bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sacred places as heritage monuments and objects of tourism: geographical aspects
Authors: Grigorev Al. A.
Published: February 2025

Aim. The study of sacred sites as geographical formations, the development of their classification, to study the emergence of the sites in question and their transformation, the study of heritage and tourism objects.

Procedure and methods. The research materials were field expeditions of the author and data analysis of other specialists and travelers. The main method of research is the systematization of data, which resulted in the classification of sacred sites, their partial mapping. The comparative method made it possible to identify the connection between objects of ancient orientation and sacred sites, as well as their transformation.

Results. The definition of sacred places (also revered places, shrines) is proposed, the role of the spiritual component in their allocation is emphasized. The classification of revered places has been carried out, religious (holy) places and sacred places of culture have been identified. All revered places are also divided into natural and natural-man-made (in which the dominant man-made part is inseparable from the natural, from the place where it originated). Local, regional, national, and finally world-wide are distinguished by their significance and fame among the sacred places. Young and ancient shrines also differ. The appearance of sacred places took place in notable (non-ordinary) places. It was they who became landmarks, without which safe life was impossible. It is shown that the transformation of ancient sacred places took place over time. New sacred places most often arose in place of the old ones, and the latter were sometimes completely destroyed and sometimes not inherited.

Research implications. A systematic assessment of sacred sites has been carried out. It is shown that the majority of sacred sites become sacred after they are used to orientate in space and time as a prerequisite for safe living.
Biotransformation of xenobiotics by molluscs (Mollusca L., 1758) – indicators of aquatic ecosystem pollution
Authors: Shchelkanov E.  M. , Tishina E.  A. , Manukov Yu. I. , Saprykin V.  P.
Published: February 2025

Aim. To describe the general scheme of molecular interactions underlying the biotransformation of xenobiotics in mollusks on the base of scientific literature data.

Procedure and methods. Published data in thematic literature devoted to the study of biochemical and molecular-biological processes associated with the reaction of mollusks to xenobiotics were analyzed and summarized. Scientific publications were searched on specialized information resources: Russian Scientific Electronic Library, Russian State Library, Google Academy, National Library of Medicine, GenBank International Molecular Genetic Database.

Results. There was analyzed the structure of the digestive gland (liver, or hepatopancreas) and gills – the main organs involved in the biotransformation of xenobiotics in various taxonomic groups of bivalves and gastropods (containing about 98% of species of this phylum). Data on the anatomical, tissue and cellular structure of the digestive gland are presented. The NADPH-dependent and NADPH-independent oxidation of xenobiotics by the cytochrome P450 system and the main types of chemical reactions carried out by it (hydroxylation, oxidative deamination, nitrogen oxidation, sulfoxidation, dealkylation, epoxidation) with specific examples, the conjugation process of polarized xenobiotics with the reduced form of glutathione catalyzing by glutathione-S-transferase are described. The role of cellular organelles (lysosomes, peroxisomes, endosomes, rough endoplasmic reticulum) in the biotransformation of xenobiotics by mollusks is established.

Research implications. Systematized data on the process of biotransformation of xenobiotics in the body of mollusks, which makes it possible to outline goals for further study of their biochemical and molecular biological features, plan comprehensive studies using these animals to bioindicate the level of pollution of the aquatic environment, as well as outline the points of contact of educational programs of various disciplines.
Regional features of the impact of climate change on components of ecosystems of the inland seas of Europe and their coasts
Authors: Drozdov V. V.
Published: February 2025

Aim. Establishing the degree and nature of the impact of climate change on the abiotic and biotic components of the ecosystems of the inland seas of Europe and their coasts to improve measures for rational environmental management.

Procedure and methods. Correlation, cluster, spectral and regression methods were used to analyze long-term climatic, oceanological and commercial hydrobiological data.

Results. It has been substantiated that an increase in the intensity of atmospheric circulation over the North Atlantic leads to warming over the waters of the Baltic and White Seas and an increase in the volume of river runoff in the basins of these seas. At the same time, cooling and a decrease in river flow volumes in their basins can be expected over the waters of the Black and Azov Seas. In accordance with this, there is a change in the values of environmental factors that influence the biological productivity of marine organisms, in particular, commercial fish and their habitats: salinity and water temperature, the intensity of water exchange with adjacent sea areas and the concentration of dissolved oxygen at different depths. The role of anthropogenic influence on the productivity of demersal and pelagic commercial fish populations was assessed based on an analysis of fishing mortality values.

Research implications. of the study lies in the establishment and substantiation of complex cause-and-effect relationships between the dynamics of climatic, oceanological, hydrological and biotic components of marine ecosystems.
Alpine tundras of the Southern Urals: current distribution and threat of extinction in the 21st century
Authors: Grigoriev A. A. , Shalaumova Yu. V. , Terentyeva M. V. , Vyukhin S. O. , Balakin D. S. , Moiseev P. A.
Published: February 2025

Aim. Analysis of the current distribution of mountain tundra in the South Urals, determination and cataloging of areas occupied by mountain tundra communities to assess the possible threat of their extinction in the 21st century.

