bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Chemoinformatic exploration of RiPP biosynthetic gene clusters in Lecanoromycetes
Authors: Singh Garima , Pasinato Anna 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Ribosomally synthesized and posttranslationally modified peptides (RiPPs) constitute a relatively newly discovered biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) class involved in defense-related functions in fungi, with significant therapeutic potential. While only a few fungal RiPPs have been characterized, and primarily from a few model fungi, genome mining approaches have revealed that RiPPs are nearly ubiquitous across fungi, spanning fungal classes from Saccharomycetes to Eurotiomycetes. However, the RiPP biosynthetic landscape of fungi, such as lichen-forming fungi (LFFs), involved in intricate symbiotic relationships remains largely unexplored.
Results
This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of RiPP BGCs across 111 LFF genomes via an integrative approach combining whole-genome mining, phylogenetic inference, and sequence similarity network analysis. We identified 987 RiPP BGCs, constituting approximately 17% of the total biosynthetic diversity in LFF, a proportion significantly higher than previously estimated. We found most RiPP BGCs to be unique, as they do not cluster with any known RiPP gene clusters. Two conserved RiPP clans were identified in the family Parmeliaceae (Lecanoromycetes), with the core gene putatively homologous to ustY, indicating a relationship with fungal mycotoxins. While Clan R1 BGCs contain the accessory genes for dikaritin synthesis (tyrosinase and methyltransferase), the accessory genes of Clan R2 have not yet been reported from any characterized fungal RiPP BGC but only from bacteria. Additionally, we report the widespread distribution of dikaritin homologs across Lecanoromycetes, expanding the known range of these biosynthetic pathways beyond model Ascomycetes.
Conclusions
This study highlights the chemical diversity of RiPPs in Lecanoromycetes and identifies two conserved RiPP BGC clans within the Parmeliaceae family which are linked to dikaritins, mostly mycotoxins. This study highlights lichenized fungi such as Lecanoromycetes as promising sources of novel RiPPs.
MATE-AV: A VR-based training environment to teach occupants' how to adopt a comfort-oriented postural control in a vehicle
Authors: Croucher Charlotte , Pauwels Floris , Xuan Rebecca Pham , Brietzke Adrian , Marchal-Crespo Laura , Papaioannou Georgios 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Some of the envisaged designs of automated vehicles (AVs) are expected to provoke general discomfort and motion sickness (MS) in occupants. Current research on mitigating MS and ensuring ride comfort mainly focuses on optimising vehicle motion and creating efficient vehicle-user interaction. However, current efforts towards solutions focus on the vehicle configuration, hoping fast technological advancements will allow their implementation or require full attention from occupants. Meanwhile, limited research has explored how to train an occupant to adapt to the motion of AVs to mitigate MS for a long-term solution. New commercially available off-the-shelf virtual reality (VR) technology offers a viable, low-cost solution for creating immersive training environments. Therefore, using VR technology (static VR simulation, so only visual motions, no vibrational feedback from the vehicle motion), we developed a serious game (MATE-AV) to train AV occupants to adopt comfort-oriented postural control strategies (e.g., leaning into the curves) and self-enhance their motion comfort while being driven in the virtual environment. A mixed-design experiment with 16 participants was conducted to investigate the impact of the VR-based postural training for trunk and head alignment during curves along a route. The results indicate that the VR-based postural training motivated participants to move more. Participants in both groups aligned their trunk roll with the curve's direction, indicating their effort to adapt to the comfort-oriented postural control they were being trained for. However, participants moved their heads away from the direction of the curve, possibly compensating for trunk alignment. Our VR-based postural training could be a long-term solution for training future generations to self-enhance motion comfort in AVs by adopting comfort-oriented postural control strategies, leading to the wider acceptance of AVs.
The positioning accuracy of individualized open-face mask in patients with intracranial tumors receiving radiotherapy-a randomized controlled study
Authors: Li Bo , Yang Fating , Zhang Lihua , Li Jie , Xu Linlin , Liu Zixuan , Zang Jian , Bai Fei , Zhao Lina 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The thermoplastic head mask, combined with styrofoam, is a widely used immobilization method for patients undergoing radiotherapy for intracranial tumors at our center. However, a significant drawback of this technique is its full-face coverage, which often causes discomfort, making the mask feel overly constrictive. This can lead to breathing difficulties, nervousness, and anxiety. To address these issues, we designed an individualized open-face mask to improve patient comfort without compromising positioning accuracy. The aim of this study was to compare the positioning accuracy between the traditional head mask and the individualized open-face mask in patients receiving radiotherapy for intracranial tumors.
METHODS: Patients with intracranial tumors undergoing radiotherapy were randomly assigned to either the traditional head mask (THM) group or the individualized open-face mask (IOFM) group in a 1:1 ratio. The IOFM was customized with an open area based on the patient's feedback. All patients received additional fixation with styrofoam. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was performed once a week during radiotherapy to record set-up errors in three directions. The set-up errors and target zone flaring boundary values were compared between the two groups using a t-test. Patient comfort was evaluated using a modified Likert questionnaire during the first and sixth treatment sessions.
RESULTS: A total of 103 patients were enrolled in this study, with 51 patients immobilized using the IOFM method and 52 using the THM method. The baseline characteristics of the two groups were well balanced. Analysis of the 593 CBCT data showed no significant differences in set-up errors between the IOFM and THM groups (X direction: 1.07±0.89 mm vs. 1.02±0.93 mm, p=0.501; Y direction: 1.23±0.88 mm vs. 1.24±0.98 mm, p=0.921; Z direction: 1.15±0.89 mm vs. 1.15±0.84 mm, p=0.930; rotation error: 0.90±0.84° vs. 0.92±1.02°, p=0.793). The set-up errors in the open area of the face were also not significantly different between the IOFM and THM groups (X direction: 1.39±1.10 mm vs. 1.28±1.14 mm, p=0.204; Y direction: 1.77±1.36 mm vs. 1.62±1.29 mm, p=0.160; Z direction: 1.38±0.90 mm vs. 1.25±0.94 mm, p=0.085; rotation error: 1.13±0.93° vs. 1.11±1.03°, p=0.875). The modified PTV boundaries in the X, Y, and Z directions were 2.67 mm, 3.12 mm, and 2.57 mm in the IOFM group, compared to 3.06 mm, 3.39 mm, and 2.37 mm in the THM group, respectively. Comfort scores were significantly higher in the IOFM group on both occasions compared to the THM group (32.39±1.31 vs. 30.54±2.03, p<0.001 and 32.25±2.19 vs. 30.77±1.17, p<0.001).
CONCLUSION: The individualized open-face mask improves patient comfort without compromising positioning accuracy. It is a valuable approach that merits promotion and use in clinical settings for radiotherapy positioning.
Comparison between Pola-R-CHP and R-CHOP regimens in patients newly diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a propensity score-matched study
Authors: Sasaki Yohei , Matsunawa Manabu , Hayashi Hidenori , Kawamata Natsuki , Nagao Kazuki , Kuroiwa Kai , Narita Hinako , Okamura Reiko , Shimada Shotaro , Watanuki Megumi , Arai Nana , Kawaguchi Yukiko , Yanagisawa Kouji , Hattori Norimichi 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

