bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultra High-efficiency Integrated Mid Infrared to Visible Up-conversion System
Authors: Motmaen Aytak , Rostami Ali , Matloub Samiye
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we have introduced and investigated an integrated optoelectronic chip for the up-conversion of mid-infrared to visible light. A thin layer of the nanocrystalline photoconductive PbSe is put on the Base of the NPN bipolar junction transistor and a doped phosphorescence organic light-emitting diode is placed on the Collector contacts. The incoming mid-infrared light is converted into an electric current by quantum dot photodetector, then amplified by the NPN bipolar junction transistor, and finally, the amplified current is driven through the Collector in the organic light-emitting diode. The organic light-emitting diode is designed to emit a green color. Our findings indicated that the proposed devices provide an up-conversion process from mid-infrared to visible light with a high-efficiency rate. The quantum dot photodetector is designed to detect 3 μm and also the organic light-emitting diode works at 523 nm. It is easy to tune the 3 ~ 5 μm incoming light by tuning the PbSe quantum dots, and the output light is tuned by tuning the organic light-emitting diode structure. Thus, the proposed structure is highly flexible regarding receiving mid-infrared and generating visible light. It is concluded that the external quantum efficiency for the proposed structure for 3 μm to 523 nm is 600. Also, the enhancement of the transistor current gain (β) can further increase the conversion efficiency of the proposed device. Moreover, different structures such as Darlington can be used instead of the bipolar junction transistor to enhance conversion efficiency.
Functional Infrared Thermal Imaging: A Contemporary Tool in Soft Tissue Screening
Authors: Ioannou Stephanos
Published: June 2020

Soft tissue injury screening faces two main diagnostic challenges. One is the perceptual bias of the athlete in terms of referred pain and second injury assessment tools are not only in need of highly specialized personal but they are also financially demanding. Since ankle sprains is one of the leading soft tissue injuries, the current study was set to examine the suitability of functional infrared thermal imaging (fITI) in evaluating physiological alteration on the ankle as a result of exercise or injury. The current study consists of a case report of a patient with an ankle sprain and the behavior of temperature after a series of physiotherapy sessions. Moreover to strengthen the communication of the report, results from a healthy population sample were added to draw a deeper understanding on physiological temperature manifestations on soft tissue. Twenty participants underwent a 30-minute treadmill run with pictures of their ankles being taken during rest and after exercise. In addition the case of a patient is reported that has suffered an ankle sprain followed for a period of over a month. It was observed that the temperature of the ankles of participants that underwent physical exercise rose on average by 2.4 °C after taking into account both the medial and lateral sides of the both ankles. In addition the patient’s left ankle appeared to be 2.5 °C above the temperature of the non-affected right ankle. This phenomenon of unilateral hyperthermia of the left injured side seems to start to dissipate by the 21stday following the injury, completely resolving by the 42ndday achieving bilateral isothermia in both ankles. Thermal imaging provides a reliable tool for the screening of soft tissue strain and injury. The current study further expands the literature on soft tissue screening with the use of thermal imaging, adding a quantifiable way for assessing the extend of tissue damage. The implemented method of analyses offers a suggested simple way not only in visualizing trauma but also physical strain. Nevertheless further investigations with a variety in the severity of ankle sprains need to be applied in order for thermal imaging to be used as a first line tool for the assessment and recovery of ankle sprains.
The PPAR α/γ Agonist Saroglitazar Improves Insulin Resistance and Steatohepatitis in a Diet Induced Animal Model of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Kumar Divya P. , Caffrey Rebecca , Marioneaux Jonathon , Santhekadur Prasanna K. , Bhat Madhavi , Alonso Cristina , Koduru Srinivas V. , Philip Binu , Jain Mukul R. , Giri Suresh R. , Bedossa Pierre , Sanyal Arun J.
Published: June 2020

Insulin resistance and hepatic lipid accumulation constitute the metabolic underpinning of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We tested the hypothesis that saroglitazar, a PPAR α/γ agonist would improve NASH in the diet-induced animal model of NAFLD. Mice received chow diet and normal water (CDNW) or high fat western diet and ad lib sugar water (WDSW). After 12 weeks, WDSW fed mice were randomized to receive (1) WDSW alone, (2) WDSW + vehicle, (3) WDSW + pioglitazone or (4) WDSW + saroglitazar for an additional 12 weeks. Compared to mice on WDSW and vehicle controls, mice receiving WDSW + saroglitazar had lower weight, lower HOMA-IR, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and ALT. Saroglitazar improved steatosis, lobular inflammation, hepatocellular ballooning and fibrosis stage. NASH resolved in all mice receiving saroglitazar. These effects were at par with or superior to pioglitazone. Molecular analyses confirmed target engagement and reduced oxidative stress, unfolded protein response and fibrogenic signaling. Transcriptomic analysis further confirmed increased PPAR-target expression and an anti-inflammatory effect with saroglitazar. Lipidomic analyses demonstrated that saroglitazar also reduced triglycerides, diglycerides, sphingomyelins and ceramides. These preclinical data provide a strong rationale for developing saroglitazar for the treatment of NASH in humans.
Impact of pesticide polarity and lipid phase dimensions on the bioaccessibility of pesticides in agricultural produce consumed with model fatty foods
Authors: Zhang Ruojie , Zhang Zipei , Li Ruyi , Tan Yunbing , Lv Shanshan , McClements David Julian
Published: June 2020

