The STEM Lab 101
“All models are wrong, but some are useful.” — George E. P. Box
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“All science is nothing more than the refinement of everyday thinking.”
— Albert Einstein​
“Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.”
— Arthur C. Clarke
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“Biology today is the science of the 21st century. Engineering it will be the art.”
— Leroy Hood
​Approach​
We create our own insights and models while providing comprehensive meta-analyses to synthesize findings across studies. Our goal is to offer robust, evidence based conclusions that advance understanding and guide future research.
Mission​
Human progress is shaped by scientific exploration. At TheSTEMLab101, we aim to inspire and expand scientific research and knowledge. We focus on applied math, epidemiology, physics, and biochemistry, disciplines fundamental to human advancement. With artificial intelligence dominating global research, these fields risk being overshadowed. Our mission is to reinforce their importance by fostering scientific curiosity, education and inquiry.
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Mathematical Model:
Lang Lang Analysis
This study uses Fourier analysis to uncover the structure of piano sound. It introduces the Fourier series and Fourier transform, then applies them to Franz Liszt’s La Campanella performed by Lang Lang (2014). Two contrasting passages, one light and delicate and the other heavy and forceful, are compared through their frequency spectra. The results show how articulation, touch, and pedaling change the balance between the fundamental pitch and its overtones, showing that musical expression can be measured directly in sound.
Optimization of PET Hydrolysis Using Response Surface Methodology
Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to model and optimize the enzymatic activity of TfCut2, a thermostable cutinase active in PET hydrolysis (Barth et al. 2015). Absorbance at 260 nm (A260) was measured under varying temperature and pH to assess catalytic efficiency. A second-order polynomial model analyzed main and interaction effects, and 3D response surfaces were generated in RStudio. The model predicted an optimal pH of 7.5 and temperature of 51 °C, indicating maximal activity under moderately basic and stable thermal conditions. RSM effectively quantified these effects while minimizing experimental effort.
Modified COVID-19 SIR Model
This paper applies the Susceptible-Infected-Recovered (SIR) model to COVID-19 data in Taiwan. The standard model fit poorly before 2022 due to delays from strict interventions and evolving medical protocols. Using Python, an adjusted SIR model incorporating policy and healthcare effects produced a curve that closely matched Taiwan’s epidemic trends, showing how government action and science together shape public health outcomes.
Why the Pro V1 Performs: A Mathematical and Physical Analysis
This paper analyzes the performance of the Titleist Pro V1 golf ball through mathematical and physical principles. Its multi-layer design maximizes energy transfer for high velocity and control, while optimized mass distribution lowers the moment of inertia for stable spin. The aerodynamic dimple pattern minimizes drag and maintains consistent lift, producing a long, stable flight. Together, these design factors show how geometry, surface texture, and material density enhance both distance and precision.
Dual Genetic Modification of Yeast to Enhance Ethanol Production
This study examines how targeted genetic changes influence ethanol output in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae BY4741) under anaerobic fermentation. Ethanol formation is enhanced by overexpressing the ADH1 gene through an introduced plasmid carrying the gene under a promoter, increasing transcription and NAD+ enzyme activity. Simultaneously, the GPD2 gene is deleted through homologous recombination. GPD2 normally helps the cell produce glycerol by using up NADH, which diverts reducing power away from ethanol. Removing GPD2 shuts down this pathway, so the cell is forced to recycle NADH through the ethanol pathway instead. Modified strains will be fermented in sealed airlock vessels, and ethanol concentration will be measured using a spectrophotometric assay.
Fluid Dynamics
This paper analyzes the swimming motion of a small aquarium goldfish through fluid dynamics, focusing on curl, divergence, and vortex formation in water flow. Video observation of steady swimming was used to interpret tail and fin movements as periodic forces generating alternating vortices in the wake. The motion was examined through the Navier–Stokes equations, showing how body shape and fin geometry minimize drag and maximize thrust. Vortex shedding and low-pressure regions reveal propulsion through controlled rotational flow rather than simple backward water push. The study shows that even small fish use efficient hydrodynamic strategies similar to those in engineered underwater vehicles, making their motion a clear model for applied vector calculus in biology.
Our work is inspired by platforms and educators that make knowledge open and useful. arXiv.org, MIT OpenCourseWare, ScienceOpen, and Wirecutter all show how academic and educational content can be shared clearly and accessibly. We also take inspiration from Organic Chemistry Tutor and 3Blue1Brown, whose ability to break down complex ideas and engage audiences inspires our approach to STEM cultivation and education.
