bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bone Char: Synthesis, Characterization, and Agronomic Application as an Alternative Source of Phosphorus
Authors: de Castro Gustavo Franco , Duarte Valber Georgio de Oliveira , Ballotin Fabiane Carvalho , Rocha Brunno Cesar Pereira , Rezende Igor Franco , Mattiello Edson Marcio , Vale Lucas Pereira Ribeiro do , de Oliveira Gustavo Soares , Tronto Jairo
Published: April 2023

Alternative materials can be used to reduce reliance on mining for P-based fertilizers. In this sense, the pyrolysis process of bovine bones can produce a product called “bone char”, which can be used as a source of P. The present work aims to synthesize, characterize, and evaluate the solubility of fertilizers extractants using bone char, Bayóvar, and triple superphosphate; to evaluate the ‘‘in vitro’’ release of P; to investigate the availability of P from the fertilizers in consecutive cultivations of maize and black-oat. The characterization of the bone char was performed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive (SEM-EDS). The XRD analyses have shown the presence of hydroxyapatite in the bone char, bands assigned to P-O stretching from phosphate have been observed in ATR-FTIR, and Ca, P, C, and O elements were identified in the materials by EDS analyses. The solubility from fertilizers extractants was higher for bone char compared to Bayóvar and both sources showed lower solubility compared to triple superphosphate. The cumulative amount of P released from bone char was higher compared to Bayóvar and lower than triple superphosphate. The quantities of total dry matter, total shoot P uptake, and total shoot Ca uptake were higher for triple superphosphate compared to bone char and Bayóvar. The release profile of P from bone char strongly suggests that this material can be used as a slow-release P source, with intermediate solubility between the soluble and non-soluble commercialized sources.
From Experiential Reflections on Truth to Post-colonial: Unpacking Postcolonial theory, African Philosophy using storytelling as Alterity of African Reason in Education.
Authors: Ofosu-Asare Yaw
Published: April 2023

This paper examines a postcolonial theoretical framework for educating graphic design students in Ghana, by engaging storytelling as a way of holding to African ways of knowing. The paper begins by discussing debates in philosophy on ontology and epistemology, particularly in relation to colonialism and western rationality. Drawing on postcolonial theory and African storytelling, the paper argues that assertions should be interpreted outside the conventional framework of western reason, and that a postcolonial problem-space is created when non-western cultures can pose and address specific questions about their continuing colonial circumstances. The paper explores the use of qualitative interviews, connecting with oneself in relation to others, and constructing story as method for gathering and analysing data. Ultimately, the authors suggest that by considering alternative perspectives and methods, Ghanaian educators can better understand the experiences of students and work towards decolonising the classroom space.
Aluminum-induced changes in the net carbon fixation and carbon decomposition of a nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterium Trichodesmium erythraeum
Authors: Zhou Linbin , Liu Fengjie , Tan Yehui , Fortin Claude , Huang Liangmin , Campbell Peter G.C.
Published: April 2023

Recent studies suggest aluminum (Al) likely plays a role in the ocean carbon cycle by altering the biological carbon fixation and carbon decomposition of marine diatoms. However, it remains speculative whether Al has similar effects on other ecologically important phytoplankton groups such as the globally important nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterium,Trichodesmium. Here we report the influence of Al on carbon fixation and decomposition in non-axenic cultures ofTrichodesmium erythraeumIMS101 (CCMP 1985). By using radiocarbon, and adding oceanic relevant amounts of dissolved Al (yielding concentrations of 40 and 200 nM) along with non-Al-amended controls, we investigated the changes in particulate organic carbon (POC) ofTrichodesmium(> 2 µm,TrichodesmiumPOC), and free-living bacteria (0.2–2 µm, bacterial POC), and dissolved organic carbon (< 0.2 µm, DOC) over a 116-day growth period. The results showed that the rates of increase of POC in the declining growth phase ofT. erythraeumwere significantly higher (by 11–14%) in the Al-enriched treatments than in the control, and this Al-enhanced carbon fixation is consistent with previous observations on marine diatoms. On the other hand, unlike diatoms, the POC fromT. erythraeumdecomposed faster in the Al-enriched treatments during the first decay phase when bacterial POC and DOC increased along with the decomposition ofTrichodesmiumPOC. Further addition of the same amounts of Al (again calculated to increase the Al concentration by 40 and 200 nM) was performed on day 71. This treatment was designed to mimic Al supply from sediment after the settling ofTrichodesmiumcolonies to the ocean bottom. Following this second addition, the decomposition rate of bothTrichodesmiumPOC and DOC slowed down by 20–27% and 31–62%, respectively, during the second decay phase, when DOC and bacterial POC decreased. The study suggests that Al fertilization in the surface ocean via dust deposition may increase the net carbon fixation and nitrogen fixation byTrichodesmium, and thus the supply of new nitrogen to the euphotic zone, whereas Al from sediment may decrease the decomposition rate of decayingTrichodesmiumsettled to the ocean bottom.
Prognostic value and immunological role of Adenylate Kinase 2 in human glioma
Authors: Lu Hanwen , Zhang Bingchang , Zhao Wenpeng , Wang Zhanxiang
Published: April 2023

