CIMO - Artigos em Revistas Indexados à WoS/Scopus
Permanent URI for this collection
Browse
Recent Submissions
Now showing 1 - 10 of 3446
- Navigating Methodological Trade‐Offs in eDNA Metabarcoding Biodiversity Monitoring: Insights From a Mediterranean WatershedPublication . Veríssimo, Joana; Lopes‐Lima, Manuel; Amaral, Fábio; Chaves, Cátia; Fernandes, Vasco; Kemanja, Mutaleni; Teixeira, Amilcar; Martins, Filipa M. S.; Beja, PedroEnvironmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding technologies promise significant advances in biodiversity monitoring, yet their application requires extensive optimisation and standardisation. Recent research demonstrated that increased sampling and analytical efforts are needed to improve biodiversity estimates, though fully optimising study designs is often hindered by resource constraints. Consequently, researchers must carefully navigate methodological trade‐offs to design effective eDNA metabarcoding monitoring studies. We conducted a water eDNA survey of vertebrates in a Mediterranean watershed to identify key methodological factors influencing species richness and composition estimates. We examined the impacts of using high‐ versus low‐capacity filtration capsules, varying levels of biological and technical replication, and the pooling of PCR replicates before indexing. The primary sources of variation identified were capsule filtration capacity and site replication across the watershed. While biological replication within sites and PCR replication also improved biodiversity estimates, their effects were comparatively smaller. Pooling PCR replicates before indexing performed more poorly than analysing them independently. Methodological impacts were stronger on terrestrial than on aquatic species. Based on these results, we recommend that priority should be given to high‐capacity filtration and sampling across multiple sites. Site‐level replication deserves lower priority, especially when filtering large water volumes. PCR replication is crucial for detecting rare species but should be balanced with increased site sampling and eventually site‐level replication. Avoiding the pooling of PCR replicates is important to enhance sensitivity for rare species. Overall, we stress the importance of balancing methodological choices with resource constraints and monitoring goals, and we emphasise the need for research assessing methodological trade‐offs in different study systems.
- A Comprehensive Review of Fish Protein Hydrolysates Targeting Pet Food FormulationsPublication . Ribeiro, Tânia Isabel Bragança; Maia, Margarida R.G.; Fonseca, António J.M.; Marques, Bianca; Caleja, Cristina; Rosa, Ana; Martins, Rui; Almeida, André; Mota, Maria J.; Aires, Tiago; Rocha, Cristina M.R.; Teixeira, José António; Cabrita, Ana R.J.; Barros, Lillian; Pintado, ManuelaThe fish industry generates significant amounts of fish by- and co-products (FBCPs) annually, projected to reach 160.8 million tonnes by 2030. This growth highlights the urgent need for sustainable FBCP management and an opportunity to improve the sector’s environmental sustainability. Fish protein hydrolysates (FBCPHs) and bioactive peptides (BPs) derived from these FBCPs are gaining recognition in the pet food sector for their nutritional and bioactives benefits. FBCPHs, primarily sourced from category 3 by-products unsuitable for human consumption, could significantly enhance the economic viability of both industries. This review analyzes production processes, highlighting the benefits and challenges of enzymatic hydrolysis and reviewed emerging technologies such as subcritical water hydrolysis (SWH), which are promising sustainable alternatives by enhancing extraction efficiency and reducing energy consumption. The review explores FBCPHs’ applications in pet food, focusing on beneficial biological activities (e.g. antioxidant, prebiotic, neuroprotective). Findings show FBCPHs have significant potential in pet food formulations, providing palatability, hypoallergenic benefits, and addressing health concerns like gastrointestinal disorders and stress-related behaviors. However, further research is required to optimize production processes, scale industrial application, and ensure regulatory compliance. In conclusion, FBCPHs present a valuable solution for promoting sustainability, improving pet nutrition, and supporting the circular economy.