Methodology. A visual search for potential locations of alpine tundra communities in the Southern Urals was conducted on satellite images from open mapping services (Yandex, Google) in maximum resolution. The principal peaks and ridges were subjected to detailed survey (Bolshoy Taganay, Urenga, Zyuratkul, Bolshaya Suka, Uvan, Zigalga, Yagodny, Mashak, Kumardak, Nary, Kuyantau, Iremel, Nurgush), and the locations of alpine tundra were identified. In a geographic information system, the obtained data were combined with a digital elevation model in order to calculate the area of alpine tundra. The species composition and the principal types of mountain tundra communities were identified through the utilisation of the route reconnaissance survey.

Results. The present study demonstrates that alpine tundra communities are pervasive in the Southern Urals mountains, spanning latitudes between 53.7 and 55.4°N across a minimum of 37 peaks (comprising 12 mountain ranges and massifs). The largest alpine tundras in terms of area are located on the Zigalga, Nurgush ridges and the Kuyantau and Iremel massifs. These areas represent 80% of the total area of mountain tundra in the Southern Urals (at least 546 ha). The areas comprising alpine tundra, which collectively encompass less than 20 ha, are situated on the ridges of Bolshoy Taganay, Zyuratkul, Urenga, Nurgush, Yagodny, Bolshaya Suka, Nary, Mashak, Kumardak, and the individual peaks of Zigalga. The total area of alpine tundra on these ridges is estimated to be at least 140 hectares, which represents approximately 20% of the total area of all alpine tundra in the Southern Urals. A comprehensive catalogue and map of the contemporary distribution of alpine tundra in the Southern Urals have been compiled. The locations where mountain tundra has undergone a significant decline over recent decades and is likely to continue this trend in future decades have been identified.

Research implications. The findings of this study can be utilized to develop models of climatogenic transformation in high-mountain ecosystems of the Southern Urals, and subsequently used to monitor their condition under a range of climate change scenarios in the future.
Classification of objects of ridicule and linguistic means of their expression in the original and translation (on the material of Qian Zhongshu “Fortress Besieged”)
Authors: Duan Xiaoli
Published: February 2025

Aim. To develop a classification of comic objects in the Chinese satirical novel “Fortress Besieged” on the basis of scientific works of a number of Chinese and Russian literary critics and linguists, to identify the signs of objects of ridicule. To determine what people are laughing at. To consider the equivalence of the linguistic means of comic effect of the translation and the original, as well as the results of their realisation.

Methodology. The main content of the study is the identification of the features of semantic, syn­tactic and pragmatic equivalence of the original text with the translated text, as well as the analysis of translation strategies. The main research methods are linguistic ones: comparative contextual analysis, component analysis; and such general scientific methods as descriptive method and clas­sification method.

Results. Based on the analysis of 485 selected passages from the novel, the following classification of objects of ridicule was established: 1) comic depiction of characters: appearance, facial depiction, clothing and action, etc.; 2) comic depiction of a thing, event and phenomenon. Language means are divided into direct and indirect. Direct language means mean that the author of the original uses the word “laughter” and its derivatives to express a comic effect. Indirect language means in the original text are mainly various kinds of rhetorical tropes, including comparison, metaphor and personifica­tion, etc. Irony is also one of the most important means of achieving satirical effect.

Research implications. The problem of identifying linguistic means of expressing the comic and satiri­cal in fiction is the focus of attention in the presented work. The results of the study can be used in the study of comic in intercultural and interlingual communication in the linguistic and cultural aspect.
Internet communication and “language life”: erratives as one of characteristic features of modern verbal interaction
Authors: Peshkova N. P. , Moiseeva A. V. , Titlova A. S.
Published: February 2025

Aim. To identify the functional potential of errative units in the communicative practices of the Inter­net space for the construction of a more detailed classification and further study of erratives, includ­ing the identification and prediction of the possibilities of their functioning.

Methodology. To implement the objectives of this study, the method of discourse analysis, the corpus method, the method of social-psycholinguistic experiment, the interpretative method, the method of comparison and generalization were used.

Results. The analysis of modern speech practices allows us to assume that the erratives of the Inter­net language, with the exception of rude and obscene vocabulary, are a phenomenon characterized by a dual nature. The duality of the nature of erratives lies in the coexistence of their inherent nega­tive and partly positive properties, which, respectively, have a negative and positive impact, first of all, directly on Internet communication, and in the future - on communication in general.

