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A new method called the Survival Beran-based Neural Importance Model (SurvBeNIM) is proposed. It aims to explain predictions of machine learning survival models, which are in the form of survival or cumulative hazard functions. The main idea behind SurvBeNIM is to extend the Beran estimator by incorporating the importance functions into its kernels and by implementing these importance functions as a set of neural networks which are jointly trained in an end-to-end manner. Two strategies of using and training the whole neural network implementing SurvBeNIM are proposed. The first one explains a single instance, and the neural network is trained for each explained instance. According to the second strategy, the neural network only learns once on all instances from the dataset and on all generated instances. Then the neural network is used to explain any instance in a dataset domain. Various numerical experiments compare the method with different existing explanation methods developed for survival analysis, in particular, for models SurvBex, SurvNAM, and SurvLIME. Results of experiments with synthetic and real data show that the proposed method outperforms existing explanation methods. A code implementing the proposed method is publicly available.

The use of semiconductor nanomaterials is currently considered to be one of the most promising device optimization methods since those materials allow controlling the electronic properties and possess high mechanical and thermal strength, providing for long device service life without the necessity of replacement or seeking new solutions. The parameters of the electronic and energy structure of new semiconductor nanomaterials based on carbon nanotubes containing substitution atoms have been studied. The test carbon nanotubes contained specific substitution atom concentrations (15, 25 and 50%). A relationship has been drawn between the band gap, conductivity and optical properties of the materials. Data on the band gap and conductivity as functions of substituting nitrogen atom concentration and tube diameter have been reported. The experimental band gap data suggest that the nanotubes in question are narrow-gap semiconductors. One can also conclude that a new semiconductor material has been synthesized on the basis of carbon nanotubes with substitution nitrogen atoms since the test tubes exhibit a redistribution of electron density towards the nitrogen atoms and positive charge localization in the vicinity of the carbon atoms. The results are of utmost importance for the design and fabrication of components and units for nanoelectronics and microsystems: our theoretical study has confirmed the possibility to control the refraction index and conductivity of media by implementing a carbon-for-nitrogen substitution reaction to various concentrations. Thus, a new electronics material has been studied, i.e., carbon nanotubes modified by substitution of nitrogen atoms.

Various types of metal-organic frameworks (MOF) and their structural parameters have been reviewed and their classification has been presented. Most widely used synthesis methods and approaches for MOF and composites on their basis have been discussed. MOF structure is a regular 3D lattice formed by organic linkers and metallic clusters. It has been shown for an example of literary data on MOF synthesis and structural studies that the types of bonds and metals can strongly affect the spatial structure and dimensions of MOF crystals: they can have nano-, micro- and meso-dimensions, be dense or porous, bulk or layered. This variety of structural parameters determines the wide range of their properties and potential applications. Prospects and methods of controlling the shapes of the crystals, their size and spatial bonds between organic components and metal ions have been reviewed. Major attention has been paid to zeolite-like frameworks (ZIF) as the most promising ones from the viewpoint of structure, synthesis and electrochemical current source applications. Discussion has touched on possible modifications and methods of controlling the properties of those MOFs and composites on their basis and introduction of impurities, including those having magnetic properties. Possible synthesis options of complex composites through controlled MOF pyrolysis have been presented, for either small-batch or scalable processes. The effect of heat treatment conditions on the final properties and electrochemical applications of those materials has been demonstrated. ZIF-67 structured MOF doping with one more metal has been presented as variant of modifying the properties of MOF and composites on their basis. For example, the Authors have implemented cobalt MOF synthesis wherein cobalt is partially substituted for manganese at the synthesis stage. Furthermore, a simple water solution co-deposition synthesis technique has been modified with ultrasonication thus reducing the time consumption of the process. Electrochemical studies have shown that the unit electrochemical capacity of pyrolyzed MOF electrodes with partial cobalt substitution for manganese is appreciably higher as compared to the manganese-free materials. The unit capacity and energy density increase with manganese content in the MOF. MOF manganese doping delivers a considerable improvement in the electrochemical parameters of the electrode materials for hybrid supercapacitors on their basis (from 100 to 298 F/g at 0.25 A/g current density). The results suggest that cobalt substitution for manganese is an effective method of improving the electrochemical parameters of MOFs. It has been demonstrated that the development of new approaches to the design of MOF based composite materials and the study of the physicochemical regularities of their interaction with various carriers is an important task.

Significant progress has been made in forecasting hazardous atmospheric events such as catastrophic and severe tornadoes (level EF3-EF5). A method for nonstochastic long-term forecasting using the pattern recognition theory and Fourier analysis has recently been developed. A close correlation between the tidal forces of the Sun–Moon–Earth gravitational system and the total number of tornadoes per year was found. However, the physical mechanism of this connection remains closed. In this work, we suggest a novel common physical-mathematical models. One of such models explains the formation process of a strong tornado, which is divided into two stages. First, gravity forces and hurricane winds in the upper troposphere form a long nonlinear wave in the lower troposphere. Second, the wind in the upper atmosphere and nonlinearity amplifies the resulting gravity nonlinear wave, which propagates at the speed of the initial tidal wave. When a gravity wave reaches a thunderstorm supercell that has already formed inside the atmospheric front, it is captured by the supercell because upward air movements destroy its inversion. As meteorological conditions adapt to weather conditions, the pressure within the thunderstorm cell decreases, and wind speed increases, resulting in a violent tornado. The theoretical results strongly align with physical observations, validating our model. The two-stage model for the occurrence of powerful tornadoes is one of many possible ones. As an alternative, the authors also proposed a model for the emergence of a tornado from a thundercloud filled with highly rotating mesoscale vortices. In this case, the theory of mesoscale turbulence is used, which allows for the phenomenon of the red turbulent cascade: the energy transfer from smaller turbulent eddies to the region of large scales. The magnetic and electric field generation equations in tornadoes are considered in detail. Several examples illustrate the presented theory and rationalize some aspects of the physical tornado observations. The authors propose that the constructed physical-mathematical models will enable the utilization of the dangerous and powerful energy of tornadoes for industrial and environmental goals.

