CIMO - Resumos em Proceedings Não Indexados à WoS/Scopus
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Browsing CIMO - Resumos em Proceedings Não Indexados à WoS/Scopus by Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) "03:Saúde de Qualidade"
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- Assessing the prebiotic potential of xylooligosaccharides produced by one-step fermentation using agro-residuesPublication . Cordeiro, Ana; Fernandes, Andreia; Sousa, Joana; Cardoso, Beatriz; Alves, Joana; Silvério, Sara; Peres, António M.; Rodrigues, Lígia R.; Amorim, CláudiaThe prebiotic effect is a fundamental concept in the fields of nutrition and gut health, referring to the beneficial effects of specific non-digestible dietary components on the gut microbiota, including xylooligosaccharides (XOS). These compounds function as food sources for beneficial gut bacteria, fostering their growth and activity. In this work, in vitro studies were performed to evaluate the prebiotic potential of XOS produced from olive stones (OS) and coffee silver skin (CSS) via a one step fermentation using a recombinant Bacillus subtilis 3610 harbouring the xylanase gene xyn2 from Trichoderma reesei. This potential was compared with a commercially available prebiotic oligofructose (Orafti®, BENEO, Germany). A mixture of human faeces from four healthy donors aged between 24 and 28 years old was used as inoculum. The pH variation and the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), gases, and ammonia were analysed during the 48 hours fermentations. The prebiotic supplementation resulted in a reduction of the pH value over time, with oligofructose presenting the most significant pH drop at 48 hours (ΔpH=3.65). The addition of prebiotics also significantly increased the production of beneficial SCFAs, with oligofrutose exhibiting a notable increase in the production of lactic and acetic acid production after 48 hours (28.0±0.1 and 28±1 mM, respectively), while OS-XOS and CSS-XOS demonstrated a more prominent rise towards the production of acetic acid (14.8±0.4 and 20.4±0.1 mM, respectively), butyric acid (2.5±0.3 and 3.29±0.04 mM, respectively), and valeric acid (75±1 and 110±14 mM, respectively) at 48 hours. Remarkably, the gas analysis revealed that the addition of OS/CSS-XOS fully suppressed the production of CH4 and increased the CO2 generation after 48 hours (2.6±0.7 and 5.20±0.05 mmol.L-1medium, respectively). These findings strongly suggest that the XOS produced from OS and CSS holds potential prebiotic properties for human health.
- Bioinformatics pipeline to evaluate patterns of diversity in detoxification genes in Western Honey BeePublication . Barbosa, Daniela; Li, Fernanda; Bashir, Sana; Lopes, Ana; Yadró García, Carlos A.; Quaresma, Andreia; Rufino, José; Rosa-Fontana, Annelise; Verbinnen, Gilles; Graaf, Dirk C.; Smet, Lina de; Pinto, M. Alice; Henriques, DoraThe Western honey bee, Apis mellifera, displays significant genetic diversity in detoxification genes, which is pivotal for environmental adaptation and resilience. Herein, we developed a bioinformatics pipeline to investigate patterns of diversity in these genes, focusing on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across A. mellifera populations, with variant annotation performed using both snpEff and the Variant Effect Predictor (VEP). Our pipeline integrates GATK, VCFtools, PLINK, bcftools, snpEff, and VEP to process genomic data systematically. Regions of interest were defined in a BED file for variant filtering. Using GATK, SNPs were extracted from a VCF file and conversion to PLINK format for population genetics analyses. Variants were filtered by minor allele frequency (MAF) and population differentiation (FST index) to identify SNPs with considerable. Variants were annotated with snpEff and VEP to predict functional impacts, enabling a comparative analysis of their annotation consistency and depth. Custom scripts were developed to map SNPs to detoxification genes, quantify SNP density, and integrated gene descriptions and lineage data. The resulting data were visualized using a combination of and generate different graphs using ggplot2 and chromoMap for chromossomal maps. Quality control steps were applied through the pipeline ensuring data reliability. Our findings reveal distinct SNP patterns in detoxification genes, highlighting candidate SNPs associated with A. mellifera subspecies-specific adaptations. The comparison of snpEff and VEP annotations provides insights into their strengths and limitations, which can help optimize software selection for genomic studies. This pipeline offers a reproducible framework for studying genetic diversity in A. mellifera that is adaptable to other species, advancing conservation and evolutionary genomics.
