, β, δ. I designed codes using MAPLE software to create a bifurcation diagram for this model to test whether the system becomes chaotic as we change only one parameter at a time. I kept α and δ constant, designed MAPLE codes and plotted the bifurcation diagram to test how β affects the population dynamics. Then, I chose one δ and three β constants (equilibrium, period 2 and chaos ranges) to test how α affects the population dynamics. Lastly, I chose one α and three β constants to test how δ affects the population dynamics. When β increases, the model demonstrates bifurcation, periods, chaos and periodic windows. When β is in the equilibrium range and α increases, the model approaches an equilibrium. When β is in period 2 and the chaotic range with α increasing, the model demonstrates more complex dynamics with earlier and shorter bifurcation, periods, chaos and periodic windows. When β is in the equilibrium range and δ increases, the model approaches an equilibrium. When β is in period 2 range and δ increases, the model demonstrates bifurcation and then equilibrium. When β is in the chaotic range and δ increases, the model demonstrates chaos, period 4, period 2 and then equilibrium. In conclusion, increased rate of aggression between adults and juveniles or increased birth rate destabilizes the population dynamics. Increased rate of aggression between juveniles and juveniles stabilizes the population dynamics.
Investigating the Effects of Sundry Disinfection agents on the Germination of Glycine Max
Anshuman Mohanty
Published online February, 2023
Page: 28-38
Variations of Carbohydrates in Biodegradable Plastics
Daniel Jiang
Published online February, 2023
Page: 39-56
Abstract:
Plastic pollution is a huge problem in the world. Every year there are many plastics wasted into the environment. This is a problem because plastics are insoluble and release dangerous chemical compounds like Polyvinyl Chloride which kills wildlifes and habitats. To mitigate the effects of plastic pollution. Bioengineers developed biodegradable plastics which solves both problems because they are soluble and contain environmentally friendly ingredients such as starch that comes from plants. Starch allows the biodegradable plastic to degrade in water, but there's a huge controversy on which starch is best for biodegradable plastic’s degradation. This project will identify which starch is best for degradation by testing 4 commonly argued starches. The starches used were oat, corn, rice, and potato. The corn starch was the control because it was commonly argued for, and the hypothesis was that oat starch biodegradable plastics will degrade the most. To prove the hypothesis, biodegradable plastics were synthesized using 4 ingredients which are water, the type of starch, glycerin, and vinegar. Once they were created, the plastics were put into a graduated cylinder and filled up with water until 100 mL. When the biodegradable plastics degrade, the water level decreases as a result. At the end, the data showed that the oat starch plastic degraded the most and were significantly different compared to the other plastics. This supported the hypothesis of this experiment, and the results may be because of the weaker bonds within the oat starch's molecular structure.
Past Issue
December 2022 Issue
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EDITORIAL
Table of Contents
Inspiring Environmental Research among Innovative Students
Justin J. Huang
Published online December, 2022
Page: 1
ARTICLES
Cheap and Portable Solution to Water Pollution Using UV Radiation and Activated Carbon
Anshuman Mohanty
Published online December, 2022
Page: 2-15
Abstract:
The purpose of this science fair project is to learn the best method for water purification that has to be cheap and portable. First step is to collect 1 gallon of water from the lake. Then pull out 5 strips from the test kit and dip them into the water for 2 seconds then put each of them in 5 bags and keep them in a dark place under 86 degrees for 48 hours. The next day have all 15 bottles with the lake water underneath the UV light for 2, 4, 6 hours for the UV experiment. Then make a filter to do the Activated Carbon part of the experiment, which all you need is a bottle with the bottom cut off then stuff a 1 or 2 layer of cotton and last is to pour the Activated Carbon in. Then dip the number of strips needs into the bottles/cups just as we did for the lake water. The data shows the AC filter purified the bacteria level to 89 CFU/ml which is a huge improvement from the control. So the AC filter had an average of 89 CFU/ml which was the least among all IV levels. The research hypothesis was correct in the end because the Activated Carbon purified the water the best in all of the IV levels. The data also showed that t-test values were significant among all IV levels. So the t-test and the null hypothesis were all supported by the data.
