Towards a better understanding of the bacterial pan-genome

The bacterial pan-genome is a relatively new concept that refers to the number of genes observed in a given set of bacterial genome sequences, either at the intra- or inter-species level. Determining the pan-genome of a given species of bacteria using a large number of strains allows one to compare multiple genes and to determine evolutionary links between isolates. This information can help to determine population structure, diversity in terms of prevalence in a given environment and pathogenicity of microorganisms. Within this review, we explain the most important issues related to pan-genome studies. We also include a brief description of some selected bacterial pan-genomes. Finally, we propose an easy-toperform workflow to study bacterial pan-genomes that will facilitate nonexperts in a pan-genome-based investigation.

Traditional and new raw materials for spirit beverage production

The ethanol production industry is a fast growing branch of the economy in many countries, and there is a rich tradition of spirit beverage production of many unique drinks such as Polish vodka and Starka or Irish and Scotch whisk(e)y, all of which have unique organoleptic features. This variety is possible thanks to different raw materials used for production such as rye, barley or corn and potatoes, as well as technological solutions developed over the generations of manufacturing. Rye deserves a closer look due to its low growth requirements and many different uses as well as its long tradition of cultivation, especially in Poland. On the other hand, manufacturers are currently interested in using new, original raw materials for the production of so-called craft alcohols. Buckwheat is an example of a raw material that can be successfully used in the production of original spirits.

Aetiology, prophylaxis and management of preeclampsia

Although preeclampsia affects approximately 3%–8% of pregnancies worldwide and is a major contributor to maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity, the aetiology of preeclampsia is still not fully understood. This review presents the current knowledge on the aetiology of preeclampsia, with a special emphasis on risk factors and their role, and describes recommendations for the prevention and treatment of preeclampsia.

Cultivation of oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus sp.) using organic waste: an example with Pleurotus pulmonarius (Fr.) Quel.

Pleurotus pulmonarius (Fr.) Quel. is a mushroom species that occurs widely in nature on all continents except Antarctica. It is most common in North America. Its fruiting bodies are characterised by a mild taste and a slight anise aroma. These mushrooms are valued as a source of nutrients and substances with a healing effect. The anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of P. pulmonarius have been scientifically proven, as well as its strong antihyperglycemic activity. P. pulmonarius is easy to grow because it has a very aggressive mycelium towards cellulosecontaining materials. In Poland, it can be grown on substrates based on cereal straw and various types of organic waste, including agricultural, horticultural, textile and forestry. In intensive crops, the substrates are also enriched with protein and carbohydrates. On an industrial scale, P. pulmonarius is grown primarily in Asia and North America on locally available organic materials.

New trends or return to traditional methods in the production of grain spirits?

This review article is based on scientific and popular science publications as well as articles from branch magazines that refer to the production of alcohol in Poland based on traditional grain raw materials. New trends in the production of broadly understood alcoholic beverages point to a return to traditional raw materials and production methods, preferably carried out in small, traditional distillery – crafted beers, local wines or spirits. Consumers desire a return to tradition, however, it is equally important to maintain the right quality and efficiency of production. The future of alcoholic beverages based on malted and unmalted cereals in Poland is associated with the search for specific varieties of cereals, their mixtures as well as fermentation and distillation processes that will allow the production of ‘craft spirits’.

Application of polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP-PCR) in the analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)

Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP-PCR) is a technique used to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) based on the recognition of restriction sites by restriction enzymes. RFLP-PCR is an easy-to-perform and inexpensive tool for initial analysis of SNPs potentially associated with some monogenic diseases, as well as in genotyping, genetic mapping, lineage screening, forensics and ancient DNA analysis. The RFLP-PCR method employs four steps: (1) isolation of genetic material and PCR; (2) restriction digestion of amplicons; (3) electrophoresis of digested fragments; and (4) visualisation. Despite its obsolescence and the presence of high-throughput DNA analysis techniques, it is still applied in the analysis of SNPs associated with disease entities and in the analysis of genetic variation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). RFLP-PCR is a low-cost and low-throughput research method allowing for the analysis of SNPs in the absence of specialised equipment, and it is useful when there is a limited budget.

Comparison of the antioxidant potential of some herbal teas produced from ecological and traditional crops

The growing public awareness of the dangers regarding chemicals used in traditional agriculture has led to consumers seeking valuable and contaminant-free products. Ecological agriculture has become synonymous with high health value and product safety. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant activity and the total polyphenolic content of infusions of herbal tea bags and loose teas from traditional crops, as well as infusions of loose teas from ecological crops. Raw material comprised dried flowers of Matricaria chamomilla and Tilia cordata, as well as dried leaves of Urtica dioica, Melissa officinalis and Mentha piperita. Herbal infusions were prepared using three brewing times: 5, 10 and 20 min. The analysis of antioxidant potential was performed using in vitro methods such as DPPH, ABTS and FRAP. The polyphenolic content was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The antioxidant activity of the studied tea infusion depended on the method by which the plants were cultivated and the brewing time. The ecological agriculture conditions seem not to stimulate the synthesis of antioxidants. However, the possibility to obtain other beneficial properties of the studied plants is an indication to carry out ecological cultivation.