bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal Association Between Respiratory Viruses and Invasive Streptococcal Disease
Authors: Teoh Zheyi , Fenchel Matthew , Griffin Cameron , Ankrum Andrea , Prasanphanich Nina , Toepfer Ariana P. , Moline Heidi , Staat Mary Allen , Huang Felicia Scaggs
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The temporal association between different noninfluenza respiratory viruses and invasive streptococcal disease is poorly understood. We sought to investigate the temporal association between invasive group A streptococcal disease (iGAS) and invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) with respiratory viral infections from 2017 to 2022 in children from Hamilton County, Ohio.

METHODS

Invasive streptococcal disease cases were identified by microbiological cultures and notifiable disease reports at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Respiratory viral infections were detected using prospective, active surveillance of children with acute respiratory illness and respiratory virus molecular testing through the New Vaccine Surveillance Network. Poisson time-series regression was used to model weekly counts of invasive streptococcal disease by season and cumulative counts of respiratory virus infections by genus over the previous 2 and 4 weeks.

RESULTS

Overall, there were 47 cases of iGAS, 49 cases of IPD, and 5355 respiratory virus infections identified between 2017 and 2022. For invasive streptococcal disease, the most common culture sources were blood (41%), bronchoalveolar lavage or pleural fluid (35%), and tissue or wound (11%). Most cases of invasive streptococcal disease occurred in spring (n = 34) and winter (n = 24). Influenza virus detections in the prior 2 or 4 weeks were temporally associated with iGAS, whereas rhinovirus/enterovirus detections were negatively associated with iGAS.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to the known temporal association with influenza viruses, we found a negative temporal association between rhinoviruses/enteroviruses and iGAS, which has not been previously described. Further understanding of these specific viral-bacterial interactions may help inform public health interventions to mitigate invasive streptococcal disease risk.
Dual-phase Fe40Mn20Cr15Ti10Al10Ni5 high-entropy alloy prepared by mechanical alloying and spark plasma sintering: Alloying behavior, thermal stability, and mechanical properties
Authors: Jain Harsh , Shadangi Yagnesh , Singh Lalit Kumar , Dubey Ashutosh Kumar , Mukhopadhyay Nilay Krishna
Published: January 2025

The Fe-enriched high entropy alloy (HEA) shows the formation of BCC (a = 0.287 nm) and χ-phase (a = 0.889 nm) after mechanical alloying (MA) at 40 h. After spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 900 °C and 50 MPa, the dual-phase structure of FCC and BCC phases along with the χ-phase was observed. The average microhardness and elastic modulus of the SPSed sample were obtained as 5.6 ± 0.2 GPa and 131 ± 5 GPa respectively. The compressive yield strength of the SPSed sample was 1550 ± 100 MPa with ductility of ~ 11%. The dominant strengthening mechanisms are dislocation and grain boundary strengthening, which can account for ~ 65% of the observed flow stress. The correlation between the phases formed and thermal stability was correlated with different thermodynamic parameters and phase prediction by ThermoCalc software.

Graphical abstract
Influence of Maqāṣid Sharī‘ah Implementation on Satisfaction of Islamic Cooperatives’ Members
Authors: Bhinekawati Risa , Ascarya Ascarya , Firdaus Achmad
Published: January 2025

This study aims to elaborate on the application of indicators of five lower-order constructs of maqāṣid sharī‘ah in measuring the satisfaction of Islamic cooperative members. Subsequently, the Social Exchange Theory is used to explain the relationships among reciprocity, trust, maqāṣid sharī‘ah, and satisfaction. This study uses a quantitative approach by applying a two-stage reflective-formative analysis of Partial Least Square – Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The data were collected from nine Islamic cooperatives in six provinces of Indonesia, where 247 valid questionnaires were processed and analyzed using SmartPLS software. The first stage of analysis confirmed that the indicators of five constructs of maqāṣid sharī‘ah (Religion, Life, Intellect, Lineage, and Trust) could be used as valid and reliable measurements for maqāṣid sharī‘ah. The second stage of the analysis found that maqāṣid sharī‘ah, together with reciprocity and trust, have a significant and positive influence on the satisfaction of sharī‘ah cooperative members. The results of this study can be generalized to the Islamic financial cooperatives. However, the application of the model to conventional cooperatives will require further research research. Consistent implementation of maqāṣid sharī‘ah would improve cooperatives members’ satisfaction and overall cooperatives performance. This study confirms that indicators and variables of maqāṣid sharī‘ah can be applied as measurements to analyze the satisfaction of Islamic cooperative members. It also provides empirical evidence of the application of Social Exchange Theory in the context of Islamic cooperatives, which has not been done by previous studies.
Halal Tourism: A Future Research Roadmap Based on Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Supriyadi Supriyadi , Rahman Azibur
Published: January 2025