- Breakthrough Curves for the Continuous Adsorption of Micropollutants on Activated Carbon/Geopolymer MixturesPublication . Baldo, Arthur P.; Silva, Ana P. F.; Silva, Adriano S.; Díaz de Tuesta, Jose Luis; Marin, Pricila; Peres, José A.; Gomes, HelderBreakthrough curves are key for designing continuous flow adsorption systems, typically obtained experimentally or through modeling [1]. In this study, a mixture of activated carbon (AC) and geopolymers (GP) was tested in a continuous treatment system for the removal of model contaminants from waters in a single-component system composed of sulfamethoxazole (SMX), acetaminophen (ACT), or gallic acid (GA). In addition, the adsorbent materials were also tested in a multi-component water matrix to evaluate the interactions between adsorbates and adsorbents. Adsorption tests were conducted using 1g of GP and 0.5g of AC, filled with glass beads. The experiments were carried out at room temperature, considering 100 mg/L for all contaminants and natural pH of the solutions. The flow was set to 1 mL/min and controlled by a peristaltic pump. The breakthrough curves are shown in Figure 1. Based on the experimental data, the useful operating times were calculated, assuming that the effluent concentration should not exceed 5% of the initial concentration [2], yielding 228 minutes for ACT, 46 minutes for SMX, and 53 minutes for GA in the multi-component system. A reduction in time was observed when compared to the single-component system due to faster saturation caused by competition for active sites. The useful adsorption capacities were also calculated, with values of 45.7 mg/g for ACT, 9.2 mg/g for SMX, and 10.7 mg/g for GA in the multicomponent system. The overall results indicated that the column was efficient, as the contaminating compounds were removed up to the system breakthrough. In conclusion, this preliminary study suggests that these materials can be effectively combined and applied in tertiary wastewater treatments, as permeable reactive barriers.
- Comparative evaluation of oranges available for consumption in PortugalPublication . Fajardo, Ana S.; Serra, Valéria; Peres, António M.; Veloso, Ana C.A.; Henriques, Marta H.F.Citrus production in Portugal, particularly in Algarve, plays a significant role in the national and European markets. Oranges from this region are highly regarded for their exceptional quality, due to unique climatic and geographical conditions. Many of these oranges hold the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) "Citrinos do Algarve" certification, ensuring their authenticity and superior characteristics. While Algarve oranges dominate the market, other varieties also reach consumers, warranting a broader comparative analysis. This study aimed to compare 5 orange varieties, Baía, Dalmau, Navelate, Lane Late, and Salustiana, sourced from different regions, cultivation methods, and market sources. A versatile approach was used, combining physicochemical and sensory analyses, to determine their quality attributes. External properties (appearance, dimensions, and color) were measured along juice parameters such as total solids (TS), density, total soluble solids (SS) (°Brix), titratable acidity (TA), SS/TA ratio, and color. Sensory perception was assessed by an untrained panel evaluating aspects like appearance, taste, sweetness, and acidity. Additionally, an electronic tongue (E-tongue) was employed to detect and analyze chemical patterns associated with sweetness perception, ensuring precise and consistent results. Results showed all varieties except Dalmau had over 70% sensory acceptance, with scores exceeding 4.2 on a 7-point scale. Lane Late variety was the most favored among consumers, excelling in both external attributes and taste. Lane Late physicochemical analysis supported these preferences: pH of 3.53 ± 0.12, TA of 0.50 ± 0.12 g citric acid/100 g, SS of 12.14 ± 0.66 °Brix, and the highest SS/TA ratio of 22.99 ± 3.27, reinforcing its perceived sweetness. E-tongue analysis successfully distinguished flavor profiles. A classification model using 40 lipid sensor membranes achieved a 94.4% correct classification rate. The linear discriminant analysis (LDA) model, enhanced by the simulated annealing (SA) variable selection algorithm, efficiently separated the 5 orange cultivars. Two discriminant functions (DF1 accounting for 99.8% variability and DF2 for 0.10%) effectively differentiated the samples. The E-tongue's ability to detect and classify sweet and acidic sensations contributed to its strong predictive performance. This integrated analytical approach provided a comprehensive comparison of the sweetness profiles of oranges available in Portugal, blending objective and subjective evaluations. The study reaffirmed the superior qualities of Algarve oranges, with the PGI-certified Lane Late standing out. With an average diameter of 87.41 ± 3.76 mm, second only to Baía (92.14 ± 5.40 mm), and an intermediate peel thickness of 5.27 ± 0.58 mm, Lane Late demonstrated notable physical attributes. Its TS content (12.01 ± 0.72%) was close to Navelate (12.62 ± 1.49%), while it had the lowest ash content (0.38 ± 1.13%), reinforcing its distinctiveness.
- Comprehensive analysis of oranges available for consumption in Portugal: A comparative studyPublication . Fajardo, Ana S.; Serra, Valéria; Peres, António M.; Veloso, Ana C.A.; Henriques, Marta H.F.Citrus production in Portugal's Algarve region is a major economic activity, contributing to both local and national markets with exports primarily to Europe.
