bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relations between cumulants and central moments and their applications
Authors: Poloskov Igor E
Published: March 2021

At the beginning of this paper, we consider the solution to the problem of constructing relations between mixed central moments and cumulants (semi-invariants) of an arbitrary vector random variable. The sought relations are derived on the basis of formal operations over the Maclaurin series, which are various expansions of the characteristic function of the random vector. In the case under consideration, the coefficients of the expansions are mixed moments, cumulants, and central moments. One of the applications for the recurrence relations obtained is their usage to closure systems of ordinary differential equations (ODE) for the functions of the mathematical expectations and the functions of central moments until a given order. These functions are the main probabilistic speci cations for the state vectors of systems of stochastic ordinary differential equations (SODE) describing a behavior of stochastic dynamic systems. Therefore we have devoted the last part of the paper to derivation of the ODE system satisfied by the indicated moment functions.
Dead time corrections for Bonner sphere measurements of secondary neutrons at a proton therapy facility
Authors: Dommert M. , Reginatto M. , Zbořil M. , Lutz B.
Published: March 2021

Radiation therapy with proton beams allows the deposition of high doses to the tumour while minimising dose to the surrounding tissue. During such treatment, the patient is also exposed to secondary radiation which produces an out-of-field dose that affects healthy tissue. The largest contribution to this out-of-field dose comes from neutron radiation; therefore, it is of interest to fully characterise the neutron field in the therapy room with measurements. This is usually done with Bonner sphere spectrometers using active detectors, typically 3He-filled proportional counters, as central thermal neutron sensors. Under the experimental conditions encountered in proton therapy facilities, a proper analysis of the measurements is impossible unless dead time corrections are implemented. In this paper, we present a method using a paralysable dead time model for carrying out such corrections for Bonner sphere measurements with 3He-filled proportional counters and apply it to data taken at the University Proton Therapy Dresden (UPTD) facility in double scattering mode. The neutron events were recorded with time stamps and, based on this time-resolved data, the measured neutron rate distribution was sampled. Since the neutron flux is proportional to the proton flux, the integral neutron flux is directly related to the proton dose. Hence, we were able to estimate the detector dead time from the measured rate distributions recorded for a set of measurements with different proton dose rates. Experimental measurements with different intensities of the proton field show that the corrections are in agreement within 0.5% for measured signal rates smaller than 15 × 103 counts per second and do not exceed 1% at 25 × 103 counts per second.
Hydrodynamic efficiency in sharks: the combined role of riblets and denticles
Authors: Lloyd Charlie J , Peakall Jeffrey , Burns Alan D , Keevil Gareth M , Dorrell Robert M , Wignall Paul B , Fletcher Thomas M
Published: March 2021

We investigate the influence of smooth and ribletted shark skin on a turbulent boundary layer flow. Through laser Doppler anemometry (LDA) the role of riblets in combination with the shark skin denticle is established for the first time. Our results show that smooth denticles behave like a typical rough surface when exposed to an attached boundary layer. Drag is increased for the full range of tested dimensionless denticle widths, w
+ ≈ 25–80, where w
+ is the denticle width, w, scaled by the friction velocity, u

τ
, and the kinematic viscosity, ν. However, when riblets are added to the denticle crown we demonstrate there is a significant reduction in drag, relative to the smooth denticles. We obtain a modest maximum drag reduction of 2% for the ribletted denticles when compared to the flat plate, but when compared to the smooth denticles the difference in drag is in excess of 20% for w
+ ≈ 80. This study enables a new conclusion that riblets have evolved as a mechanism to reduce or eliminate the skin friction increase due to the presence of scales (denticles). The combination of scales and riblets is hydrodynamically efficient in terms of skin-friction drag, while also acting to maintain flow attachment, and providing the other advantages associated with scales, e.g. anti-fouling, abrasion resistance, and defence against parasites.
Global precipitation system size
Authors: Zhang Yan , Wang Kaicun
Published: March 2021

The size of precipitation systems is an important parameter of precipitation process and dynamics. This study uses the latest Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement data during 2015–2019 to investigate the global distribution of precipitation system size, its spatial and temporal pattern, as well as its relationships with precipitation amount, frequency, intensity, and duration. Our results show that large precipitation systems (>106 km2) occur more frequently over ocean. Most land areas are dominated by medium-size precipitation systems (104–106 km2), except that some relatively smaller precipitation systems (<104 km2) are dominant over the eastern Pacific, some parts of southern Atlantic the northern Africa, and central Asia. The most apparent seasonal contrast in precipitation system size occur over midlatitude oceans, the southeast United States, and the Amazon Basin. The diurnal contrast of precipitation system size is weaker over the oceans where the latitude is greater than 30°, and stronger over land and tropical oceans. The precipitation system size is highly positively spatial-correlated with precipitation amount, frequency, intensity, and duration. The strongest temporal associations of precipitation system size with precipitation amount, frequency, intensity, and duration on monthly scale occur over the tropics, with correlation coefficients greater than 0.8. This study indicates evident regional differences, which can provide new information to deepen the understanding of local synoptic systems in regional studies.
Customer service complex: three-stage model
Authors: Korsakova T V
Published: March 2021