Pesticide bioaccessibility on tomatoes depends on emulsion droplet size and pesticide polarity.
When does entropy promote local organization?
Authors: Klishin Andrei A. , van Anders Greg
Published: June 2020

Entropy generically promotes local organization in (pseudo-) thermal systems of crowded, rigid objects.
Accounting for π–π stacking interactions in the mesoscopic models of conjugated polymers
Authors: Rudyak Vladimir Yu. , Gavrilov Alexey A. , Guseva Daria V. , Tung Shih-Huang , Komarov Pavel V.
Published: June 2020

Accounting for π–π interactions between conjugated polymer molecules via dynamic bonds allows their self-assembly into a lamellar morphology with π–π stacks.
Single-unit-cell-thick layered electrocatalysts: from synthesis to application
Authors: Gao Sanshuang , Liu Yifan , Li Hongyi , Liu Xijun , Luo Jun
Published: June 2020

This minireview summarizes the latest progresses on the synthesis and application of single-unit-cell-thick layered electrocatalysts, which have exhibited excellent performances.
Copper-catalyzed ortho-C(sp2)–H amination of benzamides and picolinamides with alkylamines using oxygen as a green oxidant
Authors: Li Qiong , Huang Jie , Chen Gong , Wang Shui-Bo
Published: June 2020

A versatile Cu-catalyzed direct ortho-C(sp2)–H amination of benzamides and picolinamides with alkylamines has been achieved.
A 19F-MRI probe for the detection of Fe(ii) ions in an aqueous system
Authors: Kakiuchi Ryo , Hirayama Tasuku , Yanagisawa Daijiro , Tooyama Ikuo , Nagasawa Hideko
Published: June 2020

An activity-based 19F-MRI probe that showed a chemical shift change in response to Fe(ii) was developed.
Cross-linking polymerization-induced self-assembly to produce branched core cross-linked star block polymer micelles
Authors: Park Jongmin , Ahn Nam Young , Seo Myungeun
Published: June 2020

Copolymerizing a cross-linker in the PISA process spontaneously produces branched core cross-linked block polymer micelles.
Graft copolymers with tunable amphiphilicity tailored for efficient dual drug delivery via encapsulation and pH-sensitive drug conjugation
Authors: Bláhová Markéta , Randárová Eva , Konefał Rafal , Nottelet Benjamin , Etrych Tomáš
Published: June 2020

Amphiphilic poly(ε-caprolactone)-graft-(poly-N-(2-hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide) copolymers with tunable solution properties form stable micelles with high drug payload via simultaneous encapsulation and pH-sensitive covalent conjugation.
Stereocontrolled, multi-functional sequence-defined oligomers through automated synthesis
Authors: Mertens Chiel , Soete Matthieu , Ślęczkowski Marcin L. , Palmans Anja R. A. , Meijer E. W. , Badi Nezha , Du Prez Filip E.
Published: June 2020

In this work, stereocontrolled sequence-defined oligomers were prepared using an automated thiolactone-based platform that allows post-synthesis functionalisation.
Facile synthesis of the daphnane and tigliane framework by semi-flow tube-based-bubbling photooxidation and diastereoselective conjugate addition
Authors: Ding Zhengwei , Liu Zhi , Tong Guanghu , Hu Linlin , He Yangqing , Bao Yueyun , Lei Zhouhang , Zhang Hailong , Li Pengfei
Published: June 2020

The common [5-7-6] tricyclic framework in tigliane and daphnane natural diterpenes containing five contiguous stereocenters has been synthesized in 9 steps from readily available starting materials in a completely stereocontrolled manner.
Transparent and luminescent glasses of gold thiolate coordination polymers
Authors: Vaidya Shefali , Veselska Oleksandra , Zhadan Antonii , Diaz-Lopez Maria , Joly Yves , Bordet Pierre , Guillou Nathalie , Dujardin Christophe , Ledoux Gilles , Toche François , Chiriac Rodica , Fateeva Alexandra , Horike Satoshi , Demessence Aude
Published: June 2020

Low mechanical pressure on amorphous gold thiolate coordination polymers allows the formation of transparent and red emissive glasses.
Unravelling the intricate photophysical behavior of 3-(pyridin-2-yl)triimidazotriazine AIE and RTP polymorphs
Authors: Lucenti Elena , Forni Alessandra , Previtali Andrea , Marinotto Daniele , Malpicci Daniele , Righetto Stefania , Giannini Clelia , Virgili Tersilla , Kabacinski Piotr , Ganzer Lucia , Giovanella Umberto , Botta Chiara , Cariati Elena
Published: June 2020

TT-Py exhibits anti-Kasha and multiple emissive behaviour due to the copresence of rigid TT and partially conformationally free Py.
A three-dimensional interconnected nitrogen-doped graphene-like porous carbon-modified separator for high-performance Li–S batteries
Authors: Huang Wen , Ruan Daqian , Chen Hui , Hu Kai , Wen Juan , Yan Wenqi , Zhu Yusong , Zhang Yi , Yu Nengfei , Wu Yuping
Published: June 2020

