Current State Research Articles

Examining Peer Observation Practices of Online Teaching and Learning Through Analysis of Existing Instruments

ABSTRACT As online teaching gains increasing popularity in higher education, the need for valid and reliable measures to assess course quality and instructional effectiveness has become paramount. Peer observation of teaching has served as a valuable tool in evaluating online courses and facilitating continuous improvement. This study is intended to identify and analyze existing peer observation instruments used in higher education institutions in the U.S. specifically focusing on R1 and R2 institutions according to the Carnegie classification. Using the Online Teaching Competencies (OTC) framework developed by Farmer and Ramsdale (2016) as a coding basis, a total of 34 instruments were collected and examined. Coding results based on OTC revealed three highly observed competencies, including a prevalent emphasis on alignment between course activities and learning objectives, instructor availability for learners, and the provision of clear and consistent instructions. However, a substantial number of competencies in the OTC framework were never utilized by any of the collected instruments. Likewise, a large number of competencies measured by the collected instruments were not included in the OTC framework, suggesting potential gaps in the evaluation of course design and accessibility for students with disabilities. This study offers insight into the current state of peer observation practices for online teaching and highlights areas for improvement and refinement of evaluation frameworks.

Polyhalogenated Carbohydrates: Synthesis and Applications of Sugar Halides from Fluorine to Iodine

AbstractPolyfluorinated carbohydrates have attracted attention in the last decades. This is due to the interesting properties of such organofluorines. What about the other halogens? Since the discovery of sucralose (a trichlorinated disaccharide) more than 50 years ago, only a handful of chlorinated, brominated, or iodinated carbohydrates have been reported. This review focuses on the synthesis of polyhalogenated carbohydrates, including sugar inter‐halides, but excluding polyfluorinated sugars. An overview of the current state of the art of their potential application is also described.

Time development of clear-water scour around a pile foundation: Phenomenological theory of turbulence-based approach

Existing prediction formulas for clear-water scour development are typically empirical fittings of lab-scale results. However, it is unreasonable to evaluate the in-situ clear-water scour process around a pile based on small-scale flume tests due to inherent scale effect. This study proposes a time-dependent model of clear-water scour development around a pile foundation under steady currents. A scaling expression of shear stress acting on sediment particles at the front of a circular pile is established based on the phenomenological theory of turbulence. By applying the sediment transport model of flat-bed to local scour around a circular pile, a physics-based ordinary differential equation for predicting the scour depth development is derived. The analytical solution of scour depth development is generally more consistent with the experimental data compared with previous models. The probability density function distribution of the proposed model's error mainly concentrates within the range of ±10%, which is significantly superior to previous models. The proposed model integrates all pertinent parameters that govern the scour process using fundamental principles, rendering it free from scale issues and applicable to prototype conditions. The present model is applied to evaluating clear-water scour development around typical prototype piles with diameters ranging from 2.0 m to 10.0 m. The predicted variations of equilibrium scour time with pile diameter, flow velocity and sediment particle size aligns closely with previous experimental observations.

Building a technology for mass organisation of distance learning for students in quarantine based on the Moodle platform

The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated the rapid transition to distance learning for students worldwide. This paper examines the current state of distance learning implementation in secondary schools of the Zhytomyr region in Ukraine. A survey of 2445 teachers found that most were using various software tools for distance learning without a unified learning management system. Analysis of the Moodle, Google Classroom, and "My Class" platforms showed Moodle to have significant advantages for supporting distance learning. To enable schools to leverage Moodle, an "Educational Portal for Secondary School" was developed at Zhytomyr Polytechnic State University using the Moodle platform. Based on this Moodle portal, the paper proposes a technology for the mass organisation of distance learning during quarantine. The technology combines the tools, electronic resources, course structure, and tutor competencies required for effective distance learning implementation.

Ratiometric Fluorescence Optical Fiber Enabling Operando Temperature Monitoring in Pouch-Type Battery.

Thermal characteristics are essential for improving the performance and monitoring the status of Li-ion batteries (LIBs). However, it is a challenge to design efficient and facile sensing materials for the detection of the in situ temperature of a working LIB. Herein, a ratiometric fluorescence optical fiber is developed and real-time temperature monitoring is performed with a measurement accuracy of 0.12°C, and the feasibility based on this polymer optical fiber composed of NaLaTi2O6:Yb/Er phosphors is verified in a pouch-type battery. During the charging and discharging cycles, the in situ temperature is instantaneously conveyed, revealing the internal situation of LIBs. This article further dwells on the thermal characteristics in constant current (CC)/constant voltage charging and CC discharging processes at different C-rates and the battery failure when operated at low temperatures (0°C). This work demonstrates an innovative strategy for operando solitary temperature monitoring conducted by ratiometric fluorescence optical fiber.