Adenylate Kinase 2 (AK2) is an enzyme responsible for catalyzing the exchange of nucleotide phosphate groups in cells, playing a crucial role in energy metabolism and transfer. Recent reports have suggested an association between AK2 and immune response in certain tumors. However, the biological function of AK2 in gliomas remains unknown. Thus, this study aims to explore the potential role of AK2 in gliomas by analyzing the relationship between AK2 gene expression and survival outcomes in glioma patients using data from the CGGA and TCGA databases and clinical samples. In addition, we assessed the correlation between AK2 expression and tumor immune score in gliomas utilizing the TIMER 2.0 tool. Furthermore, we investigated the possible biological function of AK2 in gliomas by performing GO annotation and KEGG signal pathway enrichment analyses. Our research indicates that: (1) AK2 is significantly overexpressed in gliomas and associated with poor prognosis in low-grade gliomas (LGGs); (2) AK2 expression is positively correlated with glioma grade; (3) AK2 gene knockdown induces cell apoptosis via the Caspase10/Caspase3 pathway; (4) Gene annotation and enrichment analyses reveal that AK2 function is mainly related to energy metabolism, energy transfer, and antigen presentation of glioma; (5) AK2 expression is positively correlated with the infiltration of certain immune cells. These results suggest that AK2 may serve as a promising therapeutic target and prognostic marker for LGGs.
Body composition, physical function, and dietary patterns in people from 20 to over 80 years old: the INSPIRE-T cohort
Authors: Lengelé Laetitia , de França Natasha A. Grande , Rolland Yves , Guyonnet Sophie , Barreto Philipe de Souto , Vellas Bruno
Published: April 2023

Objectives: Nutrition is a modifiable factor that may influence biochemical pathways associated with age-related body composition and physical function changes. This study aimed to describe dietary patterns and their relationships with body composition, physical performance, and grip strength according to age and sex.
Design: Cross-sectional study.
Setting: The data were collected in either the Clinical Research Center (CRC) of the Gérontopôle of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) of Toulouse or in participant’s home for those who were unable to come to the research facilities.
Participants: 470 (63% female) participants of the INSPIRE-T cohort, from 20 to 93 years old.
Measurements: The “Mediterranean-like” (i.e., plant-based foods, dairy), “Animal products” (i.e., meat, processed meat, butter, refined starch), and “Sugar and fast food” (i.e., ultra-processed and sugary foods) dietary patterns were extracted by principal component analysis. Total and trunk fat mass indexes (FMI, kg/m²), and total and appendicular lean mass indexes (LMI, kg/m²) were assessed by DXA. Physical performance comprised gait speed (m/sec), chair rise (sec), the Short Physical Performance Battery test (/12 points), and handgrip strength (kg) was assessed. The associations were explored through multivariate linear regressions by sex and age groups: ≥20 to <50, ≥50 to <65, and ≥65 years.
Results: In middle-aged women, greater adherence to the “Animal products” diet was associated with higher total and appendicular LMI, whether higher intake of “Sugar and fast food” resulted in worse physical performance. In middle-aged men, the “Mediterranean-like” diet was associated with lower total and trunk FMI, and total and appendicular LMI. Greater compliance with the “Animal products” diet was related to lower strength. Higher “Sugar and fast food” diet intake was associated with greater total and trunk FMI, and slower gait speed. Body composition did not mediate these relationships.
Conclusion: Men were more prone to have less healthy food intake in all age groups. Diets composed of sugary foods, fast foods, and processed meat were associated with higher fat mass and poorer physical performance and strength.
NarL contributes to virulence of Salmonella Typhimurium in nitrate rich anaerobic condition
Authors: M Pashupathi , Priyadarsini Swagatika , C Nikhil K , Sahoo Pravas Ranjan , Singh Rohit , Saxena Meeta , Upmanyu Vikramaditya , Agarwal Ravikant , Singh Praveen , Saini Mohini , KUMAR AJAY
Published: April 2023

Salmonella Typhimurium (STM) is a facultative anaerobe of zoonotic importance and one of the causative agents of non-typhoidal salmonellosis (NTS). During infection, STM must adapt to the changes in oxygen concentration encountered in the crucial niches of host like gut lumen and intramacrophage environments. But being a chemo-organoheterotroph, STM is capable of obtaining its energy from organic sources via redox reactions. NarL, a transcription factor and the response regulator of the two-component regulatory system NarX/L, gets activated under nitrate rich anaerobic condition. Upon activation, it upregulates the nitrate reduction during anaerobic respiration. However, in this study, we observed a significant attenuation of virulence in the narL-knockout strain of STM, while the respective morphotypes got rescued upon genetic complementation. Along with motility and biofilm forming ability, the mutant strain displayed reduced intracellular replication in either intestinal epithelial cells or monocyte-derived macrophages of poultry origin. Further, in vivo competitive assay in the murine model showed that wild type STM significantly outcompeted its isogenic narL null mutant.
Nonstandard finite difference treatment of a differential game problem
Authors: Alabdullah Maan T. Alabdullah Maan T. , Hasan Muner Mustafa , Siedyb
Published: April 2023