Suppressing rapid capacity decay caused by the shuttle effect of dissolved lithium polysulfides between two electrodes is crucial to the realization of a practical lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries.
Flexible and electrically conductive composites based on 3D hierarchical silver dendrites
Authors: Song Bo , Wang Xueqiao , Patel Shiv , Wu Fan , Moon Kyoung-sik , Wong Ching-Ping
Published: June 2020

This work presents flexible and highly conductive composites using 3D hierarchical silver dendrites (SDs) as conductive fillers, which demonstrate a low percolation threshold and excellent electromechanical characteristics.
Astragaloside IV attenuates high glucose-induced EMT by inhibiting the TGF-β/Smad pathway in renal proximal tubular epithelial cells
Authors: Wang Ya-Ning , Zhao Shi-Li , Su Yan-Yan , Feng Jun-Xia , Wang Shuai , Liao Xiao-Ming , Wang Li-Na , Li Jing-Chun , Meng Ping , Li Hong-Yan , Zhang Yun-Fang
Published: June 2020

In the present study, we examined the molecular mechanism of astragaloside IV (AS-IV) in high glucose (HG)-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTCs). NRK-52E cell viability and apoptosis were determined by the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and flow cytometric analysis, respectively. Expressions of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, vimentin, and occludin were measured by Western blot, and those of E-cadherin and N-cadherin were additionally measured by immunofluorescence analysis. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expressions were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot. The expressions of Smad2, Smad3, phosphorylated-Smad2 (p-Smad2), and p-Smad3 were measured using Western blot. We found that AS-IV could recover NRK-52E cell viability and inhibit HG-induced cell apoptosis. TGF-β1, α-SMA, Smad2, Smad3, p-Smad2, and p-Smad3 expressions were decreased in the AS-IV-treated groups compared with the HG group. Moreover, the expressions of E-cadherin and occludin were remarkably up-regulated and those of N-cadherin and vimentin were down-regulated in the AS-IV-treated groups compared with the HG group. Interestingly, the TGF-β1 activator SRI-011381 hydrochloride had an antagonistic effect to AS-IV on HG-induced EMT behavior. In conclusion, AS-IV attenuates HG-induced EMT by inhibiting the TGF-β/Smad pathway in renal PTCs.
Myc is involved in Genistein protecting against LPS-induced myocarditis in vitro through mediating MAPK/JNK signaling pathway
Authors: Huang Chunhua , Zhang Yan , Qi Hongli , Xu Xintan , Yang Lin , Wang Jianjun
Published: June 2020

Background: Genistein is widely used as a pharmacological compound as well as a food additive. However, the pharmaceutical effects of Genistein on myocarditis and its potential mechanisms have not been studied in detail. Methods: H9c2 cells were continuously stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 12 h to simulate the in vitro model of myocarditis injury. DrugBank, String, and GEO dataset were used to investigate specific genes that interacting with Genistein. KEGG and GO enrichment analysis were employed to explore Myc-related signaling pathways. Biological behaviors of H9c2 cells were observed with the support of cell counting kit-8, MTT and flow cytometry. Expression levels of cytokines including TNF-α and ILs were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Western blot was applied to detect the expression of Myc and MAPK pathway related proteins. Results: Genistein alleviated the damage of H9c2 cells subjected to LPS from the perspective of elevating cells growth ability, and inhibiting cells apoptosis and inflammatory response. Through bioinformatics analysis, we identified Myc as the potential target of Genistein in myocarditis, and MAPK as the signaling pathway. Significantly, Myc was highly up-regulated in myocarditis samples. More importantly, by performing biological experiments, we discovered that Genistein relieved H9c2 cells apoptosis and inflammatory reaction which caused by LPS stimulation through inhibiting Myc expression. Additionally, the marked augmentation of p-P38 MAPK and p-JNK expression in LPS-induced cardiomyocyte model were blocked by Genistein and si-Myc. Conclusions: Our research revealed that Myc mediated the protective effects of Genistein on H9c2 cells damage caused by LPS partly through modulation of MAPK/JNK signaling pathway.
Cimifugin ameliorates imiquimod-induced psoriasis by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation via NF-κB/MAPK pathway
Authors: Liu Aimin , Zhao Wei , Zhang Buxin , Tu Yuanhui , Wang Qingxing , Li Jing
Published: June 2020