- Desarrollo de modelos predictivos para la selección de genotipos de aceituna de mesa menos susceptibles a Bactrocera oleae (Rossi)Publication . González-Fernández, Antonio; Rallo, Pilar; Peres, António M.; Pereira, José Alberto; Morales-Sillero, AnaLa mosca del olivo (Bactrocera oleae Rossi), considerada como la plaga más devastadora en los olivares, causa importantes pérdidas en la producción y en la calidad de la aceituna de mesa y del aceite de oliva a nivel mundial. Esto conlleva a que se le otorgue atención a la tolerancia a esta plaga en los programas de mejora del olivo durante el proceso de selección de genotipos. Son múltiples los factores que influyen en la preferencia de la mosca del olivo por ciertas variedades, entre otros los parámetros físicos y químicos del fruto, que deben interpretarse de forma colectiva. Los objetivos de este trabajo han sido identificar las diferencias de susceptibilidad a B. oleae en una selección de genotipos y desarrollar modelos predictivos basados en rasgos físicos y químicos del fruto, capaces de predecir el comportamiento de la mosca. Para ello se han empleado frutos de cuatro genotipos: dos selecciones avanzadas del programa de mejora genética de aceituna de mesa de la Universidad de Sevilla, y dos variedades tradicionales muy apreciadas para el aderezo (US 06-1388; US-06-194; ‘Hojiblanca’; ‘Kalamon’), todos procedentes de un ensayo de material vegetal localizado en Morón de la Frontera (Sevilla). En condiciones controladas de laboratorio, se ha estudiado, por un lado, la preferencia de la mosca mediante bioensayos de oviposición y, por otro lado, se han desarrollado modelos predictivos basados en parámetros como el peso, tamaño, color y textura del fruto, además de los contenidos en compuestos fenólicos.
- Development of LAMP Primers for the Detection of Pyrethroid Resistance Mutations in Varroa destructorPublication . Costa, Maíra; Yadró García, Carlos A.; Lopes, Ana; Bejaoui, Mohamed Khalil; Almeida, Jhennifer; Correia, Lucas; Sánchez, Sara; Li, Fernanda; Pinto, M. Alice; Henriques, DoraVarroa destructor is one of the main threats to Apis mellifera L., directly affecting colony health and contributing to their global decline. Control of this mite is traditionally achieved using acaricides, with pyrethroids such as tau-fuvalinate and fumethrin being the most used, acting on voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSC). However, the intensive use of these compounds by beekeepers has led to the emergence of resistance, associated with mutations at residues 918 and 925 of the VGSC gene [1]. Traditional methods for detecting these mutations, such as PCR, TaqMan and RT-PCR, are eective but require expensive laboratory equipment. In this context, Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) is a promising alternative, offering rapid and cost-effective detection without the need for thermal cycling [2]. LAMP is based on the use of a set of four to six primers, including two inner primers (FIP and BIP), two outer primers (F3 and B3), and optionally two loop primers (LoopF and LoopB), which are introduced to accelerate the amplification reaction [3]. This study aimed to develop specific LAMP primers, using the NEB LAMP software, for the detection of the main mutations associated with Varroa destructor resistance to pyrethroids in Portugal. The predictive efficiency, specificity, and thermodynamic properties of the designed primers were assessed using BLAST, eLAMP, and OligoAnalyzer tools, considering qPCR parameters. This work successfully identified specific primer sets, including loop primers, for the detection of the mutation at position 925, which may be used in future experimental validations for rapid diagnostic applications.
- Different approaches to Olive Pomace valorisationPublication . Cordeiro, Ana; Lamas, Sandra; Rodrigues, Ana; Cadavez, Vasco; Silvério, Sara; Peres, António M.; Rodrigues, Lígia R.; Amorim, CláudiaOlive pomace (OP) is a substantial by-product, rich in lignocellulosic materials and water, obtained following the extraction of olive oil. It comprises the following components: olive skins, pulp, seeds, and stones. As global olive oil production continues to rise, the management and utilisation of OP have become increasingly important from both an economic and an environmental perspective [1]. In this study, the OP was chemically characterized and its potential as a source of value-added compounds was evaluated. For this purpose, several extraction studies were preformed, namely lipid extraction using petroleum ether, phenolic compound extraction with ethanol, and free sugar extraction with water using a Soxhlet system (Figure 1). These extractions allowed to recover 11.1 ± 0.3 % (w/w) of lipids, different types of phenolic compounds and oligosaccharides. Phenolic compounds are widely recognized for their health-promoting properties (e.g. antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cancer prevention or antimicrobial activity) and have been the subject of extensive research. Oligosaccharides (OS) are short chains of monosaccharide units linked by glycosidic bonds. The ingestion of these compounds has been demonstrated to confer a multitude of salutary effects, predominantly due to their function as prebiotics and their capacity to regulate gut health and influence overall metabolic processes. Enzymatic hydrolysis was also performed using commercial xylanase from Trichoderma reesei, under optimal conditions (pH 4.5, 40°C, 150 rpm) to evaluate the potential of OP to produce xylo-based oligosaccharides [2]. The hydrolysis process was monitored through Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) using different columns, and the Dinitrosalicylic acid (DNS) method (Figure 2). The results indicated the production of xylo-based oligosaccharides, validating the proposed bioprocess as a viable method for XOS production from OP. This approach not only provides value-added to OP but also aligns with sustainable waste management practices.