This paper presents and analyses some Mean Field Games (MFGs) models that depict interactions between two groups where the number of participants tends to +infinity.Solutions to differential game problems, systems of partial differential equations. MFGtheory equations have been developed to approximate the static and evolutionary versions of such models. We present numerical methods and simulations. To solve the problem in the resulting system of equations, we propose nonstandard finite difference schemes for the optimal planning problem, which has an optimal control formulation. We also conduct numerical tests.
Mathematics Subject Classification: 65M06, 33F05.
Geographic distribution of laboratory-confirmed cases of rabies in domestic and wild animals based on passive surveillance records in Uganda: 2015-2022
Authors: Omodo Michael , Gardela Jaume , Namatovu Alice , Nakanjako Maria Flavia , Okurut Ademun Rose , Sekamatte Musa , Charity Mutesi , Gonzalez Jean Paul
Published: April 2023

Background
In Uganda, data regarding rabies outbreaks are acquired through passive surveillance. However, this surveillance system is associated with challenges such as limited case reporting and logistical gaps, leading to reduced sample submission for the positive diagnostic to the national reference veterinary laboratory. Although the dog is a main transmitter of rabies virus in low- and medium-income countries, wildlife reservoirs (e.g., mongoose, jackals, foxes) can potentially spread the virus to livestock and human populations in Uganda. The present study aims to evaluate rabies virus circulation in livestock, domestic dogs, and wild carnivores, and to identify the distribution of positive cases following rabies outbreaks from 2015-2022 in Uganda.
Methods
Seventy-three (73) brain specimens from suspected rabies cases in livestock, domestic animals, and wild carnivores from different districts of Uganda were submitted to the National Animal Disease Diagnostics and Epidemiology Center for testing and analysis. Samples were subjected to two tests: the rapid rabies antigen detection test and the direct fluorescent antibody test, which is the gold standard for rabies diagnosis.
Results
Out of 73 samples, 50 tested positive (68.5%). Dogs were the species displaying the globally highest positivity (42%), followed by cattle (24%), goats (20%), and wild carnivores (10%). Of the 21 dogs tested, 15 were stray dogs (30%). Most of the cases were found in the Busia district (14%), followed by Arua district (10%) and Mukono district (10%). Our data demonstrated that the rabies virus is actively circulating in domestic and wild animal populations in several regions of Uganda and remains a high risk to human and animal health.
Conclusions
The correlation found between the number of samples submitted and the number of positive results shows the accuracy (more than one in two cases) of the diagnosis of suspected rabies in the animals sampled.
Robust and widely implementable One Health surveillance systems are required to detect and control the spread of zoonotic infectious diseases. Encouragement of the concerned actors to use efficient diagnostic technology coupled with a rapid field response is needed to improve the surveillance of deadly zoonosis such as rabies.
Numerical study of the effect of orthogonal cutting parameters on the shear plane angle in 4340 steel
Authors: Zohourkari Iman , Zarei Ramin
Published: April 2023

In an orthogonal cutting process, the shear plane has a significant force resulting from chip removal action, since in the chip removal process, most of the force applied to the workpiece is used to change the shape of the material in the form of heat and it is dissipated by the chip, tool and the workpiece. It can be seen that the shear zone takes the highest temperature during the chip removal process. Therefore, increasing or decreasing the area of the shear plane and its angle has a direct effect on reducing the temperature and force resulting from chip removal and accordingly, improving the cutting conditions. In this research, the effect of machining parameters including cutting velocity, depth of cut, rake angle, and tool radius on temperature, force, and angle of cutting plane in AISI 4340 alloy is studied. The two-dimensional finite element model of orthogonal cutting is simulated as a couple of dynamic-thermal loads. The results obtained from the simulation in DEFORM software show that the depth of cut has the greatest effect on the changes in the angle of the shear plane in such a way that increasing the depth of cut decreases the angle of the shear plane and vice versa, also, the radius of the tool has the least effect on the changes in the angle. The results obtained from the numerical simulation are in good agreement with metal-cutting theories.
Metabolic capacity is maintained despite shifts in microbial diversity in estuary sediments
Authors: Baker Brett , Langwig Marguerite , De Anda Valerie , Sneed Sunny , Seitz Kiley , Rasmussen Anna , Lee Jessica , Anantharaman Karthik , Francis Christopher
Published: April 2023

Estuaries are highly productive ecosystems where sediment microbes mediate carbon and nutrient cycling. Our understanding of estuarine microbial communities is limited by a lack of system level characterizations. Here we obtained 639 novel metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from four seasons across San Francisco Bay (SFB), the largest estuary on the West Coast of the United States. In shallow sediments, we observed a broad diversity of uncultured prokaryotes with distinct pathways for nitrogen and sulfur cycling. This includes 12 Nitrospira capable of complete nitrification (comammox) and 5 Bacteroidota and Gammaproteobacteria with pathways for complete denitrification. We also identified abundant sulfur oxidizing and reducing organisms, including rdsr-encoding Spirochaetota. We observe phylum-level shifts in community composition across sites, yet key nitrogen and sulfur metabolisms are maintained throughout the estuary. This functional redundancy is important to consider for understanding microbial community responses to climate change and human activity in estuarine ecosystems.
Pembelajaran Wudhu Melalui Kartu Gambar Bagi Anak Berkebutuhan Khusus di Banjarmasin Tengah
Authors: Hidayat Rahmad , Rasyidi Ahyar , Setiawan Arya
Published: April 2023

