bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrastructure imaging of Pseudomonas aeruginosa lawn biofilms and eradication of the tobramycin-resistant variants under in vitro electroceutical treatment
Authors: Lochab Varun , Jones Travis H. , Dusane Devendra H. , Peters Casey W. , Stoodley Paul , Wozniak Daniel J. , Subramaniam Vish V. , Prakash Shaurya
Published: June 2020

Electrochemically generated bactericidal compounds have been shown to eradicate bacterial lawn biofilms through electroceutical treatment. However, the ultrastructure of biofilms exposed to these species has not been studied. Moreover, it is unknown if the efficacy of electroceutical treatment extends to antibiotic-resistant variants that emerge in lawn biofilms after antibiotic treatment. In this report, the efficacy of the in vitro electroceutical treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms is demonstrated both at room temperature and in an incubator, with a ~4 log decrease (p < 0.01) in the biofilm viability observed over the anode at both conditions. The ultrastructure changes in the lawn biofilms imaged using transmission electron microscopy demonstrate significant bacterial cell damage over the anode after 24 h of electroceutical treatment. A mix of both damaged and undamaged cells was observed over the cathode. Finally, both eradication and prevention of the emergence of tobramycin-resistant variants were demonstrated by combining antibiotic treatment with electroceutical treatment on the lawn biofilms.
Histologic tissue components provide major cues for machine learning-based prostate cancer detection and grading on prostatectomy specimens
Authors: Han Wenchao , Johnson Carol , Gaed Mena , Gómez José A. , Moussa Madeleine , Chin Joseph L. , Pautler Stephen , Bauman Glenn S. , Ward Aaron D.
Published: June 2020

Automatically detecting and grading cancerous regions on radical prostatectomy (RP) sections facilitates graphical and quantitative pathology reporting, potentially benefitting post-surgery prognosis, recurrence prediction, and treatment planning after RP. Promising results for detecting and grading prostate cancer on digital histopathology images have been reported using machine learning techniques. However, the importance and applicability of those methods have not been fully investigated. We computed three-class tissue component maps (TCMs) from the images, where each pixel was labeled as nuclei, lumina, or other. We applied seven different machine learning approaches: three non-deep learning classifiers with features extracted from TCMs, and four deep learning, using transfer learning with the 1) TCMs, 2) nuclei maps, 3) lumina maps, and 4) raw images for cancer detection and grading on whole-mount RP tissue sections. We performed leave-one-patient-out cross-validation against expert annotations using 286 whole-slide images from 68 patients. For both cancer detection and grading, transfer learning using TCMs performed best. Transfer learning using nuclei maps yielded slightly inferior overall performance, but the best performance for classifying higher-grade cancer. This suggests that 3-class TCMs provide the major cues for cancer detection and grading primarily using nucleus features, which are the most important information for identifying higher-grade cancer.
Extraction and reconstitution of membrane proteins into lipid nanodiscs encased by zwitterionic styrene-maleic amide copolymers
Authors: Fiori Mariana C. , Zheng Wan , Kamilar Elizabeth , Simiyu Geuel , Altenberg Guillermo A. , Liang Hongjun
Published: June 2020

Membrane proteins can be reconstituted in polymer-encased nanodiscs for studies under near-physiological conditions and in the absence of detergents, but traditional styrene-maleic acid copolymers used for this purpose suffer severely from buffer incompatibilities. We have recently introduced zwitterionic styrene-maleic amide copolymers (zSMAs) to overcome this limitation. Here, we compared the extraction and reconstitution of membrane proteins into lipid nanodiscs by a series of zSMAs with different styrene:maleic amide molar ratios, chain sizes, and molecular weight distributions. These copolymers solubilize, stabilize, and support membrane proteins in nanodiscs with different efficiencies depending on both the structure of the copolymers and the membrane proteins.
Measurement of moisture-dependent ion diffusion constants in wood cell wall layers using time-lapse micro X-ray fluorescence microscopy
Authors: Jakes Joseph E. , Zelinka Samuel L. , Hunt Christopher G. , Ciesielski Peter , Frihart Charles R. , Yelle Daniel , Passarini Leandro , Gleber Sophie-Charlotte , Vine David , Vogt Stefan
Published: June 2020

Our future bioeconomy depends on increased utilization of renewable lignocellulosic biomass. Controlling the diffusion of chemicals, such as inorganic ions, within secondary plant cell walls is central to many biomass applications. However, insufficient understanding of intra-cell-wall diffusion within secondary plant cell walls is hindering the advancement of many lignocellulosic biomass applications. In this work, X-ray fluorescence microscopy was used to measure diffusion constants of K+, Cu2+, and Cl− diffusing through loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) cell wall layers under 70%, 75%, or 80% relative humidity (RH). Results revealed that diffusion constants increased with RH, the larger Cu2+ diffused more slowly than the K+, and the Cl− diffusion constant was the same as that for the counter cation, indicating cations and anions diffused together to maintain charge neutrality. Comparison with electrical conductivity measurements showed that conductivity is being controlled by ion mobility over these RH. The results further support that intra-cell-wall diffusion of inorganic ions is a Fickian diffusion process occurring through rubbery amorphous polysaccharides, which contradicts previous assertions that intra-cell-wall diffusion is an aqueous process occurring through water pathways. Researchers can now utilize polymer science approaches to engineer the molecular architecture of lignocellulosic biomass to optimize properties for specific end uses.
Structural and enzymatic characterisation of the Type III effector NopAA (=GunA) from Sinorhizobium fredii USDA257 reveals a Xyloglucan hydrolase activity
Authors: Dorival Jonathan , Philys Sonia , Giuntini Elisa , Brailly Romain , de Ruyck Jérôme , Czjzek Mirjam , Biondi Emanuele , Bompard Coralie
Published: June 2020