- Discriminação de azeites ‘Verdeal Transmontana’ de acordo com a idade das oliveiras recorrendo à espectroscopia no infravermelho por transformada de FourierPublication . Lamas, Sandra; Baptista, Paula; Santamaria-Echart, Arantzazu; Barreiro, Filomena; Peres, António M.; Pereira, José Alberto; Rodrigues, Nuno; Baptista, PaulaO efeito da idade das oliveiras na qualidade do azeite é ainda pouco conhecido. Nesse sentido, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a influência da idade da oliveira na qualidade e composição dos azeites, usando a cv. Verdeal Transmontana como modelo. Para tal foram selecionadas 15 oliveiras jovens (< 20 anos), 15 com idade intermédia (entre 20 e 50 anos) e 15 centenárias (> 100 anos), de cujas azeitonas foram extraídos azeites. Nos azeites avaliaram-se os parâmetros de qualidade (acidez, índice de peróxidos, coeficiente de extinção específica no ultravioleta, avaliação sensorial), atividade antioxidante e estabelecidos os espetros no infravermelho por transformada de Fourier (FTIR). Todos os azeites obtidos podem ser classificados como azeite virgem extra. A idade da planta influenciou alguns parâmetros, sem que tenha uma tendência linear. Os azeites extraídos de oliveiras com idade intermédia, apresentaram valores superiores de atividade antioxidante e teor em fenóis totais. A aplicação da análise discriminante linear (LDA), conjuntamente com o algoritmo metaheurístico de seleção de variáveis (SA), aos espetros de FTIR, permitiram estabelecer um modelo FTIR-LDA-SA, com base nas transmitâncias (%) registadas para 10 números de onda selecionados (2860, 2856, 2783, 1329, 1094, 918, 739, 723, 683, e 615 cm-¹). O modelo apresentou sensibilidade e especificidade de 100%, permitindo identificar corretamente as idades de todas as oliveiras estudadas, com base nos espectros FTIR, de acordo com a validação cruzada k-fold. O sucesso alcançado na previsão permite concluir que a técnica FTIR pode ser usada como uma ferramenta não invasiva/não-destrutiva de identificação da idade das oliveiras com base nos espectros de transmitância dos azeites extraídos.
- Efeito do tipo de embalagem e temperatura de armazenamento na composição e qualidade de azeite virgem extraPublication . Ferreiro, Nuno Manuel; Rodrigues, Nuno; Pereira, José Alberto; Peres, António M.O azeite é uma das gorduras mais importantes da dieta mediterrânica, valorizado pelas suas propriedades nutricionais e pelos benefícios à saúde. Contudo, a forma como este é armazenado pode afetar a sua qualidade levando ao aparecimento de odores e sabores desagradáveis como é o exemplo do ranço. Embalagens de diferentes materiais têm sido utilizadas para armazenar azeite. No entanto ainda há um conhecimento limitado sobre que material é o mais adequado para preservar as características físico-químicas, nutricionais e sensoriais do azeite. Assim, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o comportamento de dois tipos de azeites virgem extra com diferentes intensidades de frutado verde (suave e intenso) quando armazenados em diferentes tipos de embalagens (plástico, vidro, lata e bolsa) a diferentes temperaturas (10, 20, 30 e 40 °C). Foi avaliado o comportamento do azeite ao longo do tempo com a realização de análises periódicas (tempo 0, e ao fim de 3 e 6 meses). Foram determinados os parâmetros de qualidade (acidez, índice de peróxidos, coeficientes de extinção especifica no ultravioleta), atividade antioxidante e perfil sensorial descritivo. Os resultados obtidos, demonstraram que a temperatura de 40°C é aquela onde foi observada maior degradação do azeite ao nível da qualidade principalmente ao fim de 6 meses, em especial quando armazenado em garrafas de vidro. Este resultado poderá ser atribuído ao maior espaço de cabeça na embalagem de vidro em comparação com as outras embalagens testadas. Verificou-se também um aumento do teor em fenóis totais no tempo 6 no azeite suave armazenado nas bolsas a 30°C, bem como no azeite intenso armazenado nas bolsas a 40°C. Aos 6 meses a análise sensorial revelou a presença de ranço no azeite suave armazenado em latas e em bolsas a 10 e 30 °C. Estes resultados são ainda preliminares, sendo necessário continuar o ensaio por um período mais extenso.
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