Abstract: Background: The Satyrinae subfamily represents a taxonomically critical group within Nymphalidae, characterized by its remarkable species diversity. Despite its evolutionary significance, the phylogenetic relationships among tribal and subtribal lineages remain poorly resolved. Although mitochondrial genomes have become crucial molecular markers in Lepidoptera phylogenetics, their potential remains underutilized in the systematics of Satyrinae. Notably, Amathusiini exhibits a particular paucity, with only two congeneric representatives having been comprehensively sequenced to date. Methods: To address this gap, we employed high-throughput sequencing to assemble the complete mitochondrial genomes of two Amathusiini species, Discophora sondaica and Aemona amathusia. Our study revealed novel evolutionary insights through comparative genomics, which encompassed all available Satyrinae mitochondrial genomes. Additionally, we conducted phylogenetic reconstruction using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference approaches, utilizing the most extensive dataset to date. Results: The closed circular mitochondrial genomes measure 15,333 bp for D. sondaica and 15,423 bp for A. amathusia, maintaining the ancestral lepidopteran architecture: 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 tRNAs, 2 rRNAs, and an AT-rich control region. Comparative analyses of 71 mitochondrial genomes revealed strong evolutionary conservation across multiple parameters: nucleotide composition (AT content range: 77.9% - 81.8%), codon usage bias (ENC = 30.83 - 37.55), tRNA secondary structures, and control region organization. All PCGs showed purifying selection signals (Ka/Ks < 1.0), with atp8 exhibiting the highest evolutionary rate (Ka/Ks = 0.277). Phylogenetic reconstructions yielded congruent tribal-level topologies with strong nodal support: (((Satyrini + Melanitini) + (Amathusiini + Elymniini) + Zetherini), confirming a sister relationship between Amathusiini and Elymniini. Within Satyrini, five subtribes formed monophyletic groups: Ypthimina, Erebiina, Maniolina, Satyrina, and Melanargiina, arranged as (((Ypthimina + (Erebiina + Maniolina)) + (Satyrina + Melanargiina)). Mycalesina, Lethina, and Parargina comprised a well-supported clade (BS = 100%; PP = 1.0), though internal relationships required further resolution due to Lethina's polyphyly. Conclusions: This study provides novel insights into mitochondrial genomic evolution within the Satyrinae subfamily, while elucidating the efficacy of mitogenomic data for resolving deep phylogenetic relationships within this ecologically significant subfamily. Our findings establish critical genome baselines for further systematic research and underscore essential pathways for refining subtribal-level taxonomy through integrative molecular approaches.

Abstract: Influenza A virus (IAV) infections continue to threaten public health. Current strategies, such as vaccines and antiviral drugs, are limited due to time-consuming development and drug-resistant strains. Therefore, new effective treatments are needed. Here, virus-supportive cellular factors are promising drug targets, and encapsulation of candidate substances in PLGA nanoparticles (NPs) is intended to improve their bioavailability. This study investigates the potential of the indirubin derivative 6BIGOE, a GSK-3β inhibitor, for its potential to regulate IAV replication in vitro. The effects of 6BIGOE-loaded PLGA NPs on cell metabolism were assessed by MTT and LDH assays in A549 and Calu-3 cells. Viral replication and spread were monitored in various IAV-infected cell lines in absence and presence of free and 6BIGOE-loaded PLGA NPs via plaque assays and Western blot analysis. Encapsulation of 6BIGOE in PLGA NPs resulted in reduced negative side effects on cell viability while maintaining antiviral efficacy. Both encapsulated and free 6BIGOE exhibited antiviral activity, potentially through GSK-3β inhibition and disruption of key signaling pathways required for viral replication. The data indicate 6BIGOE, particularly after encapsulation in NPs, as a potential candidate for further investigation and development as an antiviral agent to treat IAV infections.