Cimifugin is an important component of chromones in the dry roots of Saposhikovia divaricata for treating inflammatory diseases. However, the possible effect of cimifugin in psoriasis needs further investigation. This current work was designed to evaluate the effects of cimifugin in psoriasis in vivo and in vitro, and unravel the underlying molecular mechanism. Here, we used imiquimod (IMQ) or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α to induce a psoriasis-like model in mice or keratinocytes. Obviously, the results showed that cimifugin reduced epidermal hyperplasia, psoriasis area severity index (PASI) scores, ear thickness and histological psoriasiform lesions in IMQ-induced mice. The decreased levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and the accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA) in skin tissues by IMQ were attenuated by cimifugin. Furthermore, it was observed that cimifugin effectively reversed IMQ-induced up-regulation of proinflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-17A, and IL-22. Mechanically, we noticed that cimifugin inhibited IMQ-activated phosphorylation of NF-κB (IκB and p65) and MAPK (JNK, ERK, and p38) signaling pathways. Similar alterations for oxidative stress and inflammation parameters were also detected in TNF-α-treated HaCaT cells. In addition, cimifugin-induced down-regulation of ICAM-1 were observed in TNF-α-treated cells. Altogether, our findings suggest that cimifugin protects against oxidative stress and inflammation in psoriasis-like pathogenesis by inactivating NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathway, which may develop a novel and effective drug for the therapy of psoriasis.
Discovery of novel isoliquiritigenin analogue ISL-17 as a potential anti-gastric cancer agent
Authors: Huang Fengchang , Wang Jin , Xu Yi , Zhang Yunfei , Xu Ning , Yin Liang
Published: June 2020

Isoliquiritigenin (ISL), a natural product isolated from licorice root, exhibits anti-gastric cancer effects. However, applications of ISL are still limited in clinical practice due to its poor bioavailability. To discovery of more effective anti-gastric cancer agents based on ISL, aldol condensation reaction was applied to synthesize the ISL analogues. MTS assay was used to evaluate the inhibitory activities of ISL analogues against SGC-7901, BGC-823 and GES-1 cells in vitro. Cell cycle distribution, apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation were detected by flow cytometry. Western blot assay was used to analyze the expression levels of related proteins. The drug-likeness and pharmacokinetic properties were predicted with Osiris property explorer and PreADMET server. As a result, 18 new ISL analogues (ISL-1 to ISL-18) were synthesized. Among these analogues, ISL-17 showed the strongest inhibitory activities against SGC-7901 and BGC-823 cells, and could induce G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in these two cell lines. Treatment with ISL-17 resulted in increased ROS production and elevated autophagy levels in SGC-7901 cells. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway was down-regulated after treatment with ISL-17 in SGC-7901 cells. The results of drug-likeness and pharmacokinetic prediction indicated that all the ISL analogues complied with Lipinski's rule of five and Veber rule and had a favorable ADME character. Overall, our results attest that ISL-17 holds promise as a candidate agent against gastric cancer.
Which Measures Better Discriminate Language Minority Bilingual Children With and Without Developmental Language Disorder? A Study Testing a Combined Protocol of First and Second Language Assessment
Authors: Bonifacci Paola , Atti Elena , Casamenti Martina , Piani Barbara , Porrelli Marina , Mari Rita
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study aimed to assess a protocol for the evaluation of developmental language disorder (DLD) in language minority bilingual children (LMBC). The specific aims were (a) to test group differences, (b) to evaluate the discriminant validity of single measures included in the protocol, and (c) to define which model of combined variables had the best results in terms of efficacy and efficiency.

Method

Two groups of LMBC were involved, one with typical development (
n
= 35) selected from mainstream schools and one with DLD (
n
= 20). The study protocol included the collection of demographic information and linguistic history; a battery of standardized tests in their second language (Italian), including nonword repetition, morphosyntactic comprehension and production, and vocabulary and narrative skills; and direct (children's evaluation) and indirect (parents' questionnaire) assessment of linguistic skills in their first language.

Results

Results showed that the two groups differed in almost all linguistic measures. None of the single measures reached good specificity/sensitivity scores. A combined model that included direct and indirect assessment of first language skills, morphosyntactic comprehension and production, and nonword repetition reached good discriminant validity, with 94.5% of cases correctly classified.

Discussion

The study defines a complex picture of the linguistic profile in bilingual children with DLD, compared to typically developing bilingual peers. The results reinforce the idea that no single measure can be considered optimal in distinguishing children with DLD from typical peers. The study offers a concrete example of an effective and efficient protocol with which to discriminate LMBC with and without DLD.
The LOFAR view of intergalactic magnetic fields with giant radio galaxies
Authors: Stuardi C. , O’Sullivan S. P. , Bonafede A. , Brüggen M. , Dabhade P. , Horellou C. , Morganti R. , Carretti E. , Heald G. , Iacobelli M. , Vacca V.
Published: June 2020

Context. Giant radio galaxies (GRGs) are physically large radio sources that extend well beyond their host galaxy environment. Their polarization properties are affected by the poorly constrained magnetic field that permeates the intergalactic medium on megaparsec scales. A low frequency (< 200 MHz) polarization study of this class of radio sources is now possible with LOFAR.

Aims. Here we investigate the polarization properties and Faraday rotation measure (RM) of a catalog of GRGs detected in the LOFAR Two-meter Sky Survey. This is the first low frequency polarization study of a large sample of radio galaxies that were selected on their physical size. We explore the magneto-ionic properties of their under-dense environment and probe intergalactic magnetic fields using the Faraday rotation properties of their radio lobes. LOFAR is a key instrument for this kind of analysis because it can probe small amounts of Faraday dispersion (< 1 rad m−2), which are associated with weak magnetic fields and low thermal gas densities.