BackgroundAmong several treatment options for BRAF-mutant metastatic melanoma, a combination of BRAF inhibitor, MEK inhibitor, and anti-PDL1 antibody seems to be a new emergent approach recently registered in the Russian Federation. It is still not clear which patient population benefits more from this simultaneous use of three drugs instead of its sequencing.AimThis study aimed to evaluate patients’ characteristics treated in real practice in 14 Russian regions by triple combination and to analyze their outcomes depending on biomarkers (PD-L1 expression).MethodsThis was a part (cohort A1) of a prospective non-interventional study of clinical outcomes and biomarkers in patients with skin melanoma. Patients were included in cohort A1 if combination treatment with vemurafenib (vem) + cobimetinib (cobi) + atezolizumab (atezo) was initiated no earlier than 12 weeks (84 days) prior to written informed consent to participate in this study. The index event was the initiation of therapy with all three drugs vem + cobi + atezo (i.e., triple combination). The primary efficacy endpoint of the study was the 24-month overall survival (OS), defined as the time from the index date to the date of death from any cause. If the patient did not experience an event, the OS will be censored at the date of the last contact. Objective response rate (ORR), duration of response (DoR), and progression-free survival (PFS) in the Intention to treat (ITT) population, in biomarker positive population, and in population with brain metastases were also evaluated. Quality of life questionnaires were pre-planned by protocol if it was a part of routine practice. Adverse events were also collected.ResultsBetween March 2021 and May 2023, 59 patients were enrolled in 19 centers from 14 regions of Russia. Thirty-one of 59 (52.4%) patients had central nervous system metastases, and 18 of 31 (58.4%) were symptomatic. Forty of 59 patients (68%) received the triple combination as the first-line treatment. The median follow-up period was 16.83 [95% confidence interval (CI) 13.8–19.8] months. The mean duration of therapy with this regimen was 9.95 months (95% CI 7.48–13.8). ORR was 55.1%; progression as the best outcome was seen in 16.3%. The median DoR was 12.95 months (95% CI 11.0–14.8 months), with a median of 20.3 months (95% CI 9.1–31.5 months) when triple therapy was administered in the first-line treatment. In patients with brain metastases (N = 31), ORR was 45.1%; the median DoR was 12.95 (95% CI 11.0–14.8 months). The median PFS in the entire population was 13.6 months (95% CI 8.6–18.6); the 24-month PFS was 22%. The estimated median OS in the entire population was 15.8 months (95% CI NA); 24-month OS was 45% (95% CI 0.32–0.64). In multivariate Cox regression model, biomarkers of interest [lactate dehydrogenase, Programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1)] did not have statistically significant impact on PFS, OS, or DoR probably due to high data missing rate. No unexpected adverse events were reported. Grades 3–4 AEs were seen in 23 of 59 patients (38%) with most common were skin and liver toxicity.ConclusionTriple combination of atezolizumab, vemurafenib, and cobimetinib had proven its efficacy and tolerability in real settings. No impact of potential predictive biomarkers was seen (NCT05402059).

Nonlinear solitary waves influence the Earth’s crust because wave pressure on the ocean bottom contains non-hydrostatic components. Our physical-mathematical model allows us to calculate the surplus super-hydrostatic pressure on the Earth’s crust. It depends on the amplitudes of solitary waves and the depth of an ocean. The surplus wave pressure averages 50% from hydrostatic pressure on the shallow ocean shelves. Thus, the solitary wave’s tsunami class can provoke novel (repeated) earthquakes (or landslides) because surplus stresses affect the seismic focus. Theoretical results and experimental physical modeling of soliton waves have shown good agreement. A calculated example of the mega-tsunami in Lituya Bay and a described example of Dickson Fjord (AK, USA) indicate changes in the dynamic pressure after the onset of the tsunami. The presented studies demonstrate a first attempt at creating a numerical model of this phenomenon.

Nowadays, indoor positioning using ultra-wideband (UWB) signals is actively being developed with the aim of implementing existing ideas and solutions, improving their performance, and searching for new measurement schemes. This paper proposes an approach to estimating the distance between wireless nodes by measuring radio signal propagation time using UWB chaotic radio pulses and UWB transceivers. This type of signal is a simple and practically interesting alternative to radio carriers of other types of UWB signals, which are based on packets of pulses (usually ultra-short pulses). The practical interest is caused by the noise-like nature of chaotic radio pulses, as well as their immunity to multipath fading and ease of generation. The aim of this work is to analyze such a system and identify the fundamental limitations inherent in the proposed approach. This paper describes a wireless system for measuring the signal propagation time based on the envelope of chaotic radio pulses using the SS-TWR (Single-Sided Two-Way Ranging) method. A difference scheme is used to determine the range. The characteristics of the proposed system are studied experimentally. The factors related to the threshold scheme for determining the time of arrival of a radio signal that introduce a systematic error into the measurement results are revealed, and approaches to correcting their influence are proposed.

Remote sensing techniques provide crucial insights into ancient settlement patterns in various regions by uncovering previously unknown archaeological sites and clarifying the topological features of known ones. Meanwhile, in the northern part of the Southern Levant, megalithic structures remain largely underexplored with these methods. This study addresses this gap by analyzing the landscape around Rujm el-Hiri, one of the most prominent Southern Levantine megaliths dated to the Chalcolithic/Early Bronze Age, for the first time. We discuss the type and extent of the archaeological remains identified in satellite images within a broader context, focusing on the relationships between landscapes and these objects and the implications of their possible function. Our analysis of multi-year satellite imagery covering the 30 km region surrounding the Sea of Galilee reveals several distinct patterns: 40–90-m-wide circles and thick walls primarily constructed along streams, possibly as old as Rujm el-Hiri itself; later-period linear thin walls forming vast rectangular fields and flower-like clusters of ~ 20 m diameter round-shaped fences found in wet areas; tumuli, topologically linked to the linear walls and flower-like fences. Although tumuli share similar forms and likely construction techniques, their spatial distribution, connections to other archaeological features, and the statistical distribution in their sizes suggest that they might serve diverse functions. The objects and patterns identified may be used for further training neural networks to analyze their spatial properties and interrelationships. Most archaeological structures in the region were reused long after their original construction. This involved adding new features, building walls over older ones, and reshaping the landscape with new objects. Rujm el-Hiri is a prime example of such a complex sequence. Geomagnetic analysis shows that since the entire region has rotated over time, the Rujm el-Hiri’s location shifted from its original position for tens of meters for the thousands of years of the object’s existence, challenging theories of the alignment of its walls with astronomical bodies and raising questions regarding its possible identification as an observatory.