Challenges and solutions in current human leukocyte antigen confirmatory typing of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

The impact of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) on hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) necessitates high precision in HLA genotyping. Confirmatory typing for patients and their related or unrelated donors before HSCT is critical. This study seeks to standardize HLA confirmatory typing in laboratories by examining the current state of HLA genotyping in the country, building upon the National Standards and Industrial Standards for HLA, and highlighting the significance of confirmatory typing for patients and potential donors prior to HSCT. A retrospective analysis over a decade reveals initial typing errors, indicating potential issues and critical considerations in pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical stages. Problems are attributed to three main causes: (1) random human errors, including technical mistakes, sample mix-up, and transcription inaccuracies; (2) limitations of technical methods, such as the varied sequence ranges between confirmatory and initial typing; (3) patient factors, involving high tumor burden, the influence of certain drugs on HLA genotyping results, and the second transplantation. Solutions are proposed for these problems, along with recommendations to standardize HLA confirmatory typing.

It's time to shed some light on the importance of fungi in neonatal intensive care units: what do we know about the neonatal mycobiome?

The 21st century, thanks to the development of molecular methods, including DNA barcoding, using Sanger sequencing, and DNA metabarcoding, based on next-generation sequencing (NGS), is characterized by flourishing research on the human microbiome. Microbial dysbiosis is perceived as a new pathogenetic factor for neonatal diseases. Fungi are crucial, but neglected, components of the neonatal microbiome, which, despite their low abundance, significantly impact morbidity and mortality rates of premature infants hospitalized in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). The neonatal mycobiome's composition and effect on health remain poorly studied research areas. Our knowledge about neonatal mycobiome, composed of limited genera, is mainly based on research on the bacterial microbiome. We presume it is influenced by clinical factors, including prematurity, antibiotic therapy, and type of delivery. Understanding these risk factors may be useful in prevention strategies against dysbiosis and invasive fungal infections. Despite the methodological challenges resulting from the biology of the fungal cell, this topic is an attractive area of research that may contribute to more effective treatment, especially of newborns from risk groups. In this mini review, we discuss the current state of knowledge, research gaps, study difficulties, and future research directions on the neonatal mycobiome, concerning potential future clinical applications.

Role of methylglyoxal and glyoxalase in the regulation of plant response to heavy metal stress.

Methylglyoxal and glyoxalase function a significant role in plant response to heavy metal stress. We update and discuss the most recent developments of methylglyoxal and glyoxalase in regulating plant response to heavy metal stress. Methylglyoxal (MG), a by-product of several metabolic processes, is created by both enzymatic and non-enzymatic mechanisms. It plays an important role in plant growth and development, signal transduction, and response to heavy metal stress (HMS). Changes in MG content and glyoxalase (GLY) activity under HMS imply that they may be potential biomarkers of plant stress resistance. In this review, we summarize recent advances in research on the mechanisms of MG and GLY in the regulation of plant responses to HMS. It has been discovered that appropriate concentrations of MG assist plants in maintaining a balance between growth and development and survival defense, therefore shielding them from heavy metal harm. MG and GLY regulate plant physiological processes by remodeling cellular redox homeostasis, regulating stomatal movement, and crosstalking with other signaling molecules (including abscisic acid, gibberellic acid, jasmonic acid, cytokinin, salicylic acid, melatonin, ethylene, hydrogen sulfide, and nitric oxide). We also discuss the involvement of MG and GLY in the regulation of plant responses to HMS at the transcriptional, translational, and metabolic levels. Lastly, considering the current state of research, we present a perspective on the future direction of MG research to elucidate the MG anti-stress mechanism and offer a theoretical foundation and useful advice for the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated environments in the future.