The aim of this research is to describe the learning of wudhu through picture cards for children with special needs and to identify the factors that influence the learning of ablution through picture cards for children with special needs in Gadang 2 State Elementary School, Banjarmasin Tengah Subdistrict. The subjects in this study were two special accompanying teachers of class IV A, one Islamic education teacher, and one inclusion teacher at Gadang 2 State Elementary School, Banjarmasin Tengah Subdistrict. The object of the study is the efforts made in learning ablution through picture card media for children with special needs in Gadang 2 State Elementary School, Banjarmasin Tengah Subdistrict. The techniques used in collecting data in the field are observation, interviews, and documentation, while the techniques used in processing the data are data collection, data editing, and data interpretation. The results of the research show that learning ablution through picture cards for children with special needs in Gadang 2 State Elementary School, Banjarmasin Tengah Subdistrict, is carried out well. They quickly understand the explanation, especially with the use of picture card that enables them to remember what they have seen on the cards. The factors that influence the learning of ablution through picture cards for children with special needs are derived from the teachers' educational background and good and supportive teacher experiences. Factors from students, their feelings or moods can affect the learning activities of ablution, and factors from media use, the use of picture cards in learning ablution has not been carried out well. The accompanying teacher, in addition to providing learning explanations, must also provide a sense of calm and comfort to children with special needs so as not to disrupt their learning mood and always provide encouragement and motivation to them.
Sterilize Methods Comparison for Soils: Cost, Time, and Efficiency
Authors: Querejeta Giselle A
Published: April 2023

Soil sterilization is generally used to eliminate or reduce microbial activity in studies involving microbial inoculations, soil enzymes, among others. Achieving an adequate sterility condition is not straightforward due to the variety of resistance structures that are generated in soil microbial ecosystems and the reservoirs that can form between soil aggregates. This is why finding an effective method to achieve good sterilization is important in methodological terms, so the present work aims to compare the effectiveness of three widely used methodologies to sterilize soil and to evaluate their cost/benefit in terms of time and inputs invested. Four treatments were tested: gamma irradiation, sterilization cycles at different times: three cycles of 1 h each and four cycles of 15 min each, and chloroform vapors. The evaluation and comparison of all samples sterilized by the different methodologies were based on the total aerobic heterotrophic bacterial count. The results of this study suggest that it is more efficient to use autoclaving methods because the process is more accessible in terms of equipment and methodologies, and the final results are the same. In the case of this work, sterilization with chloroform vapors had to be rejected. While the use of gamma radiation may be more efficient in terms of time, it can be a costly and inaccessible service for some laboratories that do not have the equipment. Therefore, the most viable options in terms of time, cost, and benefit are those using autoclaves. Among these, shorter treatment times mean a reduction in the cost of using the equipment, so the option of 15-minute cycles is desirable.
Future projections of storm surges and associated coastal inundation along the east coast of India
Authors: PLN Murty , Kolukula Siva Srinivas
Published: April 2023

This study aims to analyze several aspects of storm surges and associated coastal inundation along the east coast of India. The current study utilizes historical cyclone tracks over the past five decades and, synthetic tracks are projected for the next 100 years to develop a comprehensive analysis of the storm surges in India. The impact of climate change on cyclone path and intensity is also considered. The ADCIRC model is used to compute storm surge heights and associated coastal inundation for historical and future cyclone tracks. An in-depth analysis is carried out using composite maps explaining the storm surge characteristics at various coastal locations. The novelty of this study lies in the comprehensive analysis of potential storm surges and associated coastal flooding related to exaggerated cyclones that are expected in a changing climate scenario. The outcome of the study is beneficial to storm surge operational centers and disaster management applications.
Development of aerobic granular sludge for real industrial/municipal wastewater treatment
Authors: Sanchez-Sanchez Celina , Moreno-Rodríguez Ernestina , Ortiz-Cruz J. Alejandro , Moeller-Chávez Gabriela Eleonora
Published: April 2023

The formation and evolution of aerobic granular sludge (AGS) developed in a sequential batch reactor (SBR) were evaluated to understand the effect of influential operating parameters on its morphology, stability, and removal performance while treating industrial/municipal wastewater. After 18 days of operation (stage I), mature granules were identified in the reactor, and in 25 days, the AGS system reached a stable operation. The chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) were affected by the applied operating variations (from stages II to VII). Until day 48 (stage III), the aerobic granules did not show relevant changes in shape and stability. During this stage, the AGS system achieved high removal efficiencies of COD (97.7%) and TKN (86.2%) and a sludge volume index (SVI) of 65 ± 6.7 mL/g-total suspended solids. From stage IV until the end of the reactor operation, partial disintegration and rupture occurred in the system, but granules did not completely disintegrate. Specifically, a volumetric exchange ratio (VER) of >67% and an aeration rate (AR) of <2.5 L/min promoted the compactness and the structural integrity of AGS. The principal component analysis corroborated that the rise in the VER is an effective strategy for improving AGS stability and organic pollutant removal.
Digital Technologies and Labour Relations: Legal Regulation in Russia and China
Authors: Ofman E. , Sagandykov M.
Published: April 2023