This research aims to map the topic of halal tourism in different scientific fields by visualising it in a landscape map to see its development and novelty using bibliographic data. This research is a Systematic literature review. Documentation and literature studies for this study were obtained through the Scopus database using the keywords “halal tourism”, “sharia tourism” and “tourism”. Bibliometric techniques were used for analysis and processed using Vosviewer software. The results of this study show that in 14 years (2010-2024), there were 262 articles related to halal tourism, with a significant increase since 2018. The most researched sectors are business management and accounting, followed by social sciences. Indonesia and Malaysia are the countries with the largest contributions. Further, the most contributing authors are Abror A., Battour M., and Han H., while Universiti Teknologi MARA and University of Airlangga lead in the number of publications. Overall, halal tourism shows rapid growth, but more research is needed on policies, infrastructure, and Shariah-compliant services. In addition, there are several keywords that are rarely used in research related to halal tourism including religiosity, ecotourism, sustainability, customer satisfaction, and policy making. Therefore, these keywords can be developed by other researchers in conducting research related to halal tourism.
Outcomes of Antibiotic Therapy During Perinatal Period for the Early Age Child’s Intestinal Microbiota
Authors: Belyaeva Irina A. , Namazova-Baranova Leyla S. , Bombardirova Elena P. , Turti Tatyana V. , Shukenbayeva Regina A.
Published: January 2025

This literature review provides data on antibiotic therapy (AT) consequences that child may be exposed during the perinatal period considering the development of the most crucial body system — intestinal microbiota. The main characteristics of the intestinal microbiota disturbance in infants due to various AT exposure time and volume are presented. Moreover, antibiotics' effects on the intestinal microbiota development in full-term and premature babies are covered. Modern data on the development of pathobionts and symbionts resistome within intestinal microbiota in «mother-child» complex and variants of vertical (from mother to child) and horizontal (between  microorganisms) transmission of antibiotic resistance genes are presented. The major strategies for minimizing the negative consequences of perinatal AT are described
Intraoperative Hemodynamic Disorders in Adolescent with Lordoscoliosis During Correction of Spinal Deformity: Clinical Case and Brief Literature Review
Authors: Ivanova Anastasiya A. , Volkov Sergey G. , Lukyanov Dmitry S. , Lebedeva Maya N.
Published: January 2025

Background. The intraoperative prone position of patients is risk factor of hemodynamic instability development especially in patients with lordoscoliosis due to smaller chest volume. Clinical case description. 15-year-old female patient was admitted for planned surgical correction of grade IV lordoscoliosis. Arterial hypotension has developed during surgery, that could not be corrected by increased infusion therapy rate, vasopressors, and changing anesthetic. Operation has been stopped. No significant anatomical and functional changes in cardiovascular system were revealed during the postoperative period. The patient was taken back to the operating room five days later. However, patient’s positioning has been changed: the Jackson table module with chest and pelvic bone support pads was replaced with standard one with surgical linen placed under the chest and iliac crests. Propofol was the anesthetic of choice. The course of anesthesia was within normal. Conclusion. Preoperative examination of patients with lordoscoliosis should include CT examination of the spine and chest to evaluate the spinal penetration index. Intraoperative positioning should be performed in a way to reduce negative effect of inevitable chest compression. It is preferable to use total intravenous anesthesia. All the above is crucial to minimize the risk of intraoperative hemodynamic instability.
Bladder and Sigmoid Colon Perforation with a Ball Pen in a Child: Clinical Case
Authors: Gavrilyuk Vasily P. , Lukin Oleg V. , Severinov Dmitry A. , Padalkina Olga V.
Published: January 2025

Background. The incidence of foreign bodies in urogenital system has increased significantly among children over the past decades. However, patients' admission for help is usually late, that leads to life-threatening complications (perforation, bleeding, peritonitis). Clinical case description. A girl, 7 years old, was taken to the admission ward of the Regional children's clinical hospital with her mother. Complaints included moderate pain in suprapubic region, discomfort during urination for 2 days before admission. Survey urogram of lower pelvis (centered on the bladder) has revealed radiopaque foreign body in the bladder, presumably ball pen refill. Emergency cystoscopy was performed. Ball pen was visualized in the bladder cavity, its refill was fixed in the bladder mucosa near its neck, whereas, blunt end, presumably, has perforated its posterior wall. Removal of the foreign body trans uretrally was not possible due to its large size and tight fixation in the bladder tissues. It was decided on case conference to perform lower midline laparotomy for adequate evaluation of lower pelvis hollow organs damage and removal of large foreign body. Infiltrate was found in the pelvis (part of greater omentum and sigmoid colon fixed to the bladder), during its separation the foreign body was removed. All detected perforations of the bladder posterior wall and sigmoid colon were sutured with vicryl sutures (two and three rows, respectively). After the surgery, we gave a talk to mother and girl about the the reasons for inserting a foreign body into the bladder. The girl reported that she did it on her own, put it through urethra, but she was afraid to admit to her mother. Clinical psychologist was consulted to evaluate psychological portrait of the child and the family. No factors that could provoke a child to act like this have been identified. The girl was discharged after restoring independent stool and diuresis. Follow-up for 3 years: the girl grows and develops by age. Conclusion. Intraluminal examination methods in the diagnosis of foreign bodies of the urinary tract play the crucial role. They allow us to quickly move from diagnostic procedure to surgical intervention. However, open surgery with interdisciplinary team is advisable as exceptional approach to treatment in case of large foreign bodies of lower urinary tract.
Wilson’s Disease. Onset and Complex Diagnosis: Clinical Case
Authors: Zastelo Elena S. , Fedulova Elvira N. , Gabrikevich Anastasiya N. , Skochilova Tatiana V. , Khavkin Anatoly I.
Published: January 2025