Abstract: A human brain can communicate with another brain using quantum entanglement. Similar particles can become entangled without direct interaction. Sensory communication between two individuals over long distances is not yet fully understood. In this research, the transfer of information based on entanglement between the brains of two people was investigated. The test was conducted on two individuals located far apart. These individuals were exposed to similar music and, based on their neural plasticity, both were placed in the same state. By activating the brain's reward system, coherent thinking was induced in the brains of these individuals. Then, through entanglement, compressed information was transmitted and received between them. Decoding compressed information is the key to transmitting information based on entanglement between identical particles.

Abstract: Lithium has been identified more than 6 decades ago as a preferred treatment option for manic depression. As a result of its affordability, stability, minimal side effects, and immunomodulatory effects, recent lithium studies have focused on its anti-cancer potential and possible mechanism of action. Lung cancer ranks the highest as the main cause of death in males and has high mortality rates with low survival rates. In this study, lung adenocarcinoma (A549) cells were treated with various concentrations of lithium chloride to evaluate its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. The in vitro cytotoxic effects of lithium chloride were assessed using the MTT [3-(4, 5-dimethythiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay, Muse® cell death and cell cycle analysis. The Nitric oxide and oxidative stress flow cytometry Muse® assays were used to monitor inflammation profiles of lithium-treated lung adenocarcinoma cells. The MTT viability assay showed safe use of LiCl on the noncancerous Raw 264.7 macrophage cells below the concentration of 40 mM. Lithium reduced cell viability, induces late apoptotic cell death, and disrupts normal cell cycle progression in a dose-dependent manner, leading to cell cycle arrest in the S and G2/M phases of A549 cells. The induction of cell death by lithium in A549 cells accompanied increased ROS and nitric oxide production. This study shows that lithium chloride possess some immunomodulatory cytotoxic effects on A549 lung cancer cells and can be further investigated for use in lung cancer treatment.

Abstract: Apple gray mold is an important disease caused by Botrytis cinerea. Resistance mechanisms against this pathogen in this plant have not been thoroughly revealed. Wall-associated kinases (WAKs) and WAK-like proteins (WAKLs) participate in conferring resistance by stimulating immune-generating receptor complex formation. Stb6 (KY485204) is a WAKL that provides strong resistance against Septoria tritici blotch in wheat. In this study, 15 orthologs of Stb6, named MdStb6-1 to MdStb6-15, were identified in apple by using the Stb6 sequence to conduct BLASTp analysis against the apple genome. These genes were divided into two clades via phylogenetic analysis, with their promoters containing auxin- and biotic and abiotic stress-responsive cis-elements, including pathogen infection-responsive elements. The expression of these genes was differentially induced by plant defensive hormones, MeJA, SA, ethylene and ABA and B. cinerea infection and exhibited differential expression in different organs. Overexpression of MdStb6-13, which was induced by JA and ABA, significantly conferred resistance against B. cinerea. This research highlights the involvement of genes in immunity generation in apple and in plant growth and development and provides a foundation for further elucidating immune signaling in apple and the molecular basis for breeding resistant apple cultivars with relatively high fruit quality and ideal plant stature.

Abstract: The microalgae Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) is cultivated on a large scale, with a global production of approximately 18,000 tons year-1. Its high nutritional content and health-promoting properties have led to its establishment as a key ingredient in dietary supplements. However, the efficient extraction of its bioactive compounds remains challenging. The present study aims to develop an eco-innovative method to enhance spirulina’s antioxidant and nutritional values. The extraction protocol involved a maceration step in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS, pH 7.4) at 5 °C for 48 hours, followed by ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) at 400 W, 30 kHz, 30 cycles/min (with cycles of 1 sec. on/ off, for a total of six extraction cycles). This method substantially improved APC (+41.41%) and PE (+81.42%) yield. The lipid fraction exhibited an increase of 20.29%, including carotenoids (+30.84%), total fatty acids (60.48%), and polyphenols (+65.99%), allowing an increased antioxidant activity (+42.95%). On the contrary, proteins (–16.65%), carbohydrates (-18.84%), and PC (-0.77%) showed decreased recovery rates. This study provides a promising approach for extracting high-value compounds from spirulina, supporting its potential applications in the dietary supplement sector.

