Engineering Commons^™

Polymer-Based Microfluidic Device For On-Chip Counter-Diffusive Crystallization And In Situ X-Ray Crystallography At Room Temperature, Sarthak Saha, Can Özden, Alfred Samkutty, Silvia Russi, Aina Cohen, Margaret M. Stratton, Sarah L. Perry

Chemical Engineering Faculty Publication Series

Proteins are long chains of amino acid residues that perform a myriad of functions in living organisms, including enzymatic reactions, signalling, and maintaining structural integrity. Protein function is determined directly by the protein structure. X-ray crystallography is the primary technique for determining the 3D structure of proteins, and facilitates understanding the effects of protein structure on function. The first step towards structure determination is crystallizing the protein of interest. We have developed a centrifugally-actuated microfluidic device that incorporates the fluid handling and metering necessary for protein crystallization. Liquid handling takes advantage of surface forces to control fluid flow and enable …

Anaerobic Digestion: Awareness, Implementation, And Simulation, Kieran Tay, Nicholas Sbalbi, Michael Forozis, Flo Sabatini

Student Showcase

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is the process in which organic matter is fermented in an oxygen-deprived environment to produce renewable biogas. Our project is multi-faceted, with the overall goal of raising public awareness of AD as a transitional energy source. To that end, our group has named itself Undergraduates Raising Awareness for Anaerobic Digestion (URAAD). We are approaching this goal on three fronts, including (i) a website, (ii) a physical lab-scale digester, and (iii) a computer simulation of anaerobic digestion.

The first component, the website, was developed with the aim of serving as a resource for the public. It includes educational …

Bubble Lab Exercise, Peter Beltramo

Science and Engineering Saturday Seminars

The cell membrane is a ubiquitous component in mammalian cells which control many vital biological functions. It consists of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded protein molecules which serve to transport molecules between the interior and exterior of the cell. Understanding what makes cell membranes so important and how they function requires concepts from physics, chemistry, and of course biology, but it is difficult to learn and conceptualize the structure and function of membranes due to their nanoscopic size and dynamic nature which can’t be properly appreciated in a static textbook. This activity draws analogies between the chemistry and structure of …

Syllabus: Drinking Water, Sanitation, And Global Development, Emily Kumpel

Sustainability Education Resources

Within the past three decades, more than 2.6 billion people have gained access to an improved water source and 2.1 billion have gained access to an improved sanitation facility. However, improved does not always mean people have safe, reliable, accessible, or equitable water and sanitation services. Waterborne diseases continue to cause and estimated 500,000 deaths each year. What causes waterborne diseases, and what is the role of engineered systems in their spread or prevention? How can we evaluate interventions to improve health and well-being? How can research address these challenges?

Patterns Around Us Presentation, Benny Davidovitch

Patterns Around Us

No abstract provided.

Wrinkling In Buckling And A Thin Sheet, Narayanan Menon

Patterns Around Us

Module 1: Euler Buckling

Learning Objectives:

• What is an instability? A sudden change in behaviour in response to a small change in conditions.

• Instabilities usually involve a change in symmetry from a more symmetric situation to a less symmetric one

• The mechanism for an instability usually involves two competing forces (one force stabilizing the symmetric state, and the other one destabilizing it), with one suddenly winning the contest

• These competing forces in thin objects are often the forces of compression (destabilizing force - favors buckling or wrinkling) and of bending (stabilizing force).

Understanding by data collapse, the power of using …

Prelude To A Master Plan: Ware, Massachusetts, Belen Alfaro, Bruno Carneiro, Margaret Engesser, Kathryn E. Fox, Evadne R. Friedman, Timothy Inacio, Anita Lockesmith, Christina Mills, Stephanie Molden, Meagen Mulherin, Russell Pandres, Vinicius Pereira, Brian Reid, Pedro Soto, Jennifer Stromsten

Landscape Architecture & Regional Planning Studio and Student Research and Creative Activity

Prelude to a Master Plan offers ideas, recommendations, and a toolkit to help the town chart its own path towards that future. While the teams and individual students worked to ‘drill down’ into specific topic areas, the Studio defined three basic areas in order to think about how the various assets, challenges and ideas undermine or reinforce one another. The report is loosely organized in those terms: addressing the outlying rural areas and issues specific to these places, considering one of the key growth areas that has extended from town and the conflicts that arise from the many uses occurring …