Background. The low prevalence of Wilson’s disease, diversity of clinical signs, long latent course, inheritance features make it difficult to diagnose and require multidisciplinary approach from doctors. Clinical case description. This article describes a clinical case of Wilson’s disease, rare hereditary multisystem disease, diagnosed in patient F., 13 years old. The disease onset was at the age of 6 masked by gastroesophageal reflux disease. Hepatomegaly, cytolysis, and cholestasis were diagnosed 4 years later, thus diagnosis of hepatitis of unknown origin was established requiring further specification. The decrease of free copper level in serum was revealed at the age of 12, penicillamine test was positive. Molecular genetic testing was performed and the pathogenic variant c.3207C>A (heterozygous state) in the ATP7B gene was revealed. We have measured 4 points via the Leipzig score for Wilson’s disease (Leipzig, 2001): serum ceruloplasmin <20 mg/dL — 1 point, increase in urinary copper excretion of more than 5 times at penicillamine test — 2 points, pathogenic variant c.3207C>A (heterozygous state) in the gene ATP7B — 1 point. This score corresponds to the diagnosis of Wilson’s disease. The use of chelation and hepatoprotective therapy has led to positive dynamics. Thus, the disease can debut with nonspecific, asymptomatic increases in transaminases and ultrasound changes in liver at any age. Wilson’s disease is progressive disease and in the absence of timely initiated therapy, patients die due to complications of cirrhosis and/or (less often) progressive neurological symptoms. The prognosis can be favorable with effective chelation therapy or liver transplantation. Conclusion. The described clinical case demonstrates the variability of clinical signs in children with Wilson’s disease that complicates the diagnostic search and early diagnosis
The Weather in Stein
Authors: Tracy Ryan
Published: January 2025

Ecocritical scholars and environmental scientists contend that the earliest detectable signs of anthropogenic global warming manifested as extreme fluctuations in global weather patterns and can be traced back to the 1930s. While modernist scholars have been hard pressed to find evidence of an ecological consciousness among canonical modernists during this decade, this essay demonstrates that Gertrude Stein left a copious and critical archive of climatic change in Everybody's Autobiography, published in 1937. In this lesser known “autobiography,” Stein recounts spectacular and mundane environmental upheavals while criticizing the West's epistemological dissociation of the weather from world events. Moreover, Stein offers an extraordinary reflection on modernity's “eternal” dependence on fossil fuels. By historically situating Stein's numerous weather reports within the political, scientific, environmental, and media discourses of the 1930s, this essay offers a portrait of Stein as an important cultural actor within the broader historiography of modern climate science.
Early risk assessment of internal erosion by ground temperature measurements
Authors: Heinemann Barbara , Dutton David
Published: January 2025

Early recognition of leakage flows within embankment dams, which may lead to internal erosion or deterioration, is a challenge to dam safety, particularly where the flow of water and its impacts do not appear on the surface. Recent research suggests that there is a critical seepage velocity at which soil particles will begin to move. Ground temperature measurements within a dam and its foundations can locate any leakage flow and provide a realistic estimate of the seepage velocities. Continuous monitoring of the temperatures can quickly identify any significant increases in the velocity, and provide early warning of potential disaster, thus allowing sufficient time for remedial action to be taken. The paper shows how a theoretically derived physical study can be applied in practice. Some application examples are given, each of which aims to locate the position of seepage flows within the body of an embankment. Particularly important is the detection of temperature anomalies due to seepage flow within the dam, showing no evidence at the surface. These variations indicate unexpected points of weakness in or under the dam body and can be reliably located. Thus, the survey and monitoring can be focussed on a crucial part of a dam to estimate the risk of damage to the entire dam.
Interaction domains of pile groups in cohesive soils under generalised loads
Authors: Potini Francesco , Viggiani Giulia M. B. , Conti Riccardo
Published: January 2025

This work focuses on the undrained bearing capacity of pile groups subjected to combined vertical, moment and lateral loads. Advanced three-dimensional (3D) finite-element analyses were used to identify the possible plastic mechanisms occurring within the soil–foundation system, as well as the most relevant factors affecting its limit behaviour. The numerical results show a strong coupling between the lateral capacity of the group and the applied vertical/moment loads, resulting from a different degree of mobilisation of the axial and bending capacity of the piles. Based on the numerical findings, a new theoretical lower bound solution was developed to compute the 3D failure domain of pile groups in clay, overcoming limitations and inconsistencies of theoretical solutions recently proposed in the technical literature. The method accounts for the combined effect of group geometry, structural and geotechnical capacity of the single piles, and loading direction on the actual plastic mechanism occurring within the group and the corresponding failure envelope.
History of the Waterloo teeth (human teeth)
Authors: Forrai Judit , Andrew I. Spielman
Published: January 2025

