bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methodical inaccuracy of the Z-scan method for few-cycle terahertz pulses
Authors: Melnik Maksim , Vorontsova Irina , Putilin Sergey , Tcypkin Anton , Kozlov Sergei
Published: June 2019

Modern sources of THz radiation generate high-intensity pulses allowing to observe nonlinear effects in this spectral range. To describe many nonlinear effects theoretically, it is necessary to know the nonlinear refractive index coefficient of optical materials. The work studies the applicability of the Z-scan method to determine the nonlinear refractive index coefficient in the THz frequency range for few-cycle pulses. We have discussed the correctness of the known Z-scan method for calculating the nonlinear refractive index coefficient for broadband THz radiation regarding number of cycles pulses have. We have demonstrated that the error in determining the nonlinear refractive index coefficient is always greater than 70% for true single-cycle pulses. With the increase in the number of oscillations to the measurement error shows strong dependence on the sample thickness and can vary from 2% to 90% regarding the parameters chosen. The fact that such radiation dispersion length is commensurate with the nonlinear length or even less than the latter results in the discrepancy mentioned. It is demonstrated that the decrease in the sample thickness leads to the reduction of the nonlinear refractive index coefficient determination error, and this error is <2% when the ratio between the sample thickness and the pulse longitudinal spatial size is ≤1. This can relate to the fact that the nonlinear effects in such a thin sample occur faster than the dispersion ones.
Phenotypic and molecular cytogenetic variability in calendula (Calendula officinalis L.) cultivars and mutant lines obtained via chemical mutagenesis
Authors: Samatadze Tatiana E. , Zoshchuk Svyatoslav A. , Hazieva Firdaus M. , Yurkevich Olga Yu , Svistunova Natalya Yu , Morozov Alexander I. , Amosova Alexandra V. , Muravenko Olga V.
Published: June 2019

The morphological, meiotic and chromosomal variability were studied in two cultivars of Calendula officinalis L. and their mutant lines obtained though chemical mutagenesis using diethyl sulphate (DES) (0.04%, 0.08%) and dimethyl sulphate (DMS) (0.025%, 0.05%). The studied cultivars displayed different sensitivity to DMS and DES mutagens. More M1 plants with morphological changes were observed in C. officinalis cv. ‘Zolotoe more’ than in cv. ‘Rajskij sad’. DMS and DES at low concentrations had positive effects on main agro-metrical traits in both cultivars including plant height, inflorescence diameter and number of inflorescences per plant. Dose-dependent increase in number of various meiotic abnormalities was revealed in both mutant lines. Comparative karyotype analysis and FISH-based visualization of 45S and 5S rDNA indicated a high level of karyotype stability in M1 and M2 plants. Seed treatments with DMS and DES at certain concentrations resulted in higher yields of inflorescences in M1 plants compared to the control. In M2 generation, dose-dependent reduction in the yields of inflorescences was observed. Our findings demonstrate that DMS and DES at low concentrations have great potential in calendula mutation breeding.
Lysophosphatidic acids and their substrate lysophospholipids in cerebrospinal fluid as objective biomarkers for evaluating the severity of lumbar spinal stenosis
Authors: Hayakawa Kentaro , Kurano Makoto , Ohya Junichi , Oichi Takeshi , Kano Kuniyuki , Nishikawa Masako , Uranbileg Baasanjav , Kuwajima Ken , Sumitani Masahiko , Tanaka Sakae , Aoki Junken , Yatomi Yutaka , Chikuda Hirotaka
Published: June 2019

Lysophospholipids (LPLs) are known to have potentially important roles in the initiation and maintenance of neuropathic pain in animal models. This study investigated the association between the clinical severity of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of LPLs, using human samples. We prospectively identified twenty-eight patients with LSS and fifteen controls with idiopathic scoliosis or bladder cancer without neurological symptoms. We quantified LPLs from CSF using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. We assessed clinical outcome measures of LSS (Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory (NPSI) and Zurich Claudication Questionnaire (ZCQ)) and categorized patients into two groups according to their severity. Five species of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), nine species of lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), and one species of lysophosphatidylinositol (LPI) were detected. The CSF levels of all species of LPLs were significantly higher in LSS patients than controls. Patients in the severe NPSI group had significantly higher LPL levels (three species of LPA and nine species of LPC) than the mild group. Patients in the severe ZCQ group also had significantly higher LPL levels (four species of LPA and nine species of LPC). This investigation demonstrates a positive correlation between the CSF levels of LPLs and the clinical severity of LSS. LPLs are potential biomarkers for evaluating the severity of LSS.
Genome wide identification and comparative analysis of glutathione transferases (GST) family genes in Brassica napus
Authors: Wei Lijuan , Zhu Yan , Liu Ruiying , Zhang Aoxiang , Zhu Meicheng , Xu Wen , Lin Ai , Lu Kun , Li Jiana
Published: June 2019

