Exploring the Effect of Ligand Structural Isomerism in Langmuir–Blodgett Films of Chiral Luminescent EuIII Self‐Assemblies

Here we have investigated the influence of the antenna group position on both the formation of chiral amphiphilic Eu^III‐based self‐assemblies in CH₃CN solution and, on the ability to form monolayers on the surface of quartz substrates using the Langmuir–Blodgett technique, by changing from the 1‐naphthyl ( 2(R) , 2(S) ) to the 2‐naphthyl ( 1(R) , 1(S) ) position. The evaluation of binding constants of the self‐ assemblies in CH₃CN solution was achieved using conventional techniques such as UV/Visible and luminescence spectroscopies along with more specific circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. The binding constants obtained for EuL , EuL₂ and EuL₃ species in the case of 2‐naphthyl derivatives were comparable to those obtained for 1‐naphthyl derivatives. The analysis of the changes in the CD spectra of 1(R) and 1(S) upon addition of Eu^III not only allowed us to evaluate the values of the binding constants but the resulting recalculated spectra may also be used as fingerprints for assignment of the chiral self‐assembly species formed in solution. The obtained monolayers were predominantly formed from EuL₃ (≈85 %) with the minor species present in ≈15 % EuL₂ .     

Investigating undergraduate mathematics learners’ cognitive engagement with recorded lecture videos

The use of recorded lecture videos (RLVs) in mathematics instruction continues to advance. Prior research at the post-secondary level has indicated a tendency for RLV use in mathematics to be negatively correlated with academic performance, although it is unclear whether this is because regular users are generally weaker mathematics students or because RLV use is somehow depressing student learning. Through the lens of cognitive engagement, a quasi-experimental pre- and post-test design study was conducted to investigate the latter possibility.

Cognitive engagement was operationalized using the Revised Two-Factor Study Process Questionnaire (R-SPQ-2F), which measures learning approaches on two major scales: surface and deep. In two mathematics courses at two universities, in Australia and the UK, participants were administered the questionnaire near the course start and finish. Overall findings were similar in both contexts: a reduction in live lecture attendance coupled with a dependence on RLVs was associated with an increase in surface approaches to learning.

This study has important implications for future pedagogical development and adds to the sense of urgency regarding research into best practices using RLVs in mathematics.     

How algebra spoiled recreational problems: A case study in the cross-cultural dissemination of mathematics

This paper deals with a sub-class of recreational problems which are solved by a simple memorized rule resulting from an elementary arithmetical or algebraic solution, called proto-algebraic rules. Their recreational aspect is derived from a surprise or trick solution which is not immediately obvious to the subjects involved. Around 1560 many such problems wane from arithmetic and algebra textbooks to reappear in the eighteenth century. Several hypotheses are investigated why popular Renaissance recreational problems lost their appeal. We arrive at the conclusion that the emergence of algebra as a general problem solving method changed the scope of what is considered recreational in mathematics.     

Hybrid Plasmonic–Aerogel Materials as Optical Superheaters with Engineered Resonances

Solar radiation is a versatile source of energy, convertible to different forms of power. A direct path to exploit it is the generation of heat, for applications including passive building heating, but it can also drive secondary energy-conversion steps. We present a novel concept for a hybrid material which is both strongly photo-absorbing and with superior characteristics for the insulation of heat. The combination of that two properties is rather unique, and make this material an optical superheater. To realize such a material, we are combining plasmonic nanoheaters with alumina aerogel. The aerogel has the double function of providing structural support for plasmonic nanocrystals, which serve as nanoheaters, and reducing the diffusion rate of the heat generated by them, resulting in large local temperature increases under a relatively low radiation intensity. This work includes theoretical discussion on the physical mechanisms impacting the system's balanced thermal equilibrium.