Good customer service is not a new concept for the enterprises but the development of a holistic customer-oriented service model will be a critical way to increase the value of the business and promote products and services to achieve enterprise sustainability and innovation in the digital age. The article presents the results of research aimed at developing a modern model of integrated customer service. The idea to combine several marketing complexes to build a system of "customer acquisition" was presented. A three-stage model has been developed the use of which will allow the company to determine and understand the directions of development of its service and on this basis to achieve its goals. The conditions for the implementation of this model are discussed.
Nuclear power plants construction in developing countries as a leading direction of Russia’s foreign economic interests in the global construction services’ market in the globalization context
Authors: Semenenko V Yu
Published: March 2021

The article is devoted to the problem of nuclear power plants construction in developing countries as one of the main directions in Russian foreign economic policy in the international construction services’ market in the globalization context. The purpose of the article is to analyze the current situation and to determine the prospects of the Russian Federation in the world market of nuclear building construction services. The research methodology is based on an integrated approach and includes the special methods: content analysis of scientific literature and legislative acts; analysis of statistical data, as well as a retrospective analysis method. In the article it is proved that the Russian Federation has all the necessary resource and the technological capabilities to strengthen its position in the world market of nuclear building construction services in the developed countries of the European Union, even under the sanctions imposed on the Russian Federation by these countries.
Formation and development of innovative agricultural system of the Republic of South Ossetia
Authors: Kulov A R , Gurieva L K
Published: March 2021

The paper discusses the theoretical and practical aspects of innovative development of agriculture in the Republic of South Ossetia, whose territory is located in the foothills and mountains, which imposes special requirements on the technologies used for the production of agricultural products, raw materials and agricultural food. The ambiguity of ongoing processes in the agricultural sector of the economy, including a high level of unoccupied population in rural areas and a low level of involvement in the turnover of agricultural land requires new approaches to regulating innovation processes. A set of measures and directions for the formation of the innovation system of the Republic of South Ossetia is proposed, in which the key role is assigned to the recommended interstate technological agricultural platform.
Information and analytical systems for stress testing of credit institutions
Authors: Emelianova E S , Petrov L F
Published: March 2021

The main concepts of making information and analytical systems of stress testing (IASST) - software and tools for rapid stress tests in the activities of a credit organization are considered. Options for operational modeling of stress scenarios in the activities of a credit institution are discussed. Requirements for IASST are formulated for conducting stress tests both at the macro level and for analyzing selected stress situations when conducting tests of specific scenarios at the local level. Stress testing goals are formulated at each level. The IASST architecture is presented; the structure and interaction of the system modules are analyzed. The use of IASST by different participants in stress testing and the functions of each group of participants are discussed. Requirements for differentiation of access rights to information of various groups of participants of stress testing are formulated. The paper provides a formalization of the source information in the IASST for various stress tests. The main principles of visualization of stress testing results for different groups of participants are discussed. The ways to expand the IASST to include additional indicators in the stress testing process are considered. The positive impact of the use of IASST on the timing, quality, and complexity of conducting stress tests in credit institutions is noted.
Present-day information technologies in public administration in Russia
Authors: Prokofiev S E , Kadyrova G M , Artyukhin R E , Yeremin S G , Savelyev A A
Published: March 2021

The article discusses the use of modern information technologies in public administration. It is noted that at present, when a new information society is actively developing, the issue of introducing the latest information technologies into state and municipal administration is becoming the most urgent topic, as it makes it possible to effectively communicate with state and municipal authorities with legal entities and individuals, accelerates and simplifies the process of registration various documentation, contributes to the development of the economy and social sphere. The main goal of the study is the issue of the characteristics of modern information technologies in the public administration system in the Russian Federation at present and their practical application. The main research methods in this case are the collection of primary information and its analysis. The article highlights the main legislative acts on the basis of which the introduction of new modern technologies in the public administration system is carried out, as well as systematized indicators characterizing the dynamics and development of this process. It also raises the issue of the effectiveness of the “electronic government”, when the process of informatization of public administration is fully taking place. The study assessed the effectiveness of the "electronic government" in three main areas of interaction in the public administration system. This article provides statistics characterizing the dynamics of the implementation of the Information Society Development Strategy in the Russian Federation for 2017-2030. Analysis of statistics shows that, despite certain problems and shortcomings, the implementation of this Strategy at the present stage is quite effective.
Consumer activity evaluation in relation to the purchase of food products of a certain regional affiliation
Authors: Biryukova Tatiana V , Surkova Nadezhda V , Ashmarina Tatyana I
Published: March 2021

