We demonstrate here a novel laboratory experiment for the synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) by using a low energy gold-sputtering method together with a modern, green, and biofriendly deep eutectic solvent (DES). The strategy is straightforward, economical, ecofriendly, rapid, and clean. It yields uniform AuNPs of 5 nm in diameter with high…

This paper reports an experimental activity where students have to carefully analyze the evidence collected at the crime scene, namely fibers and lipstick traces. The fibers are analyzed by infrared spectroscopy, solubility tests, and optical microscopy, while in turn the lipstick traces are investigated by thin layer chromatography. Students also…

National legislation concerning soil pollution by heavy metals in different countries is mostly based on the total heavy metal concentration levels allowed in different soils. As soil pollution is an issue of worldwide concern, here we develop a laboratory exercise for students in which they must check the suitability of a total metal…

This synthesis of ethyl 6-acetoxyhexanoate (Berryflor) is designed as an experiment for use in a second-year organic chemistry course focusing on the synthesis and reaction of esters. The compound is described as having a raspberry-like odor with jasmine and anise aspects. A two-step procedure for its synthesis beginning with inexpensive…

We report here the development of an inexpensive and engaging laboratory-based activity that can help students learn about the scientific method and the role of plant epicuticular waxes and surfactant function on waxy plant leaves as real life example in the agricultural industry. Three each of nontreated collard leaves ("Brassica…

This research aims to develop an instructional model using advanced laboratory equipment (ALE) based on collective intelligence attributes that can be applied to the scientifically-gifted students. The developed GI-ALE model is defined by introducing the principles of the group investigation (GI) model to the existing ALE instructional model based…

This article is a brief account of how the Writing Center at Daytona State College has begun to utilize social media in our space. We examine the platforms that we use, along with the data associated with them, and then discuss our goals for integrating our staff into the narrative that we share on campus and virtual campus. We first want to see…

Often overlooked in many molecular cell biology laboratory and cell culture courses, suspension cells represent an important aspect of molecular cell biology and cell culture. Most primary cell cultures and cell lines are adherent cells which grow in monolayers on surfaces. However, other cells such as hematopoietic cells, certain tumor cells, and…

The transfer of electrical energy without any electric leads or cables is not only a modern subject of research, but the technology has already found its way into our daily lives. Especially in consumer electronics a lot of applications are commercially available, mostly non-contact charging applications for toothbrushes, mobile phones, etc. On…

A service-learning project was completed in both a senior and sophomore-level analytical chemistry course. Both projects took place at a local wetland managed by a nonprofit volunteer group. The two classes performed an in-depth water quality analysis and soil/sediment extractions examining the spatial variation of nutrients. The senior-level…

The redesign of an advanced analytical and physical chemistry practical module for senior undergraduates is described in this report. The underpinning rationale for the changes is to use cooperative learning groups placed in situations beyond their previous experience to increase the student experience of Kolb's Learning Cycle to a level greater…

Purpose: Previous evidence supports benefits of bilateral hearing aids, relative to unilateral hearing aid use, in laboratory environments using audio-only (AO) stimuli and relatively simple tasks. The purpose of this study was to evaluate bilateral hearing aid benefits in ecologically relevant laboratory settings, with and without visual cues. In…

Protein structure, function, and signaling are a large portion of biochemistry. Because of this, proteins are often used as model systems in biochemistry laboratory courses, where a course-long project might comprise protein expression, purification, and characterization. Two common protein expression methods are isopropyl…

A photochemical reactor was tested in an undergraduate teaching laboratory through the environmentally friendly aromatization of a 1,4-dihydropyridine, successfully using air as an oxidant, organic dye fluorescein as a photosensitizer, and sodium carbonate as a base. This experiment allowed students to be taught key concepts of photochemistry,…

An instructional research-like multiweek laboratory project for a second-semester introductory general chemistry laboratory course has been developed. The ultrasonic-assisted synthesis method using low cost commercial ultrasonic cleaners has the convenience of running multiple students' reactions simultaneously. Taking advantage of short reaction…