Abstract: T-follicular helper (Tfh) cells, a specialized subset of CD4+ cells, are the immune mediators connecting cellular and humoral immunity, as they lead B cell proliferation within germinal centers, and orchestrate their response, including activation, class switching, and production of a diverse array of high affinity antibodies. Their interactions with B cells is regulated by a wide complex of transcriptional and cytokine-driven pathways. A major contribution of Tfh cells to autoimmune diseases is through their production of cytokines, particularly IL-21, which supports the proliferation and differentiation of autoreactive B cells. Elevated levels of circulating Tfh-like cells and IL-21 have been observed in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) correlating strongly with disease severity and autoantibody levels. The feedback loop between Tfh cells and IL-21 or other signal pathways, such as Bcl-6, ICOS and PD-1, not only sustains Tfh cell function but also drives the continuous expansion of autoreactive B cells, leading to chronic inflammation through production of high affinity pathogenic autoantibodies. By understanding these interactions, Tfh pathways may serve as potential therapeutic targets, with IL-21, ICOS, PD1 blockade emerging as promising innovative therapeutic strategies to manage autoimmune diseases. Although a variety of studies have been conducted investigating the role of Tfh cells in SLE and RA, this review is an aim to reveal the gap in the literature regarding the role of such subpopulations in the pathogenesis of other autoimmune diseases such as Anca-Associated vasculitis (AAV) and also express the need for conducting similar studies. Tfh cell-related biomarkers can be used to assess disease activity and transform autoimmune disease treatment, leading to more personalized and effective care for patients with chronic autoimmune conditions.

Abstract: Trees and forests are of strategic importance for climate change mitigation, but limits and trade-offs are often underestimated. Trees interact with climatic factors with different mechanisms: carbon storage, albedo, transpiration, emission of organic volatile compounds (VOCs) with cooling or warming effects depending on species-specific characteristics and the environmental context. Planting trees poses problems concerning the correct choice of species and genotypes, the suitability of the planting sites, and the management after planting. Such limitations result in a series of potentially negative effects on the persistence (longevity) of plantation, the consumption of water, the depletion of nutrients from soil, the loss of biodiversity and possible warming effects connected to albedo and VOCs. Existing forests offer a large chance for a consistent increase of the biomass and soil carbon stock, and priority efforts should be devoted to the defense and restoration of damaged forests. Old forests assure a great efficiency in carbon retention and accumulation, whereas the role of managed forests is variable in relation to the kind and intensity of management. Considering the different factors involved, planting trees can have both a beneficial and detrimental effect on climate mitigation, and each situation should be considered in its own specificity, avoiding generalizations.

Abstract: Although evolutionary theory has yet to fully explain why natural selection occurs, it is crucial to recognize that this phenomenon extends beyond biological systems and is evident in physical systems as well. Specifically, in compliance with the second law of thermodynamics, isolated and closed non-equilibrium systems tend to progress toward states in which entropy increases. When there are multiple pathways for entropy production, such systems will select combinations of pathways that maximize the rate of entropy production from among the available paths. This is known as the fourth law of thermodynamics. Life processes represent one way to achieve increased entropy in nature. Genetic mutations produce organisms with differing rates of entropy production, and when these organisms coexist, they form combinations of pathways with varying rates of entropy production. Nature selects among these possible combinations, selecting those that achieve the fastest rates of entropy production, thereby driving the evolution of life. The process of life’s evolution essentially involves exploring and selecting pathways that achieve fast entropy production across different free energy reservoirs through random mutation. As genetic mutations continue and nature persistently selects for faster entropy production rate, information accumulates, further accelerating the rate of entropy production. This physical selection for the pathways that minimize potential or maximize entropy at the fastest possible rate given the constraints, serves as a fundamental driver of the origin and evolution of life.