Rhizobia are nitrogen-fixing soil bacteria that can infect legume plants to establish root nodules symbiosis. To do that, a complex exchange of molecular signals occurs between plants and bacteria. Among them, rhizobial Nops (Nodulation outer proteins), secreted by a type III secretion system (T3SS) determine the host-specificity for efficient symbiosis with plant roots. Little is known about the molecular function of secreted Nops (also called effectors (T3E)) and their role in the symbiosis process. We performed the structure-function characterization of NopAA, a T3E from Sinorhizobium fredii by using a combination of X-ray crystallography, biochemical and biophysical approaches. This work displays for the first time a complete structural and biochemical characterization of a symbiotic T3E. Our results showed that NopAA has a catalytic domain with xyloglucanase activity extended by a N-terminal unfolded secretion domain that allows its secretion. We proposed that these original structural properties combined with the specificity of NopAA toward xyloglucan, a key component of root cell wall which is also secreted by roots in the soil, can give NopAA a strategic position to participate in recognition between bacteria and plant roots and to intervene in nodulation process.
Quantitative UHPSFC-MS analysis of elemental sulfur in mineral oil via derivatisation with triphenylphosphine: application to corrosive sulfur-related power transformer failure
Authors: Garcia Sérgio B. , Herniman Julie , Birkin Peter , Pilgrim James , Lewin Paul , Wilson Gordon , Langley G. John , Brown Richard C. D.
Published: June 2020

Quantification of elemental sulfur in power transformer mineral oil is achieved using UHPSFCMS analysis of an easily accessible derivative Ph3PS.
Recent advances of dinuclear nickel- and palladium-complexes in homogeneous catalysis
Authors: Xu Wentao , Li Muzi , Qiao Liancheng , Xie Jin
Published: June 2020

In this highlight, we provide a current perspective of synthetic methodology development catalyzed by dinuclear Ni- and Pd-complexes in the past decade. The new catalytic reactivities of dinuclear Ni- and Pd-complexes are discussed.
New layered perovskite family built from [CeTa2O7]− layers: coloring mechanism from unique multi-transitions
Authors: Hasegawa Takuya , Shigee Atsushi , Nishiwaki Yoshinori , Nagasako Makoto , Hanindriyo Adie Tri , Hongo Kenta , Maezono Ryo , Ueda Tadaharu , Yin Shu
Published: June 2020

A Ce3+-based layered perovskite compound, Dion–Jacobson type RbCeTa2O7, has been discovered for the first time by introducing only a trivalent cerium ion to form [CeTa2O7]− layers.
Polymer-based actuators: back to the future
Authors: Martins P. , Correia D. M. , Correia V. , Lanceros-Mendez S.
Published: June 2020

This work demonstrates that polymer-based actuators play a key role in the area of smart materials and devices.
Investigation of the thermal quenching of two emission centers in Sr9MnLi(PO4)7:Eu2+ using time-resolved technique
Authors: Chi Fengfeng , Dai Wenjuan , Jiang Bin , Lou Bibo , Wei Xiantao , Li Bin , Cheng Jie , Liu Shengli , Yin Min
Published: June 2020

The emission spectra of two luminescent centers in Sr9MnLi(PO4)7:Eu2+ and the corresponding schematic diagrams of luminescence thermal quenching.
Bifunctional ruthenium(ii) polypyridyl complexes of curcumin as potential anticancer agents
Authors: Li Shuang , Xu Gang , Zhu Yuhua , Zhao Jian , Gou Shaohua
Published: June 2020

Ru(ii)-polypyridyl-curcuminato complex induces cancer cell apoptosis through DNA intercalation and MEK/ERK signaling pathway.
Energy, economic, and environmental benefits assessment of co-optimized engines and bio-blendstocks
Authors: Dunn Jennifer B. , Newes Emily , Cai Hao , Zhang Yimin , Brooker Aaron , Ou Longwen , Mundt Nicole , Bhatt Arpit , Peterson Steve , Biddy Mary
Published: June 2020

A systems-level modeling suite underpins estimates of greenhouse gas and other benefits of deploying co-optimized fuels and engines.
Radical cyclization of 1,6-dienes with azobis(alkylcarbonitriles) on water under additive-free conditions
Authors: Liu Yi , Meng Ya-Nan , Huang Xun-Jie , Qin Fu-Hua , Wu Dapeng , Shao Qianjun , Guo Zhiyong , Li Qiang , Wei Wen-Ting
Published: June 2020