Methods. We used RM synthesis in the 120−168 MHz band to search for polarized emission and to derive the RM and fractional polarization of each detected source component. We study the depolarization between 1.4 GHz and 144 MHz using images from the NRAO VLA Sky Survey. We investigate the correlation of the detection rate, the RM difference between the lobes, and the depolarization with different parameters as follows: the angular and linear size of the sources and the projected distance from the closest foreground galaxy cluster. In our sample, we also included 3C 236, which is one of the largest radio galaxies known.

Results. From a sample of 240 GRGs, we detected 37 sources in polarization, all of which have a total flux density above 56 mJy. We detected significant RM differences between the lobes, which would be inaccessible at gigahertz frequencies, with a median value of ∼1 rad m−2. The fractional polarization of the detected GRGs at 1.4 GHz and 144 MHz is consistent with a small amount of Faraday depolarization (a Faraday dispersion < 0.3 rad m−2). Our analysis shows that the lobes are expanding into a low-density (< 10−5 cm−3) local environment that is permeated by weak magnetic fields (< 0.1 μG) with fluctuations on scales of 3−25 kpc. The presence of foreground galaxy clusters appears to influence the polarization detection rate up to 2R500. In general, this work demonstrates the ability of LOFAR to quantify the rarefied environments in which these GRGs exist and highlights them as an excellent statistical sample to use as high precision probes of magnetic fields in the intergalactic medium and the Milky Way.
Morphology and surface photometry of a sample of isolated early-type galaxies from deep imaging
Authors: Rampazzo R. , Omizzolo A. , Uslenghi M. , Román J. , Mazzei P. , Verdes-Montenegro L. , Marino A. , Jones M. G.
Published: June 2020

Context. Isolated early-type galaxies are evolving in unusually poor environments for this morphological family, which is typical of cluster inhabitants. We investigate the mechanisms driving the evolution of these galaxies.

Aims. Several studies indicate that interactions, accretions, and merging episodes leave their signature on the galaxy structure, from the nucleus down to the faint outskirts. We focus on revealing such signatures, if any, in a sample of isolated early-type galaxies, and we quantitatively revise their galaxy classification.

Methods. We observed 20 (out of 104) isolated early-type galaxies, selected from the AMIGA catalog, with the 4KCCD camera at the Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope in the Sloan Digital Sky Survey g and r bands. These are the deepest observations of a sample of isolated early-type galaxies so far: on average, the light profiles reach μg ≈ 28.11 ± 0.70 mag arcsec−2 and μr ≈ 27.36 ± 0.68 mag arcsec−2. The analysis was performed using the AIDA package, providing point spread function-corrected 2D surface photometry up to the galaxy outskirts. The package provides a model of the 2D galaxy light distribution, which after model subtraction enhances the fine and peculiar structures in the residual image of the galaxies.

Results. Our re-classification suggests that the sample is composed of bona fide early-type galaxies spanning from ellipticals to late-S0s galaxies. Most of the surface brightness profiles are best fitted with a bulge plus disc model, suggesting the presence of an underlying disc structure. The residuals obtained after the model subtraction show the nearly ubiquitous presence of fine structures, such as shells, stellar fans, rings, and tails. Shell systems are revealed in about 60% of these galaxies.

Conclusions. Because interaction, accretion, and merging events are widely interpreted as the origin of the fans, ripples, shells and tails in galaxies, we suggest that most of these isolated early-type galaxies have experienced such events. Because they are isolated (after 2–3 Gyr), these galaxies are the cleanest environment in which to study phenomena connected with events like these.
Technology as a tool to enhance motivation and learning
Authors: Raposo Albertina , Durão Anabela , Estradas Ana , Ribeiro Ivana
Published: June 2020

The aim of this work is to think about how technologies can have a role in motivation for learning. To respond to the necessary paradigm shift school faces, resulting from a different way of life in very recent past, the use of technology proves to be a powerful ally, ensuring student’s ability to respond to technical and scientific questions as well as creating an environment of trust and security in classroom. Considering that we are at a critical turning point in technological evolution and changes seem irreversible. What new challenges does the teacher also face in this field? To understand what makes the activity and the class remarkable for students, we are using semi-structured interview, focus group and questionnaire. Methods and technics used in the classes were diversified, and according to the intended goal. The use of these methods was not conditioned by technology but by the defined learning goals. Although this work is still beginning and needs to be continued, the results show that technology helps students to feel confident since it doesn’t expose individual (un)knowledge, allows them to learn with pleasure, generates group dynamics and globally, creates happy moments that increase motivation and improve learning. Results show us that it is imperative to realize how much the teacher as an important integrative agent mediating between the real/virtual, technological/scientific, curriculum/skill, cognitive/emotional worlds.
Biodecolorization of anthraquinone dyes using immobilised mycelium of Bjerkandera adusta CCBAS930
Authors: Rybczyńska-Tkaczyk Kamila , Korniłłowicz-Kowalska Teresa
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to characterize the activity of oxidoreductases during biotransformation of 0.01% anthraquinone dyes: Alizarin Blue Black B (ABBB) and Acid Blue 129 (AB129), Carminic Acid (CA), Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBBR), Acid Green 25 (AG25) and Poly R-478 by immobilized strain of Bjerkandera adusta CCBAS 930. Phenolic compounds, phytotoxicity (Lepidium sativum L.), biotoxicity were evaluated to determine the toxicity of anthraquinone dyes before and after the treatment with immobilized B. adusta CCBAS 930. More than 60% of CA and AB129 were removed by immobilized B. adusta CCBAS after 7 days. No secondary products toxic to plants and bacteria were formed during immobilized cultures of B. adusta CCBAS 930.
Evaluation of the Quality of Wood Pellets Available on the Market
Authors: Szyszlak-Bargłowicz Joanna , Zając Grzegorz , Hawrot-Paw Małgorzata , Koniuszy Adam
Published: June 2020