Abstract: Bioethanol is a promising renewable energy source with the potential to reduce global reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Lignocellulose, a complex and abundant biomass composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, represents a sustainable feedstock for bioethanol production due to its widespread availability and non-competition with food resources. However, the efficient conversion of lignocellulose to bioethanol faces challenges, including the recalcitrance of its structure and the need for effective pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, and fermentation processes. This review evaluates the role of microbial biofilms in enhancing lignocellulose-to-bioethanol conversion. It explores the potential of biofilms in improving pretreatment efficiency, facilitating enzymatic hydrolysis, and optimizing fermentation processes. Additionally, the review highlights the application of biofilms in enzyme immobilization and bioreactor design, emphasizing their ability to enhance process stability, productivity, and cost-effectiveness. By leveraging the unique properties of biofilms, this review provides insights into advancing bioethanol production from lignocellulosic biomass.

Abstract: Stone fruits (Prunus spp.) occupy a pivotal position in global fruit production due to their significant nutritional profile and distinctive organoleptic characteristics. Contemporary orchard systems are undergoing transformation through innovative cultivation approaches, notably high-density dwarfing systems, greenhouse cultivation, agri-tech integration, and simplified management. As a crucial agronomic component in modern stone fruit cultivation, rootstock systems confer multi-benefits including enhanced environmental resilience, improved scion productivity, superior fruit quality, controlled vigor and dwarfing capacity. While the majority of european apple orchards have transitioned to dwarfing rootstock systems, achieving substantial gains in productivity and profitability, stone fruits cultivation lag significantly due to the key gaps in prunus rootstock development include genetic complexity, extended evaluation cycles, clonal propagation barriers and limited research programs. Urgent innovation is required to address these challenges in rootstock breeding to meet the demand of sustainable stone fruits production. This review systematically examines strategic breeding objectives and innovative molecular methodologies in Prunus rootstock development, with particular emphasis on marker-assisted selection and genomic prediction technologies. We provide a comprehensive synthesis of breeding achievements across major commercial rootstock cultivars, while proposing forward-looking research strategies incorporating CRISPR-based genome editing and multi-omics approaches. The synthesized insights establish a theoretical pathway for advancing rootstock genetic improvement and sustainable orchard management practices in stone fruit cultivation systems.

Abstract: The importance of the microbiome, particularly the gut microbiota and its implications for health, is well established. However, an increasing number of studies further strengthen the link between an imbalanced gut microbiota and a greater predisposition to different diseases. The gut microbiota constitutes a fundamental ecosystem for maintaining human health. Its alteration, known as dysbiosis, is associated with a wide range of conditions, including intestinal, metabolic, immunological, or neurological pathologies, among others. In recent years, there has been a substantial increase in knowledge about probiotics—bacterial species that enhance health or address various diseases—with numerous studies reporting their benefits in preventing or improving these conditions. This review aims to analyze the most common pathologies resulting from an imbalance in the gut microbiota, as well as detail the most important and known gut probiotics, their functions, and mechanisms of action in relation to these conditions.

Abstract: Tobacco smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death globally. This study examines the effects of cigarette smoke (1R6F) and heated tobacco product (HTP) aerosols on microglial activation, cell proliferation, and proteomic changes under hypox-ia-reoxygenation (H/R) conditions, focusing on nicotine's role in oxidative stress, in-flammation, and Nrf2 pathway activation. H/R conditions significantly activated micro-glia, consistent with prior evidence linking hypoxic stress to neuroinflammatory re-sponses. Cigarette smoke exposure reduced microglial activation, while HTP aerosol and nicotine maintained cellular function, suggesting potentially lower cytotoxicity of HTPs. This supports findings that HTPs may produce fewer toxicants than traditional cigarettes, though long-term brain health impacts remain uncertain. Proteomic analysis indicated that H/R altered microglial protein expression, with 97 proteins related to RNA metab-olism, oxidative phosphorylation, and cellular stress responses. The increased expression of RNA-binding proteins suggests an adaptive response to oxidative damage. Both cigarette smoke and HTP aerosols influence oxidative stress-related proteins differently. Confocal microscopy showed that HTP and nicotine maintained Nrf2 nuclear transloca-tion, an antioxidant response, while cigarette smoke impaired Nrf2 activation, indicating higher oxidative stress and potential cellular damage. The differential activation of the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway suggests that HTPs may be less harmful than traditional cig-arettes, though their long-term effects on cerebrovascular health warrants further as-sessment.