The POLARIX study revealed that the polatuzumab vedotin, rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisolone (Pola-R-CHP) regimen showed a progression-free survival (PFS) benefit over the rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone (R-CHOP) regimen. However, it remains unclear whether the Pola-R-CHP regimen can be an appropriate standard therapy for patients newly diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) based on real-world data. This study compared the efficacy of the Pola-R-CHP and R-CHOP regimens and elucidated the clinical prognostic factors for patients newly diagnosed with DLBCL treated with Pola-R-CHP. Propensity score matching was performed on 86 and 189 patients who received Pola-R-CHP and R-CHOP, respectively, with 82 selected in each arm. Patients treated with Pola-R-CHP tended to have better PFS than those treated with R-CHOP (1-year PFS: 85.2% vs 77.5%, p = 0.065). Patients exhibiting limited-stage disease, at low international prognostic index (IPI) risk, or those aged ≥ 81 years treated with Pola-R-CHP tended to have better 1-year PFS than those treated with R-CHOP (96.0% vs 86.1%, p = 0.057, 100% vs 88.9%, p = 0.11, 75.7% vs 70.6%, p = 0.43, respectively). In the multivariate analysis for 86 patients treated with Pola-R-CHP, clinical factors affected by PFS were not noted, while age (≥ 81 years or not) emerged as a clinical factor affected by OS (95% confidence interval: 1.05–32.26, p = 0.044). Pola-R-CHP could be more appropriate as a treatment for patients exhibiting limited-stage disease, those at lower international prognostic index (IPI) risk, or those aged ≥ 81 years newly diagnosed with DLBCL.
Bioefficacy of Plant Extracts and Permethrin Against Tenebrio molitor, a Major Stored Grain Pest
Authors: Shaw Pintu Kumar , Hassan S. M. Mahboob 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Tenebrio molitor, a significant pest of stored grains, causes substantial economic losses worldwide. This study evaluated the bioefficacy of plant extracts (Azadirachta indica, Ocimum sanctum, Datura stramonium, and Solanum nigrum) and Permethrin against T. molitor. The results showed that all plant extracts and Permethrin exhibited significant adulticidal (13.4–100% mortality), larvicidal (36–100% mortality), and repellent (58–93% repellency) effects against T. molitor. At 4% concentration, Azadirachta indica, Ocimum sanctum, Datura stramonium, and Solanum nigrum caused 100%, 100%, 92%, and 93% adult mortality, respectively. Permethrin was the most effective insecticide, causing 100% adult and larval mortality at all concentrations (0.50-4%). The LC50 values for Azadirachta indica, Ocimum sanctum, Datura stramonium, and Solanum nigrum were 1.43%, 1.56%, 2.31%, and 1.89%, respectively. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of plant extracts as sustainable and environmentally friendly management strategies for T. molitor infestations in stored grains.
Extensive mapping of somatosensory perception thresholds in the upper limb reveals an interaction between gender and stimulation position
Authors: Travassos Carolina , Sayal Alexandre , Direito Bruno , Fonte Paulo , Sousa Teresa , Castelo-Branco Miguel 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Measuring perception thresholds in electrocutaneous stimulation offers valuable insights into sensory processing and supports the creation of personalized methods for diagnosing and treating somatosensory disorders. This study uses a custom non-invasive electrocutaneous stimulation device to test the impact of stimulation frequency, position along the upper limb, and participants’ gender on the perception thresholds. The device targeted 20 stimulation positions on the dorsal side of the right upper limb of 24 healthy participants. Perception thresholds for each participant and stimulation position were determined by a staircase procedure at two frequencies (30 Hz and 100 Hz). Our findings highlight the complex interplay between gender and stimulation position while suggesting that frequency does not significantly influence perception thresholds under these conditions. While males exhibited higher perception thresholds overall, the spatial pattern of perception thresholds along the upper limb thresholds were in general higher at the middle finger and hand compared to the forearm and upper arm. However, the interaction between gender and stimulation position indicates that the magnitude of these differences varies depending on the specific position. These results underscore the necessity of considering gender- and position-specific differences when analyzing somatosensory thresholds across the upper limb.
Bio-aided water filtration: an approach to food processing by-product utilization
Authors: Harinarayanan Nair Chithra , Raman Maya , Tony Amala , Aswathy A. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
In the wake of industrialization, urbanization, and population growth, the scarcity of readily available freshwater resources has become a great concern and there is an urgent need for energy-efficient, cost-effective, and chemical-free water purification systems. The central treatment plants are considerably expensive and inefficient in certain cases; therefore, low-income countries prefer onsite filtration systems. Chemocoagulants such as aluminium sulphate and ferric chloride work well in water treatment, but they usually require long mining and processing of raw materials and expensive disposal of sludge; further, these may be toxic and could be associated with various health issues, and, thus, cannot be used indefinitely. Coagulation with natural coagulants is a sustainable alternative, which is readily available, economical, convenient, atoxic, less sludge generation, eco-friendly, and effective. In addition to removing contaminants, natural materials can also add nutrients to the water. Hence, these could be used as an alternative for water treatment assuring health security and sustainability. However, natural coagulants are still inadequately accepted; are not commercialized, and are widely applied throughout the world, despite their known benefits. In order to promote a circular economy, more intensive research is needed on natural coagulants to determine their mechanism of action, how they are adopted, and how they can be commercialized.
Bioenergy from forest resources: wood pellets, biochar, and heat generation
Authors: Hayyat Umer , Shahid Muhammad , En Jonathan Lee Tian , Dutta Nalok , Khan Muhammad Usman 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
In recent years, there has been a widespread focus on utilizing bioenergy derived from forests as an effective and sustainable renewable energy alternative. The utilization of wood wastes and forest residues to generate heat and produce energy has gained significant importance. However, there are certain challenges associated with using these materials in their original form. Biomass pelletizing presents a promising solution by converting raw biomass into fuel pellets that possess high energy density. Furthermore, the resulting biochar plays a vital role in enhancing soil quality. This chapter delves into the process of manufacturing wood fuel pellets and explores their diverse applications across residential and industrial sectors. It also examines technologies for producing biochar from this waste, highlighting potential benefits such as carbon sequestration and soil enrichment they offer. Moreover, this chapter also discusses various heat generation technologies that can be used in conjunction with biomass pellet production.
Emergencja duszy. Andreasa Nordlandera odczytanie potencjalizmu św. Augustyna i kwestia stworzenia duszy ludzkiej w ewoluującym wszechświecie
Authors: Maziarka Tomasz 
Published: February 2025