Without using any additives, a practical and eco-friendly methodology has been realized for the tandem double cyclization of 1,6-dienes with easily accessible azobis(alkylcarbonitriles) on water.
A facile and robust approach to prepare fluorinated polymer dielectrics for probing the intrinsic transport behavior of organic semiconductors
Authors: Ngai Jenner H. L. , Chan Cyril Chak Ming , Ho Carr Hoi Yi , Ho Johnny Ka Wai , Cheung Sin Hang , Yin Hang , So Shu Kong
Published: June 2020

Poly(2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorostyrene) (PPFS) can be employed as a solution processable gate dielectric with methyl isobutyl ketone (MIK) for bottom-gate TFTs.
Hydrogen gas sensing using aluminum doped ZnO metasurfaces
Authors: Chatterjee Sharmistha , Shkondin Evgeniy , Takayama Osamu , Fisher Adam , Fraiwan Arwa , Gurkan Umut A. , Lavrinenko Andrei V. , Strangi Giuseppe
Published: June 2020

Hydrogen (H2) sensing is crucial in a wide variety of areas, such as industrial, environmental, energy and biomedical applications. In this work, aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) nanotubes are reported for optical hydrogen sensing.
Implementation of ferroelectric materials in photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Li Yi , Li Jun , Yang Weiguang , Wang Xudong
Published: June 2020

This review unravels the interaction of PC and PEC water splitting with interfacial ferroelectric polarization.
Highly enhanced bifunctional electrocatalytic activity of mixed copper–copper oxides on nickel foam via composition control
Authors: Muthukumar Pandi , Pannipara Mehboobali , Al-Sehemi Abdullah G. , Anthony Savarimuthu Philip
Published: June 2020

Fabricating Cu2O–CuO and CuO directly on the conducting nickel foam resulted in highly enhanced OER and HER electrocatalytic activity in an alkaline medium, respectively.
Palladium-catalyzed synthesis of 5-amino-1,2,4-oxadiazoles via isocyanide insertion
Authors: Wang Xu , Fu Jin-Ping , Xie Jia-Xing , Teng Qing-Hu , Tang Hai-Tao , Pan Ying-Ming
Published: June 2020

We have developed a flexible and efficient strategy for the synthesis of 5-amino-1,2,4-oxadiazole derivatives via palladium-catalyzed isocyanide insertion.
Indirect synthetic route to α-l-fucosides via highly stereoselective construction of α-l-galactosides followed by C6-deoxygenation
Authors: Tomida Hirotaka , Matsuhashi Takuya , Tanaka Hide-Nori , Komura Naoko , Ando Hiromune , Imamura Akihiro , Ishida Hideharu
Published: June 2020

The indirect synthetic method for α-l-fucosides has been developed and its broad applicability to naturally occurring α-l-fucosides has been demonstrated.
In situ templating synthesis of mesoporous Ni–Fe electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Wang Ya , Yu Jun , Wang Yanding , Chen Zhuwen , Dong Lei , Cai Rongming , Hong Mei , Long Xia , Yang Shihe
Published: June 2020

A stable mesoporous Ni–Fe–O electrocatalyst with high OER efficiency is constructed using mesoporous fumed silica as a template.
Tunable nanostructured distributed Bragg reflectors for III-nitride optoelectronic applications
Authors: Wei Bin , Han Yingkuan , Wang Yanhao , Zhao Haonan , Sun Bowen , Yang Xiaokun , Han Lin , Wang Mingming , Li Zhiyong , Xiao Hongdi , Zhang Yu
Published: June 2020

Highly reflective and conductive distributed Bragg reflectors are key for high-performance III-nitride optoelectronic devices, such as vertical cavity surface emitting lasers, but they still suffer from lack of lattice-matched conductive DBR and uncontrollable processes.
Bi-doping improves the magnetic properties of zinc oxide nanowires
Authors: Kazmi Jamal , Ooi Poh Choon , Goh Boon Tong , Lee Min Kai , Razip Wee M. F. Mohd. , Shafura A Karim Siti , Ali Raza Syed Raza , Mohamed Mohd Ambri
Published: June 2020

Room-temperature ferromagnetism in the large and direct bandgap diluted magnetic semiconductor zinc oxide (ZnO) is attributed to the intrinsic defects and p-orbital–p-orbital (p–p) coupling interaction.
Adsorption based realistic molecular model of amorphous kerogen
Authors: Lee Hyeonseok , Shakib Farnaz A. , Liu Kouqi , Liu Bo , Bubach Bailey , Varma Rajender S. , Jang Ho Won , Shokouhimher Mohammadreza , Ostadhassan Mehdi
Published: June 2020

This paper reports the results of Grand Canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC)/molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of N2 and CO2 gas adsorption on three different organic geomacromolecule (kerogen) models.
Substituted adenine quartets: interplay between substituent effect, hydrogen bonding, and aromaticity
Authors: Szatylowicz Halina , Marek Paulina H. , Stasyuk Olga A. , Krygowski Tadeusz M. , Solà Miquel
Published: June 2020