Glutathione transferases (GSTs) are multifunctional enzymes that play important roles in plant development and responses to biotic and abiotic stress. However, a systematic analysis of GST family members in Brassica napus has not yet been reported. In this study, we identified 179 full-length GST genes in B. napus, 44.2% of which are clustered on various chromosomes. In addition, we identified 141 duplicated GST gene pairs in B. napus. Molecular evolutionary analysis showed that speciation and whole-genome triplication played important roles in the divergence of the B. napus GST duplicated genes. Transcriptome analysis of 21 tissues at different developmental stages showed that 47.6% of duplicated GST gene pairs have divergent expression patterns, perhaps due to structural divergence. We constructed a GST gene coexpression network with genes encoding various transcription factors (NAC, MYB, WRKY and bZIP) and identified six modules, including genes expressed during late seed development (after 40 days; BnGSTU19, BnGSTU20 and BnGSTZ1) and in the seed coat (BnGSTF6 and BnGSTF12), stamen and anther (BnGSTF8), root and stem (BnGSTU21), leaves and funiculus, as well as during the late stage of pericarp development (after 40 days; BnGSTU12 and BnGSTF2) and in the radicle during seed germination (BnGSTF14, BnGSTU1, BnGSTU28, and BnGSTZ1). These findings lay the foundation for elucidating the roles of GSTs in B. napus.
Patterns of genetic structure and adaptive positive selection in the Lithuanian population from high-density SNP data
Authors: Urnikyte A. , Flores-Bello A. , Mondal M. , Molyte A. , Comas D. , Calafell F. , Bosch E. , Kučinskas V.
Published: June 2019

The analysis of geographically specific regions and the characterization of fine-scale patterns of genetic diversity may facilitate a much better understanding of the microevolutionary processes affecting local human populations. Here we generated genome-wide high-density SNP genotype data in 425 individuals from six geographical regions in Lithuania and combined our dataset with available ancient and modern data to explore genetic population structure, ancestry components and signatures of natural positive selection in the Lithuanian population. Our results show that Lithuanians are a homogenous population, genetically differentiated from neighbouring populations but within the general expected European context. Moreover, we not only confirm that Lithuanians preserve one of the highest proportions of western, Scandinavian and eastern hunter-gather ancestry components found in European populations but also that of an steppe Early to Middle Bronze Age pastoralists, which together configure the genetic distinctiveness of the Lithuanian population. Finally, among the top signatures of positive selection detected in Lithuanians, we identified several candidate genes related with diet (PNLIP, PPARD), pigmentation (SLC24A5, TYRP1 and PPARD) and the immune response (BRD2, HLA-DOA, IL26 and IL22).
Machine learning detection of obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy using a wearable biosensor
Authors: Green Eric M. , van Mourik Reinier , Wolfus Charles , Heitner Stephen B. , Dur Onur , Semigran Marc J.
Published: June 2019

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a heritable disease of heart muscle that increases the risk for heart failure, stroke, and sudden death, even in asymptomatic patients. With only 10–20% of affected people currently diagnosed, there is an unmet need for an effective screening tool outside of the clinical setting. Photoplethysmography uses a noninvasive optical sensor incorporated in commercial smart watches to detect blood volume changes at the skin surface. In this study, we obtained photoplethysmography recordings and echocardiograms from 19 HCM patients with left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (oHCM) and a control cohort of 64 healthy volunteers. Automated analysis showed a significant difference in oHCM patients for 38/42 morphometric pulse wave features, including measures of systolic ejection time, rate of rise during systole, and respiratory variation. We developed a machine learning classifier that achieved a C-statistic for oHCM detection of 0.99 (95% CI: 0.99–1.0). With further development, this approach could provide a noninvasive and widely available screening tool for obstructive HCM.
Dual Ca2+-dependent gates in human Bestrophin1 underlie disease-causing mechanisms of gain-of-function mutations
Authors: Ji Changyi , Kittredge Alec , Hopiavuori Austin , Ward Nancy , Chen Shoudeng , Fukuda Yohta , Zhang Yu , Yang Tingting
Published: June 2019

Mutations of human BEST1, encoding a Ca2+-activated Cl− channel (hBest1), cause macular degenerative disorders. Best1 homolog structures reveal an evolutionarily conserved channel architecture highlighted by two landmark restrictions (named the “neck” and “aperture”, respectively) in the ion conducting pathway, suggesting a unique dual-switch gating mechanism, which, however, has not been characterized well. Using patch clamp and crystallography, we demonstrate that both the neck and aperture in hBest1 are Ca2+-dependent gates essential for preventing channel leakage resulting from Ca2+-independent, spontaneous gate opening. Importantly, three patient-derived mutations (D203A, I205T and Y236C) lead to Ca2+-independent leakage and elevated Ca2+-dependent anion currents due to enhanced opening of the gates. Moreover, we identify a network of residues critically involved in gate operation. Together, our results suggest an indispensable role of the neck and aperture of hBest1 for channel gating, and uncover disease-causing mechanisms of hBest1 gain-of-function mutations.
Melting and re-entrant melting of polydisperse hard disks
Authors: Sampedro Ruiz Pablo , Lei Qun-li , Ni Ran
Published: June 2019

Because of long-wavelength fluctuations, the nature of solids and phase transitions in 2D are different from those in 3D systems, and have been heavily debated in past decades, in which the focus was on the existence of hexatic phase. Here, by using large scale computer simulations, we investigate the melting transition in 2D systems of polydisperse hard disks. We find that, with increasing the particle size polydispersity, the melting transition can be qualitatively changed from the recently proposed two-stage process to the Kosterlitz-Thouless-Halperin-Nelson-Young scenario with significantly enlarged stability range for hexatic phase. Moreover, re-entrant melting transitions are found in high density systems of polydisperse hard disks, which were proven impossible in 3D polydisperse hard-sphere systems. These suggest a new fundamental difference between phase transitions in polydisperse systems in 2D and 3D.
Beyond efficiency: phenothiazine, a new commercially viable substituent for hole transport materials in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Maciejczyk Michal R. , Chen Ruihao , Brown Alasdair , Zheng Nanfeng , Robertson Neil
Published: June 2019