Semi-Active Damping For An Intelligent Adaptive Ankle Prosthesis, Andrew K. Lapre

Masters Theses 1911 - February 2014

Modern lower limb prostheses are devices that replace missing limbs, making it possible for lower limb amputees to walk again. Most commercially available prosthetic limbs lack intelligence and passive adaptive capabilities, and none available can adapt on a step by step basis. Often, amputees experience a loss of terrain adaptability as well as stability, leaving the amputee with a severely altered gait. This work is focused on the development of a semi-active damping system for use in intelligent terrain adaptive ankle prostheses. The system designed consists of an optimized hydraulic cylinder with an electronic servo valve which throttles the hydraulic …

A Numerical Study On Hydraulic Characteristics In The Ice Harbor-Type Fishway, Seojun Kim, Kwonkyu Yu, Byungman Yoon, Yoonsung Lim

Journal Articles

Recently various types of fishways have been developed and constructed in order to preserve diversity of fish species and restore the riverine ecological system. Some of the fishways in Korea, however, seem to be designed and installed without careful study on their functions and swimming characteristics of target fishes. The present study aims to elucidate proper hydraulic characteristics of the Ice Harbor-type fishway. In the present study, we analyzed the hydraulic characteristics depending on changes in the spans of walls in the Ice Harbor-type fishways, by using Flow-3D, a three dimensional numerical simulation program. Two physical experiments were performed to …

Bioretention: Evaluating Their Effectiveness For Improving Water Quality In New England Urban Environments, Mary Dehais

Masters Theses 1911 - February 2014

Nonpoint source (NPS) pollution is one of the leading causes of water quality problems in the United States. Bioretention has become one of the more frequently used stormwater management practices for addressing NPS pollution in urbanized watersheds in New England. Yet despite increased acceptance, bioretention is not widely practiced. This study explores and evaluates the efficacy of bioretention for protecting urban water quality.

This research found that numerous monitoring methods are used by researchers and industry experts to assess the effectiveness of stormwater best management practices (BMPs) and low impact development (LID) practices that include bioretention. The two most common …

Expanding Ethics Education In Science & Engineering, Jane E. Fountain

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

This presentation was part of the AAAS Annual Conference professional development workshop, National Science Foundation and Ethics Education in Science and Engineering, during the recent meeting in San Diego, California (18-22 February). Dr. Michael Gorman, Program Director, Science, Technology & Society, National Science Foundation, moderated the workshop presentations and the discussion that followed. In addition, he contributed a set of powerpoint slides outlining the role of NSF in its response to the America Competes Act, including a commitment to support an online resource in ethics education. Dr. Philip Langlais, Vice Provost for Graduate Studies & Research, Old Dominion University, presented …

Nsf Supported Case-Studies Done By Systems Engineering Graduate Students At Uva, Michael Gorman

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

This presentation was part of the AAAS Annual Conference professional development workshop, National Science Foundation and Ethics Education in Science and Engineering, during the recent meeting in San Diego, California (18-22 February). Dr. Michael Gorman, Program Director, Science, Technology & Society, National Science Foundation, moderated the workshop presentations and the discussion that followed. In addition, he contributed a set of powerpoint slides outlining the role of NSF in its response to the America Competes Act, including a commitment to support an online resource in ethics education. Dr. Philip Langlais, Vice Provost for Graduate Studies & Research, Old Dominion University, presented …

Science And Engineering Ethics Education: Recipes For Success, Philip J. Langlais

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

This presentation was part of the AAAS Annual Conference professional development workshop, National Science Foundation and Ethics Education in Science and Engineering, during the recent meeting in San Diego, California (18-22 February). Dr. Michael Gorman, Program Director, Science, Technology & Society, National Science Foundation, moderated the workshop presentations and the discussion that followed. In addition, he contributed a set of powerpoint slides outlining the role of NSF in its response to the America Competes Act, including a commitment to support an online resource in ethics education. Dr. Philip Langlais, Vice Provost for Graduate Studies & Research, Old Dominion University, presented …