Substituent effects on hydrogen bonds in adenine quartets and aromaticity of adenine rings depend on the quartet type. A4-N3 and A4-N7 quartets are more responsive to the electronic nature of substituents than A4-N1.
Life cycle assessment of salinity gradient energy recovery by reverse electrodialysis in a seawater reverse osmosis desalination plant
Authors: Tristán Carolina , Rumayor Marta , Dominguez-Ramos Antonio , Fallanza Marcos , Ibáñez Raquel , Ortiz Inmaculada
Published: June 2020

LCA of lab-scale and large-scale stand-alone RED stacks and an up-scaled RED system co-located with a SWRO desalination plant.
Highly efficient solution-processed red phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes employing an interface exciplex host
Authors: Wang Jiong , Zhang Xiaolin , Fan Lixiang , Zhang Xiaoliang , Qin Yue , Li Ruiqing , Chen Yuehua , Lai Wen-Yong , Zhang Xinwen , Huang Wei
Published: June 2020

To cut cost and improve efficiency, an interface exciplex system of NPB/TPBi was employed as a host in solution-processed red phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes (PhOLEDs).
Vacancy engineering of a solution processed CuI semiconductor: tuning the electrical properties of inorganic P-channel thin-film transistors
Authors: Lee Seonjeong , Lee Han Ju , Ji Yena , Choi Sung Mook , Lee Keun Hyung , Hong Kihyon
Published: June 2020

The effects of vacancy states (copper vacancy and iodine vacancy) on the electrical properties of the p-channel TFTs are investigated.
Effects of Age and Cochlear Implantation on Spectrally Cued Speech Categorization
Authors: DiNino Mishaela , Arenberg Julie G. , Duchen Anne L. R. , Winn Matthew B.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Weighting of acoustic cues for perceiving place-of-articulation speech contrasts was measured to determine the separate and interactive effects of age and use of cochlear implants (CIs). It has been found that adults with normal hearing (NH) show reliance on fine-grained spectral information (e.g., formants), whereas adults with CIs show reliance on broad spectral shape (e.g., spectral tilt). In question was whether children with NH and CIs would demonstrate the same patterns as adults, or show differences based on ongoing maturation of hearing and phonetic skills.

Method

Children and adults with NH and with CIs categorized a /b/–/d/ speech contrast based on two orthogonal spectral cues. Among CI users, phonetic cue weights were compared to vowel identification scores and Spectral-Temporally Modulated Ripple Test thresholds.

Results

NH children and adults both relied relatively more on the fine-grained formant cue and less on the broad spectral tilt cue compared to participants with CIs. However, early-implanted children with CIs better utilized the formant cue compared to adult CI users. Formant cue weights correlated with CI participants' vowel recognition and in children, also related to Spectral-Temporally Modulated Ripple Test thresholds. Adults and child CI users with very poor phonetic perception showed additive use of the two cues, whereas those with better and/or more mature cue usage showed a prioritized trading relationship, akin to NH listeners.

Conclusions

Age group and hearing modality can influence phonetic cue-weighting patterns. Results suggest that simple nonlexical categorization tests correlate with more general speech recognition skills of children and adults with CIs.
Directly comparing coronal and solar wind elemental fractionation
Authors: Stansby D. , Baker D. , Brooks D. H. , Owen C. J.
Published: June 2020

Context. As the solar wind propagates through the heliosphere, dynamical processes irreversibly erase the signatures of the near–Sun heating and acceleration processes. The elemental fractionation of the solar wind should not change during transit, however, making it an ideal tracer of these processes.

Aims. We aim to verify directly if the solar wind elemental fractionation is reflective of the coronal source region fractionation, both within and across different solar wind source regions.

Methods. A backmapping scheme was used to predict where solar wind measured by the Advanced Composition Explorer (ACE) originated in the corona. The coronal composition measured by the Hinode Extreme ultraviolet Imaging Spectrometer (EIS) at the source regions was then compared with the in situ solar wind composition.

Results. On hourly timescales, there is no apparent correlation between coronal and solar wind composition. In contrast, the distribution of fractionation values within individual source regions is similar in both the corona and solar wind, but distributions between different sources have a significant overlap.

Conclusions. The matching distributions directly verify that elemental composition is conserved as the plasma travels from the corona to the solar wind, further validating it as a tracer of heating and acceleration processes. The overlap of fractionation values between sources means it is not possible to identify solar wind source regions solely by comparing solar wind and coronal composition measurements, but a comparison can be used to verify consistency with predicted spacecraft-corona connections.
Autonomous Gaussian decomposition of the Galactic Ring Survey
Authors: Riener M. , Kainulainen J. , Henshaw J. D. , Beuther H.
Published: June 2020