For the first time in perovskite solar cells, phenothiazine has been introduced as a low cost substituent to replace the commonly-used dimethoxydiphenylamine, which constitutes almost 90% of the final cost of hole transport materials.
N-doped magnetic covalent organic frameworks for preconcentration of allergenic disperse dyes in textiles of fall protection equipment
Authors: Wu Fang-Fang , Chen Qing-Yin , Ma Xiu-Juan , Li Ting-Ting , Wang Li-Feng , Hong Jing , Sheng Ye-Hong , Ye Ming-Li , Zhu Yan
Published: June 2019

A novel N-doped magnetic covalent organic framework (N-Mag-COF) has been synthesized.
Efficient targeted cancer cell detection, isolation and enumeration using immuno-nano/hybrid magnetic microgels
Authors: Seyfoori Amir , Seyyed Ebrahimi S. A. , Yousefi Arman , Akbari Mohsen
Published: June 2019

Magnetic nano/hybrid structures have drawn ample attention in the field of biotechnology due to their excellent magnetic properties and biocompatibility.
Direct production of aromatics from syngas over a hybrid FeMn Fischer–Tropsch catalyst and HZSM-5 zeolite: local environment effect and mechanism-directed tuning of the aromatic selectivity
Authors: Wang Ting , Xu Yuebing , Shi Chengming , Jiang Feng , Liu Bing , Liu Xiaohao
Published: June 2019

The aromatics formation mechanism and tuning of the aromatic selectivity over FeMn–HZSM-5 catalyst system are presented.
Effect of ZnO on acid–base properties and catalytic performances of ZnO/ZrO2–SiO2 catalysts in 1,3-butadiene production from ethanol–water mixture
Authors: Larina Olga V. , Kyriienko Pavlo I. , Balakin Dmytro Yu. , Vorokhta Mykhailo , Khalakhan Ivan , Nychiporuk Yurii M. , Matolín Vladimír , Soloviev Sergiy O. , Orlyk Svitlana M.
Published: June 2019

The effect of ZnO and the preparation method of ZnO/ZrO2–SiO2 catalysts on their acid–base properties and catalytic performances in the conversion of diluted ethanol mixtures into 1,3-butadiene (BD) is presented.
Formation of silicate nanoscrolls through solvothermal treatment of layered octosilicate intercalated with organoammonium ions
Authors: Asakura Yusuke , Sugihara Megumi , Hirohashi Takeru , Torimoto Aya , Matsumoto Takuya , Koike Masakazu , Kuroda Yoshiyuki , Wada Hiroaki , Shimojima Atsushi , Kuroda Kazuyuki
Published: June 2019

Silicate nanoscrolls with crystalline walls were prepared by intercalation of layered octosilicate with organoammonium ions and the subsequent solvothermal treatment.
Bio-inspired transparent structural color film and its application in biomimetic camouflage
Authors: Meng Zhipeng , Huang Baoting , Wu Suli , Li Lu , Zhang Shufen
Published: June 2019

A transparent structural color film was fabricated inspired by the transparent wings of insects to be applied in biomimetic camouflage.
Molecular structure characterization of asphaltene in the presence of inhibitors with nanoemulsions
Authors: Alhreez Mahmoud , Wen Dongsheng
Published: June 2019

The decrease of aromaticity and the reduction in the aliphatic side chains of asphaltene are responsible for increased asphaltene stability.
Tungsten anchored onto functionalized SBA-15: an efficient catalyst for diastereoselective synthesis of 2-azapyrrolizidine alkaloid scaffolds
Authors: Safaei-Ghomi Javad , Bakhtiari Atefeh
Published: June 2019

We used a novel hybrid catalyst in chemo-, regio-, and diastereoselective multi-component reactions (MCR).
Next-generation of selective histone deacetylase inhibitors
Authors: Yang Feifei , Zhao Na , Ge Di , Chen Yihua
Published: June 2019

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are clinically validated epigenetic drug targets for cancer treatment.
Mn promotes the rate of nucleation and growth of precipitates by increasing Frenkel pairs in Fe–Cu based alloys
Authors: Li Tong , Xie Yaoping , Wang Xiaojiao , Shen Qin , Li Jiabao , Guo Haibo , Xu Jingxiang , Liu Wenqing
Published: June 2019

Fe–1.0Cu (at%) and Fe–1.2Cu–2.2Mn alloys aged at 450 °C for 0.25 h, 1 h, 2 h, and 16 h after solution treatment at 900 °C for 2 h are investigated to reveal the role of the addition of Mn on the Cu precipitates in Fe–Cu based alloys.
Ordered structure effects on β-nucleated isotactic polypropylene/graphene oxide composites with different thermal histories
Authors: Yu Yansong , Xu Ruizhang , Chen Jinyao , Kang Jian , Xiang Ming , Li Yuanjie , Li Lu , Sheng Xingyue
Published: June 2019

In this paper, the influence of ordered structure effects on crystallization behaviors of β-nucleated isotactic polypropylene/graphene oxide composites with different thermal histories was studied.
Crystal structure of vyacheslavite, U(PO4)(OH), solved from natural nanocrystal: a precession electron diffraction tomography (PEDT) study and DFT calculations
Authors: Steciuk Gwladys , Ghazisaeed Seyedayat , Kiefer Boris , Plášil Jakub
Published: June 2019

The crystal structure of the U(iv)-phosphate mineral vyacheslavite has been solved from precession electron diffraction tomography (PEDT) data from the natural nano-crystal and further refined using density-functional theory (DFT) calculations.
Efficient solid-state emission and reversible mechanofluorochromism of a tetraphenylethene-pyrene-based β-diketonate boron complex
Authors: Sun Ting , Zhao Feng , Xi Gaolei , Gong Jian , Sun Mengyu , Dong Chang , Qiu Jingyi
Published: June 2019