The "Waterloo teeth" were human teeth extracted from deceased soldiers after the Battle of Waterloo, mainly used for dental transplants.
Physicochemical Properties of Sago- and Corn Flour-Based Rice Analogues Fortified with Black-Eyed Bean Flour and Skimmed Milk Powder
Authors: Handayani Noer Abyor , Sumardiono Siswo , Purbasari Aprilina , Fatikah Alfan Fatir , Alhakim Imam Muda
Published: January 2025

Research background. With the increasing consumption of food commodities, particularly rice, and the substantial volume of food imports in Indonesia, there is an increasing need to explore alternative food sources. Rice analogues emerge as a potential substitute for traditional rice, serving as a viable staple food option. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of the composition of raw material, namely sago and corn flour, on the physicochemical properties and consumer acceptance of rice analogues.
Experimental approach. The rice analogues were produced using the hot extrusion method. The nutritional content (protein, carbohydrate, fat, moisture, fibre and ash) of the product was then analysed. Thermal stability and morphological properties were determined using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. A consumer acceptance test including taste, texture, aroma and colour was also carried out to evaluate the quality of cooked rice analogues.
Results and conclusion. The results showed that the rice analogue produced by hot extrusion at 70 °C with black-eyed beans (15 % m/m) and skimmed milk powder (0.5 % m/m) had the most significant nutritional improvements such as increased content of protein, fat, carbohydrate, moisture content, ash and fibre. However, it should be noted that increasing the extrusion temperature above 70 °C meant that both density and hardness could no longer be controlled due to gelatinisation. Furthermore, 30 participants in the consumer acceptance test rated the texture, aroma, taste and colour positively, underlining the potential of rice analogue as a nutritious and attractive alternative to natural rice. The rice analogue made from modified sago with additional ingredients of corn and blackeyed beans has similar properties to natural rice.
Novelty and scientific contribution. The combination of sago, corn and black-eyed bean flour as the main ingredients of the rice analogue is a novelty of this study. Furthermore, its nutritional profile exceeds that of natural rice, making it a viable and acceptable alternative in times of rice scarcity.
A inter-relação ambiente construído e caminhabilidade
Authors: Buose Gabriellin
Published: January 2025

This article investigates the conditions of the built environment that influence urban walkability, essential for public health and quality of life. The study analyzes elements such as sidewalks, lighting, security, building density and proximity to services and green areas. The results show that neighborhoods with adequate infrastructure for pedestrians, such as wide sidewalks, good lighting and proximity to commercial and leisure areas, have higher walkability rates. The perception of safety is crucial, influencing residents' willingness to walk. Areas with a higher density of walkable services are associated with a greater frequency of walking, suggesting that improvements to the built environment can promote more active and healthy lifestyle habits. The theoretical contributions of the study include confirming the relationship between urban infrastructure and walking behaviors, offering a solid foundation for future research on walkability and urban planning. Social and environmental contributions highlight the importance of urban planning that prioritizes walkability to improve active mobility and promote sustainability. Public policies aimed at this issue can encourage the development of more walkable cities, reducing dependence on motor vehicles and encouraging more active and healthy lifestyles.
Image Processing and 3D Reconstruction v1
Authors: SI Cook Annan
Published: January 2025

This workflow was used to analyze a Krios dataset of the PI3KC3-C1/RAB1A Complex and generate a reconstruction of three distinct conformational states of the VPS34 lipid kinase domain.
Advocacy and Activism in Sports Podcasts: Expanding Journalistic Roles
Authors: Fox Kim , Dowling David , Miller Kyle
Published: January 2025

This article examines the political turn in sports podcasting, focusing on the blurring and evolving boundaries of journalistic roles. The sports podcasts Social Sport, Burn It All Down (BIAD), and Edge of Sports offer three case studies of how podcasting opens space for politicizing sports coverage beyond scores and highlights. Podcast coverage of sports has adapted by enhancing a focus on the political implications of athletes' personal stories. Analysis of episodic content and interview correspondence with podcast hosts focuses on how the podcast medium has opened new spaces advancing the cultural discourse on how issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion impact athletes' lives. Affordances unique to the podcast medium have enabled the expansion of journalistic roles to include advocacy functions and leaning toward more socially progressive content than traditional media coverage has allowed. 
Navigating Coastal Dynamics: Illegal Institutional Arrangements, Gangs’ Activities, and Knowledge Mobility in the Gulf of Guayaquil
Authors: Chávez‐Páez Wendy , Hornidge Anna‐Katharina
Published: January 2025