- Seasonal and daily patterns in the flight activity of Trioza erytreae (Del Guercio), vector of huanglongbing (HLB)Publication . Rodrigues, Isabel; Félix‐Oliveira, Diogo; Otero, Rosa Pérez; Pereira, José Alberto; Fereres, AlbertoThe psyllid Trioza erytreae (del Guercio, 1918) (Hemiptera: Triozidae) is one of the vectors of Candidatus liberibacter spp., the causal agent of the huanglongbing (HLB) the main citrus disease worldwide. In this study, we investigated for the first time how the flight behavior of T. erytreae is influenced by factors such as sex or daily and seasonal pattern fluctuations by using a flight mill device under controlled laboratory conditions. RESULTS: Our results showed that T. erytreae can fly an average distance of 16.20 m at a mean speed of 6 m per minute, but a few individuals were able to fly much longer, reaching a maximum distance of 395 m. Females displayed a higher flight capacity than males. Moreover, we found that T. erytreae is not confined to diurnal flight alone, as the psyllids demonstrated the ability to fly during the night, emphasizing the need for comprehensive vector control strategies that account for nocturnal activity. CONCLUSION: Understanding the flight behavior of vector insects is essential for devising effective control measures aimed at mitigating the spread of vector-borne diseases. Further research in this area will contribute to a more nuanced understanding of vector movement and the development of more precise control measures.
- Artistas portugueses em trânsito: bolsas de viagem e de estudo no estrangeiro, 1918-1939Publication . Baião, JoanaConsideradas um elemento fundamental na formação dos artistas, as viagens e estadias no estrangeiro foram promovidas pelas instituições artísticas portuguesas através de bolsas de viagem e de estudo. Neste artigo sistematiza-se pela primeira vez a informação relativa à atribuição oficial destas bolsas, entre 1918 e 1939. Esta cronologia abarca importantes transformações na vida político-cultural do país – fim da Primeira República, Ditadura Militar, Estado Novo –, que por sua vez tiveram consequências no enquadramento e ação dos organismos sucessivamente responsáveis pela gestão dos subsídios artísticos (Conselhos de Arte e Arqueologia, Junta de Educação Nacional, Instituto para a Alta Cultura). Fundamentando-se na análise do enquadramento legislativo e interpretação das resoluções dos organismos decisores, e referenciando alguns casos concretos da sua aplicação, este texto visa contribuir para a reflexão sobre a ação das instituições oficiais portuguesas no fomento da formação e especialização artística no estrangeiro.
- Polyolefin and Polystyrene‐Derived Carbon Nanotubes: Catalysts for Oxidative Desulfurization Under a Biphasic SystemPublication . Roman, Fernanda; Batista, Maria C.; Silva, Adriano S.; Bezerra, Ana Júlia Briganti; Tuesta, Jose L. de Diaz de; Mambrini, Raquel V.; Silva, Adrián M. T.; Faria, Joaquim L.; Gomes, HelderThe conversion of plastic solid waste into carbon nanotubes (CNTs) via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and the effectiveness of these CNTs as catalysts for oxidative desulfurization (ODS) of a simulated fuel were investigated. The primary focus is on the use of CNTs synthesized from various polymer sources, including polyolefins and polystyrene (PS), to remove sulfur compounds using hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O2 ) as an oxidant. The surface modification of CNTs by using acids (H2 SO4 or HNO3 ), the influence of the carbon feedstock (polyolefins vs PS), the use of co-catalysts, and the effect of the extractant phase were all evaluated on the oxidative removal of dibenzothiophene from a simulated fuel. Results revealed that CNTs derived from polyolefins displayed higher desulfurization efficiency (up to 77% in 8 h), with nitric acid-treated CNTs showing the best performance under oil-water biphasic systems. Replacing water with acetonitrile and adding a co-catalyst (formic acid) resulted in a desulfurization of 91% in 2 h of reaction. Under certain conditions, C─S bond cleav-age was observed. This research contributes to the valorization of plastic solid waste and the reduction of atmospheric pollution, promoting circular economy practices and environmental sustainability.