A new twisted dye (BF2-TP) was synthesized, it possesses distinct mechanofluorochromism with large spectral shift of 62 nm.
Antimicrobial silver targets glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase in glycolysis of E. coli
Authors: Wang Haibo , Wang Minji , Yang Xinming , Xu Xiaohan , Hao Quan , Yan Aixin , Hu Menglong , Lobinski Ryszard , Li Hongyan , Sun Hongzhe
Published: June 2019

We report for the first time that antimicrobial Ag+ targets the glycolytic pathway through inhibiting the key enzyme of GAPDH.
Correction: Conversion of landfill gas to liquid fuels through a TriFTS (tri-reforming and Fischer–Tropsch synthesis) process: a feasibility study
Authors: Zhao Xianhui , Naqi Ahmad , Walker Devin M. , Roberge Tim , Kastelic Matthew , Joseph Babu , Kuhn John N.
Published: June 2019

Correction for ‘Conversion of landfill gas to liquid fuels through a TriFTS (tri-reforming and Fischer–Tropsch synthesis) process: a feasibility study’ by Xianhui Zhao et al., Sustainable Energy Fuels, 2019, 3, 539–549.
3D printable robust shape memory PET copolyesters with fire safety via π-stacking and synergistic crosslinking
Authors: Chen Lin , Zhao Hai-Bo , Ni Yan-Peng , Fu Teng , Wu Wan-Shou , Wang Xiu-Li , Wang Yu-Zhong
Published: June 2019

Multifunctional 3D printable polymers with fire safety are achieved from general PET by the π–π stacking and the synergistic crosslinking between phenylacetylene and phenylimide groups.
Alignment and bioactive molecule enrichment of bio-composite scaffolds towards peripheral nerve tissue engineering
Authors: Kijeńska-Gawrońska Ewa , Bolek Tomasz , Bil Monika , Swieszkowski Wojciech
Published: June 2019

Providing topographical cues along with chemical and biological factors is essential for biomimetic scaffolds applied in nerve tissue engineering.
Template growth of perovskites on yarn fibers induced by capillarity for flexible photoelectric applications
Authors: Ding Dong , Li Henan , Yao Huizhen , Liu Lai , Tian Bingbing , Su Chenliang , Wang Ye , Shi Yumeng
Published: June 2019

“Quasi-spring” network structured perovskite materials were fabricated by a capillary effect driven template synthesis method for flexible photoelectric applications.
Morphology of X-ray detector Cs2TeI6 perovskite thick films grown by electrospray method
Authors: Guo Jun , Xu Yadong , Yang Wenhui , Zhang Binbin , Dong Jiangpeng , Jie Wanqi , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: June 2019

For the purpose of developing Cs2TeI6 based X-ray detectors and imaging devices, Cs2TeI6 thick films were prepared using the electrospray method under ambient conditions.
Quantitative analysis of isolated boulder fields on comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko
Authors: Cambianica P. , Cremonese G. , Naletto G. , Lucchetti A. , Pajola M. , Penasa L. , Simioni E. , Massironi M. , Ferrari S. , Bodewits D. , La Forgia F. , Sierks H. , Lamy P. L. , Rodrigo R. , Koschny D. , Davidsson B. , Barucci M. A. , Bertaux J.-L. , Bertini I. , Da Deppo V. , Debei S. , De Cecco M. , Deller J. , Fornasier S. , Fulle M. , Gutiérrez P. J. , Güttler C. , Ip W.-H. , Keller H. U. , Lara L. M. , Lazzarin M. , Lin Z.-Y. , López-Moreno J. J. , Marzari F. , Mottola S. , Shi X. , Scholten F. , Toth I. , Tubiana C. , Vincent J.-B.
Published: June 2019

Aims.We provide a detailed quantitative analysis of isolated boulder fields situated in three different regions of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko: Imhotep, Hapi, and Hatmehit. This is done to supply a useful method for analyzing the morphology of the boulders and to characterize the regions themselves.

Methods.We used OSIRIS Narrow Angle Camera images with a spatial scale smaller than 2 m px−1and analyzed the size-frequency distribution and the cumulative fractional area per boulder population. In addition, we correlated shape parameters, such as circularity and solidity, with both the spatial and the size-frequency distribution of the three populations.

Results.We identified 11 811 boulders in the Imhotep, Hapi, and Hatmehit regions. We found that the Hatmehit and Imhotep areas show power indices in the range of −2.3/−2.7. These values could represent a transition between gravitational events caused by thermal weathering and sublimation, and material formed during collapses that has undergone sublimation. The Hapi area is characterized by a lower power index (−1.2/−1.7), suggesting that those boulders have a different origin. They can be the result of material formed during gravitational events and collapses that has undergone continuous fragmentation. We calculated the cumulative fractional area (CFA) in order to investigate how the area is covered by boulders as a function of their sizes. The Hatmehit and Imhotep regions show a CFA that is well fit by a power law. In contrast, the Hapi area does not show the same trend. We analyzed the fractal distributions, finding that the populations seem to be fractal at all dimensions, except for the Hapi distribution, which shows a possible fractal behavior for small dimensions only. Finally, the average values of the shape parameters reveal solid and roundish boulders in all populations we studied.
The physical and chemical structure of Sagittarius B2
Authors: Schwörer A. , Sánchez-Monge Á. , Schilke P. , Möller T. , Ginsburg A. , Meng F. , Schmiedeke A. , Müller H. S. P. , Lis D. , Qin S.-L.
Published: June 2019

Context.Sagittarius B2 (north) is a chemically rich, high-mass star-forming region located within the giant molecular cloud complex Sgr B2 in the central molecular zone of our Galaxy. Dust continuum emission at 242 GHz, obtained at high angular resolution with the Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA), reveals that it has a filamentary structure on scales of 0.1 pc.