Artykuł podejmuje zagadnienie stworzenia duszy ludzkiej w kontekście ewolucji, przy zastosowaniu ram interpretacyjnych poglądów św. Augustyna, zaczerpniętych od Andreasa Nordlandera. Biskup Hippony opowiada się za stopniowym wyłanianiem się świata i bogactwa rzeczy z potencjalności, zawartych w materia informis i rationes seminales, stworzonych ex nihilo. Taka wizja rozwoju przyrody bardzo dobrze wpisuje się w ewolucyjny obraz świata, kreślony przez nauki przyrodnicze, który ujawnia emergencję nowych fenomenów na skutek tworzenia się coraz bardziej złożonych struktur. Szczegółowego rozpatrzenia domaga się stworzenie ludzkiej duszy. Klasyczne rozwiązanie Augustyna mówi, że na drodze przyrodniczego rozwoju mogło powstać jedynie ludzkie ciało, natomiast dusza została powołana do istnienia oddzielnym aktem, a następnie „wlana” w ciało. Z przyrodniczego punktu widzenia rozwiązanie to napotyka na pewne trudności. Okazuje się jednak, że narzędzia heurystyczne, których dostarcza Augustyn, pozwalają na uniknięcie tych problemów i możliwy jest do pomyślenia scenariusz, w którym cały człowiek z duszą i ciałem powstaje na drodze ewolucji. Rozwiązanie to wiąże się z przekroczeniem ram antropologii św. Augustyna, ale jest zupełnie spójne z jego ideą potencjalizmu. Ten bardziej radykalny potencjalizm niweluje napięcia wewnątrz antropologii Augustyna, a jednocześnie przez swą spójność z naukami przyrodniczymi stanowi cenny wkład w dialog między nauką a religią.
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Zgłoszono: 15/03/2024. Zrecenzowano: 13/06/2024. Zaakceptowano do publikacji: 17/09/2024.
Konflikt wokół kwestii ekologicznych – zdynamizowanie ludzkiej podmiotowości czy preludium nieuchronnej zagłady? Perspektywa etyki odpowiedzialności globalnej
Authors: Ciążela Helena 
Published: February 2025