Rcr For Postdocs: Promoting Ethical Professional Development, Kathleen Flint

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

This presentation was part of the AAAS Annual Conference professional development workshop, National Science Foundation and Ethics Education in Science and Engineering, during the recent meeting in San Diego, California (18-22 February). Dr. Michael Gorman, Program Director, Science, Technology & Society, National Science Foundation, moderated the workshop presentations and the discussion that followed. In addition, he contributed a set of powerpoint slides outlining the role of NSF in its response to the America Competes Act, including a commitment to support an online resource in ethics education. Dr. Philip Langlais, Vice Provost for Graduate Studies & Research, Old Dominion University, presented …

Update On Responsible Conduct Of Research, Michael E. Gorman, Kelly Joyce

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

This presentation was part of the AAAS Annual Conference professional development workshop, National Science Foundation and Ethics Education in Science and Engineering, during the recent meeting in San Diego, California (18-22 February). Dr. Michael Gorman, Program Director, Science, Technology & Society, National Science Foundation, moderated the workshop presentations and the discussion that followed. In addition, he contributed a set of powerpoint slides outlining the role of NSF in its response to the America Competes Act, including a commitment to support an online resource in ethics education. Dr. Philip Langlais, Vice Provost for Graduate Studies & Research, Old Dominion University, presented …

Anhang: Auszüge Aus Dem Späteren Leben Von Professor Dr. Otto Vogl, Otto Vogl

Emeritus Faculty Author Gallery

No abstract provided.

Ethics In Science & Engineering: Redefining Tools & Resources, Michelle S. Goncalves, Jane E. Fountain, Jessica Adamick, Marilyn Billings

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

This report summarizes the main points of discussion of a national workshop convened to advance knowledge and practice for ethics in science and engineering. Following the enactment of the America COMPETES Act and its provisions to increase attention to ethics and the responsible conduct of research in science and engineering, the National Science Foundation (NSF) supported two beta site projects to advance understanding of the key dimensions required for a national online clearinghouse in ethics for science and engineering. The ESENCe Beta Site project, based at UMass Amherst and one of two such beta sites in the United States, thanks …

Graduate Education In Research Ethics For Scientists And Engineers: Final Report, Jorge Ferrer-Negron, William Frey, Efrain O'Neill-Carrillo, Didier Valdes, Carlos Rios-Valazquez

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

No abstract provided.

Ethical Issues In Graduate Research, William J. Frey

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

(Caution! This module is being published in an incomplete, preliminary version. Later edited and fuller versions will follow.) "Graduate Education in Research Ethics for Scientists and Engineers" is a project funded by the National Science Foundation (SES 0629377) to design a pilot program in research ethics for graduate students in science and engineering. This project is built around three workshops: (1) a Graduate Awareness Workshop introduces students to fundamental ethical issues in research, (2) a Moral Deliberation Workshop acquaints students with the skills of moral deliberation, (3) a Case Analysis Workshop uses realistic scenarios to allow students to practice decision-making …

Professional Ethics-Responsible Conduct Of Research Training: Making Sense Of Complex Problems, Michael D. Mumford, Shane Connelly, Ryan P. Brown, Lynn D. Devenport, Stephen T. Murphy, Alison L. Antes

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

General Course Abstract

This two-day seminar format course exposes students to the complexities involved in real-world ethical decision-making. It provides students with strategies, or tools, for understanding and thinking through ethical problems to arrive at a decision. Students practice working with these strategies by applying them to realistic, complex cases.

Day 1 Abstract

During the first day of the course, guidelines and principles for ethical research practices are discussed. It is emphasized that students must apply guidelines in a context to arrive at a decision, and the course provides guidance on this decision-making process. Next, students learn about the personal …

Federal Register: National Science Foundation, Responsible Conduct Of Research, National Science Foundation

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is announcing its implementation of Section 7009 of the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science (COMPETES) Act (42 U.S.C. 1862o–1). This section of the Act requires that ‘‘each institution that applies for financial assistance from the Foundation for science and engineering research or education describe in its grant proposal a plan to provide appropriate training and oversight in the responsible and ethical conduct of research to undergraduate students, graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers participating in the proposed research project.’’

[Abstract by author]

Case Analysis: A Tool For Teaching Research Ethics In Science And Engineering For Graduate Students, Didier Valdes, Erika Jaramillo Giraldo, Jorge Ferrer, William J. Frey

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

No abstract provided.