Aims.We aim to characterize the filamentary structure of Sgr B2(N) and its kinematic properties using multiple molecular dense gas tracers.

Methods.We have used an unbiased, spectral line-survey that covers the frequency range from 211 to 275 GHz and obtained with ALMA (angular resolution of 0.′′4, or 3300 au) to study the small-scale structure of the dense gas in Sgr B2(N). In order to derive the kinematic properties of the gas in a chemically line-rich source like Sgr B2(N), we have developed a python-based tool that stacks all the detected line transitions of any molecular species. This allows us to increase the signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) of our observations and average out line blending effects, which are common in line-rich regions.

Results.A filamentary network is visible in Sgr B2(N) in the emission maps of the molecular species CH3OCHO, CH3OCH3, CH3OH and H2CS. In total, eight filaments are found that converge to the central hub (with a mass of 2000M⊙, assuming a temperature of 250 K) and extending for about 0.1 pc (up to 0.5 pc). The spatial structure, together with the presence of the massive central region, suggest that these filaments may be associated with accretion processes, transporting material from the outer regions to the central dense hub. We derive velocity gradients along the filaments of about 20–100 km s−1pc−1, which are 10–100 times larger than those typically found on larger scales (~1 pc) in other star-forming regions. The mass accretion rates of individual filaments are ≾0.05M⊙yr−1, which result in a total accretion rate of 0.16M⊙yr−1. Some filaments harbor dense cores that are likely forming stars and stellar clusters. We determine an empirical relation between the luminosity and stellar mass of the clusters. The stellar content of these dense cores is on the order of 50% of the total mass. The timescales required for the dense cores to collapse and form stars, exhausting their gas content, are compared with the timescale of their accretion process onto the central hub. We conclude that the cores may merge in the center when already forming stellar clusters but still containing a significant amount of gas, resulting in a “damp” merger.

Conclusions.The high density and mass of the central region, combined with the presence of converging filaments with high mass, high accretion rates and embedded dense cores already forming stars, suggest that Sgr B2(N) may have the potential to evolve into a super stellar cluster.
Observational signatures of microlensing in gravitational waves at LIGO/Virgo frequencies
Authors: Diego J. M. , Hannuksela O. A. , Kelly P. L. , Pagano G. , Broadhurst T. , Kim K. , Li T. G. F. , Smoot G. F.
Published: June 2019

Microlenses with typical stellar masses (a fewM⊙) have traditionally been disregarded as potential sources of gravitational lensing effects at LIGO/Virgo frequencies, since the time delays are often much smaller than the inverse of the frequencies probed by LIGO/Virgo, resulting in negligible interference effects at LIGO/Virgo frequencies. While this is true for isolated microlenses in this mass regime, we show how, under certain circumstances and for realistic scenarios, a population of microlenses (for instance stars and remnants from a galaxy halo or from the intracluster medium) embedded in a macromodel potential (galaxy or cluster) can conspire together to produce time delays of order one millisecond, which would produce significant interference distortions in the observed strains. At sufficiently large magnification factors (of several hundred), microlensing effects should be common in gravitationally lensed gravitational waves. We explored the regime where the predicted signal falls in the frequency range probed by LIGO/Virgo. We find that stellar mass microlenses, permeating the lens plane, and near critical curves, can introduce interference distortions in strongly lensed gravitational waves. Lensed events with negative parity, or saddle points (which have never before been studied in the context of gravitational waves), and that take place near caustics of macromodels, are more likely to produce measurable interference effects at LIGO/Virgo frequencies. This is the first study that explores the effect of a realistic population of microlenses, including a macromodel, on strongly lensed gravitational waves.
Unified radio interferometric calibration and imaging with joint uncertainty quantification
Authors: Arras Philipp , Frank Philipp , Leike Reimar , Westermann Rüdiger , Enßlin Torsten A.
Published: June 2019

The data reduction procedure for radio interferometers can be viewed as a combined calibration and imaging problem. We present an algorithm that unifies cross-calibration, self-calibration, and imaging. Because it is a Bayesian method, this algorithm not only calculates an estimate of the sky brightness distribution, but also provides an estimate of the joint uncertainty which entails both the uncertainty of the calibration and that of the actual observation. The algorithm is formulated in the language of information field theory and uses Metric Gaussian Variational Inference (MGVI) as the underlying statistical method. So far only direction-independent antenna-based calibration is considered. This restriction may be released in future work. An implementation of the algorithm is contributed as well.
The method of assessing the quality of the excavation workmanshift in the underground coal mine
Authors: Cholewa Marcin , Duży Stanisław
Published: June 2019

A new method of assessing the quality of the heading workmanship was proposed in this article. The method includes 13 parameters characterizing the quality of excavation performance, namely: the heading breach width, the heading useful height, the heading useful width, the angle of inclination of arch, the horizontal offset of arch (direction), the vertical offset of arch (cancellation), distance between mine roadway support, the arch set overlap length, the tightening torque of clamps screws, development of struts, dadding and the contact of support with rock strata. For each element of the excavation the number of quality points is determined based on by the amount of multiples of the quality statistics QN from the qualifying constant. After adding up the points, the final grade is obtained in the form of the quality category. The conclusion is an example of the evaluation of the quality of heading workmanship according to the developed method.
Using the Bentley MicroStation environment to program calculations of predicted ground subsidence caused by underground mining exploitation
Authors: Krawczyk Artur , Owsianka Paweł
Published: June 2019