Effects of N-P-K ratios on Plants
Aryan Arusam
Published online December, 2022
Page: 16-29
Abstract:
The purpose of this experiment is to find the optimal fertilizer using the NPK ratio to increase the yield of bean plants. By 2050, the human population will not be able to sustain
enough food for everyone due to the population surpassing 9.1 billion people. It is necessary to take the proper steps to have a sustainable environment for the future. Fertilizers are a common and useful way of increasing the food production of a plant at a faster rate. However, there are many fertilizers on the market, so which one should be used? In this experiment, four groups were tested: 3-2-1, 10-10-10, 24-8-16, and the control group (0-0-0). Each IV group had eight plants tested with the same fertilizer to increase the accuracy of the data. The constants in this experiment were the light source, which were 2 luminescent light bulbs, the water source, 1.5 cups every 3 days, and the location, which was a residential home in Louisville, Kentucky. This whole experiment took 10 weeks to complete. The dependent variable in this experiment is the amount of beans the plant grows, so this was tracked every week and noted down in a spreadsheet. It was hypothesized that the 3-2-1 fertilizer would outperform the other fertilizers, which was statistically proven to be correct. The 3-2-1 fertilizer grew an average of 0.975 beans per week. The 10-10-10, 24-8-16, and the control group grew 0.388, 0.388, and 0.238, respectively.
Biodegradable Plastics
Prisha Shah
Published online December, 2022
Page: 30-46
Abstract:
The purpose of this project was to figure out what type of plastic would biodegrade the most underground by the end of the experiment. There are many types of biodegradable plastics in the world today, but not all of them actually biodegrade as quickly as they are said to biodegrade. That results in plastics being left in landfills and staying there for years and years, never
biodegrading, therefore harming the environment. This experiment tests different biodegradable plastics and measures how quickly they biodegrade. 3 plastics were chosen, acetone, casein, and cornstarch. 15 plastics were created, 5 of each kind. The initial volumes were measured, then they were buried underground. The plastics were taken out 5 times over the course of 2 months to measure the change in volumes. It was hypothesized that the casein plastic would biodegrade the quickest, and the hypothesis was proven correct with the data. The data showed that out of all 3 plastics, casein biodegraded the most when placed underground. The data showed the casein plastics having an average mean of 5.53, cornstarch with a mean of 1.46, and acetone with a mean of zero. Casein biodegraded the most because it had the biggest mean out of all of them. This result suggests that the casein is made out of more organic materials than the rest of the plastics, therefore resulting in its quick biodegradation.
The Effect of Propel Water on the Growth of Bean Plants
Tejaswin Gontla
Published online December, 2022
Page: 47-57
Abstract:
With the ever-rising population, which requires more resources to support the population's health, there is a need for more supply of plants to support everyone around the world faster. The purpose of this experiment is to find out if Propel water would help bean plants grow taller compared to normal tap water. The water was chosen because it doesn't contain too many
corrosives and could boost the plant's growth. There were 2 IV levels in this experiment: normal tap water and flavored bottled water. Each IV Group had ten plants that were tested. The
constants for this project are the amount of soil,1 ¾ cups of soil for each plant; the amount of water, ¾ cup of each type of water for each plant; and the location of the plants, which was a
residential home in Louisville, Kentucky near a window sill. This whole experiment took four weeks, and the dependent variable was the height of the plants after four weeks. The data gave a mean for each of the IV levels and it was seen that the Water had double the mean for height than the mean height for the plants' water with Propel showing to be significant. Looking through the data it can be seen that the hypothesis for this project is that Propel water will lead to a result in greater height for the plant which was ultimately rejected. The corrosives inside the water reduces the functionality of the plant resulting in decreased growth.
Past Issue
October 2022 Issue
Available for Download
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EDITORIAL
Table of Contents
Promoting Innovation, Diversity, and Equality in Student Research through Free and Open-Access Journals
Justin J. Huang
Published online October, 2022
Page: 1
ARTICLES
Catch the Wave
Rayna Mandadi
Published online October, 2022
Page: 2-12
Abstract:
According to the U.S. Department of Energy (U.S. DOE), at any given moment there is enough energy in the oceans’ waves around the world to provide up to 2 trillion watts (W) of electricity! Wave energy is renewable and sustainable clean energy and oceans are an endless source of waves. The northeastern and western coasts of the United States are good locations to extract wave energy. This energy can be captured and stored in electrical capacitors and will provide a continuous supply of energy even on a calm day. Automating the selection of a site and using data over a longer period of time will result in a better site selection process compared to picking the sites randomly. Since there’s a direct correlation between wind speed and wavelength, the wind speed is being used for the decision making. Historical data is available on the NOAA website. The CO-OPS API was used for Data Retrieval and marked the locations on the map with the speed and station information. Took the average of the wind speed data collected from Ocean buoys and available on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrator’s (NOAA) page. The data is collected at each station at 6-minute intervals over a 10-day period for all stations in the United States and sorted the averages in descending order. 5 sites with the highest wind speed averages along the coasts of the United States are selected to build either an onshore or an offshore wave energy power system.