- Bioactive potential of Tripleurospermum inodorum with detailed insight into anti-inflammatory activity through in vitro, in vivo evaluations and network pharmacologyPublication . Ivanov, Marija; Aleksandrov, Aleksandra Popov; Božunović, Jelena; Dias, Maria Inês; Calhelha, Ricardo C.; Kulaš, Jelena; Barros, Lillian; Ferreira, Isabel C.F.R.; Stojković, DejanThis study evaluated Tripleurospermum inodorum extract for cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antibiofilm properties, alongside its phenolic profile, predicted pharmacological interactions and in vivo anti-inflammatory properties. The methanolic extract of T. inodorum was rich in apigenin derivatives, including apigenin-O-pentoside (5.234 mg/g) and apigenin-O-acetyl hexoside (4.929 mg/g), as identified using LC-DAD-ESI/MSⁿ. The extract demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory activity (IC₅₀ = 8.4 μg/mL) by inhibiting nitric oxide production in a RAW 264.7 macrophage model, a key mechanism in controlling inflammatory responses. Its cytotoxicity against NCI-H460 lung carcinoma cells (GI₅₀ = 62.9 μg/mL) suggests potential for targeting inflammation-driven carcinogenesis. Antioxidant activity, ranging from 204.4 (FRAP) to 442.2 (ABTS) mmol of gallic acid equivalents per 100 mg dry weight, highlights its role in mitigating oxidative stress—a critical driver of chronic inflammation. The extract also displayed moderate antimicrobial activity (MIC: 3–12 mg/mL) and strong antibiofilm potential (> 70% inhibition in a crystal violet assay), which are essential for managing infection-associated inflammation. Network pharmacology revealed that dominant phenolic compound act as aldose reductase inhibitors, targeting inflammatory pathways linked to metabolic stress. In vivo assessment using a xylene-induced ear edema model revealed a dose-dependent, biphasic anti-inflammatory effect, with lower doses (125 and 250 mg/kg) exhibiting greater efficacy compared to the highest dose (500 mg/kg), suggesting a hormetic response that emphasizes the importance of optimal dosing. These findings indicate that the methanolic extract of T. inodorum possesses a broad spectrum of bioactivities relevant to inflammation control and supports its further development as a source of novel anti-inflammatory therapeutics.
- Efficacy of Olive Leaf Extract in Improving Blood Pressure in Pre‐Hypertensive and Hypertensive Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta‐AnalysisPublication . Lachovicz, Rebeca; Ferro-Lebres, Vera; Almeida-de-Souza, Juliana; Pereira, José AlbertoAnnually, approximately 10 million deaths are attributed to hypertension, highlighting the critical need for effective treatments beyond conventional medications due to their limitations. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of Olea europaea L. on blood pressure in adults with prehypertension and hypertension. The search, conducted from November/2022- October/2024 was performed on EBSCO, CABI, CNKI, Cochrane Library, DOAJ, PUBMED, SCOPUS, and WEB OF SCIENCE databases using Hypertension AND Olea europaea L. Eligible studies included those evaluating the effect of Olea europaea L. on systolic/diastolic blood pressure in hypertensive or pre-hypertensive adults. Exclusion criteria were multi-preparation interventions. Data on reference, country, sample, intervention/control details, duration, and differences in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, adverse effects, and medication use were extracted manually. The mean differences, heterogeneity (I2) and quality of the studies were assessed using Review Manager (version 5.4). From 211 found studies, 3 met the eligibility criteria, considering 248 participants analysed. An antihypertensive effect was observed on systolic and diastolic blood pressure in the pre- vs. post-intervention in the global analysis (systolic −6.03 mmHg, 95% CI: [−11.60, −0.46], I2 = 82%, p = 0.03; diastolic −2.38 mmHg, 95% CI: [−4.96, 0.20], I2 = 50%, p = 0.07) and in the sub-analysis that included the studies with the highest dose (1000 mg/day) (systolic−11.45 mmHg, 95% CI:[−13.99, −8.91], I2 = 0%, p ≤ 0.001; diastolic −4.65 mmHg, 95% CI: [−6.56, −2.74], I2 = 0%, p ≤ 0.001). Olive leaf extract (1000 mg/day) may reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure by −11.45 and −4.65 mmHg, respectively. However, limitations include variable trial quality and exclusion of studies not written in English. Additional comprehensive clinical studies are essential to confirm its efficacy and safety.