The paper presents a new concept of creating a program for calculating ground subsidence caused by underground mining extraction, which is substantially different than previously used solutions. Instead of compiling the calculation algorithm to an executable file, the whole application algorithm has been written in the Bentley MicroStation graphic environment’s interpreted language. This graphic environment is used in mining for keeping mining maps and the format is used for storing finished and designed mining exploitation data sets. The paper describes S. Knothe’s theory of the influence of mining exploitation on the terrain surface in the context of the calculation methodology used for terrain subsidence computation. Based on the theory of influence, the structure of the created MVBA (MicroStation Visual Basic for Applications) algorithm for interpolating subsidence contours is described. The new application is called uDEFO. Calculation results from the program are compared with calculation results from software currently used in coal mines.
System model for spatial mapping of anthropogenic sinkholes and subsidence basins in mining areas applying 2D laser scanner technique
Authors: Motyka Zbigniew , Jelle Bjørn Petter
Published: June 2019

The model of a remote measurement system suitable for use on mobile unmanned aerial platforms is discussed in order to provide data for mapping spatial parameters of anthropogenic landscape forms, mainly outcrops, sinkholes, subsidence basins around urbanized industrial areas, especially those covered by past and ongoing mining activities. The results of the tests carried out with the use of a prototype model of such system are presented. These show that for the model forming small depression in terrain, its visualization was possible enabling obtaining its true geometrical characteristics.
Photovoltaic road and rail noise barriers at different environmental and soil conditions, including mining terrains
Authors: Fallast Kurt , Hadjipanayi Maria , Kwaśnicki Paweł , Motyka Zbigniew , Muñoz Cerón Emilio
Published: June 2019

Regulations and standards concerning noise road and rail barriers are presented together with an actual state-of-the-art in Europe. Application of photovoltaics to such infrastructure are considered. The targets of international CEFRABID research project, realised within ERA-SOLAR.NET European program, and concerning photovoltaic road and rail noise barriers for Austria, Cyprus, Poland and Spain, at different environmental and soil conditions, including mining terrains are shortly presented.
Monitoring of mining areas in relation to various reference networks
Authors: Uznański Andrzej
Published: June 2019

Static satellite surveying techniques are commonly used for the geodetic monitoring of mining areas, especially to determine horizontal coordinates of points. Satellite surveys are currently being connected to permanently established reference stations. In many countries, two or more reference networks work independently. In Poland, there are four nationwide networks of reference stations and one regional network. All commercial networks must be tied to the national network ASG-EUPOS. This research paper has analysed the influence of tying the points used for mining area monitoring purposes to various reference networks on their adjusted coordinates. The author has attempted to process the results of these satellite surveys at the engineering level, most frequently encountered in the field of surveying. The computation has been carried out using commercial software. Static observations from four reference networks operating in Poland have been used to compute the coordinates of the test points: ASG-EUPOS. NadowskiNET. TPINetPRO and VRSNet.pl. Leica Geosystems Polska has not provided access to its static satellite observations for testing purposes.
Experimental evidence about misconception of Terzaghi's 1-D consolidation theory in terms of degree of consolidation
Authors: Szczepan Olek Bartłomiej
Published: June 2019

Terzaghi's 1-D consolidation theory is commonly used for prediction of embankment settlement in soft fine-grained soil. Application of this theory is not always effective due to the simplifications of assumed soil behavior under load. This paper examines relationship between the degrees of consolidation determined by pore water pressure measured at the base of the sample and one-dimensional strain. Theoretically, this relationship should be unique, however experimental relationships correlating the degrees of consolidation are found to be non-linear. The article presents the results of multistage consolidation tests with pore water pressure measurements, carried out on intact and reconstituted deep marine clay. Consolidation tests were conducted with uniform stress distribution and single-sided drainage conditions. It was observed that the relationship between degrees of consolidation for intact and reconstituted samples largely divergent from theoretical unique line.
Dynamic response of a structure due to different vibration sources
Authors: Kogut Janusz P. , Śmierciak Tomasz
Published: June 2019

The aim of the work is to acquire the answer for a question if, and to what extent the dynamic excitation forced by underground movement of metro carts or another vibration source impacts the condition of the existing building. To get that assessment, a corresponding numerical model of the tunnel and soil and the structure is created. As input, the acceleration response spectrum computed for the Gulf of Aquaba earthquake is used, as well as the quasi-static axle loading of typical metro carts. The output is shown as the time-history response of the ground-level nodes that will later be used to assess the influence of vibrations with the help of Ciesielski (SWD) scales.
Regional seismic activity in relation to tectonic structure in the PGG S.A. coal mines
Authors: Patyńska Renata , Pilecka Elżbieta , Mirek Adam
Published: June 2019

The article presents seismological analysis in the mines of Polska Grupa Górnicza S.A. (PGG S.A.) in relation with the geological and tectonic structure of the exploited rock mass. There are grounds for seismic activity, to be associated with the structural features of the rock mass in which underground exploitation is carried out. The analysis included high-energy tremors (with energy E > 105 J), which occurred in 2018. High energy tremors can cause mining damage on the surface. In 2018, three structural units out of five covering the Upper Silesian Coal Basin formed a rock formation coal mine of PGG S.A. The parameter analyzed was unit energy expenditure (JWE). It reflects the participation of two important pieces of information: total energy of tremors and mining of coal in a given period. The analysis shows that in 2018 JWE fell in total at PGG. However, it grew in the main trough, which translates into an increase in the risk of induced seismicity. Due to geological features, the area of exploitation covering the main trough, induces high-energy tremors that can cause effects on the surface. In other structural units, in 2018, JWE drops.
Omnivorous shrimp Neocaridina denticulata sinensis enhances the growth of submerged macrophyte Vallisneria denseserrulata
Authors: Ye Jialiang , Tang Yali , Zhang Xiufeng , Zhong Ping , Liu Zhengwen
Published: June 2019