Research implications. The results obtained by the authors make a certain contribution to Internet linguistics, reveal the tendencies of the functioning of erratives in Internet communication and their influence on modern communication in general, analyze additional functions of erratives that have not been described previously.
Problem niedoboru kierowców zawodowych zakłócający przepływ towarów w łańcuchu dostaw
Authors: Jabłoński Rafał
Published: February 2025

Shortage of skilled truck drivers and its impact on flow of goods in the supply chain. The persistent shortage of skilled truck drivers significantly disrupts the seamless flow
of goods within supply chains. Recently, the global economy has undergone substantial shifts due
to the growth of international trade, increasing demand for rapid delivery, and heightened focus
on environmental sustainability. These shifts have introduced complex challenges, especially in
the transportation sector, which is crucial for supply chain efficiency and timeliness. Despite the
rising demand for road freight services, the supply of drivers has not kept pace, creating structural
imbalances and inefficiencies. Over the past decade, this shortage has led to higher transportation
costs, delivery delays, and a decline in supply chain efficiency. Demographic trends, such as an
aging workforce and reduced interest in the profession among younger individuals, exacerbate the
issue. The research identifies several factors contributing to the driver shortage: low job attractiveness, inadequate wages, poor working conditions, changing job requirements, and increasing
regulatory burdens. The document includes also data from surveys conducted in 2022 and 2023,
comparing the results to highlight trends and changes over time. Addressing this issue requires
a comprehensive approach, including improving working conditions, enhancing the profession’s
image, developing effective recruitment strategies, and ensuring fair compensation. Structural
adjustments in supply chain management and transportation planning are also necessary to
mitigate the impact of driver shortages and maintain global supply chain stability and efficiency.
Uczenie maszynowe jako budulec łańcuchów dostaw odpornych na opóźnienia – podejście zorientowane na interesariuszy
Authors: Wyrembek Mateusz
Published: February 2025

Machine learning as a building block for resilient supply chains against delays—a stakeholder-centric approach. The author focuses on enhancing the resilience of supply chains in the face of increasing
globalisation and the complexity of business processes. The study investigates whether the data
collected within the supply chain can be effectively utilised to build systems resilient to disruptions and delays using machine learning methods. Special emphasis is placed on understanding
stakeholders’ predictions of delivery delays, which is crucial for maintaining operational continuity
and competitiveness. The chapter begins with a literature review on the application of machine
learning in supply chain risk management, with a focus on predicting delays. The methodology
section presents various machine learning techniques, such as decision trees, bagging, AdaBoost,
and random forests. An experiment was conducted on an extensive dataset, using exploratory
analysis to identify key features and build classifiers. The study focuses on analysing data from
DataCo Global, attempting to predict delays and interpret the results for supply chain stakeholders.
The experiment’s results indicate that AdaBoost is the most effective algorithm for this task. This
article highlights that machine learning offers promising opportunities in supply chain management
but requires continuous development and adaptation to meet the dynamic challenges of this field.
Volume horaire et revenu du travail : Une analyse du travail des transporteurs par motocycle au Cameroun
Authors: Nanfosso Roger Tsafack , Bea Clarence Mickaël , Ntamack Simon Alain Song , Manguelle Maximilien Koul Ngwe , Ndonho A Nyoung Yves Alexis
Published: February 2025

Objectif : Le présent article examine les heures travaillées et les revenus des transporteurs par motocycle au Cameroun.
Conception/méthodologie/approche : Les données transversales issues d’une enquête de terrain sont analysées à l’aide du modèle de Heckman en deux étapes et du modèle de Mincer.
Résultats : Les résultats montrent que le fait de travailler à des heures tardives, d’être propriétaire-exploitant, de détenir un permis de conduire de catégorie A ou d’avoir des obligations familiales augmente significativement le nombre d’heures travaillées et les revenus des transporteurs. Cependant, de longues heures de travail dans cette profession indiquent un sous-emploi, surtout qu’elles sont liées à un faible niveau d’efficacité du travail ou de rémunération horaire.
Originalité : Dans la mesure où le processus d’institutionnalisation de cette activité qui fournit un grand nombre d’emplois directs aux chômeurs continue, il est suggéré de poursuivre le dialogue entre les syndicats et associations de transporteurs par motocycle et les pouvoirs publics afin d’établir un cadre à travers lequel les transporteurs pourront bénéficier d’un soutien financier de l’État. Il est également suggéré d’organiser des séminaires de sensibilisation sur les risques du métier, et de prévoir une couverture santé spécifique pour les transporteurs par motocycle.
A facile green synthesis of LDH nanosheets using sugar molecules
Authors: Latip Ahmad , Sivakumar Mineesha , Mohd Suah Faiz Bukhari , Hussin Mohd Hazwan , Hussein Zobir
Published: February 2025