This study investigates how corruption and criminal gangs affect small‐scale fisheries, driving forced displacement and reshaping fishing knowledge through the process of epistemic mobility. The research focuses on the interactions between the fishing communities of Puerto Bolívar and Puerto Roma within the Gulf of Guayaquil, Ecuador. By tracing the movement of fishers and their knowledge, the study reveals how the imitation and attempted learning of fishing techniques, such as the use of plastic tubes to detect fish, occur between communities. Displaced due to the illegal encroachment of semi‐industrial vessels bolicheros protected by criminal gangs, Puerto Bolívar’s fishers have been forced to migrate northward to fish near Puerto Roma, and then return to Puerto Bolívar. While they are fishing in the northern waters, Puerto Roma’s fishers observe their techniques and attempt to imitate them. Nonetheless, the transfer of this knowledge is imitative and incomplete, as it is observed from a distance rather than fully understood. The study highlights that, while the displacement caused by corruption and illegal activities brings fishers into new contexts, it is the fishers themselves who contribute to the mobility and transformation of knowledge. By focusing on epistemic mobility, this study highlights how knowledge is not always successfully transferred but is adapted, hybridized, or even resisted, offering new insights into the resilience and vulnerability of small‐scale fishers in the context of systemic corruption and ecological conflict.
COMPUTING THE SECURE CONNECTED DOMINANT METRIC DIMENSION PROBLEM OF CLASSES OF GRAPHS
Authors: Hausawi Yasser M. , Alzaid Zaid , Alharbi Olayan , Almutairi Badr , Mohamed Basma
Published: January 2025

This paper investigates the NP-hard problem of finding the lowest secure connected domination metric dimension of graphs. If each vertex in can be uniquely recognized by its vector of distances to the vertices in Scddim, then every vertex set Scddim of a connected graph resolves . If the subgraph induced by Scddim is a nontrivial connected subgraph of , then the resolving set Scddim of is connected. That resolving set is dominating if each vertex in that is not an element of Scddim is a neighbor of some vertices in Scddim. If there is a in such that is a dominating set for any in , then the dominating set is secure. If for every , there exists such that is a resolving set, then the resolving set is secure. These four cardinality values are the metric dimension of , the connected metric dimension of , the secure metric dimension of , and the connected domination metric dimension of , respectively. They correspond to the cardinality of the smallest resolving set of , the minimal connected resolving set, the minimal secure resolving set, and the minimal connected domination resolving set. In this paper, we introduce the secure connected domination metric dimension of graphs. If each vertex in G can be uniquely recognized by its vector of distances to the vertices in Scddim, then every vertex set Scddim of a connected graph resolves G. If the subgraph induced by Scddim is a nontrivial connected subgraph of G, then the resolving set Scddim of G is connected. That resolving set is dominating if each vertex in G that is not an element of Scddim is a neighbor of some vertices in Scddim. If there is a v in D such that is a dominating set for any in then the dominating set is secure. If for every there exists such that is a resolving set, then the resolving set is secure. These four cardinality values are the metric dimension of $G$, the connected metric dimension of , the secure metric dimension of , and the connected domination metric dimension of G, respectively. They correspond to the cardinality of the smallest resolving set of , the minimal connected resolving set, the minimal secure resolving set, and the minimal connected domination resolving set. In this paper, we introduce the secure connected dominant metric dimension of some graphs such as triangular snake graph, path graph, star tree and alternate quadrilateral snake. In particular, we derive the explicit formulas for the subdivision of triangular snake graph, alternate triangular snake graph, total graph of cycle graph and bistar tree.
"FROZEN" CONFLICTS IN THE POST-SOVIET AREA AS A TOOL OF RUSSIAN INFLUENCE IN THE REGION
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, ALIEKSIEJCHENKO Oleksander
Published: January 2025

The collapse of the USSR in 1991 was accompanied by an escalation of armed conflict in the countries of the post-Soviet region, where the Russian authorities tried to maintain dominance with the help of such a proven tool of geopolitical influence as conflict management. Being unable to reconcile the warring parties, the Russian Federation usually pursues a policy of "freezing" them. Ethnopolitical conflicts in the Transnistrian region of Moldova, the Abkhaz and Tskhinvali regions of Georgia have been brought to such a state, in particular. Regarding Ukraine, against which the Russian Federation launched a war in 2014, the Kremlin seeks to "reset" its sovereign status, using tactics of "freezing" the conflict with the aim of further decomposition of the Ukrainian state into a new empire.

M e t h o d s. The main methodological approaches to the study of "frozen conflicts" are historical, social and political. Such approaches made it possible to trace the dynamics of the development of conflicts in the post-Soviet space at various stages.

R e s u l t s. The article examines the influence of the Russian Federation on the emergence and escalation of ethnopolitical conflicts in Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia and Moldova, as well as the reasons for the unprovoked armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine. It has been proven that the main geopolitical motive for the Kremlin's participation in the so-called "settlement" of ethnopolitical conflicts is the desire to get the world's leading states to recognize the post-Soviet space as Russia's "sphere of special responsibility." The author is convinced that the decisive factor in the "frozen conflicts" planned by the Kremlin is Russia's reluctance to get rid of the imperial syndrome.