Lake eutrophication often causes declines and even losses of submerged macrophytes through the shading effects of increased periphyton and phytoplankton. The Chinese swamp shrimp Neocaridina denticulata sinensis Kemp (Decapoda, Atyidae) is a common omnivore in Chinese lakes, where its presence may impact both periphyton and phytoplankton, with previously unstudied consequences for submerged macrophytes. Here, using a mesocosm experiment, we studied the effect of N. d. sinensis on periphyton, phytoplankton and the submerged macrophyte Vallisneria denseserrulata. Results showed that in the presence of N. d. sinensis, the biomass of periphyton on the leaves of V. denseserrulata was significantly reduced, and that growth rate of V. denseserrulata increased. The presence of N. d. sinensis also significantly increased the total phosphorus concentrations in the water column and phytoplankton biomass (chlorophyll-a). The enhanced growth of V. denseserrulata is likely to be linked to improved light harvesting due to the reduced periphyton attached to their leaf surface. The results suggest that stocking with Chinese swamp shrimps may enhance the development of macrophytes in eutrophic shallow lakes.
Development of a new cost PPS and decomposition of observed actual cost for DMU in a non-competitive space in DEA
Authors: Rezaei Hezaveh Elham , Fallahnejad Reza , Sanei Masoud , Izadikhah Mohammad
Published: June 2019

Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is an appropriate tool for estimating various types of efficiency such as cost efficiency. There are two different sates in cost spaces; in the first space prices are equal for all Decision Making Units (DMUs) which is competitive space, and in the second space prices are different form one DMU to another; this is known as non-competitive space. The present paper introduces a new method to assess Cost Efficiency (CE), Revenue Efficiency (RE) and Profit Efficiency (PE) in a non-competitive space. The present paper also proposes a Production Possibility Set (PPS) in which DMUs are evaluated based on both their own prices and the prices of other DMUs in non-competitive space. Moreover, a new decomposition is provided for observed actual cost DMUs based on the cost efficiency model and the proposed PPS, thus the observed actual cost can be shown by summation of several technical, price and allocative efficiency (AE) losses. The biggest advantage of this method comparing to the previous methods is that passive the developed cost efficiency and the cost Production Possibility Set has been developed and the performed decomposition is more accurate; this is because the new inefficiency sources are defined and added to this new decomposition. Therefore, it includes more inefficient sources.
Brustkrebs – individuellere Therapien durch Genexpressionstests
Authors: Harbeck Nadia
Published: June 2019

Unsere Gesprächspartnerin: Frau Prof. Nadia Harbeck
Stress verstehen und bewältigen
Authors: Richter Yvonne
Published: June 2019

Das Arbeitsaufkommen im OP steigt – und mit ihm der Stress. Deshalb befragte
unsere Autorin im Rahmen ihrer Facharbeit Mitarbeiter im Zentral-OP der
Universitätsklinik Erlangen, welche Stressoren sie im Arbeitsalltag am stärksten
belasten. Außerdem entwickelte sie einen Gesundheitszirkel, mit dem die
Auswirkungen der Stressoren reduziert werden können.
Wahre Schönheit kommt von innen
Authors: Wolf Gunther
Published: June 2019

Personalmanager beklagen zunehmende Schwierigkeiten bei der Beschaffung von gut
ausgebildetem Operationspersonal. So ergreifen immer mehr Krankenhausleitungen
vielfältige Maßnahmen, um die bestehende Belegschaft fest an das Haus zu binden.
Doch viel nützt nicht immer viel: Nur, wenn die Mitarbeiterbindungsmaßnahmen
strukturiert und systematisch umgesetzt werden, tragen diese Früchte. Wie geht
man am besten vor? Unser Autor gibt direkt umsetzbare Tipps – für
Geschäftsführungen, Personalmanager und Führungskräfte.
Zirkulierende Tumorzellen, zirkulierende Tumor-DNA und zirkulierende microRNA beim metastasierten Mammakarzinom – oder: Welche Rolle spielt die Liquid Biopsy beim Brustkrebs?
Authors: Polasik Arkadius , Tzschaschel Marie , Schochter Fabienne , Gregorio Amelie de , Krause Sabrina , Friedl Thomas W.P. , Rack Brigitte , Hartkopf Andreas , Fasching Peter A. , Schneeweiss Andreas , Müller Volkmar , Huober Jens , Janni Wolfgang , Fehm Tanja
Published: June 2019

Die Streuung von Tumorzellen und Entstehung solider Metastasen findet sowohl über das Lymph- als auch das Blutsystem statt. Der Nachweis zirkulierender Tumorzellen (CTCs) und der zirkulierenden Tumor-DNA (ctDNA) im venösen Blut ist sowohl beim frühen als auch beim metastasierten Mammakarzinom möglich. Ihre prognostische Relevanz wurde bereits mehrfach bewiesen. Dabei ist die repetitive Untersuchung der CTCs bzw. ctDNA im Sinne einer regelmäßigen „liquid biopsy“ jederzeit und problemlos möglich. Durch die zusätzlichen molekularen Analysen ist es möglich, Tumorcharakteristika und ihre Heterogenität, die mit möglichen Resistenzen einhergehen, zu definieren. Dies ermöglicht den Einsatz einer personalisierten und zielgerichteten Therapie, um neben einem verlängerten Gesamtüberleben auch die Verbesserung der Lebensqualität zu erreichen.
Factor V Leiden (Arg506Gln), a Confounding Genetic Risk Factor but not Mandatory for the Occurrence of Venous Thromboembolism in Homozygotes and Obligate Heterozygotes for Cystathionine β-synthase Deficiency
Authors: Yap S. , O’Donnell K. A. , O’Neill C. , Mayne P. D. , Thornton P. , Naughten E.
Published: June 2019