The exfoliation of LDH materials is highly favourable for the formation of single layer layered double hydroxides (LDH) nanosheets due to their unique chemical, thermal, optics, and biological properties. The green method for the exfoliation of layered double hydroxides (LDH) offers several advantages compared to the conventional methods because it is considered safe, cost-effective and eco-friendly. This report focuses on the exfoliation of layered double hydroxides (LDH) using sugar molecules as a green exfoliating agent without having to first pre-intercalate the layered material. The exfoliation of LDH is confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analyses. The structural information of the exfoliated LDH in three different phases is further studied using (XRD) to reveal the extent of the exfoliation process. We examined the crystalline phase of LDH in different stages of liquid exfoliation; suspension, semi-dry suspension and dried solid samples. XRD data shows one broad peak for the LDH exfoliated with sucrose, glucose, and lactose, which indicates the formation of LDH nanosheets. TEM images show ultrathin sheets of LDH and spherical-like particles. This work shows that LDH nanosheets can be obtained by using green biomolecules through simple synthetic methods.
Carbon footprint of electricity transmission: insights from a Brazilian case study
Authors: Matos Denise , Lassio João Gabriel , Garcia Katia Cristina , Raupp Igor , Medeiros Alexandre Mollica , Abreu Juliano Lucas Souza , Guimarães Ana Paula Cardoso
Published: February 2025

Electricity grids play a crucial role in electricity systems worldwide and will become even more critical as the transition to clean energy advances. In this regard, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with electricity transmission is crucial to supporting carbon reduction goals and achieving carbon neutrality in light of the escalating climate concerns. This paper aims to quantify the carbon footprint of transmitting electricity through a case study of a transmission line in Brazil (BR-TL). For this purpose, we developed a comprehensive electricity transmission scenario using the ANAREDE software. Additionally, our analysis is derived from data obtained through both primary and secondary sources concerning relevant inputs and outputs considering the construction, operation, and decommissioning stages. As a result, transmitting electricity through the BR-TL transmission line results in 10.89 gCO2eq. per kWh delivered. Notably, the operation stage is responsible for over 67% of these GHG emissions, predominantly due to energy losses during electricity transmission and associated with the electrical substation transformers. Our results also highlighted the relevance of the construction stage, contributing more than 32% of the carbon footprint, which is mainly linked to GHG emissions resulting from land use change. These findings offer valuable insights for future electricity transmission infrastructure development, aligning with national climate targets and supporting global decarbonization efforts.
Chemical bonding strategy on boosting superior Li+ diffusion kinetics towards long-stable lithium metal anode
Authors: Mushtaq Farwa , Tu Haifeng , Zheng Yuting , Zhang Yongyi , Wang Zhiqiang , Hou Minjie , Liu Meinan , Chen Kunfeng , Liang Feng , Liu Jun , Liu Fei , Zou Bingsuo , Xue Dongfeng
Published: February 2025

With the fast development of electronics, electric vehicles and electric airplanes, lithium metal batteries (LMBs) with a high energy density attract increased attention for their long-voyage-capability. However, the dendrites from uneven Li plating may cause serious safety issues, especially under low-temperature conditions, thus limiting the practical application of LMB. Tremendous efforts to develop various Li hosts based on thermodynamics, trying to provide lithophilic sites for homogeneous deposition, did not yet push the cycle life of Li anodes long enough to compete with current graphene anodes, especially under harsh conditions, such as subzero temperatures. The focus of this review is on the recent progress in chemical bonding strategies for boosting lithium ions/atoms (Li+/Li) transport via liquid, interphase, and solid phases through rational design of electrolytes, interphases, and Li hosts. Research results on understanding the working mechanism of chemical interaction between Li+/Li and other molecules in bulk electrolytes, interphases, or electrodes during charge/discharge are discussed. These understandings may provide new perspectives on designing advanced LMB systems.
PINK: physical-informed machine learning for lattice thermal conductivity
Authors: Liu Yujie , Wang Xiaoying , Hao Yuzhou , Li Xuejie , Sun Jun , Lookman Turab , Ding Xiangdong , Gao Zhibin
Published: February 2025

Lattice thermal conductivity (κL ) is crucial for eﬀicient thermal management in electronics and energy conversion technologies. Traditional methods for predicting κL are often computationally expensive, limiting their scalability for large-scale material screening. Empirical models, such as the Slack model, offer faster alternatives but require time-consuming calculations for key parameters such as sound velocity and the Grüneisen parameter. This work presents a high-throughput framework, physical-informed kappa (PINK), which combines the predictive power of crystal graph convolutional neural networks (CGCNNs) with the physical interpretability of the Slack model to predict κL directly from crystallographic information files (CIFs). Unlike previous approaches, PINK enables rapid, batch predictions by extracting material properties such as bulk and shear modulus from CIFs using a well-trained CGCNN model. These properties are then used to compute the necessary parameters for κL calculation through a simplified physical formula. PINK was applied to a dataset of 377,221 stable materials, enabling the eﬀicient identification of promising candidates with ultralow κL values, such as Ag3Te4W and Ag3Te4Ta. The platform, accessible via a user-friendly interface, offers an unprecedented combination of speed, accuracy, and scalability, significantly accelerating material discovery for thermal management and energy conversion applications.
Soft robots built for extreme environments
Authors: Kulkarni Mayura , Edward Sandra , Golecki Thomas , Kaehr Bryan , Golecki Holly
Published: February 2025