Optical ceramics based on YSAG : Yb : Er with the compositions {Y1.86Yb0.45Er0.09Sc0.6}[Al1.6Sc0.4]Al3O12 and {Y2.26Yb0.45Er0.09Sc0.2}[Al1.0Sc1.0]Al3O12 were fabricated by vacuum sintering from pre-synthesized nanocrystalline powders. A comparative analysis of these samples with optical ceramics of the compositions {Y2.34Yb0.45Er0.09Sc0.12}[Al1.92Sc0.08]Al3O12 and {Y0.96Yb0.45Er0.09Sc1.50}[Al1.8Sc0.2]Al3O12 was carried out. The influence of scandium cations in the dodecahedral and octahedral positions of the garnet crystal lattice on the refractive index of YSAG : Yb : Er, as well as the values of absorption coefficients, integral luminescent intensities, and lifetimes of excited states of Yb3+ (2F7/2 and 2F5/2) and Er3+ (4I15/2, 4I13/2, 4F9/2, and 4S3/2) cations was revealed in the wavelength ranges 520–700 nm and 890–1690 nm. It has been shown that by changing the concentrations of scandium cations in the dodecahedral and octahedral positions of the crystal lattice of YSAG : Yb : Er solid solutions, it is possible to purposefully change the efficiency of energy transfer from ytterbium cations to erbium cations.

Physicochemical fundamentals have been developed for the basic design solutions and fabrication technologies of prospective electrolytic power cells with a reusable cell capacity of 350–500 W·h/kg at the first stage and 1000 W·h/kg at the second stage. Along with conventional chemical current sources and ionistors, there are emerging high-performance supercapacitor structures with thin dielectric in the double electric layer and hybrid capacitors in which energy is accumulated in the double electric layer and due to electrochemical processes. This approach reduces the internal resistance of the electrolytic cells thus decreasing the heat emission during operation and therefore providing for a higher specific energy capacity and operation safety, shorter charging time and an increase in specific power. Prospective anode is a nanostructured electrode material in the form of a carbon matrix filled with a nanostructured chemically active material. Promising carbon matrix fillers are Li and its alloys, Si, Al, Na, Sn, Mg, Zn, Ni, Co, Ag, as well as a range of other materials and their compounds. The effect of carbon material specific surface area, dielectric permeability and chemically active material addition on the specific energy capacity has been studied. Theoretical specific energy capacity of metal/air hybrid capacitors has been calculated. Thin-film technological system has been designed for new generation electrode materials in the form of carbon matrices with highly developed surface containing thin tunneling dielectrics and chemically active materials on dielectric surface.

Ultra-wideband radio signals have been the subject of study for several decades. They are used to solve problems of communications and ranging. Measuring the strength (power) of a radio signal is a technically simple way to estimate the distance between the emitter and the receiver of the signal. However, the conditions of signal propagation have a significant impact on the power of the received signal. This work is relevant because chaotic radio pulses are a relatively new type of carrier in wireless technologies, and actual knowledge about the change in signal power in different types of premises is relatively small, so such a study is necessary. In this paper, we study the variation in signal power with distance for chaotic ultra-wideband radio pulses under various propagation conditions. Using experimental measurements in several outdoor (field, roadside) and indoor (corridors, conference room, office) environments, we investigate the effect of propagation conditions on ultra-wideband chaotic radio signals and determine the limits within which the dependence of the calculated power on distance can be approximated by a power law. For this purpose, the results of experimental measurements of the received signal power (a total of about 17.5 M values) were accumulated and analyzed. The accuracy of distance measurement that can be achieved in different conditions is compared and analyzed. It was found that for a 9.5 dBm signal, the range of distances at which the average accuracy is only 15–50 cm when using a power law is 5–7 m indoors and 10–15 m outdoors.

Mathematical black-box models, which hide the structure and behavior of the subsystems, currently dominate science. Mechanisms under study remain hidden. Errors and paradoxes, such as the biodiversity paradox and the limiting similarity hypothesis, often arise from subjective interpretations of these hidden mechanisms. To address these problems in ecology, we have developed transparent mathematical models of the white-box type. Here we present and justify the hypothesis that it is possible to construct transparent mathematical white-box models using logical deterministic cellular automata, where the rules used to construct these models are based on the general theory of the relevant domain. So far, white-box modeling has allowed us to directly identify the mechanisms of interspecific competition, test the principle of competitive exclusion and the hypothesis of limiting similarity, resolve the paradox of biodiversity, and formulate for the first time the general principle of competitive coexistence. As a framework for reproducing and further developing the method, we present a C++ code of two transparent mathematical models of an ecosystem. A shift to transparency in the mathematical modeling paradigm has the potential to revolutionize scientific research and to advance knowledge and technology in a wide variety of domains.