In modern conditions of competition in the food market, a number of factors that have an additional impact on consumer preferences are of particular importance for manufacturers. This issue is particularly relevant for producers of natural food products, where the combination of product characteristics with its regional affiliation will provide an additional competitive advantage and make mutually beneficial relationships with the consumer. At the moment, from the consumer’s point of view, the regional origin of the product is based on the perception of certain parameters, but there is no general opinion on this issue among buyers. This study identifies the main criteria that determine the regional origin of the product from the consumer’s point of view. On the basis of which the analysis of consumer activity in relation to the purchase of food products of a certain regional affiliation in Moscow was made. The results of the study represent the main parameters on the basis of which the consumer’s perception of the regional affiliation of the product occurs. The role of each factor in forming the consumer’s opinion about the regional affiliation of the product is analyzed. The correlation of consumers’ interest in produced regional products of high quality using traditional technologies is noted. The consumer’s perception of the necessary attributes to identify the regional origin of the product is evaluated. The main conclusions regarding the assessment of consumer activity in relation to the purchase of food products of a certain regional affiliation are presented.
Development vecto of agriculture in the Moscow region
Authors: Ibiev G Z , Kovalenko N Ya , Sorokin V S
Published: March 2021

The paper deals with the development of agricultural sectors in the Moscow region. The analysis of growth (decline) of agricultural products in dynamics of the Moscow region is given, factors limiting increased production of the main types of agricultural products are identified, and areas for further development of agriculture in the region are offered. The problems that will increase the production of agriculture of their own production and provide the population of Moscow and the Moscow region with food are described, according to medical consumption standards. The conditions and prospects for the development of agriculture in the Moscow region are considered.
Wage indexation as a factor of stable food demand and sustainability of agricultural systems
Authors: Reshetnikova E G
Published: March 2021

The purpose of the study was to analyze the institutional component of the process of indexation of the population’s income in Russia, substantiating the directions of its improvement using foreign experience in this area. The population’s income is the most important factor in creating effective demand, since 2014 the reduction in real available income has had a negative impact on the level of aggregate demand, including for the products of the agrifood complex. Food consumption is a priority human need, but a reduction in real income leads to a reduction in the volume and structure of nutrition. Wage indexation is a widely used tool in many countries with developed market economies to increase purchasing power, increase living standards, and increase consumer demand. There is no universal model of wage indexation in the world; it can be applied to the entire population, or only to low-income workers. In Russia, the institutional framework for income indexation is criticized by experts for the ambiguity in the interpretation of some of the main provisions, for the difference in approaches to income indexation in budget and commercial organizations. The paper substantiates the key principles of wage indexation, which consist in a combination of state and social partner regulation.
Resistance of carrots to diseases as a factor of increasing production profitability
Authors: Engalycheva I A , Kozar E G , Stepanov V A , Sirota S M , Soldatenko A V
Published: March 2021

The main reason for the decline in production of commercial products is the loss of crop during its long storage. From March to July, the difference between demand and production is made up by imported products from near and far abroad. As a result, this leads to an increase in prices relative to the autumn months from April by 44% and from July by 50%, until going of a new crop of domestic products on the shelves. As a result of the conducted research, it is shown that domestic varieties and hybrids due to a higher level of resistance to local populations of pathogens are economically profitable in terms of production costs and crop losses during storage. Growing high-yielding varieties and hybrids of carrots with complex stability, such as Margosha and Shantane 2461, Rif F1 and Nadezhda F1 breeding of FSBSU “Federal Scientific Center of Vegetable Growing” (FSBSU FSCVG) allows for the sale after long-term storage to make a profit of about 240-600 thousand rubles/ha, to achieve profitability of 59-150%. This contributes to solving one of the key tasks - reducing the dependence of the vegetable market on imports and ensuring food security of the Russian Federation.
Price disparity in the net cost and profitability of vegetable products
Authors: Razin A F , Mescheryakova R A , Surikhina T N , Shatilov M V
Published: March 2021

The prevailing price relations in the industry and the trend of increasing costs for the production of vegetable products lead to an unjustified loss of profit by vegetable producers in market conditions. This occurs as a result of price disparity, which allows increasing the cost of purchasing industrial goods (machinery, fertilizers, protective equipment, etc.) and services (payment for work and services of third-party organizations) to withdraw part of the industry’s revenue. This leads to a decrease in production efficiency and a lack of funds for its extended reproduction. The spread of indicators of profitability of vegetable products by year and type of vegetables indicates that there are significant opportunities to improve the performance of vegetable growing. This will be possible when resolving the issue of price disparity by introducing a permanent system of purchases at announced guarantee prices beforehand. Lower market prices will increase the average selling price of vegetables and the profitability of production, which will be an incentive to increase production. It is necessary to minimize costs aimed at improving the use of productive potential – land, material and labor resources.
Improving the efficiency of using Russian soil resources
Authors: Razin A F , Meshcheryakova R A , Razin O A , Surikhina T N , Telegina G A
Published: March 2021