Knowledge about the distribution of CO emission in the Milky Way is essential to understanding the impact of the Galactic environment on the formation and evolution of structures in the interstellar medium. However, our current insight as to the fraction of CO in the spiral arm and interarm regions is still limited by large uncertainties in assumed rotation curve models or distance determination techniques. In this work we use the Bayesian approach from Reid et al. (2016, ApJ, 823, 77; 2019, ApJ, 885, 131), which is based on our most precise knowledge at present about the structure and kinematics of the Milky Way, to obtain the current best assessment of the Galactic distribution of 13CO from the Galactic Ring Survey. We performed two different distance estimates that either included (Run A) or excluded (Run B) a model for Galactic features, such as spiral arms or spurs. We also included a prior for the solution of the kinematic distance ambiguity that was determined from a compilation of literature distances and an assumed size-linewidth relationship. Even though the two distance runs show strong differences due to the prior for Galactic features for Run A and larger uncertainties due to kinematic distances in Run B, the majority of their distance results are consistent with each other within the uncertainties. We find that the fraction of 13CO emission associated with spiral arm features ranges from 76 to 84% between the two distance runs. The vertical distribution of the gas is concentrated around the Galactic midplane, showing full-width at half-maximum values of ~75 pc. We do not find any significant difference between gas emission properties associated with spiral arm and interarm features. In particular, the distribution of velocity dispersion values of gas emission in spurs and spiral arms is very similar. We detect a trend of higher velocity dispersion values with increasing heliocentric distance, which we, however, attribute to beam averaging effects caused by differences in spatial resolution. We argue that the true distribution of the gas emission is likely more similar to a combination of the two distance results discussed, and we highlight the importance of using complementary distance estimations to safeguard against the pitfalls of any single approach. We conclude that the methodology presented in this work is a promising way to determine distances to gas emission features in Galactic plane surveys.
The atomic gas of star-forming galaxies atz∼ 0.05 as revealed by the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope
Authors: Cheng Cheng , Ibar Edo , Du Wei , Molina Juan , Orellana-Gonzáles Gustavo , Zhang Bo , Zhu Ming , Xu Cong Kevin , Wu Shumei , Cao Tianwen , Huang Jia-Sheng , Leiton Roger , Hughes Thomas M. , He Chuan , Li Zijian , Xu Hai , Sophia Dai Y. , Shao Xu , Musin Marat
Published: June 2020

Context.We report new H Iobservations of fourz ∼ 0.05 VALES galaxies undertaken during the commissioning phase of the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope (FAST).

Aims.FAST is the largest single-dish telescope in the world, with a 500 m aperture and a 19-Beam receiver. Exploiting the unprecedented sensitivity provided by FAST, we aim to study the atomic gas content, via the H I21 cm emission line, in low-zstar formation galaxies taken from the Valparaíso ALMA/APEX Line Emission Survey (VALES). Together with previous Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) CO(J = 1−0) observations, the H Idata provides crucial information to measure the gas mass and dynamics.

Methods.As a pilot H Igalaxy survey, we targeted four local star-forming galaxies atz ∼ 0.05. In particular, one of them has already been detected in H Iby the Arecibo Legacy Fast ALFA survey (ALFALFA), allowing a careful comparison. We use an ON-OFF observing approach that allowed us to reach an rms of 0.7 mJy beam−1at a 1.7 km s−1velocity resolution within only 20 min ON-target integration time.

Results.In this Letter, we demonstrate the extraordinary capability of the FAST 19-beam receiver to push the detectability of the H Iemission line of extra-galactic sources. The H Iemission line detected by FAST shows good consistency with the previous Arecibo telescope ALFALFA results. Our observations are put into context with previous multi-wavelength data to reveal the physical properties of these low-zgalaxies. We find that the CO(J = 1−0) and H Iemission line profiles are similar. The dynamical mass estimated from the H Idata is an order of magnitude higher than the baryon mass and the dynamical mass derived from the CO observations, implying that the mass probed by dynamics of H Iis dominated by the dark matter halo. In one case, a target shows an excess of CO(J = 1−0) in the line centre, which can be explained by an enhanced CO(J = 1−0) emission induced by a nuclear starburst showing high-velocity dispersion.
Technological Schemes at the Transverse Mining System of the Open Pit Mine’s Bottom Layer
Authors: Makridin Eugene , Kapko Martin , Straka Martin
Published: June 2020

At the quarry fields with inclined and steep occurrence of complex structural coal seams formations of Kuzbass, it is preferable to use transverse mining systems. In this case, transport costs are significantly reduced and alienation of land areas for external dumps is reduced too. It is also possible to apply an effective transportless technology of stripping operations. Absence at this technology of expensive and ecologically dangerous quarry dump trucks allows extracting coal with smaller expenses, makes it more competitive in the domestic and foreign coal market. However, for the design of such technology in the conditions of transverse direction of the mining front, at present, theoretical studies of issues related to the justification of its parameters and the choice of mining equipment are insufficient. A wide range of coal bed formation conditions, a wide range of standard sizes of draglines used in the transportless technology, as well as various values of the depth of mining predetermine the multi-variant solution of the above problems. In this case, the formation of possible variants of mining operations with the use of certain models of excavators for their subsequent evaluation by any criterion is in itself a rather complicated task.
Modelling the Process of Processing Ash and Slag Wastes of TPP by Means of Consistent Application of CAE- and CAD- systems
Authors: Aksenova Olesya , Nikolaeva Evgenia , Haldybaeva Ibodat
Published: June 2020