Publikowana od 2018 roku seria raportów Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) zradykalizowała oceny, dotyczące realności katastrofy klimatycznej, zagrażającej Ziemi – katastrofy, wywołanej przez rabunkową eksploatację zasobów paliw kopalnych. Wprowadziła nową jakość w obszar debaty publicznej i polityki klimatycznej. Efektem tego stały się podjęte przez Parlament Europejski szerokie regulacje prawne, służące powstrzymywaniu katastrofy, określone jako Zielony Ład. Regulacje te wywołały szereg napięć i konfliktów. W artykule podjęta została próba analizy skutków tych konfliktów dla dalszej walki z globalnym ociepleniem i zagrożeniem katastrofą klimatyczną. Analiza przebiegu i prawdopodobnych skutków konfliktów pozwala na stwierdzenie, że odgrywają one destrukcyjną rolę dla dalszego rozwoju wydarzeń. Powodują wzrost dążenia do obrony zagrożonych interesów, a tym samym utrwalanie dotychczasowych podziałów. Czynnikiem wzmacniającym negatywne tendencje stała się wojna w Ukrainie, powodująca wzrost kosztów utrzymania w krajach Unii Europejskiej. Sumowanie się kosztów Zielonego Ładu i wojny powoduje wzrost niechęci do polityki ekologicznej, a jej przymusowy charakter rodzi pytania o efektywność i skuteczność.
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Zgłoszono: 30/04/2024. Zrecenzowano: 27/06/2024. Zaakceptowano do publikacji: 29/07/2024.
Diminazene Aceturate (DIZE) Ameliorates Hypertension and Induces Anxiolytic- and Antidepressant-Like Effects in TGR(Mren2)27
Authors: Costa Laura A. , Mourão Flávio A.G. , Alenina Natalia , Bader Michael , Campagnole-Santos Maria Jose , Kangussu Lucas M. 
Published: February 2025