Russia’s soil is degraded by simplified agricultural production technologies, lack of fertilizers, plant protection products, irrigation, improper use of crop rotations or their absence, and weakening of state control over the use and protection of agricultural land. There is a depletion of available land. The average annual deficit of humus in the arable layer is 0.52 tons per hectare, and the applied doses of organic and mineral fertilizers do not compensate for the loss of soil nutrients. 46% of the surveyed area is characterized by a low content of organic substances. The renewal and preservation of fertility of Russia’s soils suitable for vegetable growing is possible in a scientifically sound combination of organic and mineral fertilizers, use of crop rotations with inclusion of break crops and perennial grasses, technological, agricultural and technical parameters of the technology, the organization of control over use and protection of agricultural land from the state and regional authorities.
The effectiveness of applying mineral fertilizers in the cultivation of green bean for seeds
Authors: Nadezkin S M , Ushakov V A , Pronina E P , Antoshkin A A , Molchanova A V
Published: March 2021

Growing beans is one of the main ways to increase the production of vegetable protein. The problem of implementing high seed productivity of vegetable bean varieties while maintaining the high quality of the produced seeds is relevant. Increasing the yield of seeds and improving their quality is possible due to the scientifically based use of mineral fertilizers in the cultivation of beans. Optimal rates and the ratio of nitrogen, phosphorous and potash fertilizers allow getting a significant increase in the yield of high-quality seeds. On sod-podzol medium-loamy soils, the optimal rate of mineral fertilizers for green beans and Cinderella varieties was N30P45K45. There was an increase in the total protein content under the influence of mineral fertilizers by 0.2-2.0% in the Cinderella variety and by 0.5-1.8% in the Lika variety. The use of optimal mineral fertilizers in the cultivation of green beans provided a net income for the Lika variety 122.2 thousand rubles/ha and the Cinderella variety – 117.4 thousand rubles/ha.
Evaluation of the availability of forage harvesting equipment and prospects for its market development in the Russian Federation
Authors: Polukhin A A , Mikhaylov M R , Mordovin A N , Panin A V
Published: March 2021

Animal husbandry has been one of the priority areas for the development of agriculture in the Russian Federation over the past decade. One of the factors which gave impetus to its development is the adoption of policies of import substitution, which led not only to increased demand for livestock products due to the limitation of imports from countries that joined sanctions against Russia, but also the development of production sectors that ensure the functioning of this direction of agriculture, in particular agricultural engineering enterprises, producing forage machinery and equipment for maintenance of beef and dairy herds. The analysis of dynamics of changes of quantitative composition of the forage machines fleet shows that over the past three decades there has been a steady tendency to its permanent reduction, due primarily to a decrease in the number of livestock and, as a consequence, the reduction of lands under fodder crops and the general trend of increasing the saturation of machines in agriculture that can significantly increase their productivity. Along with obvious advantages, such as, for example, saving fuel and lubricants and wages due to a reduction in the number of runs on the field, such trends carry a number of risks associated with possible downtime to eliminate the consequences of failures and, as a result, violation of agrotechnical harvesting deadlines. Foreign companies that have moved their assembly plants to the territory of the Russian Federation and have fulfilled the requirements for localization of production often leave the production of spare parts outside its borders, which can not be considered as a positive factor from the point of view of food security. State support, which until recently was mainly directed at equipment manufacturers, did not fully stimulate the implementation of research and development work that could increase the competitiveness of national products over foreign ones, all other things being equal. These factors together dictate the need to conduct research on the prospects for the development of its market.
Land management in the Oryol region agriculture
Authors: Klimova S P , Polukhin A A , Titkov A A
Published: March 2021

This paper discusses the current problems of land management in the Oryol region agriculture based on the study of the economic characteristics of land as a real estate object. Based on statistical data, the analysis of the land potential of the Oryol region was carried out, the current state and dynamics of changes in agricultural land areas were studied. The total area of agricultural land plots that meets the requirements of the country’s legislation regarding their classification as particularly valuable land for agricultural production, the use of which is restricted for other purposes, is determined. The differential nature of the value of the cadastral value of agricultural land in the Oryol region is studied, the specifics and functional purpose of the cadastral value as an economic category of land plots are determined. That is why effective land management of agricultural enterprises at the regional level is an urgent problem that requires timely solutions based on the integration of organizational and economic aspects of management actions. All this indicates that it is necessary to continue research related to both forms of land ownership and improvement of economic relations in terms of the use of agricultural land.
Efficiency of using complex fertilizers for pre-sowing treatment of seeds and growing plants of buckwheat
Authors: Glazova Z I
Published: March 2021

The paper presents the results of three years of research on the use of various organic and mineral fertilizers for foliar feeding of Druzhina variety buckwheat in the Oryol region. It is noted that the use of complex organic and mineral fertilizers of LLC Polydon Agro: Alfastim, Polydon Boron, Polydon Potassium Plus, Polydon Bio, Polydon NP for pre-treatment of seeds and leaf fertilizing provides an increase in grain yield by 0.19-0.40 t/ha. The share of this factor influence was 12.8-16.9%, depending on weather conditions during the growing season. The positive effect of seed treatment with the biological stimulant Alfastim on buckwheat yield is shown: grain harvest from 1 ha of crops increased by 0.04-0.31 t/ha.

