bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Current challenges and development strategies of bacteriocins produced by lactic acid bacteria applied in the food industry
Authors: Liang Qingping , Liu Zhemin , Liang Ziyu , Fu Xiaodan , Li Dongyu , Zhu Changliang , Kong Qing , Mou Haijin 
Published: December 2024

AbstractGiven the great importance of natural biopreservatives in the modern food industry, lactic acid bacteria (LAB)‐producing bacteriocins have gained considerable attention due to their antimicrobial activity against foodborne pathogens and spoilage bacteria. Although numerous LAB‐producing bacteriocins have demonstrated efficiency in preserving food quality in various applications, only a limited number of these compounds have been commercially approved to date. The currently unclear gastrointestinal metabolism of bacteriocins may pose safety risks, as well as cytotoxicity and immunogenicity, which need to be seriously considered before their application. A more noteworthy concern lies in whether bacteriocins induce an imbalance in the gut microbiota, thereby leading to alterations in the abundance of health‐associated microorganisms and their metabolites in the gastrointestinal tract. Accordingly, this review presents unique insights into the challenges arising from metabolic interactions between LAB‐producing bacteriocins and the gastrointestinal tract. Besides, the application of bacteriocins in the food industry faces challenges arising from the low production yield, weak stability, and insufficient antimicrobial activity. The corresponding development strategies are proposed for conducting the systematic and comprehensive evaluation of the potential safety risks of bacteriocins and their metabolites. The strategies also focus on the rational design to increase the activity and stability, the fermentation control to enhance the production yield, and the hurdle and embedding technology to improve the application effects. It definitively discloses the perspective of bacteriocins to become natural, sustainable, safe, and eco‐friendly biological preservatives for the advancement of the food industry.
A comprehensive review on ultraviolet disinfection of spices and culinary seeds and its effect on quality
Authors: Arcos‐Limiñana Víctor , Maestre‐Pérez Salvador , Prats‐Moya María Soledad 
Published: December 2024

AbstractSpices and culinary seeds, valued for their flavor and aroma, pose unique challenges for disinfection, as heat treatments are often unsuitable. Their raw consumption increases the risk of contamination, particularly with Salmonella spp. Thermal treatments are widely used for food disinfection due to their effectiveness in inactivating bacteria. However, these methods often degrade the nutritional and sensory qualities of food. Ultraviolet (UV) light, however, is a promising nonthermal technique that balances microbial inactivation and food quality preservation. This review employed a systematic approach to evaluate the effects of UV treatments, both alone and in combination with other techniques, on the microbiological safety and chemical composition of spices and culinary seeds. UV treatments have been shown to effectively inactivate bacteria, molds, and mycotoxins without triggering the same chemical reactions that reduce the quality of plant‐based foods. Some studies have even suggested improvements in nutritional parameters following UV exposure, such as the increase of antioxidant activity or total phenolic content. However, inconsistencies in study quality limit the strength of current conclusions, and further research is needed. Critical areas for future investigation include scaling UV reactors, combining treatments, exploring UV‐LED technology, conducting sensory analyses, and studying the inactivation of bacterial spores and mycotoxins.
Biomolecule‐functionalized polydiacetylene assembly for visual and on‐site sensing of (E)‐2‐hexenal in fruits
Authors: Zhou Jiayue , Li Dong , Xu Yanqun , Zhang Xiaochen , Wang Lei , Zhou Lin , Zou Liang , Luo Zisheng 
Published: December 2024

Abstract(E)‐2‐Hexenal (E2H) is an important volatile organic compound (VOC) that can serve as a marker for fruit quality sensing and shelf‐life evaluation. However, visual and portable sensors for E2H have not been reported mainly because of the difficulty in selective response to E2H while avoiding interference from other VOC, especially isomers. Herein, we developed a novel colorimetric sensor based on thiol‐functionalized polydiacetylene assembly (PDA‐SH/PDA) for the quantitative and selectivity of E2H. The mechanism was that E2H underwent a Michael addition reaction with sulfhydryl groups in PDA‐SH/PDA. The Michael addition reaction destroyed the hydrogen bond and distorted the conjugated molecular system, resulting in colorimetric responses. Under optimal conditions, a good linear relationship was observed between E2H concentration and red colorimetric shift (R2 = 0.9679). The E2H sensor yields a high analytical sensitivity of 1.5203% and a limit of detection of 0.015 g L−1. Besides, the PDA‐SH/PDA sensor can be used to visually distinguish E2H and its isomer (Z)‐3‐hexenal. The PDA‐SH/PDA sensor yielded a statistically significant difference in red colorimetric shift (p < 0.01) between the pairs of isomers in the ripeness of fruits. At last, the sensor was utilized for detecting E2H in grapes from different shelf lives. We found that the E2H concentration increased from 66.16 ± 1.54 to 67.56 ± 1.30 µg L−1 as storage time was prolonged. The results of this research not only demonstrated the feasibility of visual and on‐site detection of E2H but also provided potential promise for portable fruit quality sensing and shelf‐life evaluation.