The widespread use of digital technologies in the field of labour relations raises the issue of examining the readiness and capability of the legislation in Russia and China to adequately regulate labour in modern workplace conditions while respecting the balance of interests and the rights of employees, employers and the state. This article draws a number of conclusions, one of which is that currently in the Russian Federation, the legal regulation of the use of digital technologies in the field of labour is haphazard, contradictory and not designed for the long term. Despite a number of significant scientific studies conducted in this area and the serious commitment of the People’s Republic of China to the issues of informatization, the legal regulation of the digitalization of labour relations lags behind technological progress. A number of issues in urgent need of legal regulation remain outside the legal field (robotization and algorithmization in the field of labour; protection of personal data of job applicants; the problem of unemployment in the application of artificial intelligence in the labour process). It appears that today there is an urgent need for the federal authorities of the Russian Federation to adopt a strategy for the transformation of labour relations in the application of digital (information) technologies as well as a need to develop a concept of robotization and algorithmization of the labour process. Furthermore, when creating these documents and adjusting the current regulatory framework, the Russian legislator should take into account the experience of international and foreign regulation of labour relations in the field of digitalization of labour relations.
‘Power’ and Technological Machines: Dreams Are Replaced by Goal-Setting
Authors: Isaev I. , Zenin S. , Rumyantseva V.
Published: April 2023

Modern technologies are rapidly changing the customary forms of being and reshaping the activities of social institutions. This transformation is accompanied by a belief in a long period of sustainable progress brought about through the media, the Internet, mobile telecommunication, robotics and artificial intelligence. Previously, science fiction as a literary genre served as an impetus for science and technology, today, the exact opposite is happening, i.e., scientific and technological breakthroughs inspire a variety of fantastic plots. The problem of gaining a scientific understanding of the mechanization of civilization has become a reality. Machines and technologies influence politics by some means or another. Previously differentiated forms of “the political” also show tendencies towards convergence and interpenetration. In this process, neutral technology tends to exhibit globalism, spreading its influence and its results to the whole world. Rationalization, without which techniques and technologies are unthinkable, revolutionizes the environment by offering its own logic and language to public and individual consciousness. As a result of the pacification of the irrational, structures of power and law frequently find themselves in a situation of isolation that is characterized as “lacking spirituality” and outside the interests of society. The technical elements are increasingly replacing the human elements. Formerly held humanitarian and organic ties are being replaced by technical, ethically neutral methods. Every “power machine” wants to appear impartial and objective in its actions and decisions; yet, even though the machine has no fate, it cannot avoid accidents. The tendency to evaluate everything in terms of numbers – both infinitesimally small and infinitely large can be traced back to antiquity. Machinery needs an accurate calculation of probabilities: it focuses on foresight; therefore, it embodies a “process” and cares not about tradition, but only about the stability of the system. The machine begins to live for itself and for its future.
Criminal Liability for Cybercrimes in the BRICS Countries
Authors: Ivanova L.
Published: April 2023

One of the areas of cooperation among the BRICS countries is tackling the misuse of information and communication technologies for criminal activities. Each year, the number of cybercrimes continues to grow. Furthermore, the criminal regulation of cybercrimes in each country differs. This article aims to identify the features of criminal liability for cybercrimes in the BRICS countries and offer potential solutions for developing joint legislation initiatives. The primary focus of this discussion is on cybercrime provisions that can be found in the legal acts of the Federative Republic of Brazil, the Russian Federation, the Republic of India, the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa. The main finding of this research is that the criminal law of each country contains different corpus delicti for dealing with crimes committed in cyberspace. There are also differing conceptions of what constitutes cybercrime. The author proposes the enactment of a common document for the BRICS countries that would contain a shared understanding of cybercrimes as well as the various types of cybercrimes. It is possible to divide cybercrimes into two categories: special cybercrimes committed in the field of computer information and general criminal cybercrimes executed using information technology to commit any other common criminal offences. The results of this research can be used to study the problems of criminal responsibility for cybercrimes in the BRICS countries as well as analyze the ways in which the rules under consideration are actually applied in practice.
The Features of the Use of Information Technologies in Criminal Proceedings in the BRICS Countries
Authors: Dmitrieva A. , Alshdaifat Sh. , Pastukhov P.
Published: April 2023