Creating a cost effective and faster way to synthesize DNA by using temperature variants
Sargun Kaur
Published online October, 2022
Page: 13-34
Abstract:
This experiment focuses on the effects of temperature on the growth of synthesized e.coli DNA and how the e.coli is affected if it is exposed to four different temperatures. Synthetic DNA is the remaking of existing biological entities. It was hypothesized that if synthetic DNA and proteins are grown at hot temperatures then the absorption rates would be higher because the enzymes speed up metabolism and cells increase rapidly in size when it is grown in any type of bacteria in warmer temperatures.
For the experiment, there is a growth media consisting of Luria Broth, ampicillin, and isoamyl alcohol and this is the Synthetic DNA part because this media is what changes the DNA. Then, there are 4 different temperature groups (120℉, 100℉,70℉,50℉). Put media into every tube of the 4 groups, put the e.coli in each of the tubes. Then they were put into their temperature zones.
In the results, most absorbance rates were in the hotter temperature zones of 120℉ and 100℉ and in the spectrophotometer, it came out to be 0.8 which means higher absorbance and less light passing through it, the 70℉ had lower absorbance rates and lower results, in the spectrophotometer, it came out to be 0.3, and in the 50℉, it had the lowest absorbance with 0.2 in the spectrophotometer. So the hypothesis was proven correct.
The Effectiveness of Machine Learning on the Classification of Exoplanets
Anirudh Iyengar
Published online October, 2022
Page: 35-49
Abstract:
The purpose of the experiment was to determine what type of machine learning model would be the best at classifying exoplanets. The Kepler mission was the latest mission on exoplanet exploration, and the data that was collected from the mission was used in this experiment. It was hoped that the experimentation can further develop understanding on exoplanets as well as create more of an automated approach towards exoplanet classification. Four classification models were tested and include Random Forest, Decision Tree, K-Nearest Neighbor, and Logistic Regression. The models were tested based of metric values that include accuracy, percent of error (RMSE), and a Confusion Matrix. Confusion Matrix is a table that considers the true value of the dataset, which shows the number of proper classifications for True Positive, True Negative, False Positive, and False Negative. 3 tests were conducted on each model producing the metric values after the testing and training process. After analyzing the data, the Random Forest model has the best RMSE value and accuracy with a difference of 3% when compared to the 2nd best model. The difference is significant as when the confusion matrix is compared, the Random Forest model can be seen to have the highest number of True classifications and the lowest number of False classifications, thus suggesting that the Random Forest model had the best performance when classifying exoplanet data. Further experimentation includes implementing a visual based classifier for exoplanets, evaluating other classifiers, and conducting more tests on the models.
The Relationship between Buffon’s Needle Problem and π
Dustin Li
Published online October, 2022
Page: 50-65
Abstract:
The purpose of the experiment was to verify whether Buffon’s Needle Problem could be used to approximate π. If π could be approximated from the problem, then it demonstrates how π is not derived from just elliptical objects, but also from other areas in physics and mathematics. The experiment hypothesis stated “the smaller the difference between d (distance between lines) and l (needle length), then the nearer the probability of touching needles will be to 2/π”. To verify whether Buffon’s Needle Problem could approximate π, 3.81 centimeter needles were dropped on boards with equidistant parallel lines running across them. The distance between lines: ¼, ½, 1 - the control, 2, and 4 (relative to needle length), were the levels of the independent variable, and the number of needles on lines was the dependent variable. The collected data revealed that the closer d and l were, the nearer the probability of touching needles were to 2/π, the probability of the control (where d is equal to l) being 0.66, comparatively much closer to the probability of 2/π than the other probabilities. Multiple paired samples t-tests with df = 49 were conducted at the significance level of 0.05 between each level of the independent variable. All the t-tests had p-values of below 0.00001, which demonstrated the results were significant, so a conclusion was drawn from the data. The conclusion supported the experiment hypothesis, and verified that Buffon’s Needle Problem could be used to approximate π as well.