Environmental Factors Influencing Anthrax Distribution in an East African Protected Area
Authors: Kimaro Elihuruma Wilson , Machelle Ines , Olomi Godwin , Kessy Beatrice , Morris Kalist Kilewo , Powers Jennifer S. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTAnthrax outbreaks caused by the soil‐borne bacterium Bacillus anthracis have been known to occur often in Africa, impacting both wildlife and livestock and occasionally infecting humans. Modelling the current distribution and predicting suitable habitats for this bacteria species is therefore critical for supporting effective planning and control measures for anthrax outbreaks. Despite its impact, the knowledge on the ecology of this pathogen is still limited. This can be due to intricate interactions between anthropogenic and environmental factors and the variety of species it affects. Therefore, detailed, site‐specific analyses are essential for contributing to the understanding of the ecology of anthrax. This study used the maximum entropy modelling algorithm (MaxEnt) method to predict suitable habitat and environmental conditions that may support anthrax distribution and spore survival in Tarangire National Park, in Tanzania. Model inputs included 14 predictors from World Climatic, Landsat satellite, and World Soil Information datasets, as well as 636 presence‐only occurrence data from park records from 2013 to 2023. The predicted suitable area favouring anthrax spores encompassed most of the savannah and open grassland in the northern part of the park, as well as narrow patches in the park's central region. The mean test AUC score was 0.91, and the predicted probability was 0.98 for anthrax presence. On average, the predicted probability of suitable conditions substantially improved with increasing levels of extractable phosphorus, exchangeable potassium, mean annual temperature, and soil pH. Furthermore, the probability of suitable habitat was highest at lower levels of fire frequency, exchangeable sodium, and extractable aluminium. The extensive track record of anthrax outbreaks in the area may be explained by the presence of these favourable soil characteristics and climate, which point to the long‐term occurrence of anthrax spores in the park. However, the existence of suitable habitat in the northern part of the park presents opportunities for mobilising resources to mitigate the situation through activities such as targeted disease surveillance and the use of controlled fire.
“Is voting even effective?” Examining voting and protest as an expression of dissent and their efficacy in risky contexts
Authors: Uluğ Özden Melis , Acar Yasemin Gülsüm , Kanık Betül 
Published: December 2024

AbstractIn the current contribution, we aim to examine how the political efficacy of different actions is understood in authoritarian contexts and, in particular, whether protest and voting are viewed as an efficacious way to engage in the political process among opposition members. We used an online survey (N = 152), asked open‐ended questions about (1) motivators for voting, (2) reasons for not voting/indecisiveness, opinions on (3) voting, (4) offline protests, and (5) online protests to make voices heard and analyzed the data using qualitative content analysis. Results highlighted the motivators behind voting, such as opposing the current government, hope for change, and seeing it as a civic duty, while hopelessness/lack of faith in change and lack of representative candidates were barriers to civic participation. While some saw voting as ineffective in competitive authoritarian contexts like Turkey, others perceived it as a way for people to make their voices heard. Last, the difference between offline and online protests regarding making one's voice heard was stark: Offline protests were described as necessary yet very dangerous, whereas online protests were seen as mostly effective. We discuss these different actions’ political efficacy and civic participation challenges in authoritarian contexts, especially among opposition members.