Soft material robots are uniquely suited to address engineering challenges in extreme environments in new ways that traditional rigid robot embodiments cannot. Soft robot material flexibility, resistance to brittle fracture, low thermal conductivity, biostability, and self-healing capabilities present new solutions advantageous to specific environmental conditions. In this review, we examine the requirements for building and operating soft robots in various extreme environments, including within the human body, underwater, outer space, search and rescue sites, and confined spaces. We analyze the implementations of soft robotic devices, including actuators and sensors, which meet these requirements. Besides the structure of these devices, we explore ways to expand the use of soft robots in extreme environments with design optimization, control systems, and their future applications in educational and commercial products. We further discuss the current limitations of soft robots recognizing challenges to compliance, strength, and control. With this in mind, we present arguments for the future of robotics in which hybrid (rigid and soft) structures meet complex environmental needs.
Stakeholder Engagement Strategies and Road Construction Project Performance
Authors: Lucien Nziyumvira Innocent , Amolo Amolo Elvis Juma
Published: February 2025

Projects that actively engage stakeholders experience fewer conflicts, smoother execution, and stronger alignment between project deliverables and stakeholder satisfaction. Despite the recognized significance of stakeholder engagement, there is a lack of empirical research, especially addressing the Rwandan construction sector that quantifies the influence of stakeholder participation on project performance. The general objective of the study was to examine the effect of stakeholder engagement strategies on performance of road construction projects in Musanze District, Rwanda. The study was based on Stakeholder Theory, Agency Theory, and the Theory of Change. The research design included descriptive and correlational research designs to explore how different stakeholder engagement strategies affected the performance of RUDP. A sample size of 122 respondents out of 176 stakeholders involved in the Rwanda Urban Development Project (RUDP were selected through random sampling. Data collection involved questionnaires, interviews, and documentary techniques using reports and records from RUDP. A pilot study was conducted on 13 respondents, representing 10% of the overall sample size. Reliability was assessed through Cronbach's Alpha gave 0.815 and validity was assessed using the content validity index of 0.86. Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics of correlation and regression at a significance level of 0.05 using the SPSS version 25. Based on the findings, the hypothesis that: there is no significant effect of stakeholder involvement (P=0.000<0.05); stakeholder collaboration (P=0.000<0.05); stakeholder participation (P=0.000<0.05) and; stakeholder empowerment on performance of road construction projects, were rejected, confirming that stakeholder engagement strategies have significant positive effect on performance of road construction projects. The study recommended that the management of RUDP enhance stakeholder involvement by establishing effective communication channels, fostering collaboration among government agencies, contractors, and local stakeholders. Future research could explore the impact of digital tools on stakeholder engagement in road construction projects.
Children of the Occupied Territories of Ukraine
Authors: Pashkova Olha
Published: February 2025

The article examines the strategies of the Russian Federation’s influence on the youth of the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. The comparative analysis made it possible to determine the main differences in the Russian strategy of de-Ukrainization of the child population of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, certain areas of Donbas and regions of Ukraine temporarily occupied by the armed forces of the Russian Federation in 2022. The approaches of the Russian military-political leadership and the occupation administrations controlled by them depended on the region, the length of its stay under the occupation, the intentions regarding the Ukrainian youth in the short-term and long-term perspectives: maintaining the level of loyalty to Russia and its regimes, forced mobilization, violent deportation, illegal adoption, etc.
Embracing change? Assessing the impact of Generation Z in Serbia on Kosovo issue
Authors: Surlić Stefan , Lazarević Andrijana
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the perspectives of Generation Z in Serbia on the ongoing issue of Kosovo, a topic central to understanding future regional dynamics amid efforts towards normalization and reconciliation. Despite growing up in a post-conflict era, Generation Z remains influenced by historical ethnic and political tensions, particularly around national identity. The key research question addressed is: How does Generation Z in Serbia perceive and influence the Kosovo issue? To explore this, we employed a qualitative approach, conducting eight focus groups and ten in-depth interviews with Serbian youth. Our study sheds light on the deeply entrenched ethnocentric attitudes within this generation, with a strong emphasis on identity, nationalism, and resistance to normalization. Contrary to expectations of a more progressive outlook from younger cohorts, the findings reveal that Kosovo is perceived predominantly through a nationalistic lens, suggesting that Generation Z’s radical views could pose challenges to future reconciliation efforts.
Effects of chronic treadmill exercise on testosterone levels in males and females
Authors: Perreault Brendan , Penman Samantha , Hammond Nikki , Blum Kenneth , Lewandrowski Kai Uwe , Badgaiyan Rajendra D. , Gold Mark S. , Baron David , Thanos Panayotis K.
Published: February 2025