Thrombosis is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals with untreated classical homocystinuria (HCU) due to cystathionine β-synthase deficiency and characterised by severe hyperhomocysteinaemia. In addition, mild and moderate hyperhomocysteinaemia and Factor V Leiden (FVL; Arg506Gln) have recently been identified as thrombotic risk factors. FVL, which renders resistance to activated Protein C, is the most common inherited genetic risk factor for thrombosis with a high allelic frequency amongst Caucasians. As thrombophilia is a multigenic disorder, 26 individuals with HCU (median age 17.6 years, range 3.5-32.8 years) and 36 obligate heterozygotes (median age 51.5 years, range 34-74 years) were screened for FVL. All the HCU individuals received treatment, except one, within 6 weeks of birth for those who were diagnosed at birth through the national newborn screening programme (n = 20) and at the time of diagnosis for those late detected (n = 5, mean age of starting treatment 4.9 years, range 1.4-11 years). All had been free from venous thrombosis, except one HCU individual and one HCU obligate heterozygote. Neither of the two individuals with venous thrombosis carried FVL. Two independent individuals with HCU (male 14.8 years; female 18.2 years) were heterozygous for FVL (allelic frequency 3.8%) and three independent HCU obligate heterozygotes (males 40 and 45.8 years; female 45.6 years) were also heterozygous for FVL (allelic frequency 4.16%). The findings in this small group suggest that FVL is not a mandatory but a significant confounding risk factor for the occurrence of thrombosis in HCU individuals and additional contributing factors may be required for thrombosis to occur in HCU obligate heterozygotes with FVL heterozygosity. Our data also suggest that treatment of HCU not only reduces the thrombotic risk in patients with isolated HCU but also in those with the additional FVL heterozygosity.
Venous Thromboembolic Disease and the Prothrombin, Methylene Tetrahydrofolate Reductase and Factor V Genes
Authors: Alhenc-Gelas Martine , Arnaud Emmanuel , Nicaud Viviane , Aubry Marie-Laurence , Fiessinger Jean-Noël , Aiach Martine , Emmerich Joseph
Published: June 2019

The prevalence of the A20210 allele of the prothrombin (PT) gene and the T677 allele of the methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene was determined in 205 patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) and in 398 healthy subjects of similar age and sex distribution. We also determined the frequency of these two candidate risk alleles in subjects carrying the factor V (FV) Q506 allele, to identify a possible interaction. Forty patients (19.5%) and 14 control subjects (3.5%) were heterozygous for the FV R506Q mutation. Twenty-one patients (10.2%) and 11 controls (2.8%) were heterozygous for the PT A20210 allele (odds ratio (OR) 4.02, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.90-8.50, p <0.001). This confirmed that the PT A20210 allele was a risk factor for VTE in our population. Among the FV Q506 allele carriers, 9 patients (22.5%) and no control also had the PT gene G20210A mutation. The absence of the combined abnormality in the control group made it impossible to calculate the relevant ORs but the lower bound of the 95% CI was 3.94, suggesting that individuals bearing the two mutations have a higher risk than those with a single mutation. Twenty-six patients (12.7%) and 49 controls (12.3%) were homozygous for the MTHFR T677 allele (OR 1.04, 95% CI: 0.62-1.72, not significant). Four patients and 1 control were also heterozygous for the FV R506Q mutation (OR 9.33, 95% CI: 1.03-84.23). However, the ORs for carriers of the FV R506Q mutation were not significantly influenced by MTHFR gene C677T homozygosity.
Activated Protein C Resistance (FV:Q506) and Pregnancy
Authors: Lindqvist Pelle G. , Svensson Peter J. , Maršál Karel , Grennert Lars , Luterkort Marie , Dahlbäck Björn
Published: June 2019

Activated protein C (APC) resistance, due to a point mutation in the factor V gene (FV:Q506), is a major risk factor for venous thromboembolism. To determine the prevalence of APC resistance in a large series of pregnant women, and to elucidate its obstetric consequences, we performed a prospective study in Malmö, Sweden, comprising 2,480 women enrolled in early pregnancy. The presence of APC resistance (the FV:Q506 allele) was determined. The women were interviewed about their medical histories including venous thromboembolic events (VTE) in relatives. The outcome variables were the VTE rate, intrapartum blood loss, and the prevalence of selected pregnancy complications such as fetal loss, pre-eclampsia, and intrauterine growth retardation.

The overall prevalence of APC resistance was 11% (270/2480). The APC-resistant subgroup did not differ significantly from the non-APC-resistant subgroup in terms of pregnancy complications, but was characterized by an 8-fold higher risk of VTE (3/270 vs. 3/2210), a lower rate of profuse intrapartum haemorrhage (3.7% vs. 7.9%) (p = 0.02), and less intrapartum blood loss (340 ml vs. 361 ml) (p = 0.04). Despite the high prevalence of APC resistance in this series of gravidae (11%), its presence was unrelated to adverse pregnancy outcome apart from an 8-fold increased risk of VTE.