This article analyzes the information and technological advancements made by the BRICS countries in the field of criminal proceedings, specifically in the process of gathering evidence in criminal investigations. The relevance of the research topic is explained by the widespread proliferation of computer-related crimes and other crimes committed using computer technologies. With the increase in cybercrime, the number of digital traces left behind by criminal activity is also increasing. This calls for the development of a new approach for detecting, recording, erasing and investigating these digital traces. Given the transnational and cross-border nature of cybercrime, it is necessary to pursue a policy of interaction among the law enforcement agencies of the BRICS countries in order to effectively provide legal assistance in criminal cases, preserve the electronic data obtained from users of information and telecommunications systems and transfer the data to interested countries upon request. This will aid in the formation of a regulatory framework for the information technology sector that meets modern challenges and requirements. Additionally, it is critical to borrow best practices in order to harmonize the criminal and criminal procedure legislation of the BRICS countries, as coordinated activities will ensure closer cooperation between the countries in the socio-economic and cultural spheres, allowing for the achievement of greater results in these areas. Furthermore, the article demonstrates a new approach to the study of the comparative legal nature of the various legal systems in the BRICS countries. The conclusion reached is that the harmonization of criminal procedure systems essentially comes down to the detection of electronic data, the recording of that data in electronic form, the storage of case materials and the submission of those materials to the court in electronic form. The legal consolidation of these steps will make it possible to introduce electronic document management, thereby enabling the optimization of criminal procedure activities, the objective recording of evidentiary information and the assurance of savings in material and procedural costs associated with criminal proceedings.
Pharmacokinetic Drug-Drug Interactions Involving Antiretroviral Agents: An Update
Authors: Yu Xin , Zhao Lifeng , Yuan Zheng , Li Yingfei
Published: April 2023

Antiretroviral therapy is the recognized treatment for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection
involving several antiviral agents. Even though highly active antiretroviral therapy has been proven to be very effective
in suppressing HIV replication, the antiretroviral drugs, belonging to different pharmacological classes, present
quite complex pharmacokinetic properties such as extensive drug metabolism and transport by membrane-associated
drug carriers. Moreover, due to uncomplications or complications in HIV-infected populations, an antiretroviralbased
multiple-drug coadministration therapy strategy is usually applied for treatment effect, thus raising the possibility
of drug-drug interactions between antiretroviral drugs and common drugs such as opioids, stains, and hormonal
contraceptives. Herein, thirteen classical antiretroviral drugs approved by US Food and Drug Administration were
summarized. Besides, relative drug metabolism enzymes and transporters known to interact with those antiretroviral
drugs were detailed and described. Furthermore, one after the summarized antiretroviral drugs, the drug-drug interactions
between two antiretroviral drugs or antiretroviral drug - conventional medical drugs of the past decade were
discussed and summarized. This review is intended to deepen the pharmacological understanding of antiretroviral
drugs and promote more secure clinical applications for antiretroviral drugs to treat HIV.
Novel Leflunomide Analog, UTLOH-4e, Ameliorates Gouty Arthritis
Induced by Monosodium Urate Via NF-κB/NLRP3 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yuan Tianmin , Chen Shilong , Yin Yifeng , Shaw Jiajiu , Zeng Jin , Li Li , Song Lei , Zhang Yiguan , Yin Zhujun , Zhao Junning
Published: April 2023

Background:

Gouty arthritis (GA) is a common form of inflammatory arthritis caused
by intra-articular deposition of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals; however, there is a tremendous
lack of safe and effective therapy in the clinic.

Objective:

The goal of this work was to investigate a novel leflunomide analogue, N-(2,4-
dihydroxyphenyl)-5-methyl-1,2-oxazole-3-carboxamide (UTLOH-4e), for its potential to prevent/
treat gouty arthritis.

Methods:

In this study, the anti-inflammatory activity of UTLOH-4e was evaluated by MSUinduced
GA model in vivo and in vitro, and the molecular docking test was applied to estimate the
affinity of UTLOH-4e/UTL-5g/b for MAPKs, NF-κB, and NLRP3.

Results:

In vitro, UTLOH-4e (1~100 μM) treatment inhibited the inflammatory reaction with no
obvious cytotoxicity in PMA-induced THP-1 macrophages exposed to MSU crystals for 24 h,
involving the prominent decreased production and gene expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6.
Western blot analyses demonstrated that UTLOH-4e (1~100 μM) significantly suppressed the
activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes, NF-κB, and MAPK pathways. Furthermore, the data from
the experiment on gouty rats induced by intra-articular injection of MSU crystal confirmed that
UTLOH-4e markedly ameliorated rat paw swelling, articular synovium inflammation and reduced
the concentration of IL-1β and TNF-α in serum through down-regulating NLRP3 protein expression.

Conclusion:

These results manifested that UTLOH-4e ameliorates GA induced by MSU crystals,
which contributes to the modulation of NF-κB/ NLRP3 signaling pathway, suggesting that UTLOH-
4e is a promising and potent drug candidate for the prevention and treatment of gouty arthritis.
RAD50 Deficient in a Breast Cancer Model Predicts Sensitivity to PARP
Inhibitors
Authors: Niederauer Ramos Cíntia Regina , Silva Oliveira Renato José , Rosa Marcela Nunes , Pereira Ariane Stéfani , de Abreu Renata Barbosa Vahia , Helvoort Lengert Andre van , Reis Rui Manuel , Oliveira Silva Viviane Aline , Palmero Edenir Inêz , Melendez Matias Eliseo
Published: April 2023

Background:

Breast and ovarian tumors with pathogenic variants in BRCA1 or BRCA2
genes are more sensitive to poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) treatment than wildtype
tumors. Pathogenic variants in non-BRCA1/2 homologous recombination repair genes (HRR) also
concede sensitivity to PARPi treatment. RAD50 participates in the Mre11-Rad50-Nbn (MRN)
complex of the HRR pathway and plays an important role in DNA repair.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to evaluate whether RAD50 protein deficiency modulates the
PARPi response in breast cancer cell lines.