FeCoCu ternary nanoparticles distributed and stabilized in the carbon matrix of FeCoCu/C metal-carbon nanocomposites have been synthesized using controlled IR pyrolysis of precursors consisting of the “polymer / iron acetylacetate / cobalt and copper acetates” type system obtained by joint dissolution of components followed by solvent removal. The effect of the synthesis temperature on the structure, composition and electromagnetic properties of the nanocomposites has been studied. By XRD was shown that the formation of the FeCoCu ternary nanoparticles occurs due to the interaction of Fe3С with the nanoparticles of the CoCu solid solution. An increase in the synthesis temperature leads to an increase in the size of the metal nanoparticles due to their agglomeration and coalescence as a result of matrix reconstruction. Furthermore, ternary alloy nanoparticles having a variable composition may form depending on the synthesis temperature and the content ratio of the metals. Raman spectroscopy has shown that the crystallinity of the carbon matrix of the nanocomposites increases with the synthesis temperature. The frequency responses of the relative permittivity and permeability of the nanocomposites have been studied at 3–13 GHz. It has been shown that a change in the content ratio of the metals noticeably increases both the dielectric and the magnetic losses. The former loss is caused by the formation of a complex nanostructure of the nanocomposite carbon matrix while the latter one originates from an increase in the size of the nanoparticles and a shift of the natural ferromagnetic resonance frequency to the low-frequency region. The reflection loss has been calculated using a standard method from the experimental data on the frequency responses of the relative permittivity and permeability. It has been shown that the frequency range and the absorption of electromagnetic waves (from –20 to –52 dB) can be controlled by varying the content ratio of the metals in the precursor. The nanocomposites obtained as a result of the experiment deliver better results in comparison with FeCo/C nanocomposites synthesized under similar conditions.

The aim of this work was to study the effect of vacuum sintering conditions and cerium concentration on the optical, luminescent and thermal properties of yttrium-aluminum garnet based ceramics doped with Се3+ cations. Series of ceramic powders were synthesized and samples of luminescent ceramics having the composition Y3-хСехAl5O12 were synthesized where x was in the range 0.01 to 0.025 f.u. We show that the phase composition and grain size distribution of the ceramic powders do not depend on cerium concentration. Without sintering additives, an increase in vacuum sintering temperature from 1675 to 1800 °C leads to an increase in the optical transmittance of luminescent ceramic specimens from 5 to 55% at a 540 nm wavelength and an increase in the thermal conductivity of the samples from 8.4 to 9.5 W/(m ∙ K). It was found that an increase in cerium concentration leads to a shift of the luminescent band peak from 535 to 545 nm where as the width of the luminescent band decreases with an increase in vacuum sintering temperature from 1675 to 1725 °C.

Breaking of inversion symmetry leads to nonlinear and nonreciprocal electron transport, in which the voltage response does not invert with the reversal of the current direction. Many systems have incorporated inversion symmetry breaking into their band or crystal structures. In this Letter, we demonstrate that a conventional two-dimensional electron gas system with a back gate shows nonreciprocal behavior (with voltage proportional to current squared) in the quantum Hall regime, which depends on the out-of-plane magnetic field and contact configuration. The inversion symmetry is broken due to the presence of the back gate and magnetic field, and our phenomenological model provides a qualitative explanation of the experimental data. Our results suggest a universal mechanism that gives rise to nonreciprocal behavior in gated samples.

The concept of infinitesimal elastic deformation and the theory of elastic seismic waves was formed in the first part of the 19th century and was based mainly on the Fermat, Huygens and Snell developments in the theory of optics. At the same time, seismic wave propagation (utilized in geophysical prospecting) and optic wave propagation through defined media are based on the same physical-mathematical principles, making it possible to transfer nonconventional procedures developed in the first domain to the second one and back. In this investigation, we propose transferring advanced methodologies established in seismic prospecting to practical optics. We selected two advanced approaches with the following aims: (a) homeomorphic imaging; (b) novel description of boundary conditions. The first approach is established with the utilization of the revealed local theoretical relationship between the geometrical features of two fundamental beams and the geometrical properties of hidden geological targets of the media under study. The employed geometrical characteristics of the fundamental beams are spreading functions and curvatures of the singular wavefronts. The second approach is based on a novel description of the boundary conditions. It enables the determination of a faultless seismic (optical) system with the preassigned focusing and imaging assets when any aberrations are absent. An optimal optical system is usually determined as some arrangement agreeing to some perfect system with acceptable correctness. Employment of the developed procedures in the optical design will permit the application of a description of the optical surface using: (1) parametric functions, (2) differential equations, and (3) mixed (parametric-differential). On this basis, optical systems with a minimal number of optical features with complicated shapes can be promptly computed. Another important application field of the suggested methods is the design of optical systems with diffractive elements.

Global warming firstly influences the permafrost regions where numerous and rich world hydrocarbon deposits are located. Permafrost thawing has caused severe problems in exploring known hydrocarbon deposits and searching for new targets. This process is also dangerous for any industrial and living regions in cold regions. Knowledge of permafrost’s ice and unfrozen water content is critical for predicting permafrost behavior during the water–ice transition. This is especially relevant when ice and permafrost are melting in many regions under the influence of global warming. It is well known that only part of the formation’s pore water turns into ice at 0 °C. After further lowering the temperature, the water phase transition continues, but at gradually decreasing rates. Thus, the porous space is filled with ice and unfrozen water. Laboratory data show that frozen formations’ mechanical, thermal, and rheological properties strongly depend on the moisture content. Hence, porosity and temperature are essential parameters of permafrost. In this paper, it is shown that by combining research in three fields, (1) geophysical exploration, (2) numerical modeling, and (3) temperature logging, it is possible to estimate the porosity of permafrost in situ. Five examples of numerical modeling (where all input parameters are specified) are given to demonstrate the procedure. This investigation is the first attempt to quantitatively analyze permafrost’s porosity in situ.

Cooling electrons into the microkelvin temperature range is of interest both for practical purposes and fundamental studies, but current demonstrations are limited to small, specific devices. Here, the authors achieve sub-millikelvin temperatures in a large-area, two-dimensional electron gas.