A Socio Economic Exploration of Bediya Community of Rasabeda Village in Pursuit of Sustainable Development By IJISRT

Tribal communities have been an integral and captivating part of Indian society since the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. India is home to the second-largest tribal population in the world. Spread all across the country, these communities have rich traditions, vibrant cultures, and unique lifestyles. One such major tribal community is Bediya. This study is focused on bediya settlement in Rasabeda, a village in the hills of the Chota Nagpur plateau. The settlement is highly vulnerable and underdeveloped. The study aims to examine the socio- economic challenges faced by the Bediya residents, highlighting the community's current state of pervasive poverty and undernourishment. The aim of the research is to present a detailed analysis of Rasabeda by employing a multifaceted approach encompassing economic, demographic, social, livelihood, health, education, and agricultural dimensions. The research seeks to contribute valuable insights into fostering lasting development in the Bediya community. The findings of this study hold significance while implementing effective strategies for sustainable growth and improvement within similar contexts.

Current State And Trends In The Incidence Of Chronic Kidney Disease Among Adult Population And Opportunities For Its Prevention And Treatment In Moscow Healthcare Organizations

Introduction. Currently, the incidence of kidney diseases among adult population is growing. It is expected to become the fifth leading cause of death by 2040. Showing no symptoms at early stages, chronic kidney disease (CKD) is closely related to diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obesity and kidney dysfunction in older age, which requires long-term and expensive treatment. Organization structure and the strategy of medical care provided by Moscow nephrology service is aimed at implementing measures for risk prevention and active early detection of kidney disease, as well as informing general population and medical community about existing diagnostic methods, modern treatment options and schemes.
 The purpose of the study was to identify trends in CKD prevalence and incidence among able-bodied population in the context of Moscow nephrology service improvement. 
 Materials and Methods. An analysis of disease prevalence and incidence among able-bodied population based on official statistics data of the Russian Research Institute of Health (RIH) of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation and the Centre of Medical Statistics of Moscow Healthcare Department was carried out; indicators of time series and average growth/decrease rates were calculated. In order to identify a long-term trend, least squares method was used. Incidence rates were expressed per 100,000 able-bodied population.
 Results. In 2022, the overall disease prevalence in Moscow was lower than for the country as a whole (31.3 and 74.2 cases per 100,000 population, respectively), while incidence of the able-bodied population in Moscow was lower than countrywide (2.9 and 11.5 cases per 100,000 population, respectively). The long-term dynamics of CRD prevalence and incidence was generally characterized by an upward trend. Thus, the average annual incidence in Moscow was 9.8% and 6.1%, while in the Russian Federation 7.2% and 5.4%, respectively. On average, 91.3% of able-bodied patients with CKD in Moscow are under follow-up monitoring for a year. The number of dispensary patients with CKD increased by 2.5 times in 2022 in comparison to 2013, from 11.7 to 29.5 per 100,000 population, respectively. Since 2016, patients with newly diagnosed CKD have been provided with 100% coverage of follow-up monitoring.

A dual-functional Cu-BTC/COOH-MWCNTs ratiometric electrochemical sensing device for the detection of sunset yellow and tartrazine

A ratiometric electrochemical sensor for sunset yellow (SY) and tartrazine (TZ) was constructed by modifying a glassy carbon electrode with a composite of carboxylated multiwalled carbon nanotubes (COOH-MWCNTs) and a redox-active metal–organic frameworks (Cu-BTC MOFs). Cu-BTC served as an internal reference probe with a constant oxidation peak current. The sensor exhibited excellent linearity in the concentration range of 2–200 μM under optimized conditions. The detection limits for SY and TZ were found to be 0.73 μM and 0.78 μM, respectively. When the sensor was used to determine SY and TZ in two carbonated beverages, the resules were good and did not significantly differ from those obtained by UV–Vis spectrophotometry.

Analysis of Digital Teacher Education: Key Aspects for Bridging the Digital Divide and Improving the Teaching–Learning Process

The quality of teacher education plays a key role in equipping students with the skills they need and it is important in avoiding learning inequalities. To bridge the digital divide and ensure that all students have equal access to technology and digital resources as well as advanced teaching–learning processes using digital tools, it is crucial to analyse the current state of teacher education in order to identify the key issues. The sample in this research consisted of 325 master of education students and in-service teachers studying at various universities (in Spain, Cyprus, and México) in the 2022–2023 academic year who filled out a questionnaire partly based on DigComEdu and this was expanded with questions relating to other digital and educational aspects. The findings reveal that there is potential for enhancement in many areas. Despite teachers having technical training associated with their profession, they lack the necessary training to overcome inequalities or digital gaps. Moreover, it is striking that those who are already working as teachers are the most pessimistic about aspects such as the use of digital resources, perhaps because of the difficulties they face in their daily work.

