Browsing by Author "Costa, E."
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- Alga Fucus sp. extracts to produce edible filmsPublication . Martins, V.; Machado, M.; Costa, E.; Gomes, A. M.; Poças, F.; Pintado, M.; Morais, R. M. S. C.; Morais, A. M. M. B.Introduction: Macroalgae are a good source of nutrients, such as carbohydrates (dietary fiber and polysaccharides), proteins, lipids and minerals [1,2]. Fucus sp. is composed of valuable bioactive compounds, such as fucoxanthin, vitamins, water-soluble (vitamin C and of complex B) and fat-soluble (vitamins A, D, E and K), phenolic compounds, lipids (MUFA and PUFA), and polysaccharides (fucoidans and alginic acid) [1]. This brown alga has been associated with health benefits, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-tumoral and anti-cancer properties [2]. Its application in the production of edible films presents high potential in food packaging, extending the shelf life of food products. Objectives: To evaluate the antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity bioactive extracts from Fucus sp. To produce an edible film based on PS enriched with the bioactive extracts. To test the antioxidant activity of the edible film. To test physico-chemical properties of the edible film, such as the color, thickness, solubility and water vapor permeability. Conclusions: Extraction at 300 W during 20 minutes is recommended for highest TPC and AA of the liquid extract. This extract showed no cytotoxicity for cells line HaCat. The edible film based on the PS extracted from Fucus sp. enriched with bioactives extracted also from this alga shows antioxidant activity, presents a high water vapor permeability, and 100 % solubility in water, which simulates hydrophilic foods, and lower solubility in hydroalcoholic solutions, which simulate hydrophobic foods. It has a brown color, characterized by relatively low luminosity and saturation values. This edible film has potential to be used in food packaging, whereas presenting high biodegradability.
- Caracterização hemorreológica, bioquímica e cardiovascular num modelo de doença renal crónica moderada em ratoPublication . Garrido, P.; Costa, E.; Teixeira-Lemos, E.; Parada, B.; Teixeira, M.; Santos, P.; Piloto, N.; Sereno, J.; Alves, R.; Pinto, R.; Rocha-Pereira, P.; Figueiredo, A.; Nunes, S.; Romão, A. M.; Carvalho, L.; Couceiro, P.; Belo, L.; Santos-Silva, A.; Teixeira, F.; Reis, F.Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health problem throughout the world. The major outcomes include a rapid progression, with development of anaemia and serious complications, namely thromboembol ic and cardiovascular events. The pathophysiological alterations depend on the CKD degree, which will also determine the moment to initiate hemodialysis and recombinant erythropoietin (rhEPO) therapies Thus, the cardio-renal complication might be better prevented or delayed if CKD patients are earlier identified and treated for the associated anaemia, which will depend on a better characterization of moderate stages of CKD. This study aimed to characterization an animal of model of moderate CKD induced by partial (%) nephrectomy, by evaluating hemorheological, biochemical and cardiovascular profiles. Blood samples from control and CKD rats were collected at 0, 3, 9 and 15 weeks in order to evaluate: renal function, hemorheological parameters, iron metabolism, blood lipids, peripheral sympathetic and serotonergic systems, redox state and inflammatory markers. BP, tissues uophism indexes and kidney histomorphology were also assessed. Our data is consistent with a sustained moderate degree of CKD with a quickly compensated modest anaemia, though presenting iron metabolism disturbances. Despite the reasonable degree of functionality of the remnant kidney, as suggested by the anaemia correction and by the kidney hypertrophy, several important cardiovascular modifications were developed. Our model presented hypertension, dyslipidaemia, erythropoietic disturbances, sympathetic activation and oxidative stress. This model might be a good tool to study the cellular/molecularmechanisms underlying moderate stages of CKD and to evaluate the therapeutics efficacy for prevention, treatment/correction of cardiorenal anaemia syndromes and complications in early stages.