The article considers the possibility of joint application of mathematical processing and computer 3D modeling of the technological process line for processing ash and slag waste from thermal power plants (TPP). The authors suggest considering an approach to the design of the ash and slag waste processing site by mathematical processing and 3D computer modeling. The mathematical processing with the help of E- network device and the creation of a 3D model allows to plan the site for processing ash and slag waste, select the appropriate technology and thereby ensure the environmental effect of both existing and projected power plants. The authors present the results of processing the technological process of recycling ash and slag wastes of TPP in terms of E-networks using mathematical processing in the Simulink application, which displays the device model from the standard blocks available in the program and performs the necessary calculations. 3D models of individual equipment units selected on the basis of mathematical processing calculations in the Simulink application, were created using computer 3D modeling in a graphical editor. A 3D visualization of the technological section of ash and slag waste processing was performed, which allows to clearly show the planned section at the design stage, which, if necessary, will allow to easily make changes to the project.
Spectral-acoustic method for outburst danger prediction considering in-situ gas pressure
Authors: Shadrin Alexandr , Kontrimas Artyom
Published: June 2020

The option of spectral-acoustic method for coal seam outburst danger prediction based on the influence of outburst danger basic factors on the amplitude-frequency characteristic of acoustic vibration median formed when breaking the rock massif by the operating mining equipment is justified. Basic outburst danger factors are: rock pressure, in-situ gas pressure, coal strength.
Environment Status: Official Assessment vs Perception by the Population
Authors: Dmitrieva Natalya , Sandrakova Irina , Chistyakova Galina , Gabinskaya Olga
Published: June 2020

Environmental deterioration is a challenge for all major cities. Public authorities improve environment monitoring systems, develop and implement measures to reduce the negative consequences of manufacturing activities, inform the population. The article analyzes data on the state and dynamics of the environment status in Kemerovo (Western Siberia, Russia), where a large number of manufacturing enterprises are concentrated. The results of Kemerovo population survey aimed at assessment of perception of the air and water pollution degree, the attitude to the influence of meteorological conditions and landscape features on the environment status, and identification of respondents’ opinions about the enterprises having the greatest impact on the environment are described. In addition, the survey assessed changes in the environment status and the degree of personal concern of citizens. The results of the survey were compared with statistic data; a number of discrepancies were identified. The authors offer some recommendations for public authorities on working with the population on environmental issues.
Experimental Study of the Coal Slurry Dewatering
Authors: Kalashnikov Valentin , Gorbachev Anton , Šimková Zuzana
Published: June 2020

Currently, over 50% of Russia’s coal is mined in Kuzbass region. This is the reason for extreme pressure on natural resources and ecology in the region. At present, more than 100 coal mines and open-pit mines, as well as 54 concentrating plants and facilities are operating in Kuzbass. Wastewater and wastes of concentration plants, which used sludge collectors, contain significant amounts of coal slurry in the form of finely dispersed particles. Filtered cake as a potential raw material is of interest from an economic point of view. This technogenic raw material is a waste of mining production in fact. At the same time, the high humidity, and the complexity of loading and transportation, and the lack of compliance with consumer requirements does not allow full using of this raw material. This article presents some results of experimental research on coal sludge dewatering using geosynthetic materials. The received experimental data allow making the preliminary forecast about possibility of use of geotextile- like materials for coal slurry dewatering with its potential further use.
The Problems of Legal Regulation of the Land Reclamation after the Illegal Coal Mining by the “Black Diggers” (the Kemerovo region example)
Authors: Shelestukov Vitaly , Drapezo Roman , Islamov Roman
Published: June 2020

The article deals with the issues of the legal “irregularity” of criminal and material responsibility of the “black diggers” for the illegal production of natural resources in the territory of the Kuzbass. The schemes of production and selling the coal are very different. That is why it is rather difficult to consider them in terms of criminal, arbitration, and administrative processes, especially by considering the issues of reclaiming the lands broken by such illegal activity. This is evidenced by the limited judicial practice of arbitration courts and courts of law of the Kuzbass. There is also no similar practice in other territorial subjects of the Russian Federation. Thus, there is a necessity in urgent developing of the methodical recommendations for the law enforcement officials on the calculation and compensation for the damage, considering the escalating statistical data on the illegal activity of the “black diggers”. Since the production and land reclamation caused by the coal mining are technologically interconnected, there must be an assigned surveillance of the use of a fund and the order of land reclamation to the prosecutor’s office on the surveillance of respecting the lawfulness in the coal-mining industry. These actions are provided for the coal-mining enterprises. For a long time, the “black diggers” have been producing the natural minerals which are the property of the state and they have also been able to escape the attention of the Russian legislation.
Power generating units for a powered roof support complex
Authors: Szurgacz Dawid , Kos Krzysztof , Szolc Patryk , Gvozdkova Tatiana
Published: June 2020