C o n c l u s i o n s. The author's analysis of the causes and consequences of "frozen conflicts" in the post-Soviet space showed that despite the significant contribution of the USA, the EU and the OSCE to conflict resolution, the Russian Federation seeks to play a leading role here. This allows it to significantly limit the European integration aspirations of the post-Soviet countries. However, the settlement of the Karabakh conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia with the active participation of Turkey has changed the geopolitical balance of forces in the South Caucasus region and, together with a probable Ukrainian victory in the war with the Russian Federation, may stand in the way of the Kremlin's imperial ambitions.
Potential use of bisphosphonates in children with Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease with signs of osteoarthritis. Interim results from a single-center study
Authors: Kozhevnikov Alexey N. , Barsukov Dmitry B. , Bortulev Pavel I. , Braylov Sergey A.
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease is a multifactorial disease with a non-inflammatory and avascular mechanism of necrotic lesions. In some cases, children may have more aggressive disease with signs of osteoarthritis. This variant of Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease is characterized by active inflammation of the bone tissue and arthritis, often leading to severe deformity of the femoral head and early coxarthrosis. The problem of treating osteoarthritis in children with Legg–Calvé–Perthe disease is not solved due to the low effectiveness of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Osteoclast inhibition therapy with bisphosphonates in adults with idiopathic aseptic necrosis of the femoral head has been pathogenetically accepted. The use of bisphosphonates in children with Legg–Calvé–Perthe disease and osteoarthritis has not been evaluated.
AIM: The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of bisphosphonates in children with Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease who presented with signs of osteoarthritis.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study used data on the treatment of 14 children (mean age 7.5 ± 2.4 years, 71.4% girls) with Legg–Calvé–Perthe disease (at the impression fracture stage) and active hip osteoarthritis. All children had torpid arthritis refractory to NSAID therapy and present for at least 3 months. Treatment included ibandronic acid at 1.0 mg and 1.5 mg per infusion every 3 months in children younger than 7 years old and older than 7 years old, respectively. Five consecutive infusions were performed in the study. Treatment outcomes were assessed at 6, 12, and 18 months based on combined clinical, imaging, and laboratory changes. A modified SCORING OF HIP MRI FOR JIA score was used to assess osteoarthritis activity.
RESULTS: All children showed a decrease in hip pain after the first infusion of ibandronic acid. The inactive phase of osteoarthritis during bisphosphonate treatment was achieved in 78.5% (11) of children after three consecutive infusions and in 21.5% (3) of children after four infusions. Post-infusion reactions were reported in 85.7% (12) of children during the initial phase of bisphosphonate treatment and were transient. Serum erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels were within reference ranges in children with osteoarthritis. Only 28.5% (4) of patients were found to have 25(OH)Vitamin D deficiency at the time of osteoarthritis diagnosis.
CONCLUSIONS: The use of bisphosphonates in children with Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease and osteoarthritis can be considered an innovative pathogenetic treatment option. The data obtained suggest the potential for the use of bisphosphonates in children with Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease. Further follow-up of children in the study group is needed to assess long-term outcomes.
Ultrasound evaluation of the tibial graft structure during fixation with the Ilizarov device in patients with achondroplasia
Authors: Menschikova Tatyana I. , Aranovich Anna M.
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Bone regeneration during fixation needs to be evaluated due to clinical measures taken to prevent possible complications, such as evaluation of the correct segment axis, verification of the equality of the extended and contralateral segments (with repeated lengthening), maintenance of fixation rigidity, functional control of the load on the operated limb, and the patient’s motor activity. All of these factors have a direct impact on the structure and maturation of the distraction graft and readiness for device removal. It is relevant to study the proximal graft in bilocal treatment based on the greatest elongation (5.5 [5.0; 6.0] cm) compared to the distal graft. Proximal graft maturation affects the timing of device removal.
AIM: The aim was to evaluate the structure of the tibial distraction graft in achondroplasia patients of different ages during the fixation period.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: AVISUS Hitachi (Japan) was used for ultrasound scanning with a 7.5 MHz linear sensor. The graft was evaluated using standard programs. The study included achondroplasia patients aged 6–9 years (group I, n = 15) and 10–15 years (group II, n = 15). The study was conducted at 5, 30, 60, and 90 days (with repeated limb lengthening) from the start of the fixation period. In group I of monolocal tibial lengthening, the elongation was 6.5 [6; 7] cm. For bilocal leg lengthening in groups I and II, the proximal graft elongation was 5.5 [5.0; 6.0] cm, and the distal graft elongation was 2.5 [2.0; 3.0] cm.
RESULT: In groups I and II, a favorable course of osteogenesis was observed, with typical stages of graft formation. Group II showed slower development of typical structures, resulting in longer fixation times. Therefore, the fixation time was 55 ± 5 days (p ≤ 0.05) in group I and 63 ± 3 days (p ≤ 0.05) in group II (in case of favorable progression). The exception was 1 patient (out of 10 patients with repeated leg lengthening), who developed a hypoechoic cyst-like lesion in the graft midzone during distraction. The time to cortical plate formation increased to 85 ± 5 days (p ≤ 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound evaluation of tibial distraction regeneration during fixation showed that the activity of reparative osteogenesis during this period corresponds to the activity of reparative osteogenesis during distraction. Although it is not possible to fully visualize elongation achieved during fixation due to the formation of echo-dense fragments at the ends of the parent bone, ultrasound scanning allows evaluation of changes in graft filling, vascularization, and graft readiness for removal of the external fixation device.
Results of foot assessment in healthy preschool children: visual assessment, FPI-6, dorsiflexion: a population study
Authors: Dimitrieva Alyona Yu.
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: The reason for conducting this study was the lack of Russian literature on the relationship between visual foot assessment using the Foot Posture Index (FPI)-6 and foot dorsiflexion in preschool children.
AIM: The aim was to evaluate the relationship between visual foot assessment, FPI-6 and dorsiflexion in healthy preschool children.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 81 children aged 5–7 years (162 feet). All children were examined using visual foot assessment, FPI-6, assessment of passive dorsiflexion, Beighton hypermobility score, and anthropometric measurements (height/weight). Dorsiflexion was assessed with posterior segment stabilization and the knee joint in flexion and extension. The Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was used to assess the normality of the data distribution, followed by the use of parametric and non-parametric statistical tests. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the means of three groups. The Pearson’s test was used to assess correlations.
RESULTS: Flat feet was diagnosed in 41.0% of children. There were 2 times more boys than girls in the group with flat feet and 1.5 times more girls in the group without flat feet. The FPI-6 scores of the same feet were at least 8 in children with flat feet and 0 to 4 in children without flat feet. Moderate to medium correlations were found between the clinical diagnosis of flat feet and FPI-6 scores. In 95% of the children aged 5–7 years, dorsiflexion with the knee joint in extension was 11.4°–34.2°. Mean dorsiflexion difference between flexed and extended knees was 24.1° ± 9.5°. ANOVA showed no significant difference in dorsiflexion between children with and without flat feet.
CONCLUSIONS: The mean dorsiflexion in preschool children was 22.8° ± 5.7°. No reliable difference in dorsiflexion between children with and without flat feet was demonstrated. Gastrocnemius muscle retraction was evaluated quantitatively.
Effects of a long-term triceps surae stretching program on the pennation angle of triceps surae heads in children with hypermobile flat foot and Achilles tendon shortening
Authors: Gorobets Leonid V. , Kenis Vladimir M.
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Triceps surae retraction plays a key role in the pathogenesis of flat feet in children. This is a pennate muscle. The pennation angle is defined as the angle between triceps surae fascicles and aponeurosis.
AIM: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of a long-term triceps surae stretching program on the pennation angle of the triceps surae head in children with flat feet and Achilles tendon shortening.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included a total of 82 children with hypermobile flat feet and Achilles tendon shortening. The pennation angle was measured by ultrasound. Triceps surae stretching was recommended for 6 months as a basic exercise. SPSS v.26.0 was used for statistical analysis of data.
RESULTS: The study group included 63 children who performed stretching exercises and the control group included 19 children who did not perform stretching exercises at the required intensity. The study group showed a significant improvement in the Foot Posture Index (FPI)-6, while the control group showed no change. The baseline foot dorsiflexion was 4.84° ± 0.10° in the study group and 4.81° ± 0.17° in the control group. After 6 months of stretching, dorsiflexion was 11.34° ± 0.24° in the study group and 4.85° ± 0.19° in the control group (p 0.01). The pennation angle of the triceps surae heads showed a significant increase in the medial head of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles.
CONCLUSIONS: A long-term stretching program in children with flat feet resulted in a significant increase in foot dorsiflexion. These changes were associated with morphological and functional muscle restructuring, manifested by a significant increase in the pennation angle of the medial head of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. Further research will identify the mechanisms underlying anatomical and functional muscle restructuring and their effects on anatomical foot parameters in flat feet.
Sensoriamento remoto aplicado ao mapeamento regional das zonas de recarga dos aquíferos da Região Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte/MG
Authors: Cramer Carolina , Antonio Nero Marcelo , Henrique Rettore Totaro João , Laudares Sandro
Published: January 2025