Abstract: This research explores the potential of green encapsules uploaded with eucalypt essential oil (EEO) 9 in enhancing their functionality and application in pest control, focusing on suitable ecotype selec-10 tion and optimizing extraction processes. Eucalypt hybrids’ leaves were collected from three differ-11 ent sites and the EEOs were extracted using microwave-assisted steam distillation (MASD) and elec-12 tric steam distillation (ESD) techniques. The physical and chemical properties of the EEO were de-13 termined. The identification of volatile chemical ingredients in the resulting EEO was conducted 14 using GC/MS after saponification and methylation procedures and were compared to those ob-15 tained from Eucalyptus globulus Labill, the ideal species containing the 1, 8-cineol, the principal com-16 pound in its essential oil. The 1,8-cineole was found to be the major chemical constituent of the EEO 17 interfered with other minor components such as 3-carene, α-pinene, α-myrcene, D-limonene, and 18 α-terpinene. Eucalypt ecotypes grown at Hada Al-Sham village had the highest cineole content 19 (59.29%) among the other sites studied. Compared to the ESD, the essential oils extracted by the 20 MASD showed much promise, defining it as potential industrial essential oil extraction. Microcap-21 sules of either guar gum crosslinked by borax or sodium alginate crosslinked by calcium chloride 22 were fabricated. Moreover, bioassay screening of the polymeric encapsules uploaded with 1, 8-cin-23 eole were evaluated against termite infection. They were found to be versatile tools with a wide 24 range of applications with the superior for the alginate encapsules. Furthermore, regardless the en-25 capsule type and the exposure duration, the mortality (%) of the insects were exceeded significantly 26 for the high cineol concentrations comparing to the lower ones for both ABE and GGBE. The higher 27 the cineol concentrations, the higher the mortality percent of the termites This finding can be at-28 tributed to the rapid toxic effect of the cineol compound at the higher concentrations.

Abstract: SARS-CoV-2 high transmission and genomic mutations result in the emergence of new variants that impact COVID-19 vaccine efficacy and virus transmission by evading the host immune system. Wastewater-based epidemiology is an effective approach to monitor SARS-CoV-2 variants circulation in the population but is a challenge due to the presence of reaction inhibitors and the low concentrations of SARS-CoV-2 in this environment. Here, we aimed to improve SARS-CoV-2 variant detection in wastewater by employing nested PCR followed by next-generation sequencing (NGS) of small amplicons of the S gene. Eight SARS-CoV-2 wastewater samples from Alegria Wastewater Treatment Plant, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, were collected monthly from February to September 2021. Samples were submitted to virus concentration, RNA extraction and nested PCR followed by NGS. The small amplicons were used to prepare libraries for sequencing without the need to perform any fragmentation step. We identified and calculated the frequencies of 29 mutations matching the Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, Omicron and P.2 variants. Omicron matching-mutations were detected before the lineage was classified as a variant of concern. SARS-CoV-2 wastewater sequences clustered with SARS-CoV-2 variants detected in clinical samples that circulated in 2021 in Rio de Janeiro. We show that sequencing of selected small amplicons of SARS-CoV-2 S gene allows the identification of SARS-CoV-2 variants matching-mutations and their frequencies calculation. This approach may be expanded using customizing primers for additional genomic regions, in order to differentiate current variants. Approaches that allow us to learn how variants emerge and how they relate to clinical outcomes are crucial for our understanding of the dynamics of virus variants circulation, providing valuable data for public health management.