The degree of utilisation of machinery and equipment is an important factor influencing the volume of daily output of an underground hard coal mine. Consequently, it also affects the efficiency and economic performance of an underground mining plant. The main task of a new pumping station is to ensure safety and continuity of the operation process in both active and new longwalls in the future. The article presents a modern and innovative pumping station that meets the assumptions of Industry 4.0. The power units supplying a longwall complex included in the central pumping station were selected so as to minimise the number of failures. The interruptions in the technological process of coal mining related to the lack or insufficient pressure of the working medium in the supply bus of the powered roof support are caused by inadequate type of hydraulic pumps. The paper presents a developed concept of an innovative central hydraulic pumping station feeding a longwall complex based on a powered roof support. The presented implementation—starting from the concept through design and implementation—has contributed to the improvement of working conditions and safety.
Energy Assessment of BelAZ-75131 Gas-diesel Mining Dump Trucks Operation at Kuzbass Open Casts
Authors: Kuznetsov Ilya , Panachev Ivan , Dubov Georgiy , Nokhrin Sergey
Published: June 2020

The parameters of the BelAZ-75131 heavy dump truck im- proved model using gas-diesel mixture are given in the paper. The moni- toring analysis of the conditions and operation indicators of BelAZ-75131 heavy dump truck using diesel and gaseous fuels is done. Numerical and percentage values of the replacement of diesel fuel with liquefied natural gas when transporting exploded rock mass are determined; the volume of diesel fuel and liquefied natural gas consumption has been established. The analytical dependence to calculate the cost per unit of energy during trans- portation by mining dump trucks with gas equipment is determined. The energy estimation of diesel and gas-diesel mining dump trucks operation is given.
High temperature wear assessment of mining machines operating tools
Authors: Gromyka Dmitrii , Kremcheev Eldar
Published: June 2020

Mining is widely associated with the use of a variety of mining machines for various duties, such as extraction, loading and transportation of rock. Due to prolonged use of machines, the amount of wear of operating tools and machine parts increases. This problem is especially acute for mining and loading machines used in excavation and reclamation, because the wear rate is increased on those duties. The development of wear process and evaluation of the residual life of operating tools of mining and loading machines is well studied in world practice. However, given the variety of climatic, geological and mining conditions, unique for each mineral deposit, we are facing difficulties in creating a comprehensive model of wear process development. In modern researches on this area such issues as estimation of operating tools residual life during intense wear under extreme conditions of high temperatures and sharp temperature drop are understudied. These conditions are typical for deposits of such minerals as coal and peat, which are especially prone to spontaneous combustion. This review discusses methods for assessing various wear mechanisms and the effect of temperature on the intensity of those processes, as well as methods to determine the residual life of operating tools of mining and loading machines working in high-temperature environment.
Energy Interconnection between Rock Mass Transportation and Destruction of Rear Axles Structural Sections of BelAZ Mining Dump Trucks
Authors: Kuznetsov Ilya , Panachev Ivan , Zyryanov Igor , Shirokolobov Georgiy
Published: June 2020

The paper presents analytical formulae of the transportation en- ergy of blasted rock mass depending on the route slopes. The figures are obtained for mining dump trucks with a carrying capacity of up to 55 tons, from 55 to 130 tons and from 130 to 320 tons. In addition, analytical for- mulae are presented for the total destructive energy of the structural section elements of dump trucks depending on the longitudinal slope of the route. The work uses the parameters of crack-like defects that are formed on the rear axle housing component of BelAZ heavy dump trucks. The energy de- pendences of the transportation and destruction processes for mining trucks of various carrying capacities are given. An energy joint diagram has also been constructed, which allows determining the maximum allowable val- ues of the transportation energy of the rock mass and the destruction of the structural section elements for given route slopes.
The Role of Investment and Innovation Activities of Coal Mining Enterprises in Increasing the Level of Environmental Safety of Country and Region
Authors: Sheveleva Oksana , Slesarenko Ekaterina , Kudrevatykh Natalia , Kumaneeva Maria
Published: June 2020

The key role of investment and innovation activities of coal industry enterprises in improving the environmental safety of regions specializing in coal mining is substantiated in the article. The coal industry enterprises are recognized by the world scientific community as the absolute leader in the field of negative impact on the environment and industrial production waste generation. In this regard, one of the most important tasks of increasing the investment and innovation activities of coal companies, the introduction of modern technologies should be not only an increase in labor productivity and production efficiency, but also a reduction of anthropogenic impact on the environment. Despite the obviousness of the presented thesis, the trends characterizing the coal industry as the most inert and low-innovative sphere, which follows the path of extensive development, continue to dominate. The insignificant increase in investments in fixed assets, periodically followed by a recession, the reduction of trapped and neutralized air polluting substances, the lack of demand for innovations in the coal industry, as well as their low impact on ensuring compliance with modern technical standards, procedures and rules, bear evidence of low responsibility of business entities and inefficient measures of state economic policy in the field of improving environmental safety in the commodity-dependent regions.
Impact local markets on development single-industry towns of mining regions: exploring the case of Khakassia
Authors: Krasnova Tatyana , Plotnikova Tatyana , Pozdnyakov Alexander , Vilgelm Alexander
Published: June 2020