It is established that foliar fertilization with organic fertilizers of LLC Polydon Agro is economically justified: with a small consumption (1.6-5.6 t/ha), additional grain collection provides income from 4.90 to 6.02 thousand rubles/ha.
Effect of lubrication in the non-Reynolds regime due to the non-negligible gap on the fluid permeation through a membrane
Authors: Takeuchi Shintaro , Miyauchi Suguru , Yamada Shuji , Tazaki Asahi , Zhang Lucy T , Onishi Ryo , Kajishima Takeo
Published: March 2021

To understand lubrication-induced membrane permeation, the effects of permeability and membrane geometry on lubrication pressure and permeate flux are studied in a range of a wall-membrane gap width wherein the effect of lubrication cannot be resolved using the Reynolds lubrication equation. The unresolvable lubrication effect (referred to as the non-Reynolds lubrication effect) is modelled by including a higher-order effect as the wall-tangential variation of the local Couette–Poiseuille velocity. Analytical prediction of the permeate flux is then validated with the fully validated numerical simulation. The result shows that, while the traditional Reynolds lubrication model underestimates the permeate flux, the permeation with the effect of the non-Reynolds lubrication is effectively improved in a small permeability range. Furthermore, the non-Reynolds lubrication model also enables reproduction of the characteristic variation in the permeate flux along the membrane. The effective range of the permeability for the non-Reynolds permeate model is discussed through the order analysis of the pressure terms in the Reynolds and non-Reynolds lubrication regimes.
Temporal vs. spatial variation in stress-associated metabolites within a population of climate-sensitive small mammals
Authors: Whipple Ashley L , Ray Chris , Wasser Max , Kitchens James N , Hove Alisa A , Varner Johanna , Wilkening Jennifer L
Published: March 2021

Temporal variation in stress might signify changes in an animal’s internal or external environment, while spatial variation in stress might signify variation in the quality of the habitats that individual animals experience. Habitat-induced variations in stress might be easiest to detect in highly territorial animals, and especially in species that do not take advantage of common strategies for modulating habitat-induced stress, such as migration (escape in space) or hibernation (escape in time). Spatial and temporal variation in response to potential stressors has received little study in wild animals, especially at scales appropriate for relating stress to specific habitat characteristics. Here, we use the American pika (Ochotona princeps), a territorial small mammal, to investigate stress response within and among territories. For individually territorial animals such as pikas, differences in habitat quality should lead to differences in stress exhibited by territory owners. We indexed stress using stress-associated hormone metabolites in feces collected non-invasively from pika territories every 2 weeks from June to September 2018. We hypothesized that differences in territory quality would lead to spatial differences in mean stress and that seasonal variation in physiology or the physical environment would lead to synchronous variation across territories through time. We used linear mixed-effects models to explore spatiotemporal variation in stress using fixed effects of day-of-year and broad habitat characteristics (elevation, aspect, site), as well as local variation in habitat characteristics hypothesized to affect territory quality for this saxicolous species (talus depth, clast size, available forage types). We found that temporal variation within territories was greater than spatial variation among territories, suggesting that shared seasonal stressors are more influential than differences in individual habitat quality. This approach could be used in other wildlife studies to refine our understanding of habitat quality and its effect on individual stress levels as a driver of population decline.
Zebrafish Scube1 and Scube2 cooperate in promoting Vegfa signalling during embryonic vascularization
Authors: Tsao Ku-Chi , Lin Yuh-Charn , Chen Yi-Ting , Lai Shih-Lei , Yang Ruey-Bing
Published: March 2021

Aims

The secreted and membrane-anchored signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing proteins (SCUBE) gene family composed of three members was originally identified from endothelial cells (ECs). We recently showed that membrane SCUBE2 binds vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and acts as a co-receptor for VEGF receptor 2 to modulate EC migration, proliferation, and tube formation during postnatal and tumour angiogenesis. However, whether these SCUBE genes cooperate in modulating VEGF signalling during embryonic vascular development remains unknown.

Methods and results

To further dissect the genetic interactions of these scube genes, transcription activator-like effector nuclease-mediated genome editing was used to generate knockout (KO) alleles of each scube gene. No overt vascular phenotypes were seen in any single scube KO mutants because of compensation by other scube genes during zebrafish development. However, scube1 and scube2 double KO (DKO) severely impaired EC filopodia extensions, migration, and proliferation, thus disrupting proper vascular lumen formation during vasculogenesis and angiogenesis as well as development of the organ-specific intestinal vasculature. Further genetic, biochemical, and molecular analyses revealed that Scube1 and Scube2 might act cooperatively at the cell-surface receptor level to facilitate Vegfa signalling during zebrafish embryonic vascularization.