Mechanism and Kinetics Guided Design of Catalysts for Functionalized Nitroarenes Hydrogenation

AbstractSelective hydrogenation of functionalized nitroarenes to anilines employed with heterogeneous catalysts is a significant process and widely applied in chemical industry. However, designing high‐performance catalysts for these processes remains challenging. Recently, notable advancements have been achieved in synthesis methodologies, characterization techniques, and theoretical calculations, offering opportunities to gain insights into mechanisms. This review summarizes the recent progress in understanding the mechanistic aspects of selective hydrogenation catalysis for functionalized nitroarenes. We initiate by delving into the structure‐performance relationship, with the aim of providing a comprehensive understanding of mechanistic and kinetic details in the selective hydrogenation of functionalized nitroarenes. Subsequently, we introduce various strategies for designing high‐performance catalysts, categorizing them into three key aspects: isolating active sites, synergizing active sites and regulating local environments of active sites. Finally, we conclude with a concise overview of the current state of this field and provide a forward‐looking perspective for future studies, emphasizing the high‐performance design and manipulation of catalysts to achieve precise control over selectivity towards target products.

Fluorine-Containing Poly(Fluorene)-Based Anion Exchange Membrane with High Hydroxide Conductivity and Physicochemical Stability for Water Electrolysis.

Improving the hydroxide conductivity and dimensional stability of anion exchange membranes (AEMs) while retaining their high alkaline stability is necessary to realize the commercialization of AEM water electrolysis (AEMWE). A strategy for improving the hydroxide conductivity and dimensional stability of AEMs by inserting fluorine atoms in the core structure of the backbone is reported, which not only reduces the glass transition temperature of the polymer due to steric strain, but also induces distinct phase separation by inducing polarity discrimination to facilitate the formation of ion transport channels. The resulting PFPFTP-QA AEM with fluorine into the core structure shows high hydroxide conductivity (>159 mS cm-1 at 80°C), favorable dimensional stability (>25% at 80°C), and excellent alkaline stability for 1000h in 2m KOH solution at 80°C. Moreover, the PFPFTP-QA is used to construct an AEMWE cell with a platinum group metal (PGM)-free NiFe anode, which exhibits the current density of 6.86 A cm-2 at 1.9V at 80°C, the highest performance in Pt/C cathode and PGM-free anode reports so far and operates stably for over 100h at a constant current of 0.5 A cm-2.

Rational Design of Organic Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen and Oxygen Electrocatalytic Applications.

Efficient electrocatalysts are pivotal for advancing green energy conversion technologies. Organic electrocatalysts, as cost-effective alternatives to noble-metal benchmarks, have garnered attention. However, the understanding of the relationships between their properties and electrocatalytic activities remains ambiguous. Plenty of research articles regarding low-cost organic electrocatalysts started to gain momentum in 2010 and have been flourishing recently though, a review article for both entry-level and experienced researchers in this field is still lacking. This review underscores the urgent need to elucidate the structure-activity relationship and design suitable electrode structures, leveraging the unique features of organic electrocatalysts like controllability and compatibility for real-world applications. Organic electrocatalysts are classified into four groups: small molecules, oligomers, polymers, and frameworks, with specific structural and physicochemical properties serving as activity indicators. To unlock the full potential of organic electrocatalysts, five strategies are discussed: integrated structures, surface property modulation, membrane technologies, electrolyte affinity regulation, and addition of anticorrosion species, all aimed at enhancing charge efficiency, mass transfer, and long-term stability during electrocatalytic reactions. The review offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of organic electrocatalysts and their practical applications, bridging the understanding gap and paving the way for future developments of more efficient green energy conversion technologies.

Characteristics of chronic lymphocytic leukemia in Japan: Comprehensive analysis of the CLLRSG-01 study.

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is rare in Japan. We conducted the nationwide, prospective observational study CLLRSG-01 to clarify the current state of CLL in Japan and to make accurate international comparisons by preparing naturally air-dried smears like those used in other countries. Of the 201 untreated patients enrolled and evaluated, 119 were diagnosed with CLL and 82 with non-CLL mature B-cell neoplasms, based on the WHO classification. Of the 119 CLL patients, 90 were classified as typical and 29 as atypical according to FAB classification morphology, with the proportion of atypical CLL consistent with reports from other countries. Immunophenotypic analyses by flow cytometry showed that 55% of Japanese CLL patients had a Matutes score of 4 or higher, which is lower than the rate of about 90% in Europeans. Mutated IGHV was identified in 80% of Japanese CLL patients, which is a higher rate than in Western patients. The most frequent IGHV gene was VH3-30 (15%), followed by VH3-23 (12%) and VH4-34 (10%). VH1-69, the most common gene in Western countries, was identified in only one patient. These results indicate that the pattern of immunophenotypes and IGHV gene usage in Japanese CLL patients differs from that in Western patients.