Research into the effects of exercise on the modulation of testosterone levels in males and females has been performed in both clinical and preclinical studies. These studies have demonstrated that males tend to experience an increase in serum testosterone levels from exercise, while females do not. However, few studies have directly compared the modulation of testosterone levels between males and females under identical chronic exercise regimens and conditions. This study divides male and female rats into four separate groups to try to determine the effect a chronic treadmill exercise regimen (six weeks) on testosterone modulation, as well as the sex differences present in this modulation. The male and female rats were each equally divided into sedentary and exercise groups. In this study, blood samples were collected from male and female rats from each of the four groups. These samples were used to quantify testosterone levels using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) plate immunoassay. The results showed that the exercised male rats had significantly greater testosterone levels (137.2% increase) than the sedentary males. These data support the notion that chronic treadmill exercise can induce an increase in testosterone levels in male rats. In contrast, female rats did show an increase in testosterone levels (76.14%), but it was not statistically significant compared to the sedentary group. These results support the hypothesis that chronic treadmill exercise can induce an increase in serum testosterone levels and that this is a sex-specific effect. Further research is needed into the relationship between exercise and testosterone levels.
Vertebral Body Tethering in an Adult With Lumbar Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Markowitz Jonathan , Castelein Rene , Lonner Baron
Published: February 2025

Case:

We report a case of adolescent-onset idiopathic scoliosis of the lumbar spine in a 43-year-old woman treated with nonfusion vertebral body tethering (VBT), a controversial and unreported technique in this age group. At 6-year follow-up, clinical and radiographic improvements are maintained. She continues to live an active lifestyle and reports being pain free.

Conclusion:

We demonstrate intermediate term safety and efficacy of VBT in a single adult patient. Careful ongoing assessment of this patient is needed to determine if this procedure will have a durable outcome and lend support for adequately powered prospective multicenter studies.
Anterior Tibial Hemiepiphysiodesis to Correct Increased Tibial Slope in Pediatric ACL Rupture
Authors: Hansen Sofia , Korthaus Alexander , Eggeling Lena , Müller Maximilian , Meenene Norbert M , Drenck Tobias , Frosch Karl-Heinz , Akoto Ralph
Published: February 2025

Case:

A 13-year-old adolescent boy and a 12-year-old girl, with torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and increased posterior tibial slopes (PTS) of 17° and 19°, underwent transphyseal anterior tibial hemiepiphysiodesis and ACL reconstruction using a quadriceps autograft. Epiphysiodesis plates were removed after epiphyseal closure in the girl and after 12 months in the boy. Follow-up at 12 and 15 months showed Tegner and Lysholm scores of 4 and 100, with PTS reduced to 8° and 9°. Both resumed sports without further instability.

Conclusion:

Anterior tibial hemiepiphysiodesis effectively reduced the increased PTS to physiological levels in both cases.
Significant Arterial Injury by Referencing Pin Placement in Robotic-Assisted Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Meixner Stephen , Sylvestre Daniel , Sherman Robert
Published: February 2025

Case:

The patient was a 61-year-old woman who underwent robotic-assisted total hip arthroplasty (THA) for left hip osteoarthritis. Postoperatively, the patient became hypotensive, and computed tomography angiography (CTA) demonstrated a retroperitoneal hematoma with active bleeding. An iatrogenic injury to the ascending branch of the deep circumflex iliac artery from a referencing pin was identified and managed with coiling.

Conclusion:

Referencing pin placement during robotic-assisted THA introduces the risk of iatrogenic injury to the ascending branch of deep circumflex iliac artery. Avoidance of referencing pin placement near the anterior superior iliac spine can decrease the risk of this complication.
Guided Growth for Posterior Tibial Slope Correction Followed by ACL Reconstruction in an Adolescent Male
Authors: Blackman Benjamin , Sidhu Manpreet Singh , Shah Ajay , Mann Jennah , Marks Paul , Wasserstein David
Published: February 2025

Case:

A 13-year-old adolescent boy presented with chronic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) insufficiency and prior medial meniscectomy. Radiographic evaluation revealed a posterior tibial slope (PTS) of 20°, putting him at high risk of reinjury following ACL reconstruction (ACLR). Guided growth using anteriorly placed eight plates was used for 9 months, which reduced his PTS to 6°. Two months following plate removal, the patient underwent ACLR with lateral extra-articular tenodesis.

Conclusion:

This previously proposed but never reported approach suggests that guided growth is a viable option to correct excessive PTS before ACLR in skeletally immature patients.
Lyme Prosthetic Joint Infection May Be Underappreciated and Can Be Treated Without Surgery
Authors: Miller Andy O. , Carli Alberto V. , Kahlenberg Cynthia
Published: February 2025

Case:

A 68-year-old woman with a well-functioning total knee replacement presented with signs and symptoms of acute periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Lyme serology and synovial fluid PCR were performed due to Borrelia burgdorferi. The patient was treated with oral doxycycline, had prompt resolution of symptoms, and remained asymptomatic 2 years later.