Цель исследования – определение фактора развития профессиональной субъектности посредством корреляции данных волевой составляющей (самоотношение и отношение к жизненным целям) и коммуникативной компетентности (формальные и неформальные позиции) курсанта, как будущего офицера войск. Предметом исследования выступила профессиональная субъектность курсантов, которая рассматривается как ключевая цель в системе подготовки будущих офицеров. Методы и методики исследования. Методы: теоретический анализ литературных источников; психологическое тестирование. Методики: 16-Факторный личностный опросник (16PF) Р. Кеттелла, Тест «Смысложизненные ориентации» (СЖО) Д.А. Леонтьева (адаптированная версия теста «Цель в жизни» Джеймса Крамбо и Леонарда Махолика). Результаты. Выявленные взаимосвязи показали, что чем выше самоотношение, тем ниже внутренняя конфликтность и выше коммуникативная компетентность, а значит и волевые качества, позволяющие принимать решения, нести ответственность за себя и за своих подчинённых – чётче осознавать свои жизненные цели, статус и позицию командира (профессиональная субъектность). Область применения результатов. Полученные результаты могут быть учтены при разработке учебных программ в военных образовательных учреждениях высшего образования, могут использоваться для составления программ экспериментального исследования профессиональной субъектности офицеров, программ профессионального психологического отбора. Выводы. Профессиональная субъектность офицера существует и проявляет себя как возрастающая и формирующаяся возможность. При её рассмотрении в структурно-динамическом отношении выделяются потенциально-статический и действенно-реализационные аспекты.

We measure electron transport through point contacts in an electron gas in AlGaAs/GaAs heterostructures and graphene for a range of temperatures, magnetic fields, and electron densities. We find a magnetoconductance peak around B=0. With increasing temperature, the width of the peak increases monotonically, while its amplitude first increases and then decreases. For GaAs point contacts the peak is particularly sharp at relatively low temperatures T≈1.5K: the curve rounds on a scale of a few tens of microteslas, hinting at length scales of several millimeters for the corresponding scattering processes. We propose a model based on the transition between different transport regimes with increasing temperature: from ballistic transport to few electron-electron scatterings to hydrodynamic superballistic flow to hydrodynamic Poiseuille-like flow. The model is in qualitative and, in many cases, quantitative agreement with the experimental observations.

Relevance. The article considers the development of law as a regulator of public relations in correlation with emerging and applying various technologies by mankind. In the process of transition from low-tech to high-tech, society has experienced three industrial revolutions and is on the verge of the fourth. The article attempts to establish the stage of modern law development and the degree of its convergence with high technologies. The conclusion is made about the emergence of a new phenomenon - high-tech law, the inner side of which is application of high technologies to solve problems that appear in the process of law enforcement, and the outer side is regulation of public relations arising from their use. The purpose of the work is to substantiate the need for a systematic and evolutionary approach to personnel, technical and regulatory support for further development and functioning of high-tech law and to develop reasonable proposals for solving these problems. The materials for the research were scientific works of specialists in the field of philosophy, legal theory, psychology, technology, statistical data. The authors experience in organizing training of highly qualified specialists aimed at obtaining a set of competences in the field of law and high technologies has also contributed to this research. Methods. The results and conclusions are obtained on the basis of general scientific research methods: logical, systematic, sociological, as well as private-scientific and special: comparative-legal, formal-legal, interpretation, statistical, and some others. Results. The concept of high-tech law is substantiated and formulated, recommendations for its further technological and regulatory modernization are proposed, and a number of conclusions are made that determine the need to change the process of training legal personnel.

Magnetic nanoparticles play an important role in rapidly developing advanced branches of science and industry, e.g. fabrication of magnetic storage media, synthesis of ferromagnetic liquids, medicine and chemistry. One problem faced in the usage of magnetic nanoparticles is their high chemical activity leading to oxidation in air and agglomeration. The chemical activity of magnetic nanoparticles stems from the contribution of their large specific surface to volume ratio. Carbon coating of nanoparticles reduces the interaction between nanoparticles. FeCoAl/C metal-carbon nanocomposites have been synthesized using IR pyrolysis of polymer/metal salt precursors. The effect of synthesis temperature (IR heating) in the range from 500 to 700 °C on the structure and composition of the nanomaterials has been studied. We show that the forming particles are the FeCoAl ternary solid solution with a FeCo based bcc lattice. An increase in the synthesis temperature from 500 to 700 °C leads to an increase in the coherent scattering region of three-component nanoparticles from 5 to 19 nm. An increase in the aluminum content from 20 to 30% relative to Fe and Co results in an increase in the size of the nanoparticles to 15 nm but this also entails the formation of a Co based solid solution having an fcc lattice. An increase in the nanocomposite synthesis temperature and a growth of the relative Al content as a result of a more complete carbonization and the structure-building effect of metals reduce the degree of amorphousness of the nanocomposite carbon matrix and lead to the formation of graphite-like phase crystallites having an ordered structure. The effect of synthesis temperature and relative content of metals on the electromagnetic properties (complex permittivity and permeability) of the synthesized nanocomposites has been studied. Synthesis conditions affect the radio absorption properties of the nanocomposites, e.g. reflection loss (RL) in the 3–13 GHz range.

The Easternmost Mediterranean is a transition region from the ocean to the continent where the spreading and collision zones of the lithospheric plates join. The methodology of paleomagnetic mapping of the transition zones is based on combining geological and geophysical techniques for continental and oceanic platforms: magnetic data interpretation, paleomagnetic reconstructions, results of magnetized rock radiometric dating, satellite data analysis, tectonic–structural reconstructions, biogeographical studies, and utilization of different geophysical survey results. The satellite-derived gravity map reflects practically all significant tectonic units in the region, which assists us in the supposed paleomagnetic mapping. The satellite-derived and aeromagnetic maps with the tectonic features and the map of Curie discontinuity of Israel indicate the complexity of this region. Advanced magnetic data analysis supported by paleomagnetic data attraction and other geological–geophysical methods allowed the revealing of the block of oceanic crust with the Kiama paleomagnetic zone relating to the Early Permian age. A narrow reversely magnetized Earth crust block was revealed in the Lower Galilee. Some examples of advanced magnetic anomaly analysis are presented for several areas where the magnetization vector inclination is other than the modern direction: the Sea of Galilee, Carmel, Rosh-Ha-Ayin, Malqishon, and Hebron. In Israeli land, for the combined paleomagnetic mapping, the well-studied using paleomagnetic and radiometric methods (as well as tectonic–structural) areas were selected: (1) Makhtesh Ramon, (2) the Sea of Galilee with the adjoining zones, (3) Carmel, (4) Hula, and (5) Hermon. It is shown that the regional analysis of paleomagnetic data distribution played an essential role in detecting the influence of the recently recognized counterclockwise rotating mantle structure on the near-surface layers.