Tectorigenin Reduces Dabie bandavirus‐Induced Cytokine Storm by Regulating Toll‐Like Receptor 7/Extracellular Signal–Regulated Kinase Pathway
Authors: Zhang Qian , Pu Qinqin , Jiang Zhengyi , Zhao Jie , Dai Yan , Hu Nannan , Han Yaping , Jiang Nan , Shi Luchen , Zhao Jiaying , Ouyang Ke , Huang Huaying , Jin Ke , Li Jun 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTSevere fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is a severe emerging infectious disease caused by Dabie bandavirus (DBV). Tectorigenin has been demonstrated to exert anti‐inflammatory effect. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of tectorigenin on DBV‐induced cytokine storm. Effects of tectorigenin on cytokines in DBV‐infected THP‐1 cells and plasma samples of Type I interferon receptor (IFNAR)−/− mice infected with DBV were detected. The changes in body weight and survival time of mice were recorded. The liver, spleen, kidney, and lymph node tissues were collected for hematoxylin–eosin staining. We demonstrated that tectorigenin reduced the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines in both DBV‐infected THP‐1 cells and plasma samples of IFNAR−/− mice infected with DBV. Tectorigenin attenuated DBV‐induced histopathological changes in mice. Mechanistically, tectorigenin attenuated DBV‐induced phosphorylation of inhibitor of kappa‐B kinase alpha/beta (IKKα/β) of the nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) signaling pathway, extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) of the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway and might function by downregulation of Toll‐like receptor. The result of this study suggested that tectorigenin exerted anti‐inflammatory effects in vivo and in vitro and could serve as a novel potential therapeutic strategy for SFTS.
The Oral–Gut–Brain Axis: The Influence of Microbes as a Link of Periodontitis With Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Zhong Yi , Kang Xianhui , Bai Xiaofeng , Pu Bei , Smerin Daniel , Zhao Liang , Xiong Xiaoxing 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTPeriodontitis, a non‐communicable chronic inflammation disease resulting from dysbiosis of the oral microbiota, has been demonstrated to have a positive association with the risk of ischemic stroke (IS). The major periodontal pathogens contribute to the progression of stroke‐related risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. Transcriptional changes in periodontitis pathogens have been detected in oral samples from stroke patients, suggesting a new conceptual framework involving microorganisms. The bidirectional regulation between the gut and the central nervous system (CNS) is mediated by interactions between intestinal microflora and brain cells. The connection between the oral cavity and gut through microbiota indicates that the oral microbial community may play a role in mediating complex communication between the oral cavity and the CNS; however, underlying mechanisms have yet to be fully understood. In this review, we present an overview of key concepts and potential mechanisms of interaction between the oral–gut–brain axis based on previous research, focusing on how the oral microbiome (especially the periodontal pathogens) impacts IS and its risk factors, as well as the mediating role of immune system homeostasis, and providing potential preventive and therapeutic approaches.
Insights into circulating CEACAM1 in insulin clearance and disease progression: Evidence from the Portuguese PREVADIAB2 study
Authors: Patarrão Rita S. , Meneses Maria João , Ghadieh Hilda E. , Herrera Laura , Duarte Sérgio , Ribeiro Rogério T. , Raposo João F. , Schmitt Verena , Singer Bernhard B. , Gastaldelli Amalia , Penha‐Gonçalves Carlos , Najjar Sonia M. , Macedo M. Paula 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBackgroundType 2 diabetes (T2DM) and obesity are characterized by altered insulin metabolism and action. Reduced hepatic insulin clearance is increasingly recognized as a key contributor to hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance. CEACAM1 promotes hepatic insulin clearance, and its loss in hepatocytes is associated with reduced insulin clearance in mice and men. This study examines whether CEACAM1 circulating levels reflect compromised insulin metabolism and resistance in the PREVADIAB2 cohort.MethodsA total of 1019 individuals from the PREVADIAB2 cohort were evaluated for diabetes by 75 g‐OGTT and classified according to WHO 2019 criteria. CEACAM1 circulating levels were measured by ELISA, and insulin metabolism parameters were calculated. Hierarchical clustering of insulin metabolic indices and CEACAM1 levels was performed. Statistical significance was assessed using Kruskal–Wallis and Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney tests.ResultsBMI, insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), and hepatic steatosis progressively increased with disease severity. Insulin secretion rose and its clearance declined in parallel to circulating CEACAM1 levels in prediabetes and T2DM, indicating compensatory hyperinsulinemia. Hierarchical metabolic clustering identified four clusters with distinct patterns and further showed that insulin clearance positively correlated with circulating CEACAM1, especially in individuals with normoglycemia, lower obesity and hepatic steatosis. This suggests that circulating CEACAM1 can reflect the status of hepatic insulin clearance.ConclusionsThis study demonstrates a progressive increase in insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia in parallel to elevated BMI and hepatic steatosis prevalence, accompanied by declining circulating CEACAM1 levels. Cluster analysis further linked reduced insulin clearance to lower circulating CEACAM1 levels, suggesting its potential usefulness as a biomarker for metabolic disease progression.
