Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar

The current study focused on biogenic synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using Priestia endophytica and evaluated their potential anticancer activity. The ZnO NPs were characterized by various techniques including Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV-Visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. The optical properties measured using UV spectroscopy showed a peak at 319nm. The FTIR reveals the presence of various functional groups, including Zn–O, C–H, C=O, and C=C and –OH on ZnO NPs. In contrast, XRD indicates the wurtzite hexagonal crystalline structure. SEM images show the spherical or quasi-spherical morphologies with an average size range of 20–70nm with high purity. After successful characterization, the anticancer effects were tested against A549 and HeLa cell lines. Results showed anticancer activity against both cancer cell types, with 50% cell viability at 91.5±1.2 and 127±5.6µg ml⁻¹ for A549 and HeLa cells, respectively. In conclusion, the findings from this study suggest that eco-friendly and biogenic ZnO NPs may offer a promising nanoformulation for cancer treatment.

Task complexity plays a crucial role in cognitive development, problem-solving skills, and effective learning. Engaging with complex tasks stimulates higher-order thinking, boosts learner motivation, and prepares students for real-world challenges and advanced studies. This study investigates how different levels of task complexity (low, medium, high) affect visual attention sequences and contrasts human scanpaths with those derived from the Compositional Language and Elementary Visual Reasoning (CLEVR) dataset’s computational model. Using eye-tracking technology, we analyzed the visual attention patterns of Indian students (ages 18–35) working on visual reasoning tasks of varying complexity within a controlled laboratory setting. Our findings show that greater task complexity leads to more dispersed and prolonged fixations, reflecting a shift in attention sequence and a more thorough search strategy. Additionally, we compared human scanpaths with the CLEVR model and found notable differences. Human search behavior is more intricate, featuring frequent revisits and considering various attributes such as color, shape, size, and material. In contrast, the CLEVR model operates with a more linear and streamlined approach. These results highlight the significant differences between human and algorithmic visual reasoning processes. The complexity and frequent revisits observed in human behavior demonstrate the adaptable nature of human cognition. This study underscores the importance of integrating task complexity into educational strategies to enhance cognitive development, engagement, and the alignment of educational tools with human cognitive processes, ultimately improving learning outcomes.

The rise of MOOCs has transformed higher education, increasing demand for high-quality, learner-centric content. RightScripts, a tool for creating educational video scripts, was developed to help teachers produce effective MOOC videos. This study evaluates RightScripts’ effectiveness in creating instructionally sound, learner-focused scripts, with a focus on student satisfaction. Initially tested by educational technology experts, RightScripts underwent refinements before usability testing by 143 teachers yielded high satisfaction. Teachers then used it to script a B2B marketing MOOC on the SWAYAM platform, with student feedback gathered from 158 respondents. The analysis showed high scores for clarity, objectives, and reflection opportunities, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.9177 for reliability. Qualitative responses praised instructional quality, highlighting RightScripts’ value in enhancing MOOC video quality and supporting educators.