- Standard methods and good practices in Apis honey bee omics researchPublication . Techer, Maeva A.; Chakrabarti, Priyadarshini; Caesar, Lílian; Eynard, Sonia E.; Farrell, M. Catherine; Foster, Leonard J.; Gorrochategui-Ortega, June; Henriques, Dora; Li-Byarlay, Hongmei; Morré, Jeffrey T.; Newton, Irene L. G.; Parejo, Melanie; Pinto, M. Alice; Vignal, Alain; Zarraonaindia, Iratxe; McAfee, AlisonIn the past decades, COLOSS members have joined forces multiple times to develop and condense standard methods related to research on honey bees, their pests, pathogens, and colony products. This led to the publication of four open-access BEEBOOK volumes that have been utilized by researchers worldwide. Among the chapters, “Standard methods for molecular research in Apis mellifera,” written by Evans and collaborators in 2013, has been a cornerstone for the standardization of honey bee molecular studies. However, since sequencing technologies and analyzing algorithms have made tremendous progress, many described methods require updating. In parallel, other Apis species’ genomes have now been sequenced, thus opening new research avenues in a comparative framework. In this chapter, we add to the methods previously covered by Evans et al. in 2013 and provide updated methodology where necessary, including worked examples and bioinformatic analysis pipe-lines. We also cover topics which were not previously covered in depth, such as sequencing ancient samples, population genomics, proteomics, and sampling honey bee colony products for microbiome studies, among others. Our hope is for this to become a lasting resource for honey bee scientists as the field continues to advance.
- Consumer preferences for olive oil in the Iberian PeninsulaPublication . Baviera-Puig, Amparo; López-Cortés, Isabel; Pereira, José Alberto; Rodrigues, NunoThis study aims to analyse consumer preferences in the iberian Peninsula by comparing two important european Union-producing countries. in order to be able to make valid cross-cultural comparisons, we used the Best-Worst Scaling (BWS) methodology. We also performed segmentation using latent cluster analysis (lca), including all consumers analysed, regardless of country of origin, to obtain three different segments. comparing both consumers, the significant differences obtained refer to the quality-price ratio, willingness to pay and attributes considered at the time of purchase of olive oil. owing to the BWS methodology, we observe that the number of attributes that establish significant differences between the three segments (taste, brand name and packaging) is higher than in the analysis performed by country (brand name). The 3 segments obtained (“Type-experience consumers,” “external cues consumers” and “Taste seekers”) prioritise the proposed attributes differently and there are significant differences between them in terms of olive oil consumption (place of purchase and average weekly consumption). These conclusions have implications at the business level for the design and development of marketing strategies in the olive oil sector in both countries.
- Edible fruits and berries as a source of functional polyphenols: current scene and future perspectivesPublication . Wan, Chunpeng; Langyan, Sapna; Echeverría, Javier; Devkota, Hari Prasad; Tewari, Devesh; Moosavi, Mohammad Amin; Ezzat, Shahira Mohammed; Perez-Vazquez, Ana; Fraga-Corral, Maria; Cravotto, Giancarlo; Prieto Lage, Miguel A.; Belwal, Tarun; Li, MingxiIn recent years, there is a growing interest in nutraceutical-rich functional foods for promoting human health. Wild fruits and berries are excellent sources of phytochemicals even though the most deeply studied are the polyphenolic compounds, among them, the major ones such as flavonoids, anthocyanins, or tannins. This review aimed to comprehensively analyze the currently available literature on wild edible fruits and berries, since these fruits are characterized for their high content of polyphenolic compounds. Moreover, both intrinsic (ripening and genetic variability) and extrinsic (environmental conditions: habitat, light, temperature) factors where considered since they affect the polyphenolic content in these fruits. Besides, the therapeutic potential of berries for treating human diseases was assessed through the revision of in vivo and in vitro assays and clinical studies, having in mind that most of these effects are exerted due to their antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, recent challenges and future trends on the research and utilization of wild fruits and berries were addressed to complete the overview of this sustainable source of natural ingredients. Finally, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar were the databases used for the compilation of the information present in this review, selecting the more recent studies and comparing from a critical point of view, the information found. Thus, this review compiled information of berries regarding their polyphenolic content and the variations this suffer depending on different variables; the potential use of the berries for a therapeutic application; and the trends and challenges that the use of berries faces after the research done.