CEACAM1 in vascular homeostasis and inflammation
Authors: Götz Lisa , Rueckschloss Uwe , Ergün Süleyman , Kleefeldt Florian 
Published: December 2024

AbstractIntroductionThe glycoprotein Carcinoembryonic Antigen‐related Cell Adhesion Molecule 1 (CEACAM1), also known as CD66a, is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily. It is expressed in a variety of tissues including epithelial, immune, as well as endothelial cells, and is crucial to diverse physiological and pathological mechanisms. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of CEACAM1's multifaceted roles in vascular biology and inflammatory processes.MethodsDirected literature research was conducted using databases, such as PubMed, and relevant studies were categorized based on the physiological effects of CEACAM1.ResultsCEACAM1 plays a pivotal role in vascular homeostasis, particularly influencing the formation, maturation, and aging of blood vessels, as well as the endothelial barrier function. It supports endothelium‐dependent vasodilation and nitric oxide formation, thus promoting vascular integrity and regulating blood pressure. Additionally, CEACAM1 is of emerging importance to vascular inflammation and its potential clinical consequences.ConclusionCEACAM1 is a crucial regulator of vascular homeostasis and inflammation with significant implications for cardiovascular health. Despite the lack of understanding of tissue‐specific modulation and isoform‐dependent mechanisms, CEACAM1 could be a promising therapeutic target for the prevention of cardiovascular disease in the future.
The influence of hypoxia‐mediated CEACAM6 upregulation on epithelial cell and macrophage response in the context of gastric cancer
Authors: Poirah Indrajit , Chakraborty Debashish , Dixit Pragyesh , Samal Supriya , Banerjee Smaran , Mukherjee Tathagata , Chattopadhyay Subhasis , Nath Gautam , Bhattacharyya Asima 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe hypoxic microenvironment is a key component of the gastric tumour niche. Carcinoembryonic antigen‐related cell adhesion molecule 6 (CEACAM6) is upregulated in gastric cancer and is considered a novel biomarker for the disease. However, no prior studies have elaborated on the status of CEACAM6 and its role in the hypoxic gastric cancer niche.MethodsIn this short study, we evaluated the effect of hypoxia in modulating CEACAM6 level in gastric cancer cells (GCCs) through western blotting and determined the effect of CEACAM6 upregulation on gastric cancer progression through clonogenicity, cell proliferation and migration assays. The wound‐healing ability of GCCs was downregulated by siRNA‐mediated CEACAM6 silencing. Human gastric cancer biopsy samples were examined by immunofluorescence microscopy to assess the level of a hypoxia marker HIF1α and CEACAM6. The effect of empty vector or CEACAM6‐expression on peripheral blood‐derived mononuclear cell (PBMC)‐derived macrophage polarization under normoxia or hypoxia was studied by incubating macrophages in conditioned medium collected from GCC cultures. Macrophage polarization status was observed using flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by macrophages was evaluated using fluorescence microscopy.ResultsWe identified that hypoxia promoted CEACAM6 in GCCs, and these cells acquired increased proliferative potential and migration ability. Moreover, the cell culture supernatant from hypoxia‐exposed CEACAM6‐overexpressing cells promoted an M2‐like macrophage population and discouraged the M1 phenotype.ConclusionThis study established that hypoxia increased CEACAM6 which promoted gastric cancer progression by influencing GCC proliferation and motility as well as macrophage polarization.