Methods:

T47D breast cancer cell line was modified using small interfering RNA and CRISPR/Cas9
technology, to knockout the RAD50 gene. PARPi response (niraparib, olaparib and rucaparib alone or
in combination with carboplatin), in T47D and T47D-edited clones, was evaluated by cell viability,
cell cycle, apoptosis and protein expression analyses.

Results:

Treatment with niraparib and carboplatin exerted a synergistic effect on T47D-RAD50 deficient
cells and an antagonistic effect on T47D cells parental. Cell cycle analysis demonstrated an increase
in the G2/M population in cells treated with niraparib or rucaparib alone or in combination with
carboplatin. T47D-RAD50 deficient cells treated with rucaparib and carboplatin exhibited twofold
levels in late apoptosis, also showing differences in PARP activation. All T47D RAD50 deficient
clones treated with niraparib or rucaparib combined with carboplatin, or rucaparib alone showed increased
levels of H2AX phosphorylation.

Conclusions:

T47D RAD50 deficient cells treated with PARP inhibitors alone or in combination with
carboplatin showed cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase, leading to death by apoptosis. Thus, RAD50
deficiency may be a good biomarker for predicting PARPi response.
UCA1 Inhibits NKG2D-mediated Cytotoxicity of NK Cells to Breast
Cancer
Authors: Yin Jun-Yi , Zhou Yao , Ding Xiao-Ming , Gong Run-Ze , Zhou Yan , Hu Hai-Yan , Liu Yuan , Lv Xiao-Bin , Zhang Bing
Published: April 2023

Background:

Natural killer cells play important roles in tumor immune surveillance, and
cancer cells must resist this surveillance in order to progress and metastasise

Introduction:

The study aimed to explore the mechanism of how breast cancer cells become resistant
to the cytotoxicity of NK cells

Methods:

We established NK-resistant breast cancer cells by exposing MDA-MB-231 cells and
MCF-7 cells to NK92 cells. Profiles of lncRNA were compared between the NK-resistant and parental
cell lines. Primary NK cells were isolated by MACS, and the NK attacking effect was tested by
non-radioactive cytotoxicity. The change in lncRNAs was analyzed by Gene-chip. The interaction between
lncRNA and miRNA was displayed by Luciferase assay. The regulation of the gene was verified
by QRT-PCR and WB. The clinical indicators were detected by ISH, IH, and ELISA, respectively.

Results:

UCA1 was found to be significantly up-regulated in both NK-resistant cell lines, and we
confirmed such up-regulation on its own to be sufficient to render parental cell lines resistant to
NK92 cells. We found that UCA1 up-regulated ULBP2 via the transcription factor CREB1, while it
up-regulated ADAM17 by “sponging” the miR-26b-5p. ADAM17 facilitated the shedding of soluble
ULBP2 from the surface of breast cancer cells, rendering them resistant to killing by NK cells.
UCA1, ADAM17, and ULBP2 were found to be expressed at higher levels in bone metastases of
breast cancer than in primary tumors.

Conclusion:

Our data strongly suggest that UCA1 up-regulates ULBP2 expression and shedding,
rendering breast cancer cells resistant to killing by NK cells.
Neuropsychiatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Posterior Reversible
Encephalopathy Syndrome in a Young Woman: A Case Report
Authors: Mohammed Bawazir Yasser , Wasim Anshasi Neda'a
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with variable clinical presentation, including neuropsychiatric manifestations. It has a different di-agnostic approach and several different therapeutic options.

Case Report:

We describe a case of a young woman who first presented with arthritis, serositis, and pancreatitis, and was treated with mycophenolate mofetil initially. The patient presented with neu-rological symptoms suggestive of neuropsychiatric manifestations three weeks later, confirmed by Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The treatment was changed to cyclophosphamide; how-ever, the day after the infusion, she developed status epilepticus and was admitted to the intensive care unit. Repeated brain MRI revealed Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES). Cyclophosphamide was discontinued and rituximab was initiated. The patient’s neurological mani-festations improved, and she was discharged after 25 days of use.

Conclusion:

Immunosuppressive agents, such as cyclophosphamide have been described as a po-tential risk factor for PRES; however, it is not clear from the available literature whether cyclo-phosphamide therapy is just a marker of more severe SLE or a true risk factor for PRES.
Carbon Nanoparticles Promoted the Absorption of Potassium Ions by
Tobacco Roots via Regulation of K+ Flux and Ion Channel Gene
Expression
Authors: Zhao Zhenjie , Dai Huaxin , Wang Guiyao , Peng Yuhan , Liao Fu , Wu Jizhong , Liang Taibo
Published: April 2023

Background:

The regulatory effects of carbon nanomaterials (CNMs) on plant growth and
their potential applications in agriculture have attracted a great deal of attention from researchers.
CNMs have been shown to promote nutrient absorption and increase plant growth. However, the
mechanisms by which CNMs affect plant growth and nutrient absorption are still unknown.