- Cardiac antiapoptotic and proproliferative effect of recombinant human erythropoietin in a moderate stage of chronic renal failure in the ratPublication . Teixeira, M.; Rodrigues-Santos, P.; Garrido, P.; Costa, E.; Parada, B.; Sereno, J.; Alves, R.; Belo, L.; Teixeira, F.; Santos-Silva, A.; Reis, F.Objective: Recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) therapy under circumstances of moderate chronic renal failure (CRF), with yet lower kidney and heart lesion, may have a protective cardiac effect beyond the correction of anemia, whose mechanism deserves better elucidation, namely by clarifying the impact on gene expression profile of markers of apoptosis, inflammation, proliferation, angiogenesis, and lesion/stress in the heart. Materials and Methods: Four groups of rats were studied over a period of 15 weeks (n=7 each): control-without surgery and without drug treatment; rhEPO-treated with 50 IU/kg/week of rhEPO-beta; CRF-submitted to partial nephrectomy (3/4); CRF + rhEPO-CRF with rhEPO treatment after the 3rd week of surgery. The heart was collected in order to evaluate the gene expression, by real-time qPCR, of markers of apoptotic machinery, inflammation/immunology, proliferation/ angiogenesis, and lesion/stress. Results: The main findings obtained were (a) CRF rats have demonstrated overexpression of EPO-R in the heart without changes on EPO expression, together with overexpression of Bax/Bcl2 ratio, PCNA, and IL-2; (b) rhEPO therapy on the heart of the rats with CRF induced by partial 3/4 nephrectomy promoted nonhematopoietic protection, demonstrated by the apoptosis prevention, viewed by the Bax/Bcl2 balance, by the promotion of proliferation, due to PCNA increment, and by the immunomodulatory action, expressed by a trend to prevent the IL-2 increment. Conclusion: In this model of moderate CRF, rhEPO treatment showed important cardiac nonhematopoietic effects, expressed mainly by the antiapoptotic and the proproliferative action, suggesting that early rhEPO therapy in moderate stages of CRF might have further therapeutic benefits.
- Characterization of alga Fucus sp. extracts and residues and their application in producing edible filmsPublication . Martins, V.; Coelho, M.; Machado, M.; Costa, E.; Gomes, A. M.; Poças, F.; Pintado, M.; Morais, R. M. S. C.; Morais, A. M. M. B.Introduction: Macroalgae are a good source of nutrients, such as carbohydrates (dietary fiber and polysaccharides), proteins, lipids and minerals, and they are sustainable, because they do not compete with food crops for arable land and potable water [1,2]. Fucus sp. is composed of valuable bioactive compounds, such as fucoxanthin, vitamins, water-soluble vitamins (vitamin C and of complex B) and fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E and K), phenolic compounds, lipids (MUFA and PUFA), and polysaccharides (fucoidans and alginic acid) [1]. This brown alga has been associated with health benefits, with antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-tumoral and anti-cancer properties [2]. Its application in the production of edible films presents high potential in food packaging, extending the shelf life of food products. Objectives: The integral valorization of Fucus sp. macroalgae, by extracting bioactive compounds, such as phenolic compounds, and extracting polysaccharides (PS). To evaluate the cytotoxicity and antioxidant activity of the bioactive extracts. To produce an edible film based on PS enriched with the bioactive extracts from Fucus sp. To test the physico-chemical properties of the edible film, such as the solubility. The nutritional characterization of the residues from the extractions. Conclusions: Extraction at 300 W during 20 minutes is recommended for highest TPC and AA of the liquid extract. This extract showed no cytotoxicity for cells line HaCat. The edible film based on the PS extracted from Fucus sp. enriched with bioactives extracted also from this alga presents 100 % solubility in water, which simulates hydrophilic foods, and lower solubility in hydroalcoholic solutions, which simulate hydrophobic foods. This edible film has potential to be used in food packaging, whereas presenting high biodegradability.
- Development of oral films containing chitosanPublication . Cardelle-Cobas, A.; Madureira, A. R.; Costa, E.; Tavaria, Freni; Pintado, M. E.