A conurbação majoritariamente desordenada acarreta uma exploração das águas subterrâneas ofensivas ao meio ambiente, interferindo diretamente na sinergia cíclica da água. Essa explotação hídrica sugestiona o estudo da natureza geológica dos aquíferos, que necessitam constantemente da recarga. Neste estudo, as caracterizações do meio físico foram empregadas para realizar o mapeamento regional dos lineamentos e, sugerir por meio da integração das análises aerogeofísicas as zonas preferenciais de recarga dos aquíferos em uma área de Minas Gerais no sudeste brasileiro. A área de estudo situa-se na Região Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte (RMBH), capital de Minas Gerais, apresentando as unidades hidrogeológicas classificadas em Embasamento Cristalino, Quadrilátero Ferrífero e Grupo Bambuí/Carste, com a predominância de aquíferos fraturados das rochas dos Complexos Granítico-Gnássico-Migmatítico. Diante das abordagens metodológicas foi possível alcançar resultados pertinentes às extrações dos lineamentos por meio dos dados de sensoriamento remoto através do tratamento das imagens de satélite concomitante ao uso de alguns softwares e, de realizar a elaboração dos mapas de lineamento, perfilagem e densidade de lineamentos, permitindo análise das informações hidrogeológicas da região. Os resultados apontaram importantes considerações sobre as zonas preferenciais de recarga dos aquíferos. Nessa perspectiva é possível afirmar que os aquíferos compõem essencialmente o ciclo hidrológico da água e exibem um aspecto ambiental preocupante frente ao crescimento urbano.
Avaliação das concentrações de metais-traço em sedimentos do sistema estuarino-lagunar de Itarema, litoral oeste do Ceará
Authors: Calandrine Franciane Pinto , Pinheiro Lidriana de Souza
Published: January 2025