The purpose of the research was to assess the quality of wood pellets available on the market. This assessment was made on the basis of the technical analysis and elemental composition: C, H, N, S. 14 different types of wood pellets available on the market were tested, each of them came from a different producer. In addition, an attempt was made to assess the content of organic matter in the tested pellets on the basis of methane fermentation. The innovation in the presented work is the use of biomethane production potential assessment for pellet fuel, which until now has been practised only in the case of substrates for biogas production. The parameters characterizing the tested pellets in energy terms did not differ significantly. The high calorific value and low ash and sulfur content indicated that the output biomass was of good quality. The differences in the production potential of biomethane of the tested pellets do not allow to state unequivocally that methane fermentation can be used to assess the quality of pellets and their contents of organic matter. However, the large BMP differences obtained for individual pellets suggest that some pellets may contain impurities inhibiting the methane fermentation process.
WEB GIS SOLUTION FOR URBAN PLANNING DOCUMENTATION WORKFLOW
Authors: Nistor-Lopatenco Livia , Iacovlev Andrei
Published: June 2020

The goal of this work is to study the use of WEB GIS open source solution for workflow organizing of urban planning documentation: zoning permit, building permit, occupancy permit, utilities connection. A web GIS solution Giscuit.Com developed by a moldavian company VEC.MD was used as a framework for implementation of test version of a specialized website Primaria.Giscuit.Com. Giscuit is a cost-effective web mapping platform built on powerful, cutting-edge, open source geospatial components. The goal is to make it as easy as possible to build more secure, reliable and modern web GIS applications. With Giscuit users stay in control of their content through centralized management of vector and raster spatial data. Giscuit allows users to visualize, share, edit and analyze geospatial data. It has powerful web-based administrator panel with features like data import, layer styling, user management, permissions management, publishing data and more. It is compliant with the Open Geospatial Consortium standards, this is achieved through OpenLayers or PHP MapScript supporting several OGC standards like WMS, WFS, WMC etc. Giscuit provides a scalable GIS server platform that can be deployed on a single Linux or Microsoft Windows machine, it can be distributed across multiple servers or deployed on cloud infrastructure.
Analysis of the real estate market in the city of Lublin (Poland) from the perspective of spatial development
Authors: Pochwatka Patrycja
Published: June 2020

Real estate, in modern times, is exclusive merchandise, because it is in limited supply and is relatively high-priced compared with goods such as food, clothing, luxury goods. Properly conducted spatial planning can bring measurable benefits to both citizens and investors. This study aims to explore the directions of spatial development in the city of Lublin through an analysis of undeveloped properties sold over a study period of twenty-one months. The main objective of the study was to assess the conditions of spatial development in the city. Data from the Register of Prices and Values for Real Estates were analyzed and visualized cartographically. The number of sales of real property located on the outskirts of the city was far larger than for property situated in the central part of the area studied. During the analyzed period, a total area of 0.8895 km2of land was sold in Lublin, which represents about 0.6% of the entire city area. Vast areas were sold in the districts located on the outskirts. Unsurprisingly, the smallest percentage of land was sold in the central part of the city. The trends observed on the undeveloped real estate market are helpful in assessing the level of suburbanization or urban-sprawl. Besides, the usefulness of cartographic methods for real estate market studies was stressed.
Developing Web-Based 3D Health-Aware Routing for Pedestrians and Cyclists
Authors: Sihombing Rosanny , Sini Sabo Kwada , Fitzky Matthias
Published: June 2020

As the population of people migrating to cities keeps increasing, concerns have been raised about air quality in cities and how it impacts everyday life. Thus, it is important to demonstrate ways of avoiding polluted areas. The approach described in this paper is intended to draw attention to polluted areas and help pedestrians and cyclists to achieve the lowest possible level of air pollution when planning daily routes. We utilise real-time air quality data which is obtained from monitoring stations across the world. The data consist of the geolocation of monitoring stations as well as index numbers to scale the air quality level in every corresponding monitoring stations. When the air quality level is considered having a moderate health concern for people with respiratory disease, such as asthma, an alternative route that avoid air pollution will be calculated so that pedestrians and cyclists can be informed. The implementation can visualize air quality level in several areas in 3D map as well as informs health-aware route for pedestrian and cyclist. It automatically adjusts the observed air quality areas based on the availability of monitoring stations. The proposed approach results in a prototype of a health-aware 3D navigation system for pedestrian and cyclist.
Suburbanization as a problem of rural development
Authors: Stręk Żanna , Postek Paweł , Sobczak Angelika , Rybaczek Paulina
Published: June 2020