Role-Play Scenarios For Teaching Responsible Conduct Of Research: Assessment Of Outcomes, Stephanie N. Seiler, Michael C. Loui, Kerri L. Kristich, Kyoung Jin Kim, C. K. Gunsalus, Bradley J. Brummel

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

No abstract provided.

Responsible Conduct Of Research Role-Plays: Conflict Of Interest, C. K. Gunsalus, M. C. Loui, C. K. Gunsalus, M. C. Loui, And Their Students At The University Of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

This faculty adviser in this role-play has a major conflict of interest, which puts the student in an awkward situation. If the conflict oversight committee hasn’t contacted the student already (an unfortunately common situation), they should have. In an ideal situation, every student affected by a potential conflict of interest should have some written guidance about what to expect and how to get advice if concerns arise.

One useful step is to find out if there are any written policies or guidelines about what students can expect in situations like this: for example, is there a meeting annually or every …

Federal Register: National Science Foundation, Responsible Conduct Of Research, National Science Foundation

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is soliciting public comment on the agency’s proposed implementation of Section 7009 of the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science (COMPETES) Act (42 U.S.C. 1862o–1). This section of the Act requires that ‘‘each institution that applies for financial assistance from the Foundation for science and engineering research or education describe in its grant proposal a plan to provide appropriate training and oversight in the responsible and ethical conduct of research to undergraduate students, graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers participating in the proposed research project.’’

[Abstract by author]

Ethical Issues In Peer Review Of Research, Michael C. Loui

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

No abstract provided.

Responsible Conduct Of Research Role-Plays: Whistleblowing Data Management, C. K. Gunsalus, M. C. Loui, C. K. Gunsalus, M. C. Loui, And Their Students At The University Of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

This role-play involves data mismanagement in a research lab. The graduate students suspects that the post-doc fabricated experimental results, which is a form of research misconduct. The realization or suspicion that someone has engaged in research misconduct is one of the most difficult situations researchers face. However, someone who has witnessed misconduct has an obligation to act and report this behavior. Reporting the misconduct, which also known as whistle-blowing, should be done in a cautious and responsible way. Ideally, whistle-blowers should never be afraid to come forward with questions of misconduct, as they should be supported by their institutions and …

Responsible Conduct Of Research Role-Plays: Hazardous Substances, C. K. Gunsalus, M. C. Loui, C. K. Gunsalus, M. C. Loui, And Their Students At The University Of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

This role-play focuses on the dilemmas in balancing regulatory requirements, personal relationships and a natural reluctance to “cause trouble.” These dilemmas arise in many settings, and can be particularly acute in laboratories that handle hazardous substances because of the serious safety implications of violations. In addition, violations can carry fines and penalties for laboratories and universities where they occur. The worries of the graduate student in the role-play about potential laboratory shut-downs and corresponding research delays are all too real. Specifics of regulations vary according to the materials being handled. The underlying principles regarding human and environmental safety stay the …

Responsible Conduct Of Research Role-Plays: Human Subjects, C. K. Gunsalus, M. C. Loui, C. K. Gunsalus, M. C. Loui, And Their Students At The University Of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

This role-play addresses issues involved with human subject research and working with an Institutional Review Board (IRB).

The Belmont Report (1979) identifies three basic ethical principles that underlie all human subject research. These principles are Respect for persons, Beneficence, and Justice. Respect for persons requires us to treat individuals as autonomous human beings and not to use people as a means to an end. We must allow people to choose for themselves and provide extra protection to those with limited ability to choose, such as children. Rules derived from the principle of respect for persons include the requirements to obtain …

Responsible Conduct Of Research Role-Plays: Peer Review, C. K. Gunsalus, M. C. Loui, C. K. Gunsalus, M. C. Loui, And Their Students At The University Of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign

Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse

This scenario is based on “What is Responsible Peer Review?” http://ccnmtl.columbia.edu/projects/rcr/rcr_authorship/case/index.html#2, which is based on the “Confidentiality vs. Mentor Responsibilities: A Conflict of Obligations” scenario, http://onlineethics.org/reseth/appe/vol3/conflictobligations.html, which is based on a real incident.

This scenario highlights several issues in the peer review of manuscripts submitted for publication:

• Conflict of interest in the role of the reviewer

• Confidentiality of information in the manuscript

• Role of the adviser in the professional development of a graduate student

Although this scenario is not based on a single actual incident, each of the scenario’s elements occurs frequently in research in science and …