Conclusion:

Lyme PJI may be underappreciated as a cause of culture-negative PJI, cannot be diagnosed in routine culture, and can be cured without surgery.
Dispute settlement mechanism of the World Trade Organization: its importance beyond the WTO framework
Authors: Trunk-Fedorova Marina
Published: February 2025

The Dispute Settlement Mechanism of the World Trade Organization was recognized as one of the most successful mechanisms of settlement of inter-State disputes. Due to recent developments, however, the functioning of the WTO Appellate Body has been suspended, which could give the impression that the WTO dispute settlement mechanism might lose its importance. The present article explores the idea that the importance of the WTO mechanism goes beyond the framework of this organization. In particular, the WTO mechanism has strongly influenced the establishment of dispute settlement mechanisms in regional trade agreements. Another important area influenced by the WTO mechanism is international investment dispute settlement, which is currently undergoing a reform under the UNCITRAL initiative. One can note the influence of the WTO Mechanism on the elements of regional dispute settlement mechanisms, as well as its importance for the reform of international investment arbitration, first of all in the establishment of an appeal mechanism. The article also discusses the meaning of the WTO DSB practice for regional mechanisms and obligations of parties to regional trade agreements to take into account decisions of panels and the Appellate Body. Besides that, there are examples of the use of WTO DSB practice in the context of international investment arbitration: although this approach caused a mixed reaction of specialists, it cannot not be excluded that arbitrators dealing with investment disputes will use WTO practice in the future. Based on the results of research presented in the article, the author comes to the conclusion that, notwithstanding current difficulties, the WTO dispute settlement mechanism remains important, beyond the WTO framework and serves as a guidance for a number of other dispute settlement systems.
Transition to remote dispute resolution in international arbitration in the post-COVID era: taking into account the practice of foreign courts
Authors: Erokhina Viktoria
Published: February 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly accelerated the process of the digitalization of justice, and this will continue in the future. However a number of issues arise regarding the transition to online justice, including: prerequisites for remote hearing and specificities of their organization; implementation of principles of immediacy, openness and transparency; assessment of the credibility of testimony in remote hearings. The experience of international arbitration, which was the first to employ information technology in its process, provides us with insight to these issues. The experience accumulated by international arbitration can be used for the successful digitalization of Russian state courts. It should be understood that the use of information technology in the process is not an end in itself. It should be only be used if a comparable result can be achieved — a reasonable and equitable solution, at a lower cost. Three tests can be used for deciding whether to use remote hearings, each proposing a different burden of proof. Proving the need to use remote consideration of the case has three possible results, 1) which initiates remote hearings, 2) which opposes remote hearings, or 3) a “balancing test” whereby the court itself decides on the form of the hearing. The second and third approaches are preferable, as they avoid unjustified exclusion from the advantages of technology. Various arguments can be accepted to satisfy the burden of proof: commitment to the “green pledge” movement or the presence of a severe disease, like with the COVID-19 pandemic. The severity of the arguments is determined by the court dependent upon the degree of technical equipment (sustainability of the Internet connection, reliability on the electronic platforms that transmit video), dominance of certain ideas in society (for example the need to reduce carbon footprint), as well as the circumstances of the particular case. The author concludes that the practice of remote hearings will increase and that this does not detract from the advantages of traditional hearings held in the same space in the direct presence of persons involved in the case. Both formats will take their places in the dispute resolution system and will be used according to the requirements of the particular case.
Optimizing the Cutting Efficiency of Shaped Polycrystalline Diamond Compact Cutters by Adjusting the Cutter Orientation
Authors: Liu Wei , Dong Hao , Wei Jiusen , Gao Deli
Published: February 2025

While analyzing the polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bit kinematics and the dull bit photos, an interesting observation was noted: there was a misalignment between the pointed edge of shaped PDC cutters and the wear flat of these cutters. This misalignment meant that shaped cutters did not cut the rock with the desired pointed edge while operating under downhole conditions, thereby failing to fulfill their design purpose. To investigate the effect of this misalignment on the rock-breaking efficiency of shaped cutters, the numerical calculations were first used to predict the effective contact area between the cutter and the rock, which proved that there was indeed a misalignment between the normal line of the bit profile and the calculated effective contact area, especially for the cutters located at the nose and shoulder of the bit profile. That is, the current placement specification for PDC cutters in the drill-bit manufacturing process, aligning the pointed edge of shaped cutters with the normal line of the profile of the corresponding cutter pocket, is not appropriate and shall be further optimized.