The emerging role of Fusobacteria in carcinogenesis
Authors: Gibbs Raisha J. , Chambers Adam C. , Hill Darryl J. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe Fusobacterium genus comprises Gram‐negative, obligate anaerobic bacteria that typically reside in the periodontium of the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and female genital tract. The association of Fusobacterial spp. with colorectal tumours is widely accepted, with further evidence that this pathogen may also be implicated in the development of other malignancies. Fusobacterial spp. influence malignant cell behaviours and the tumour microenvironment in various ways, which can be related to the multiple surface adhesins expressed. These adhesins include Fap2 (fibroblast‐activated protein 2), CpbF (CEACAM binding protein of Fusobacteria), FadA (Fusobacterium adhesin A) and FomA (Fusobacterial outer membrane protein A). This review outlines the influence of Fusobacteria in promoting cancer initiation and progression, impacts of therapeutic outcomes and discusses potential therapeutic interventions where appropriate.
The Impact of Economic Growth Targets on Environmental Pollution: A Study From Chinese Cities
Authors: Zhou Yicheng , Zhang Zihan , Lin Boqiang 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTChina's economic growth target (EGT) embodies the typical characteristics of extensive development model. Based on the panel data of Chinese cities from 2004 to 2019, this paper examines the impact of EGT on pollution emissions. The results show that China's EGT has significantly increased environmental pollution. Especially before 2013, in order to speed up economic growth and cope with the pressure of the financial crisis, various regions tend to set higher EGT, leading to the aggravation of environmental pollution. After 2013, the promoting effect of EGT on environmental pollution is significantly weakened. Urban heterogeneity analysis shows that the impact of EGT on environmental pollution is different in different cities. The promotion effect of the EGT on environmental pollution is more evident in the western, northeastern, non‐administrative center and resource‐based cities. The industrial structure, technical intensity of industry and effective allocation of production factors are important influencing channels for EGT to affect environmental pollution. Therefore, properly handling the contradiction between economic growth pressure and environmental governance is the key to China's sustainable economic development.
Treatment of a Gingival Recession With In‐Office Orthodontic Aligners and Gingival Graft
Authors: Ohira Eduardo Terumi Blatt , Henriques Aline Goerll , Ohira Gustavo , Valarelli Fabrício Pinelli , Pinzan‐Vercelino Celia Regina Maio , Freitas Karina Maria Salvatore , Cotrin Paula 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveGingival recession is a complication that can occur after orthodontic treatment, and its cause is still very controversial in the literature. The objective of this study was to report a clinical case of orthodontic retreatment conducted with in‐office aligners and root coverage using free gingival graft, connective tissue graft, and Emdogaim for a patient with severe gingival recession.Clinical ConsiderationsThis report presents a potential solution to correct a gingival recession with in‐office clear aligner. A mandibular left lateral incisor whose root was positioned buccally to the bone plate, likely due to improper bonding of a fractured orthodontic retainer. The treatment consisted of 10 in‐office aligners, which effectively repositioned the root within the alveolus. After the orthodontic retreatment, the patient underwent gingival grafting surgery, which was successful due to the accurate positioning of the root in the socket, influencing bone deposition in the area. Subsequent 4‐year follow‐up showed treatment stability, mainly in the soft tissue area.ConclusionWithin the limitations of this case report, the in‐office aligners facilitated individualized and precise movements, allowing for torque adjustments when necessary. Besides that, the improved root positioning facilitated successful surgical procedures for covering the gingival recession, including the free gingival graft (FGG) and connective tissue graft with Emdogain (CTG + Emdogain).Clinical SignificanceThis case report presents an orthodontic treatment alternative for the multidisciplinary correction of a gingival recession, meeting the esthetic and functional demands of an adult patient.