A modulation method is proposed for generating identical UWB chaotic radio pulses using an analog generator of chaotic oscillations. The problem is on the edge of two contradicting requirements: (1) theoretical ability to produce a huge number of various-shape signals, because of high sensitivity to the initial conditions of the generator; (2) the necessity to reproduce oscillations of the same shape both in the receiver and in the transmitter for the implementation of coherent methods of signal processing. The considered method allows us to resolve this contradiction. A single-transistor chaotic oscillator with single power supply and frequency range 100 to 500 MHz is proposed. A mathematical model of the generator (a system of ODEs) was derived. A method of generating chaotic radio pulses with a reproducible shape that could be varied in a manner that is controlled and natural for UWB radio by means of changing the supply voltage of the chaotic oscillator is shown. The mathematical model of the generator is simulated numerically and proves the proposed ideas. The shaping and the replicability of UWB pulses was experimentally proven in an analog domain on a testbed with four instances of the chaotic generator.

The problem of creating methods for calculating tsunami parameters and predicting these dangerous events is currently being solved by integrating the equations of the theory of water waves. Both numerical methods and powerful computers are used, as well as analytical solutions. The essential stage is the stage of the tsunami reaching the shelf and shallow coastal waters. The tsunami amplitude increases here, and nonlinear effects become important. Nonlinearity excludes the solution’s unicity and the superposition principle’s fulfillment. The nonlinear theory can have many solutions, depending on various external conditions; there could be nontrivial ones. In this article, we explore the properties of several nonlinear solutions. With their help, we can find the maximum possible amplitude of tsunami waves when approaching the coast and estimate the seismological parameters of an earthquake-generating tsunami.

A method for interpreting uncertainty of predictions provided by machine learning survival models is proposed. It is called UncSurvEx and aims to determine which features of an analyzed example lead to uncertain predictions of an explainable black-box survival model. One of the ideas behind the proposed method is to approximate the uncertainty measure of a local black-box survival model prediction by the uncertainty measure of the Cox proportional hazards model at the local area around a test example. The linear relationship between covariates and predictions in the corresponding Cox model allows determining quantitative impacts of covariates on the uncertainty measure. A specific certainty measure of the survival function, taking into account the most uncertain survival function, is introduced to interpret the prediction uncertainty. The $L_{2}$ -norm is used to compute the distance between survival functions. The method leads to an unconstrained non-convex optimization problem which is solved by means of the well-known Broyden–Fletcher–Goldfarb–Shanno algorithm. A lot of numerical experiments demonstrate the uncertainty interpretation method.

Relevance . The article considers current problems of a criminal procedural and forensic nature common for search and cognitive activities when dealong with older people with cognitive impairment. Successful developments in the field of medicine, an overall increase in the standard of living of the population, and the quality of social security have extended life span expectancy and, accordingly, led to the increase of the total number of older people. People from this category are increasingly involved in the orbit of criminal proceedings as witnesses and victims, and often as defendants (suspects). It should be understood and taken into account that, due to various diseases, changes in the mental state, social status of these persons and other reasons, obtaining verbal criminally relevant information from such participants in the criminal proceedings demonstrate certain specifics. However, at the moment, there are no forensic developments aimed at optimizing investigative actions involving older people. Relevant scientific research on this issue has not been conducted either in Russia or abroad. The aim of the work is the need to ensure the full realization of the rights and legitimate interests of participants in criminal proceedings from among the elderly by developing and introducing forensic techniques into law enforcement in criminal investigations, which necessitates the initial definition of the problem and disclosing its essence. The materials for the study are scientific works of specialists in the field of psychology, gerontology, neurophysiology, forensic science, and statistical data, as well as the authors vast experience in the preliminary investigation of criminal cases as an investigator. The results and conclusions were obtained with the help of general scientific research methods: logical, systemic, sociological, as well as private-scientific and special: comparative-legal, formal-legal, interpretation, statistical, etc. Results: several conclusions have been made to strengthen the necessary to improve the regulatory framework governing participation of older people in criminal proceedings to ensure their legal rights and freedoms. Recommendations on preparation and conduct of investigative actions with participation of such categories of persons have been proposed.

An urgent problem of radio engineering and radioelectronics nowadays is the synthesis of composite materials with preset parameters that can be used as electronics engineering materials. Of special interest are MW range wide-band electromagnetic radiation absorbers. Special attention is paid to materials on the basis of ferromagnetic metals that are capable of effectively absorbing and reflecting incident waves and having a clear nanostructure. Development of nanocapsulated metals will allow controlling the parameters of newly designed materials. This is achieved with the use of polymer matrices, e.g. pyrolyzed polyacrylonitrile (PPAN). This work is a theoretical study of a PPAN monolayer model containing pairs of transition metal atoms iron, nickel and cobalt which possess ferromagnetic properties, in Fe-Co, Ni-Co and Fe-Ni combinations, with silicon amorphizing admixture. We studied the geometrical structure of the metal composite systems which are modeled as PPAN molecular clusters the centers of which are voided of six matrix material atoms, the resultant defects (the so-called pores) being filled with pairs of the metal atoms being studied. The metal containing monolayer proved to be distorted in comparison with the initially planar PPAN monolayer. We plotted single-electron spectra of the composite nanosystems and characterized their band gaps. The presence of metal atoms reduces the band gap of a metal composite as compared with pure PPAN. We determined the charges of the metals and found electron density transfer from metal atoms to their adjacent PPAN monolayer atoms. We calculated the average bond energy of the test metal composite systems and proved them to be stable. The studies involved the use of the density functional theory (DFT) method with the B3LYP functional and the 6-31G(d) basis.

В сообщении приводятся новые данные о гнездовых встречах бородатой неясыти (Strix nebulosa) в Новосибирской области на правобережье р. Обь.