Polish agriculture is now facing many problems. One of them is the fragmentation of land. This phenomenon is rooted in history. Farmers willing to distribute their assets among their children gave a certain part of the farm to each of them. Due to their intention to split the assets fairly between the heirs, the fragmentation of land increased. The arduousness of this phenomenon is manifested in the fact that plots that are too small or too narrow and their irregular shape make running profitable agricultural activity difficult. Another negative factor affecting the spatial arrangement of rural areas is the process of suburbanization. During suburbanization specific links are formed between the city and rural areas such as the flow of people, goods or capital. They play an important role in transforming those areas, and in particular in determining the method of management of such areas and the location of respective types of activity. Suburbanization leads to a decrease in the population density in city centres and an increase in the suburbs. The emigration of the indigenous city people to the suburbs grew in popularity. The effect of the process is a growing fragmentation of plots in order to separate building plots that are smaller and smaller. In many cases the plots used for agricultural purposes but in local spatial development plans destined for housing development are split into multiple smaller plots and with time they are turned into suburban single-family housing estates. The influx of urban communities and the related expansion of building development in rural areas lead to the loss of rural identity. This is how the agricultural nature of rural areas where farms withdraw from agricultural activity changes.

This article aims at exploring the selected spatial factors such as the analysis of use and fragmentation of land owned by private farmers, as well as the analysis of the suburbanization process in the villages within the commune of Konopnica in the Lublin county, Lublin voivodeship. The surveys were based on a cartographic and descriptive method. The method comprised a detailed survey of the spatial structure of selected villages within the commune of Konopnica based on a cadastral map, the index of plots and a reconnaissance. Information about the area of each plot and information about the registration unit was used as input data for a detailed analysis of the fragmentation of private plots in five area ranges, an analysis of the use of land, and a detailed analysis of changes in the size of farms in 2012-2017. The results of studies will make it possible to determine the direction and scope of changes in the fragmentation of land in the villages situated within the analysed commune.
Implementation of the BEM skewed-wake model within the multibody aero-elastic solver Cp-Lambda
Authors: Petrović Igor , Campagnolo Filippo , Kosel Tadej , Bottasso Carlo L.
Published: June 2020

To account for the problem of an azimuthally constant induction in the BEM method, which influences on incorrectly predicted aerodynamic loads in the yawed flow, a skewed-wake model implementation to the BEM method has been performed. The numerical aerodynamic loads have been compared with the wind tunnel data of the NREL Phase VI and against another numerical campaign. At first, the model predictions have been validated against experimental data performed with aligned flow conditions, showing a reasonable match. Successively, the model predictions are validated against experimental results obtained with the wind turbine yawed. Results show, a possible better prediction of loads at yawed flow with Skewed-Wake correction, however the method does not overall correlate better, compared to the BEM method with implemented local variability of the induction factor.
Energy Transmission Mode Based on All-electric Vessels for Pelagic Islands and Its Coordinated Scheduling Strategy
Authors: Wang Zhixun , Liu Chang , Lin Xiangning , Li Zhengtian
Published: June 2020

There is a lack of effective liaison between pelagic island microgrids, leading to inflexible transmission of energy between islands. However, the interconnection mode by submarine cables is not economical due to the long distances between islands. Therefore, an energy supply mode based on allelectric vessels is proposed in this paper. The framework and working principle of the mode are first introduced. A two-stage optimization model is established considering the coordinated operation of island microgrid and the swapping plan of all-electric vessels. The simulation results show that the proposed transmission mode can reduce overall costs and the proposed scheduling strategy can promote renewable energy consumption and reduce operation costs.
Optimization of Artificial Neural Networks Based Models for Wave Height Prediction
Authors: Stăvărache Gheorghe , Ciortan Sorin , Rusu Eugen
Published: June 2020

For an efficient wave energy extraction, the evolution of some specific parameters must be known. These parameters, like significant wave height and period, are mainly determined by the wind speed and influenced by some sea environment characteristics. Their evolution in time is one of the basic information necessary for designing of an accurate energy conversion system. In many scientific works the benefits of artificial neural networks based modeling are presented. These models allow the prediction and optimization of the wave parameters starting from experimentally acquired data. Due to specific calculus method of the artificial neural networks, in order to obtain accurate results, a very important step is the appropriate neural model design. If the model is optimal correlated with the data processed, the results obtained can be more significant than those coming from the mathematical formulas. The main neural models parameters that must be taken into account for an optimal design are model structure, transfer function and training algorithm. This paper presents an investigation of the results obtained with different models, proving that for a specific dataset a specific neural model offers the best results. Several models are analyzed, for a dataset corresponding to specific point in Black Sea and a comparison of results is presented.
Optimal release of mosquitoes to control dengue transmission
Authors: Almeida Luis , Haddon Antoine , Kermorvant Claire , Léculier Alexis , Privat Yannick , Strugarek Martin , Vauchelet Nicolas , Zubelli Jorge P.
Published: June 2020