Conclusions

We showed for the first time that cooperation between scube1 and scube2 is critical for proper regulation of angiogenic cell behaviours and formation of functional vessels during zebrafish embryonic development.
Functional Adaptations in the Forelimb of the Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia)
Authors: Smith Heather F , Townsend K E Beth , Adrian Brent , Levy Samuel , Marsh Shelby , Hassur Rebecca , Manfredi Kevin , Echols M Scott
Published: March 2021

The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is anatomically and physiologically adapted for life in the rocky terrain of alpine zones in Central and South Asia. Panthera uncia is scansorial, and typically hunts solitarily by using overhead ambush of prey, rather than the typical stalking pattern of other large pantherines. In this study, we conducted dissections, detailed documentation, and illustrated the forelimb anatomy of two adult P. uncia specimens (1M/1F). Qualitative and quantitative data revealed an intriguing combination of functional adaptations illustrating a balance between the diverse demands of head-first descent, pouncing, climbing across rocky terrain, restraint of large prey, rapid pursuit, and navigating deep snow. In many forelimb proportions, P. uncia is intermediate between the cursorial Acinonyx jubatus (cheetah) and the scansorial forest dwelling Panthera onca (jaguar). Enlarged scapular and pectoral musculature provide stability to the shoulder girdle during grappling with large prey, as well as support during jumping and climbing. A small, unarticulated bony clavicle may provide greater stability to the forelimb, while still allowing flexibility. In the brachium and antebrachium of P. uncia, there is a functional compromise between the powerful grip needed for grasping large prey and the stability necessary for rapid pursuit of prey over uneven, rocky terrain. A unique bifurcation in the tendon of m. biceps brachii may provide additional functional stability at the radiohumeral joint. Intrinsic muscles of the palmar manus are broad and fleshy, acting as an enlarged surface area to evenly distribute body weight while walking on soft snow. However, muscles that act to provide fine manual manipulation are reduced, as in other large prey specialists. Overall, P. uncia displays morphological adaptive parallels with scansorial, large prey specializing pantherines, such as P. onca, while also showing adaptations for running.
Maximal regularity of multistep fully discrete finite element methods for parabolic equations
Authors: Li Buyang
Published: March 2021

This article extends the semidiscrete maximal $L^p$-regularity results in Li (2019, Analyticity, maximal regularity and maximum-norm stability of semi-discrete finite element solutions of parabolic equations in nonconvex polyhedra. Math. Comp., 88, 1--44) to multistep fully discrete finite element methods for parabolic equations with more general diffusion coefficients in $W^{1,d+\beta }$, where $d$ is the dimension of space and $\beta>0$. The maximal angles of $R$-boundedness are characterized for the analytic semigroup $e^{zA_h}$ and the resolvent operator $z(z-A_h)^{-1}$, respectively, associated to an elliptic finite element operator $A_h$. Maximal $L^p$-regularity, an optimal $\ell ^p(L^q)$ error estimate and an $\ell ^p(W^{1,q})$ estimate are established for fully discrete finite element methods with multistep backward differentiation formulae.
Long non-coding RNA ZEB1-AS1 promotes proliferation and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by targeting miR-299-3p/E2F1 axis
Authors: Mu Baiyin , Lv Chenlan , Liu Qingli , Yang Hong
Published: March 2021

There is emerging evidence that dysregulation of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) is associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 antisense 1 (ZEB1-AS1) functions as an oncogenic regulator in various malignancies. Nonetheless, the potential role of ZEB1-AS1 in HCC remains poorly elucidated. Herein, qRT-PCR was employed for examining ZEB1-AS1, miR-299-3p and E2F transcription factor 1 (E2F1) mRNA expressions in HCC cells and tissues. MTT assay was performed to evaluate cell proliferation. Transwell assay was utilized for evaluating cancer cell migration and invasion. Western blot was employed for measuring E2F1 protein expression. What’s more, dual-luciferase reporter assay was utilized for verifying the targeting relationships between ZEB1-AS1 and miR-299-3p, as well as E2F1 and miR-299-3p. It was demonstrated that, in HCC tissues and cells, ZEB1-AS1 expression was markedly increased, and meanwhile, its high expression level is related to the unfavourable clinicopathologic indicators. ZEB1-AS1 overexpression facilitated HCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion, while its knockdown led to the opposite effects. In terms of mechanism, we discovered that ZEB1-AS1 could decoy miR-299-3p and upregulate E2F1 expression. This work reveals the functions and mechanism of ZEB1-AS1 in HCC tumourigenesis and progression, which provides novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for HCC.
EXTRACOLONIC FINDINGS—IDENTIFICATION AT LOW-DOSE CTC
Authors: Thorén Fredrik , Johnsson Åse A , Hellström Mikael , Båth Magnus
Published: March 2021