Abstract:

The theories of Evolution and Big Bang have brought a major impact upon the scientific and societal perception upon the origins, abilities and roles of mankind on Earth. It is conclusively evident that Mother Nature and the physical realm is autonomous and all phenomena in the world occur without an imposition against the “free will” of such events and patterns. Nevertheless, this extent of freedom does not imply that life on Earth represents an accident and has no purpose. By careful analysis of ancient religious texts, it can be suggested even otherwise, that it is especially free will that is offered as a gift from outside of the physical dimensions of existence, with the purpose of a continuous edification and improvement of the overall life conditions and of the human perception. It may be that the multi-generational focus on improvement and progress have been misattributed as a long-term evolution of species, that humans came from animal ancestors and that there is a blurred line associating humans with animals. Furthermore, it may be that scientists based their suggestions that no outside Creator would have brought the Earth into existence on physical perspectives, when the extra-dimensional process of Creation implies that all elements of the physical existence undergo a process of Creation from the outside, where time, space and physical matter do not exist, in spite of such elements possibly reflecting unseen elements of the meta-physical world. Importantly, the mathematical paradox of Gabriel's Horn / Torricelli’s Trumpet may perfectly apply into the origins of life and physical existence throughout the Universe. Namely, the Six-Day Creation process as described in religious books like the Holy Bible may coincidentally be measured as an infinite number of billions of years according to the known paleontological and chemical forms of temporal measurement, given that, if the entire physical existence was being created in six days, it would be that time itself was being created during such a process, as time represents part of the physical reality alongside space and matter. The following example may explain such a paradox: if scientists successfully invented a spaceship capable of reaching the speed of light and brought a few astronauts to travel to Pluto in it, they would take off and arrive at their planetary destination at the same Earthly time, even though the actual duration of the journey would be of about 5 hours (4.96232661 hours), given that reaching the speed of light will involve reaching the speed of time of zero. To a Creator not dependent upon the physical realm, being regarded as “Love” and “Light” in the Holy Scriptures, the same scenario would apply - an infinite number of billions, trillions and quadrillions of years in which matter naturally emerged from a state of non-existence to form the Universe as it is currently known - all within six days. Finally, there is the following example that deserves attention within the scientific community; just because all living cells - human, animal and plant - contain DNA chromosomes, ribosomes, mitochondria and a plasma membrane, it does not indicate that humans are animals, just as this does not indicate that plants are animals. In Science, there is a golden statement, that correlation does not imply causation. This example is in complete agreement with the verses of the Book of Genesis in the Holy Scriptures regarding the origins of life; namely, that animals could have been created by an Author of all life on Earth so that man would experience companionship. Another major accordance with the teachings of the Holy Scriptures is the fact that life emerged from the water, and not from the soil, although the soil constituted the second principal means of the commencement and extension of life. Namely, after life first emerged in the seas and the oceans from bacteria, a few bacteria were passed from the marine water into the nearby soil on islands and surrounding land through the circulatory air above the sea level. Afterward, the first life forms emerged from the soil, via the transferred bacteria. Eastern Orthodox Christianity regards water as the principal environment of both physical and spiritual birth. Overall, an improved scientific perception of the timeline of life on Earth may be reached via an approach that combines molecular biology with quantum physics, given that the three layers of Science - Biology, Chemistry and Physics - together with their foundational layer of Mathematics, are in fact situated in a relationship of complete harmony.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Meropenem (MER) is widely used for the treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections; however, increasing resistance compromises its efficacy. This study aimed to develop a selective culture medium for the detection of meropenem-resistant P. aeruginosa from respiratory specimens within 24 hours. Methods: The performance of the medium was challenged using a collection of 130 clinical P. aeruginosa strains (85 MER-susceptible, 14 MER-intermediate, and 21 MER-resistant). Subsequently, clinical validation was carried out using 130 respiratory samples. Results: The selective medium demonstrated excellent sensitivity (avg. 98.7%) and specificity (avg. 90%) across bacterial concentrations ranging from 1 × 10⁴ to 1 × 10⁸ CFU/mL, and a high negative predictive value (avg. 99.2%) compared to the broth microdilution (BMD) method. Clinical validation with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and tracheobronchial aspirate (TBA) clinical specimens (N = 130) showed high performance, with 92,3% categorical agreement. Conclusions: This method accelerates susceptibility testing, is user-friendly, and delivers reliable results, contributing to the optimization of empirical treatment for respiratory tract infections.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Galeopsis spp. (Lamiaceae) are widely distributed across extensive areas in Romania, being used mainly for their sedative, neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, astringent and diuretic properties. The paper reports, for the first time, the investigation of total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC) and phenolic acids profile in roots, aerial parts and leaves from three wild-grown Galeopsis spp. (G. bifida Boenn., G. speciosa Mill. and G. tetrahit L.), along with their . Methods: Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography/ultraviolet/mass spectrometry (HPLC/UV/MS) method was used for the identification and quantification of key phenolic acids. The spectrophotometric method was applied for the determination of TPC, TFC, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging activities, and also ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). High-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) was employed for the assessment of in situ antioxidant (DPPH assay) and AChE inhibitory potential. Results: Galeopsis spp. significantly contributes to polyphenol accumulation. Chlorogenic acid was the most abundant compound, with the highest levels detected in G. tetrahit leaves, followed by G. tetrahit aerial parts and G. speciosa leaves. G. tetrahit consistently showed the highest antioxidant potential, followed by G. speciosa, while G. bifida exhibited the weakest activity. AChE inhibition activity increases progressively from roots to aerial parts to leaves, with leaves consistently exhibiting the strongest inhibitory effects across all Galeopsis spp. Conclusions: Our study provides novel and valuable insights into the bioactivity of Galeopsis spp., a group of plants that has been largely overlooked in phytochemical and pharmacological research.