Hence, three types of laboratory tests were designed: single-cutter cutting test, offset cutting test, and offset-rotation cutting test. The results showed that the offset cutting mode was more consistent with actual downhole cutting conditions of PDC bits, where the cutters on the rear blade just contacted part of the grooves created by the cutters on the front blade. The offset cutting reduced the rock-breaking efficiency, and this negative impact of offset cutting was more severe on the shaped cutters. To address this issue, this work proposed to rotate the shaped cutters by 15° from the normal line of the bit profile. The test results showed that adjusting the tip orientation can effectively improve the rock-breaking efficiency of both shaped PDC cutters and their bits. This work provides new insights into the study of the rock-breaking efficiency of shaped cutters, which can guide the optimization of bit manufacturing specifications and the development of new cutter shapes.
Rock-Breaking Mechanism and Performance of Arch-Ridged Cutters Used for PDC Bits
Authors: Liu Wei , Wang Yichen , Wang Xinyu , Gao Deli
Published: February 2025

As well depths continue to increase, the drilling conditions become more complex and challenging, causing the axe-shaped and tri-ridged cutters, usually used for their good impact resistance, to face premature impact failure. Inspired by dome- and ridge-shaped cutters, the arch-ridged cutters were developed in this work to enhance the cutter’s impact resistance without sacrificing the penetration rate. Arch-ridged structure incorporated the arch feature to improve the cutter’s impact resistance while retaining the ridge point feature to optimize the rock-breaking efficiency. To verify the rationality of this new cutter shape, discrete element modeling, laboratory single-cutter rock-cutting testing, progressive drop testing, wet vertical turret lathe (VTL) testing, and a field trial were conducted. The results showed the arch-ridged structure changed the rock-breaking mechanism of polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) cutters based on real-time observations of its granite-cutting process. The arch feature enhanced the compression and crushing function of the cutter, while the ridge point feature led to the formation of three separate crushing zones, causing the sequential detachment of rock chippings from the ridge tip and the ridge slopes. When the depth of cut (DOC) exceeded 3 mm, the rock-breaking efficiency of arch-ridged cutter became comparable with that of axe-shaped and tri-ridged cutters, indicating that the arch-ridged cutter could obtain a satisfactory penetration rate under sufficient weight on bit. The biggest advantage of the arch-ridged structure was improving the impact resistance by more than 51% compared to axe-shaped and tri-ridged cutters. The bit deployed with arch-ridged cutters was trialed to drill a conglomerate formation at the Shengli Oil Field in China. The bit obtained the longest footage compared with adjacent wells, and the dull arch-ridged cutters had much less impact damage than the tri-ridged cutters. In short, the application scenario of the arch-ridged cutters is harsh formations that cause severe impact damage on PDC cutters, where the arch-ridged cutters can extend the bit footage with a moderate penetration rate.
Shorter, Faster, and Effective? Evaluating Abbreviated MRI for Branch-Duct Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm
Authors: Emir Sevde Nur , Karamustafao Görkem , Güner Gülbanu , Emir Servet , Özel Yahya , Kulalı Fatma
Published: February 2025

Background
With the advancements in imaging technologies and the widespread use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the detection rates of pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) have significantly increased. While most of these lesions are benign, branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (BD-IPMNs) pose a potential risk for malignant transformation, necessitating regular clinical and radiological follow-up. However, conventional MRI protocols are time-consuming and resource-intensive, prompting the need for shorter, cost-effective alternatives without compromising diagnostic accuracy. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic performance and clinical feasibility of abbreviated MRI (A-MRI) protocols for BD-IPMN surveillance compared to standard MRI (S-MRI).
Methods
This was a single-center, retrospective study including patients with BD-IPMN who underwent follow-up MRI between January 2022 and December 2024. Three MRI protocols were analyzed: (1) S-MRI, comprising T2-weighted imaging, dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) T1-weighted imaging, 3D MR cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI); (2) A-MRI protocol 1 (A-MRI-1), including MRCP and T2-weighted sequences; and (3) A-MRI protocol 2 (A-MRI-2), incorporating MRCP, T2-weighted, and DWI sequences. The images are evaluated for lesion size progression (≥ 5 mm in 2 years), mural nodules, cyst wall thickening, main pancreatic duct dilation, and parenchymal atrophy. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated for A-MRI protocols in detecting degeneration signs.
Results
A total of 124 patients (mean age: 64 years, 55.6% female) and 124 lesions were analyzed. The detection rates of key degeneration markers were similar between S-MRI and A-MRI protocols, except for contrast-enhanced mural nodules, which were not identifiable with A-MRI due to the lack of DCE sequences. The overall sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV for A-MRI in detecting BD-IPMN degeneration markers were 100%, 98.3%, 71.4%, and 100%, respectively. A-MRI protocols demonstrated a comparable diagnostic performance to S-MRI while significantly reducing scan time (from ~ 40–50 min to 7–12 min). However, false-positive mural nodule detection was higher with A-MRI, potentially leading to unnecessary follow-up imaging. The addition of DWI in A-MRI-2 did not provide a significant diagnostic advantage over A-MRI-1.
Conclusions
A-MRI is a viable alternative for BD-IPMN follow-up, offering substantial reductions in imaging duration and costs while maintaining high diagnostic accuracy. However, the absence of DCE sequences may lead to false-positive mural nodule detection, necessitating further evaluation in selected cases.