Advancing access to care: An assessment of the prehospital system in Senegal.

Most low- and middle-income countries do not have a mature prehospital system limiting access to definitive care. This study sought to describe the current state of the prehospital system in Senegal and offer recommendations aimed at improving system capacity and population access to definitive care. Structured interviews were conducted with key informants in various regions throughout the country using qualitative and quantitative techniques. A standardized questionnaire was generated using needs assessment forms and system frameworks. Descriptive statistics were performed for quantitative data analysis, and qualitative data was consolidated and presented using ATLAS.ti. Two (20%) of the studied regions, Dakar and Saint-Louis, had a mature prehospital system in place, including dispatch centers and teams of trained personnel utilizing equipped ambulances. 80% of the studied regions lacked an established prehospital system. The vast majority of the population relied on the fire department for transport to a healthcare facility. The ambulances in rural regions were not part of a formal prehospital system, were not equipped with life-support supplies, and were limited to inter-facility transfers. While Dakar and Saint-Louis have mature prehospital systems, the rest of the country is served by the fire department. There are significant opportunities to further strengthen the prehospital system in rural Senegal by training the fire department in basic life support and first aid, maintaining cost efficiency, and building on existing national resources. This has the potential to significantly improve access to definitive care and outcomes of emergent illness in the Senegalese community.

A maturity model enhancing data-driven circular manufacturing

Circular Manufacturing (CM) adoption is highly reinforced by data exploitation, gathered, used and shared thanks to specific technologies. Manufacturers still need to be supported in using data to make more informed decisions in CM; to do that, they first need to be conscious of their current state. To achieve this goal, this study aims to develop a maturity model (MM) to evaluate manufacturers exploiting and valuing data in CM to support their decision-making processes. The MM, based on five levels and four analysis dimensions, operates the assessment through a questionnaire composed of normative answers. The model was conceived by relying on the scientific literature. It was verified and improved through focus groups and interviews and validated through a pilot application in two different manufacturing companies. Finally, the MM was applied in two other manufacturing companies to assess the empirical evidence of the obtainable benefits.

Еlectrochemical behavior of cadmium by alternating current polarization in hydrocloric acid solution

This paper presents the results of a study of the electrochemical behavior of a cadmium electrode in aqueous solutions of hydrochloric acid under polarization by stationary and non-stationary currents and shows the possibility of synthesis of its chloride. The purpose is to develop the electrochemical behavior of cadmium under alternating current polarization in a solution of perchloric acid. Methods. During the study, it was found that when two cadmium electrodes are polarized with an alternating current of 50 Hz, their dissolution does not occur, however, when one electrode is replaced with a titanium one, cadmium is intensively dissolved. Results and discussion. The influence of the main parameters, such as the duration of electrolysis, current density, concentration and nature of the electrolyte on the electrochemical process has been studied. A schematic diagram of an installation for dissolving cadmium by polarization with a non-stationary current is proposed. It is shown that on the titanium electrode in the range of 20-80 kA/m2, the current yield of the dissolution of the cadmium electrode gradually increases, and with a current density equal to 80 kA/m2, the current yield reaches 135%. Conclusion. It is shown that with alternating current polarization, the rate of chemical dissolution of cadmium, increases with the release of hydrogen. During the experiment, with the polarization of the cadmium electrode by alternating current, the possibility of obtaining cadmium chloride was shown. Based on chemical and X-ray phase analyses, it was proved that cadmium forms compounds CdCl2∙H2O.

Current State of Soil Fertility in Mountain Shirvan, Azerbaijan

In the presented article, a morphogenetic description of the soil profile of characteristic soil types and an analysis of diagnostic indicators of the current state of mountain-brown steppe formed on the south-eastern slope of the Greater Caucasus, irrigated mountain gray-brown, light mountain gray-brown, ordinary gray-brown soil types according to the International WRB system and analysis of nutrients according to soil profile. The physical and geographical location of the region is considered and described, the geomorphological, geological conditions of formation, climatic and hydrological conditions are described.