Abstract: Cytoskeletal structures shape and confer resistance to cells. The intermediate filament protein vimentin forms versatile structures that play key roles in cytoskeletal crosstalk, in the integration of cellular responses to a variety of external and internal cues, and in the defense against stress. Such multifaceted roles can be fulfilled thanks to the vast variety of vimentin proteoforms, which in turn arise from the combinations of a myriad of tightly regulated posttranslational modifications. Diverse vimentin proteoforms will differentially shape its polymeric assemblies, underlying vimentin ability to organize in filaments, bundles, squiggles, droplets, cell surface-bound and/or various secreted forms. Interestingly, vimentin dots or droplets have been lately categorized as biomolecular condensates. Biomolecular condensates are phase-separated membraneless structures that are critical for the organization of cellular components and play important roles in pathophysiology. Recent findings have unveiled the importance of low complexity sequence domains in vimentin filament assembly. Moreover, several oxidants trigger the transition of vimentin filaments into phase-separated biomolecular condensates, a reversible process that may provide clues on the role of condensates as seeds for filament formation. Revisiting previous results in the light of recent knowledge prompts the hypothesis that vimentin condensates could play a role in traffic of filament precursors, cytoskeletal crosstalk and cellular responses to stress. Deciphering the “vimentin PTM code”, that is, the structure-function relationships of vimentin proteoforms, constitutes a major challenge to understand the regulation of vimentin behavior and its multiple personalities. This will contribute to unveil essential cellular mechanisms and foster novel opportunities for drug discovery.

Abstract: Trichloroethylene (TCE) is an organic solvent used in industrial applications worldwide. Despite a recently proposed ban in the US, its usage over the last century produced widespread and long-lasting environmental contamination. TCE has been linked to multiple adverse health outcomes, with evidence growing that is a Parkinson’s disease (PD) risk factor. Exposure to TCE and other solvents in contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina is associated with 70% increased PD risk in US veterans who lived on the base. However, little is known about PD risk from TCE in civilian populations, particularly in children who were exposed in early life. Importantly, the developing brain is highly susceptible to toxicant exposure, and previous work shows that exposure to TCE can result in neurodevelopmental deficits that manifest in adolescence and into adulthood. Given the number of individuals who have yet to “age” into idiopathic PD, understanding the mechanisms that underlie neurodegeneration from early life exposure to TCE could help to develop early interventions in at-risk populations. To further examine this, we review the existing literature on environmental exposures to PD-related toxicants during early-life and their long-term consequences. In addition, we discuss the potential for TCE-induced neurotoxic mechanisms to prime the brain for PD risk. Finally, we highlight the need for future studies to evaluate the impact of early-life TCE exposure across the lifespan.