The actual problems of criminal law and criminalistics with which law enforcement agencies in Arctic have been facing are concerned in the present article. Successful development of Arctic region demands struggling against criminality affected by special climate, geographic, ethnic, social, legal and another factors. These circumstances roughly embarrass the combating with criminality in Arctic, taking into account sparse population of the region, remote location of communities from organs of state power, ingenious people alcohol abusing, negative affecting of harsh arctic conditions on mental health of inhabiting person. Being one of the richest recourse region all over the world, Arctic has becoming the stage of competition between arctic states. Upkeeping of order on Russian arctic territory is very important aim under these circumstances. In the article legal regiment of Arctic is concerned and characteristic of Arctic social and economy situation is given. The authors demonstrate structure of Arctic criminality and crimes committed on this territory are analyzed. Special attention is centered on analyzing of ecological crimes committed in Arctic taking into account wealthy of local fauna and environment. The problems of law enforcement criminalistics providing also are attentively analyzed, for example, issues of criminalistics methodic for crime investigation, usage of the new technic tools and devises of criminalistics, interconnection between investigators and detectives. Such interconnection is embarrassed by remote locations islands from mainland. The article is grounded on extensive materials from empiric, scientific and law origins related to criminality existing in the different Arctic countries (USA, Canada, Russia, Scandinavian states). This article is the first one discussing various problems of combatting criminality in Arctic region. In the process of preparing the article authors have come to conclusion that Arctic crimes there committed poses special sort of criminality - “frozen” criminality. Such sort provided by special factors must be explored in the future in order to get success while combating the criminality in Arctic.

In the cold regions, warm mud is usually used to drill deep wells. This mud causes formation thawing around wells, and as a rule is an uncertain parameter. For frozen soils, ice serves as a cementing material, so the strength of frozen soils is significantly reduced at the ice–water transition. If the thawing soil cannot withstand the load of overlying layers, consolidation will take place, and the corresponding settlement can cause significant surface shifts. Therefore, for long-term drilling or oil/gas production, the radius of thawing should be estimated to predict platform stability and the integrity of the well. It is known that physical properties of formations are drastically changed at the thawing–freezing transition. When interpreting geophysical logs, it is therefore important to know the radius of thawing and its dynamics during drilling and shut-in periods. We have shown earlier that for a cylindrical system the position of the phase interface in the Stefan problem can be approximated through two functions: one function determines the position of the melting-temperature isotherm in the problem without phase transitions, and the second function does not depend on time. For the drilling period, we will use this approach to estimate the radius of thawing. For the shut-in period, we will utilize an empirical equation based on the results of numerical modelling.

Abstract Background A giant congenital melanocytic nevus (GCMN) is found in 0.1% of live-born infants. If present, the lesion has a chance of about 6% to develop into malignant melanoma. Both children and adults can be affected by malignant melanoma arising in a giant congenital nevus. Up to 95% of GCMNs harbor NRAS mutations, and mutations in the BRAF, MC1R, TP53, and GNAQ genes have also been described. The individualization of therapy is required, but diagnostic and prognostic criteria remain controversial. Case presentations We report two cases: 1) melanoma arising in a giant congenital nevus during the first month of life complicated with neurocutaneous melanosis (NCM), and 2) melanoma arising in a giant congenital nevus during the first 6 months of life. Pathology, immunohistochemistry, and genetic analyses of tumor tissue were performed. The first case revealed only a non-pathogenic P72R polymorphism of the TP53 gene in the homozygote condition. For the second case, a Q61K mutation was detected in the NRAS gene. Conclusion Malignant melanoma associated with GCMN is rare and therefore poorly understood. Outcomes have been linked to the stage at diagnosis, but no additional pathological prognostic factors have been identified. The most frequent genetic event in giant CMNs is NRAS mutations, which was discovered in one of our cases. To accumulate evidence to improve disease prognosis and outcomes, children with congenital melanocytic nevus should be included in a systemic follow-up study from birth.

Approximately 15% of acral and mucous melanomas carry activating mutations in KIT oncogene. There is a diversity of spectrum of KIT mutations, with some of them rendering tumors responsive to imatinib, while others being imatinib-resistant or not studied yet. Here we present an acral melanoma patient with KIT р.T632I mutation, who failed to respond to imatinib.

The easternmost Mediterranean is a distinct transition zone from the ocean to the continent located at the junction between the largest Earth’s lithospheric segments: Eurasian and African. The methodology of paleomagnetic mapping of such transition zones is based on integrating the mapping techniques for both continental and oceanic platforms: paleomagnetic reconstructions, results of radiometric dating of magnetized rocks, tectonic-structural reconstructions, biogeography, and utilization of the results of various geophysical surveys. The geodynamic-paleomagnetic mapping makes it possible to reveal the multilevel structural heterogeneity and display complex elements of the geodynamics of different ages inherent in this transition zone. The region of northern Israel is the most complex area in the easternmost Mediterranean. For the combined paleomagnetic mapping, well-studied paleomagnetically and radiometrically areas were selected: (1) the Carmel area, (2) the Atlit area (internal part of the Carmel area), (3) the Sea of Galilee with the adjoining zones (primarily, the Kinnarot Valley), and (4) the area of the Hula Basin with adjacent areas of the Golan Plateau, Hermon Mt., and Galilea uplift. The constructed paleomagnetic profiles for the Carmel area (on the top of the accumulative surface of the Lower Cretaceous traps) and the Kinnarot Valley—Sea of Galilee—Hula Basin, evidently indicate the complex history of the paleogeodynamic evolution of the region. These studies demonstrate the effectiveness of paleomagnetic mapping integrated with paleomagnetic profiles crossing these geologically complex areas.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive disease characterized by relentless increase in weakness of limb and respiratory muscles. Whereas the etiology is still not clear, there have been a remarkable progress in understanding ALS pathogenesis and pathophysiology over the last years. In 2017 the second drug that can alter ALS progression rate has been registered. Nevertheless, the prognosis remains very poor and the average life expectancy in ALS does not exceed 5 years. The most common causes of death in ALS are respiratory complications and respiratory failure. Consequently, monitoring of the respiratory system function in ALS patients by neurologists and pulmonologists is crucial for survival and prolongation of life in this condition. Currently the most available diagnostic tool for the assessment of the respiratory profile in ALS is spirometry. Other methods, such as measurement of sniff nasal pressure, overnight oximetry and polysomnography, are also important but, due to technical complexity, their use in routine practice is limited. The principal method of respiratory support used in ALS is noninvasive lung ventilation (NIV). It can increase the average life expectancy and improve the patients quality of life. Invasive lung ventilation with endotracheal tube is another technique that can increase life expectancy and improve quality of life. However, the number of patients accepting this type of mechanical ventilation is very low. Multidisciplinary approach involving different medical specialists including neurologists, pulmonologists and critical care physicians is the key to successive management of ALS patients with respiratory disorders.