Methods:

The tobacco seedling biomass, potassium (K+) concentration, and accumulation in hydroponic
were investigated to exposure of carbon nanoparticles (CNPs). To directly observe the effect of
CNPs on K+ uptake by roots, we employed a noninvasive micro-test technique (NMT) to detect the
net flux of K+ on the surface of tobacco roots. The K+-depletion experiment was carried out to explore
the kinetic characteristics of K+ absorption, and qRT-PCR was used to monitor the expression levels
of the K+ channel gene.

Results:

The results showed that tobacco seedling biomass significantly improved at 10 mg·L-1 CNP
treatments, and K+ concentration and accumulation both in roots and shoots increased with 10 and 20
mg·L-1 CNPs. CNP treatments changed the flow rate of K+ from efflux to influx in tobacco roots; this
was observed both in plants cultivated in a CNP-containing medium and after the addition of CNPs to
previously untreated plants. A depletion test also showed that CNPs improved the K+ absorption capacity
and low-K+ tolerance of tobacco seedlings.

Conclusion:

CNPs enhanced the K+ absorption capacity and low-K+ tolerance of tobacco seedlings.
The promotion of K+ absorption by CNPs was closely related to the activation of K+ influx channel
genes and inhibition of the K+ outflow channel gene. The K+ flux response and ion channel gene expression
to CNPs in plants reveal the mechanism whereby CNPs promote plant nutrient absorption.
Effectiveness of Mindfulness-acceptance-commitment based approach for Rumination, Cognitive Flexibility and Sports Performance of Elite Players of Beach Soccer: A Randomized Controlled Trial with 2-months Follow-up
Authors: Sabzevari Fatemeh , Samadi Hossein , Ayatizadeh Farahnaz , Machado Sergio
Published: April 2023

Background/Objective:

There is little research on the effectiveness of new approaches to psychology, including mindfulness-acceptance-commitment, especially in team disciplines. Therefore, this study compared mindfulness-acceptance and commitment-based approaches to rumination, cognitive flexibility, and sports performance of elite beach soccer players during a two-month follow-up.

Methods:

The research design consisted of a randomized controlled trial (RCT), with follow-up. Thus, 34 players of the premier league of beach soccer were randomly divided into intervention and control groups based on mindfulness acceptance and commitment. The experimental group exercises consisted of one session per week for 7 weeks and daily homework. Participants filled out the questionnaires of the Ruminative Response Scale, Cognitive Flexibility Inventory, and Sports Performance Questionnaire before, after, and at two months of follow-up of the intervention.

Results:

Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with repeated measures were used to evaluate the changes over time and compare the scores of the subjects of the two groups. The results showed a significant difference in mindfulness-acceptance and commitment intervention in the experimental group on pre- vs. post-test and pre-test vs. follow-up scores of research variables. Also, a comparison of groups using independent T-test analysis showed a significant effect of mindfulness-acceptance and commitment exercises on research variables in the experimental group in the post-test and follow-up stages.

Conclusion:

Findings suggest that mindfulness, commitment, and acceptance exercises can be used as a new method to reduce rumination and increase cognitive flexibility and sports performance of elite beach soccer players.
Early Lung Cancer Prediction approach based on Gene Disorder using Improved GA and Decision Tree approach
Authors: Anupriya Annamalai , Thangavelu Arunkumar
Published: April 2023

This research supports changes and variation of DNA sequence based on mutation of DNA gene arrangement over a gross chromosome irregularity. This change in gene disorder leads to new infectious diseases or abnormal changes in the human cellular body. This paper discusses the prediction of lung cancer traces, primarily due to mutations due to clinical and environmental factors exposure. The proposed model predicts the genetic phenotype from observed patients' relevant gene factors and non-genetic traces of lung cancer. Results and analysis show that the prediction rate supports an average of 73.81% of gene disorders compared with ACO and GA approaches.

Background:

The survey shows that most genetic diseases are the immediate consequence of a mutation in multiple genes. A survey and analysis of research work that supports changes and DNA variation of gene sequence, based on mutation DNA gene arrangement to a gross chromosome irregularity.

Objective:

This research aims to predict lung cancer cells based on genetic phenotype from its relevant gene factors and non-genetic traces of lung cancer from observed patient datasets.

Methods:

Major changes in gene disorder lead to abnormal changes in the human cellular body and hence the growth of cancerous tissues. The paper discusses the prediction of lung cancer traces, primarily due to gene mutations and exposure to climatic and environmental factors. An improved GA and decision tree approach as a classifier is designed and developed to support early prediction.

Results:

Analysis shows that the prediction accuracy rate supports an average of 73.81% of lung cancer based on gene disorder compared to the ACO and GA approaches.

Conclusion:

The result of the experiment shows that the approaches give more accuracy than the previous approaches.