Os estuários são áreas de transição, onde a água do mar mistura-se a água do rio ou lagoa. A sedimentação nos ambientes estuarinos é formada por sedimentos fluviais e marinhos e sua dinâmica modifica ao longo do tempo dependendo de fatores geológicos, fluviais, climáticos e antropogênicos, cedendo informações sobre gênese, transporte e características do ambiente deposicional. Os metais-traço unem-se aos sedimentos mais finos e o processo de contaminação nesses ambientes está relacionado ao aumento da urbanização em seu entorno, no caso da área de estudo, os condicionantes antrópicos predominantes são carcinicultura e Porto dos Barcos. O objetivo do presente trabalho é avaliar as concentrações de metais-traço nos sedimentos do sistema estuarino-lagunar de Itarema e correlacioná-las com a granulometria, os teores de carbonato de cálcio (CaCO3) e de matéria orgânica (MO) dos sedimentos. A metodologia deu-se em quatro estágios: gabinete, campo, laboratório e escritório. Os resultados principais foram: os sedimentos que predominam no ambiente estuarino são lamas, lamas-arenosas e areia-lamosa; no testemunho A1, CaCO3 apresenta boa correlação com MO e correlação baixa com Cd, Al, Fe e Pb e com Cu e Zn correlação negativa. MO apresenta correlação negativa com todos os metais. No A2, CaCO3 apresenta correlação positiva com MO e negativa com todos os metais. MO apresenta correlação baixa com Pb e Al e negativa com demais metais. No A3, CaCO3 apresenta boa correlação com MO e Cd, Cu e Zn e negativa com Al, Fe e Pb. MO segue CaCO3, porém com Zn a correlação é negativa.
Mapeamento das áreas suscetíveis à inundação, município de Pedro Osório-RS
Authors: Cirolini Angélica , Bruch Alexandre Felipe , Thum Adriane Brill , Carneiro Marciano
Published: January 2025

Os danos e prejuízos causados pelas inundações apresentam um gradual aumento nos últimos anos. Muitas vezes os motivos causadores destes desastres reportam-se ao crescimento desordenado e a ocupação do leito maior dos rios. Atualmente técnicas de geoprocessamento são utilizadas para identificar e quantificar as áreas atingidas pelas inundações urbanas. Nesta perspectiva, este estudo visa elaborar o mapeamento das áreas de inundação da zona urbana do município de Pedro Osório, RS, a partir de técnicas de geoprocessamento. Com o auxílio de um receptor GNSS, foram coletados 22.734 pontos no modo cinemático em todas as ruas da área urbana, posteriormente realizados 19 voos com um VANT para a coleta de dados fotogramétricos sobre os quais foram elaborados os mapas temáticos das áreas de inundação, por meio de SIG. A elevação do nível da água dos rios pode atingir até 16 m acima do nível de referência, quando alcança a cota topográfica de 29,82m, ocorrido em 1992, correspondendo à uma área inundada de 55,36% da zona urbana do município. Os resultados deste trabalho provenientes do mapeamento das cotas de inundação permite o monitoramento das áreas mais suscetíveis à ocorrência do fenômeno e auxilia a gestão pública no planejamento urbano e construção de possibilidades de mitigação dos impactos do evento.
O ser e o estar docente de Geografia nos anos iniciais
Authors: Pereira Rodrigues e Silva Francisca Djalma , De Araújo Raimundo Lenilde
Published: January 2025

O presente texto resultou de uma pesquisa de mestrado, em que se procurou investigar como está sendo realizada a mediação didática de Geografia nos anos iniciais do Ensino Fundamental (EF). Para tanto, as reflexões estão assentadas na questão da prática e concepção docente de Geografia na referida fase escolar. A discussão assinala a importância da construção de conhecimentos geográficos com as crianças, posto que esse componente curricular pode contribuir para a leitura do mundo vivido. Neste sentido, o texto objetiva debater sobre a prática docente do professor pedagogo nos anos iniciais do EF, além de refletir sobre as concepções de ensino apresentadas na mediação didática pelo professor(a) deste componente curricular. Tem-se como referenciais teóricos, autoridades nesse campo do saber, como: Alves; Queiroz (2019), Callai (2005; 2013; 2017), Lopes (2009;2014) Libâneo (2004; 2013; 2015), Freire (2010; 2021; 2022) e Vigotski (2010; 2014). Como fio condutor desta discussão, destaca-se que o ensino de Geografia deverá partir da realidade vivida da criança, a fim de favorecer a aprendizagem significativa dos conhecimentos geográficos. Para realizar essa discussão foi utilizada a pesquisa qualitativa, por meio de uma revisão bibliográfica e observação de aulas, em que foram observadas as concepções e práticas docentes acerca da construção dos conhecimentos geográficos com as crianças dos anos iniciais. Dessa forma, os resultados evidenciaram que ainda permeiam no ensino de Geografia práticas pedagógicas pautadas na pedagogia tradicional, em que o professor assume o papel central ao ministrar as aulas e com o uso recorrente do livro didático.
Palavras-chave: Ensino de Geografia. Anos iniciais. Prática docente. Concepção docente.