In contrast to optical colonoscopy, computed tomography colonography (CTC) has the ability to reveal pathology outside of the colon. While identification of colorectal lesions at CTC requires only limited radiation dose, the detection of abnormalities in extracolonic soft tissue requires more radiation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of ultra-low-dose (ULD) CTC on the detection and characterisation of extracolonic findings. In a prospective study 49 patients with colorectal symptoms were examined with CTC adding a ULD series (mean effective dose 0.9 ± 0.4 mSv) to the normal unenhanced standard dose (SD) series (mean effective dose 3.6 ± 1.2 mSv). Five radiologists individually and blindly evaluated the ULD, followed by evaluation of the SD after ≥9 weeks (median 35 weeks). A ViewDEX-based examination protocol was used, including a confidence scale and a graded assessment of need for follow-up according to the CTC Reporting and Data System (C-RADS E0–E4). The reference findings comprised the combined information from CTC (ULD, SD and contrast-enhanced CTC series) and a 4-year radiological and clinical follow-up. For the overall detection of reference findings (E2–E4) we found a statistically significant difference in favour of SD. This, however, was not the case when looking at classification of possibly important/important reference findings (E3–E4). Our results suggest that CTC with ULD (0.9 mSv) is comparable to SD (3.6 mSv) for identification of clinically relevant extracolonic pathology, but there is a large inter-observer variability.
EVALUATION OF THE SPATIAL RESOLUTION IN MONTE CARLO-BASED SPECT/CT RECONSTRUCTION OF 111IN-OCTREOTIDE IMAGES
Authors: Wikberg Emma , van Essen Martijn , Rydén Tobias , Svensson Johanna , Gjertsson Peter , Bernhardt Peter
Published: March 2021

The purpose was to evaluate the spatial resolution in 111In-octreotide single-photom emission computed tomography (SPECT)/computed tomography (CT) imaging following reconstructions with three different ordered subset expectation maximizations (OSEM) reconstruction algorithms; attenuation corrected (AC) OSEM, AC OSEM with resolution recovery (ACRR OSEM) and Monte Carlo-based OSEM reconstruction (MC OSEM). SPECT/CT imaging of a triple line phantom containing 111In in air and water was performed. The spatial resolution, represented by the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of a line profile, was determined for each line, for X and Y direction and for all reconstructions. The mean FWHM was 12.2 mm (±standard deviation [SD] 3.7 mm) for AC OSEM, 9.3 mm (±SD 2.5 mm) for ACRR OSEM and 8.2 mm (±SD 2.0 mm) for MC OSEM. MC-based SPECT/CT reconstruction clearly improves the spatial resolution in 111In-octreotide imaging and since MC simulations can be performed for all photon energies MC OSEM has the potential to improve SPECT/CT imaging overall.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Prodromal Stage of Psychosis—Outcomes for Transition, Functioning, Distress, and Quality of Life: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Zheng Yuchen , Xu Tingting , Zhu Yikang , Li Chunbo , Wang Jijun , Livingstone Steven , Zhang Tianhong
Published: March 2021

Objective

This study aimed to provide insight into the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy for psychosis (CBTp) in patients with “clinical high risk of psychosis (CHR-P)”.

Methods

Major scientific databases were searched up to April 17, 2020. Randomized controlled trials in CHR-P individuals, comparing CBTp with needs-based interventions (NBI, including treatment as usual or nonspecific control treatment) were included, following PRISMA guidelines. The primary outcome (efficacy) was transition to psychosis by 6 months, 12 months, 24 months, and over 24 months. Secondary outcomes were change in attenuated psychotic symptoms, depression, distress, improvements in functioning, and quality of life.

Results

Ten randomized controlled studies met inclusion criteria. The comparisons included 1128 participants. CBTp was significantly more efficacious in reducing rate of transition to psychosis by 6 months (after post-hoc sensitivity analysis) (relative risk [RR] = 0.44, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.26, 0.73), 12 months (RR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.30, 0.64), 12 months (RR = 0.46, 95%CI: 0.30, 0.69), and over 24 months (RR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.35, 0.95) after treatment, compared with those receiving NBI. CBTp was also associated with more reduced attenuated psychotic symptoms by 12 months (SMD = −0.17, 95% CI: −0.33, −0.02) and by 24 months (SMD = −0.24, 95% CI: −0.43, −0.06). No beneficial effects on functioning, depression, quality of life, or distress were observed favoring CBTp.

