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Selective impairment of affective theory of mind in restless legs syndrome: a case-control study.

Authors: Topal A, Şimşek S, Doğan H, Çelik ND
Journal: Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria
depression treatment mental health open access

Abstract

(ex ) is a key tree species in arid and semi-arid regions of South America, especially Argentina. It is known for its adaptation to drought and its ecological and cultural value. One of its notable characteristics is the production of an exudate gum [,,,,]. The exudate of , also known as “algarroba dulce”, is produced through wounds on the trunk or main branches of the tree, similar to mesquite gum []. This gum is water-soluble and have properties that make them comparable to arabic gum, a product widely used in various industries []. Mesquite gum, also known as “chúcata” in some regions, is a gummy exudate produced by the mesquite tree (genus Neltuma ex Prosopis) as a defense mechanism under stressful conditions, such as extreme heat or lack of water. This polysaccharide is a protein arabinogalactan whose physicochemical and functional properties are very similar to those of gum arabic, a product with wide range of uses in the food, pharmaceutical, and beverage industries []. Due to the scarcity and supply problems of arabic gum, mesquite gum has gained interest as a viable alternative. Its main applications include stabilizing and emulsifying, and encapsulating flavors and aromas. It is used in dressings, sauces, mayonnaise, and to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. In traditional uses include being used as a natural sweetener, antiseptic, and analgesic, in cosmetics, and in traditional medicine. Several species of the Neltuma genus produce mesquite gum, but the most studied and cited for their production are: , , and [,,,].