It is well-known that the life quality of monoprophilic territories is largely influenced by city-forming enterprises. The article considers the degree of influence of the city-forming enterprises of the coal industry on the development of agriculture of the industry of mono-profile territories in the region. In particular, the direction of the social vector in the activities of coal mining enterprises with regard to support of the corresponding the life quality in single towns has been revealed. Therefore, the material obtained as a result of the study can be used in the development of social development programs of monoprophilic territories with city-forming enterprises of the coal mining industry.
Mining Business Risk Management
Authors: Kozyrieva Olena , Khudolei Veronika , Vyhovska Valentina , Zabashtanskyi Maksym , Rogovyi Andrii
Published: June 2020

In the mining industry, as a dangerous industry related to the specifics of its production, in particular, the process of risk management and analysis should be taken into account. One of the main reasons of occupational accidents, in addition to human error and technical failures, is the lack of foresight of possible accidental events, and the lack of assessment by a company of the risks associated with occupational safety. The article considers the main risks in the mining industry, analyses the problems of modern systems of risk assessment and management of mining investment projects, methods and sequence of qualitative and quantitative risk assessment, provides recommendations for their improvement in order to bring them in line with international risk management standards.
Demographic Problems as Hindrance for Sustainable Development of a Mining Region (the Case of Kemerovo Region)
Authors: Morozova Elena , Pastukhova Elena , Logunov Timur
Published: June 2020

Positive dynamics of the general indicators of population reproduction is both the basis and the goal of sustainable development in a region. The analysis shows that the demographic problems of the studied mining region hinder the sustainable development of Kemerovo Region (Kuzbass). These issues include long-term population decline, age and gender imbalances in the structure of the population, an increase in the number of citizens older than the working age, and an increase in the demographic burden on the economically active population. The resource and industrial nature of Kuzbass plays a significant role in the dynamics of these processes. The study examines the relationship between demographic indicators and those of sustainable development. The influence of demographic processes was studied by the method of correlation and regression analysis. The authors found negative impact of the dynamics in the population reproduction processes on the number of people employed in the region’s economy, on the gross regional product and investment in fixed assets. A statistically significant relationship was established between mortality rate of the entire population, mortality of the working age group and indicators of sustainable development. The reasons for the high mortality rates in the region include the employment of a significant part of the workforce in hard and hazardous working conditions, high occupational morbidity, injuries, adverse environmental conditions caused by intensive mining, air pollution, and industrial waste. It is concluded that in developing a regional social and economic policy, the positive dynamics of population reproduction processes should be considered as a key factor in the region’s sustainable development.
Investments in the Development of Human Capital of Mining Industry
Authors: Khayrulina Lyudmila , Savrasova Darya , Zhidkova Margarita
Published: June 2020

In this paper, the authors substantiate the need for a flexible approach to investment management in the development of human capital in the mining industry. The assessment of qualitative and quantitative indicators characterizing the state and level of development of human capital in the mining industry is given. The most relevant types of investments in the development of human capital in the mining industry are considered. The problem areas of the development of human capital in the mining industry are identified. The actual forms of investment in the development of human capital in the mining industry are identified. The measures to reduce the risks of investment in the development of human capital in the mining industry are recommended.
Benchmarking as a Determinant of Modern Mining Education
Authors: Chupryakova Alena , Zakonnova Lyudmila , Petrova Mariana
Published: June 2020

This paper discusses the adaptation of mining education to the modern requirements of improving the management of mining enterprises. The authors substantiate the necessity and expediency of including a separate benchmarking course in the programs of university and postgraduate mountain education, which is based on the postulates of the process approach to management. It is necessary to gain understanding and knowledge of all processes occurring in the organization, based on illustrating the flow of processes with drawings, graphs of changes in process parameters; have a clear understanding of the standards in order to use their experience in relation to their activities, as well as managers should have a pronounced desire to improve their activities in order to achieve the maximum financial result. The paper presents the results of a study on testing the mechanism for using benchmarking tools conducted by the authors at mining enterprises of an open and underground mining method. Among the main tasks of top managers to reduce the risks of inadequate business processes in coal enterprises, it is necessary to resort to a criterion-based assessment of business processes through internal process benchmarking and the provision of analytical information to interested parties, which will allow them to identify «narrow» places during the implementation of the process and make informed management decisions. The presented conclusions are recommended for consideration when drawing up educational standards and programs for the training and retraining of managerial personnel for the mining industry.
Municipal-private partnership as a tool for developing the economy of a single-industry mining city
Authors: Yakushina Tatyana , Shvakov Evgeny
Published: June 2020

The problem of development of single-industry municipalities is one of the most acute in the modern economy. Single-industry municipalities are characterized by limited opportunities and significant development risks. The dependence of the economy of a multi-profile settlement on the activities of the city-forming enterprise necessitates the search for mechanisms for their mutually dependent development. This mechanism is a municipal-private partnership. The article considers new approaches to the implementation of municipal-private partnership in relation to the conditions of a single-profile municipality. The approaches proposed in the article to the organization of municipal-private partnership are designed to create conditions for the development of the city-forming enterprise, the sectors of the municipal economy associated with its activities, as well as the social sphere of the municipality. The article describes in detail the tools of municipal-private partnership that ensure the development of the investment potential of the city-forming enterprise, entrepreneurship in the municipality and corporate social responsibility.