Conclusions

CBTp is effective in reducing both psychosis transition rates and attenuated psychotic symptoms for the prodromal stage of psychosis. It is a promising intervention at the preventative stage.
Reconstructing Squamate Biogeography in Afro-Arabia Reveals the Influence of a Complex and Dynamic Geologic Past
Authors: Tejero-Cicuéndez Héctor , Patton Austin H , Caetano Daniel S , Šmíd Jiří , Harmon Luke J , Carranza Salvador
Published: March 2021

The geographic distribution of biodiversity is central to understanding evolutionary biology. Paleogeographic and paleoclimatic histories often help to explain how biogeographic patterns unfold through time. However, such patterns are also influenced by a variety of other factors, such as lineage diversification, that may affect the probability of certain types of biogeographic events. The complex and well-known geologic and climatic history of Afro-Arabia, together with the extensive research on reptile systematics in the region, makes Afro-Arabian squamate communities an ideal system to investigate biogeographic patterns and their drivers. Here, we reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships and the ancestral geographic distributions of several Afro-Arabian reptile clades (totaling 430 species) to estimate the number of dispersal, vicariance and range contraction events. We then compare the observed biogeographic history to a distribution of simulated biogeographic events based on the empirical phylogeny and the best-fit model. This allows us to identify periods in the past where the observed biogeographic history was likely shaped by forces beyond the ones included in the model. We find an increase in vicariance following the Oligocene, most likely caused by the fragmentation of the Afro-Arabian plate. In contrast, we did not find differences between observed and expected dispersal and range contraction levels. This is consistent with diversification enhanced by environmental processes and with the establishment of a dispersal corridor connecting Africa, Arabia and Eurasia since the middle Miocene. Finally, here we show that our novel approach is useful to pinpoint events in the evolutionary history of lineages that might reflect external forces not predicted by the underlying biogeographic model. [Dispersal; diversification; model adequacy; paleogeography; reptiles; simulations; vicariance.]
Discretionary objects and the beneficiary principle
Authors: Holbech Charles
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this article is to examine the relationship between “the beneficiary principle” and the rights of objects of discretionary powers of appointment or advancement exercisable by trustees or others on a fiduciary basis.1
Effects of Spaceflight Stressors on Brain Volume, Microstructure, and Intracranial Fluid Distribution
Authors: Lee Jessica K , Koppelmans Vincent , Pasternak Ofer , Beltran Nichole E , Kofman Igor S , De Dios Yiri E , Mulder Edwin R , Mulavara Ajitkumar P , Bloomberg Jacob J , Seidler Rachael D
Published: March 2021

Astronauts are exposed to elevated CO2 levels onboard the International Space Station. Here, we investigated structural brain changes in 11 participants following 30-days of head-down tilt bed rest (HDBR) combined with 0.5% ambient CO2 (HDBR + CO2) as a spaceflight analog. We contrasted brain changes observed in the HDBR + CO2 group with those of a previous HDBR sample not exposed to elevated CO2. Both groups exhibited a global upward shift of the brain and concomitant intracranial free water (FW) redistribution. Greater gray matter changes were seen in the HDBR + CO2 group in some regions. The HDBR + CO2 group showed significantly greater FW decrements in the posterior cerebellum and the cerebrum than the HDBR group. In comparison to the HDBR group, the HDBR + CO2 group exhibited greater diffusivity increases. In half of the participants, the HDBR + CO2 intervention resulted in signs of Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS), a constellation of ocular structural and functional changes seen in astronauts. We therefore conducted an exploratory comparison compared between subjects that did and did not develop SANS and found asymmetric lateral ventricle enlargement in the SANS group. These results enhance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of spaceflight-induced brain changes, which is critical for promoting astronaut health and performance.
Improvements in Sleep Correlate With Improvements in Clinical Outcomes Among Adolescents Undergoing Intensive Interdisciplinary Pain Treatment
Authors: Boggero Ian A. , Krietsch Kendra N. , Pickerill Hannah M. , Byars Kelly C. , Homan Kendra J. , Williams Sara E. , King Christopher D.
Published: March 2021

Objectives:

Intensive interdisciplinary pain treatment (IIPT) programs have been shown to restore function, improve coping, and reduce pain in adolescents with chronic pain. Yet, little is known about patients’ sleep during IIPT and whether or not improvements in pain treatment outcomes are associated with changes in sleep pre-to-post IIPT treatment. The objectives of the current study were to describe sleep among adolescents entering IIPT and examine associations between sleep parameters and IIPT treatment effects.

Materials and Methods:

Self-reported sleep measures and clinical outcomes (eg, functional disability, coping, average pain), were collected from 44 adolescents (mean age=14.57, 68.2% female) at admission and discharge from an inpatient IIPT program. Wrist-worn actigraphy data and sleep diaries from participants’ first week and last week in the program were analyzed to characterize sleep parameters.

Results:

Participants self-reported poor sleep/wake patterns, high levels of insomnia symptoms, and subclinical problems with daytime sleepiness upon admission into IIPT, although actigraphic indices of sleep from the first week of IIPT admission were only just under clinical guidelines for healthy adolescent sleep. Better self-reported sleep quality assessed via aggregated sleep diaries from the first week was associated with improvement in average pain and disability over the course of the program. Furthermore, improvements in insomnia symptoms and daytime sleepiness throughout the program were positively correlated with concurrent improvements in functional disability and coping.

Discussion:

Taken together, results suggest that sleep may be associated with IIPT treatment effects and pave the way for future research to continue examining these relationships.