The origin of the man on Earth is directly associated with the determination of directions of the flow distribution of the ancient man dispersal to adjacent territories. In such studies, mainly landscape and climatological changes are traditionally considered. We suggest that along with the above factors, regional tectonic-geodynamic factors played a dominant role in the character of dispersal. The considered African-Levantine-Caucasian region is one of the most geologically complex regions of the world, where collisional and spreading processes of geodynamics converge. For the first time, we determined an essential influence of the Akchagylian hydrospheric maximum (about 200 m above the mean sea level) limiting the early dispersal of hominins from Africa to Eurasia. We propose that the Levantine Corridor emerged after the end of the Akchagylian transgression and landscape forming in the Eastern Mediterranean. This corridor location was formed by the movements between the Dead Sea Transform and the boundary of the carbonate platform of the Mesozoic Terrane Belt. Further landscape evolution was largely determined by the geodynamic behavior of the deep mantle rotating structure occurring below the central part of the region under study. All the mentioned events around and in the Levantine Corridor have been studied in detail on the basis of the combined geodynamic, paleogeographic, and paleomagnetic analyses performed in northern Israel (Carmel Uplift and Galilee Plateau). Careful studies of the Evron Quarry geological section indicate that it is unique for the dating of marine and continental archaeological sequences and sheds light on the early dispersal of hominins along the Levantine Corridor.

Three-layer iron-rich Fe3+xSi1−x/Ge/Fe3+xSi1−x (0.2 < x < 0.64) heterostructures on a Si(111) surface with Ge thicknesses of 4 nm and 7 nm were grown by molecular beam epitaxy. Systematic studies of the structural and morphological properties of the synthesized samples have shown that an increase in the Ge thickness causes a prolonged atomic diffusion through the interfaces, which significantly increases the lattice misfits in the Ge/Fe3+xSi1−x heterosystem due to the incorporation of Ge atoms into the Fe3+xSi1−x bottom layer. The resultant lowering of the total free energy caused by the development of the surface roughness results in a transition from an epitaxial to a polycrystalline growth of the upper Fe3+xSi1−x. The average lattice distortion and residual stress of the upper Fe3+xSi1−x were determined by electron diffraction and theoretical calculations to be equivalent to 0.2 GPa for the upper epitaxial layer with a volume misfit of −0.63% compared with a undistorted counterpart. The volume misfit follows the resultant interatomic misfit of |0.42|% with the bottom Ge layer, independently determined by atomic force microscopy. The variation in structural order and morphology significantly changes the magnetic properties of the upper Fe3+xSi1−x layer and leads to a subtle effect on the transport properties of the Ge layer. Both hysteresis loops and FMR spectra differ for the structures with 4 nm and 7 nm Ge layers. The FMR spectra exhibit two distinct absorption lines corresponding to two layers of ferromagnetic Fe3+xSi1−x films. At the same time, a third FMR line appears in the sample with the thicker Ge. The angular dependences of the resonance field of the FMR spectra measured in the plane of the film have a pronounced easy-axis type anisotropy, as well as an anisotropy corresponding to the cubic crystal symmetry of Fe3+xSi1−x, which implies the epitaxial orientation relationship of Fe3+xSi1−x (111)[0−11] || Ge(111)[1−10] || Fe3+xSi1−x (111)[0−11] || Si(111)[1−10]. Calculated from ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) data saturation magnetization exceeds 1000 kA/m. The temperature dependence of the electrical resistivity of a Ge layer with thicknesses of 4 nm and 7 nm is of semiconducting type, which is, however, determined by different transport mechanisms.

The article contains a lot of new information on the inner circle of A.A. Olenina and her father, A.N. Olenin, who managed to surround themselves and their house with special artistic atmosphere, depicted in a number of literary and pictorial works. For 50 years, the Olenins’ house was one of the centers of Russian cultural life, therefore its owners’ connections help to disclose the biographies of many Russian cultural figures. In the article the mistakes made by the publishers of Olenina’s diary are corrected.

We fabricated Cu-doped TiNxOy thin film resistors by using atomic layer deposition, optical lithography, dry etching, Ti/Cu/Ti/Au e-beam evaporation and lift-off processes. The results of the measurements of the resistance temperature dependence, non-linearity, S-parameters at 0.01–26 GHz and details of the breakdown mechanism under high-voltage stress are reported. The devices’ sheet resistance is 220 ± 8 Ω/□ (480 ± 20 µΩ*cm); intrinsic resistance temperature coefficient (TCR) is ~400 ppm/°C in the T-range of 10–300 K; and S-parameters versus frequency are flat up to 2 GHz with maximum variation of 10% at 26 GHz. The resistors can sustain power and current densities up to ~5 kW*cm−2 and ~2 MA*cm−2, above which they switch to high-resistance state with the sheet resistance equal to ~200 kΩ/□ (~0.4 Ω*cm) caused by nitrogen and copper desorption from TiNxOy film. The Cu/Ti/TiNxOy contact is prone to ageing due to gradual titanium oxidation while the TiNxOy resistor body is stable. The resistors have strong potential for applications in high-frequency integrated and hybrid circuits that require small-footprint, medium-range resistors of 0.05–10 kΩ, with small TCR and high-power handling capability.