In order to prevent the propagation of human diseases transmitted by mosquitoes (as dengue or zika), a solution is to release mosquitoes infected by Wolbachia. In this study, we model the release and the propagation over time and space of such infected mosquitoes in a population of uninfected ones. The aim of this study is to investigate the best location in space of the release to ensure invasion by the infected mosquitoes.
Swimming at low Reynolds number
Authors: Berti Luca , Giraldi Laetitia , Prud’homme Christophe
Published: June 2020

We address the swimming problem at low Reynolds number. This regime, which is typically used for micro-swimmers, is described by Stokes equations. We couple a PDE solver of Stokes equations, derived from the Feel++ ﬁnite elements library, to a quaternion-based rigid-body solver. We validate our numerical results both on a 2D exact solution and on an exact solution for a rotating rigid body respectively. Finally, we apply them to simulate the motion of a one-hinged swimmer, which obeys to the scallop theorem.
Cell migration in complex environments: chemotaxis and topographical obstacles
Authors: Cucchi Alessandro , Etchegaray Christèle , Meunier Nicolas , Navoret Laurent , Sabbagh Lamis
Published: June 2020

Cell migration is a complex phenomenon that plays an important role in many biological processes. Our aim here is to build and study models of reduced complexity to describe some aspects of cell motility in tissues. Precisely, we study the impact of some biochemical and mechanical cues on the cell dynamics in a 2D framework. For that purpose, we model the cell as an active particle with a velocity solution to a particular Stochastic Differential Equation that describes the intracellular dynamics as well as the presence of some biochemical cues. In the 1D case, an asymptotic analysis puts to light a transition between migration dominated by the cell’s internal activity and migration dominated by an external signal. In a second step, we use the contact algorithm introduced in [15,18] to describe the cell dynamics in an environment with obstacles. In the 2D case, we study how a cell submitted to a constant directional force that mimics the action of chemoattractant, behaves in the presence of obstacles. We numerically observe the existence of a velocity value that the cell can not exceed even if the directional force intensity increases. We find that this threshold value depends on the number of obstacles. Our result confirms a result that was already observed in a discrete framework in [3,4].
Suizidalität: Theoretische Konzepte,
Risikoabschätzung und Behandlungsansätze
Authors: Glaesmer Heide , Spangenberg Lena , Forkmann Thomas , Teismann Tobias
Published: June 2020

Vergleicht man den Kenntnisstand zum therapeutischen Umgang mit suizidalen
Patienten mit dem zu anderen Störungsbereichen, wird ein erheblicher
Nachholbedarf deutlich. Gleichwohl hat es in den vergangenen Jahren eine sehr
positive Entwicklung gegeben, die sowohl die psychologische Theoriebildung als
auch die Entwicklung von Behandlungsansätzen betrifft. Im Folgenden wird
ein Überblick über den aktuellen Stand gegeben.
Predictive Value of VIBE using Subtraction to Evaluate Idiopathic Facial Palsy after Starting Therapy
Authors: Tomita Hayato , Detmar Klaus , Manava Panagiota , Nakajima Yasuo , Lell Michael , Adamus Ralf
Published: June 2020

Purpose To determine the predictive value of 3-dimensional spoiled gradient-echo volumetric interpolated breath-hold examination (VIBE) using subtraction to evaluate the short-term effect of therapy for facial palsy.

Materials and Methods We included 97 patients with idiopathic facial palsy (52 male, 45 female; aged 50.7 ± 19.4 years) who underwent MR imaging with a contrast agent after starting therapy. The mean interval between onset and therapy was 1.55 ± 1.69 days, between therapy and MR imaging was 3.19 ± 2.78 days, and between MR imaging and assessment of the therapeutic effect was 3.50 ± 0.71 days. The degree of therapeutic effect was determined using a 4-grade scale based on the House–Brackmann scale for grading facial nerve function. Two radiologists reviewed VIBE with pre- and postcontrast subtraction using the 4-point scale. We evaluated the diagnostic performance and compared the degree of therapeutic effect and enhancement of facial nerves that were divided into 5 segments bilaterally.

Results We identified 98 facial palsy initially and significant enhancement in 55 facial nerves after the start of therapy and residual palsy in 87. Sensitivity for all facial palsy was 62.0 %, specificity was 90.9 %, positive predictive value was 98.2 %, negative predictive value was 23.3 %, and accuracy was 65.3 %. Eleven patients recovered completely, 1 showed significant enhancement, and the remaining 10 did not show significant enhancement of the facial nerve.

Conclusion VIBE has a potential to predict the prognostic outcome and assess facial palsy after the start of therapy.

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SNAr Reaction/Claisen Rearrangement Approach to 2,4-Diisoprenylxanthones: Total Synthesis of Garcinone A
Authors: Matsumoto Takashi , Mochizuki Miho , Fujimoto Yuuki , Yanai Hikaru
Published: June 2020

A total synthesis of garcinone A, a natural xanthone possessing a 2,4-diisoprenylated structure, was accomplished by utilizing a readily available 1,3-difluoroxanthone derivative as the key intermediate through the installation of two isoprenyl side chains by an SNAr reaction with the alkoxide of 1,1-dimethylallyl alcohol followed by a Claisen rearrangement. The strategy also permitted the selective installation of mutually different allylic moieties at the C2 and C4 positions.