Introduction:
Diminazene aceturate (DIZE) was described as an angiotensin-converting
enzyme 2 (ACE2) activator. ACE2/Angiotensin-(1-7)/Mas receptor axis presents protective actions
on cardiovascular diseases and plays an important modulatory role in the neurobiology of
mood and anxiety disorders.

Objectives:
To evaluate the effects of chronic intracerebroventricular (ICV) treatment with DIZE
on blood pressure, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in hypertensive transgenic (mRen2)27
rats (TGR).

Methods:
Male TGR and Sprague-Dawley rats (10-12 weeks old) were subjected to chronic ICV
infusion of DIZE (1.0 μg/h for 7 days). Blood pressure and heart rate were measured by tail
plethysmography and anxiety- and depression-like behaviors were evaluated through elevated
plus maze, marble burying and forced swim tests, respectively.

Results:
Treatment with DIZE induced a significant reduction in mean arterial pressure in both
TGR and SD rats. A decrease in heart rate was only observed in the hypertensive animals. Additionally,
treatment with DIZE attenuated the anxiety- and depression-like behaviors that were observed
in TGR.

Conclusion:
DIZE has central anti-hypertensive, anxiolytic, and anti-depressive effects.
Molecular and Biochemical Evidence of Edaravone's Impact on Dasatinib-induced AGS Cell Senescence: A Promising Strategy for Gastric Cancer Therapy
Authors: Rahimifard Mahban , Baeeri Maryam , Manavi Mohammad Amin , Khalid Madiha , Foroumadi Roham , Haghi-Aminjan Hamed , abdollahi Mohammad 
Published: February 2025

Introduction:
Internal or external stress can induce cellular senescence,
which reduces cell division. These metabolically active cells contribute to medication resistance.
We examined the potential for edaravone (Eda) to cause apoptosis in dasatinib
(Das)-induced senescent gastric adenocarcinoma cells (AGS). Our goal was to develop a
new stomach cancer treatment.

Method:
All Eda doses evaluated were nontoxic to cells. Das decreased AGS cell survival
in a dose-dependent manner. The study found that Das (5-10 μM) and Eda (100 μM)
caused cell senescence in AGS cells. This was shown by increased β-galactosidase enzyme
activity and reactive oxygen species levels and decreased telomerase enzyme activity.
These are the biggest signs of aging.

Results:
This combination therapy also upregulated the expression of cell-senescence
genes p53, p16, p21, and p38. This resulted in increased expression of inflammation
genes such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6.

Conclusion:
The scratch assay showed that this combination medication down-regulated
the cell migration-regulating MMP2 gene. Both Das and Eda decreased AGS cell proliferation,
suggesting treatment with Eda may prevent metastasis.