- Effect of recombinant human erythropoietin in a rat model of moderate chronic renal failure – focus on inflammation, oxidative Stress and function/renoprotectionPublication . Garrido, P.; Reis, F.; Costa, E.; Almeida, A.; Parada, B.; Teixeira-Lemos, E.; Santos, P.; Alves, R.; Sereno, J.; Pinto, R.; Tavares, C.A.; Figueiredo, A.; Rocha-Pereira, P.; Belo, L.; Santos-Silva, A.; Teixeira, F.Background/Aims: Chronic renal failure (CRF) patients develop anaemia, thus promoting cardiovascular complications, which seems to be favoured by the low kidney erythropoietin (EPO) production. The renal insufficiency degree might determine the moment to start recombinant human EPO (rhEPO) therapy. It has been attributed important non-hematopoietic effects to rhEPO, which might underlie cardio and renoprotection. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of rhEPO in a rat model of moderate CRF, focusing on inflammation, oxidative stress and function/renoprotection. Methods: Four groups (n=7) of male Wistar rats were evaluated during a 15 week follow-up period: control (without treatment); rhEPO (50 IU/Kg/wk Recormon®); CRF and CRF+rhEPO. Blood samples were collected at the beginning and 3, 9 and 12 weeks after 3/4 nephrectomy, in order to evaluate: renal function, haematological parameters, iron metabolism and serum proliferative (TGF-B1), inflammatory (TNF-a, CRP, IL-2 and IL-1B) and redox status (MDA, TAS and 3-NT) markers. Kidney gene expression of Il2, Vegf, Nos2 and Nos3 were assessed by real-time PCR. Blood pressure, heart rate and tissues trophy indexes were also estimated. Results: Our data are consistent with a sustained moderate degree of CRF with development of moderate and corrected anaemia and hypertension. The remnant kidney showed a proliferative profile, with increased mass (hypertrophism), upregulated tissue Vegf gene expression, accompanied by increased levels of serum TGF-B1. Serum 3-NT was augmented, suggesting oxidative stress, which was accompanied by a trend to higher kidney Nos gene expression of both isoforms. rhEPO treatment was able to partially attenuate renal function markers, totally correct anaemia, also demonstrating a proliferative and antioxidant action, suggesting renoprotection. Conclusion: This study suggests that rhEPO therapy might be recommended in moderate CRF stages in order to efficiently correct not only the anaemia but also the underlying deleterious mechanisms, due to a proliferative and antioxidant action on the remnant kidney.
- Hydroxyapatite-based materials of marine origin: a bioactivity and sintering studyPublication . Piccirillo, C.; Pullar, R. C.; Costa, E.; Santos-Silva, A.; Pintado, Manuela; Castro, Paula M. L.Single phase hydroxyapatite (HAp) and biphasic material hydroxyapatite/beta-tricalcium phosphate (HAp/beta-TCP) were obtained from a marine source (Atlantic cod fish bones). Here we report a study on the biological properties of these materials, including cytotoxicity, bioactivity and haemocompatibility. Results showed that the materials are not cytotoxic, neither in their powder nor in pellet form; indeed growth of Saos-2 cells was comparable to that of commercial. The haemolysis rate was lower than 2%; hence the materials can be classified as non-haemolytic. Moreover, when immersed in Simulated Body Fluid (SBF), crystal formation was observed on the surface of both materials. The sintering behaviour of the samples was also studied; both powders showed very high sinterability (density higher than 95% of the theoretical value). Overall, these results confirm the suitability of these materials for biomedical applications.
- Inflammatory potential of high-protein hybrid yogurtPublication . Gigante, M. L.; Baptista, D. P.; Silva, K. K. P.; Machado, M.; Costa, E.; Pintado, M.Introduction: Partly replacing dairy proteins with plant proteins in processed foods is a potential alternative strategy for creating a more sustainable food system. Furthermore, with the growth of the elderly population worldwide, there is an interest in developing foods to promote the health of the elderly. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of partial replacement (50%) of dairy proteins by almond protein in high-protein yogurts on the inflammatory potential after in vitro simulation of the gastrointestinal digestion of control and hybrid yogurts under digestive conditions of elderly individuals (INFOGEST). Results: The hydrolysates obtained at the end of digestion of both products did not show a pro-inflammatory effect on macrophages (RAW 264.7 cells) or adipocytes (3T3-L1 cells), since no increase in the secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α (Figure 1) and IL-6 (Figure 2) was observed, respectively. Conclusions: The partial replacement of dairy proteins with almond proteins in high-protein yogurts may be interesting with a focus on more sustainable food systems. Furthermore, hybrid products containing high nutritional value dairy proteins can be used to maintain the health of the elderly population.
- Morphine patient controlled analgesia for postoperative analgesia in patients who have transplanted cadaver donor kidneysPublication . Madeira, I.; Frada, R.; Marvão, J.; Cruz, F.; Casal, M.; Costa, E.Introduction. Patients who have chronic renal disease present challenges to anesthesiologists because of the sequelae of the underlying disease. Postoperative pain is usually mild to moderate after renal transplantation and is a concern because of underlying co-morbidities and variable responses of the graft. Effective postoperative pain management contributes to a a successful outcome after renal transplantation. Methods. A retrospective study, based on the collected data from clinical process and registration of the acute pain unit. Results. During 2007 and 2008, 124 patients were transplanted with cadaver donor kidneys. The final sample included 55 patients, namely 67% males and 33% females, whose ages range between 15 and 75 years (average, 47.23 years). Their American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification was 4 in 71% and 3 in 29%. Analgesia during surgery used a fentanyl, paracetamol and morphine protocol (n 47) or fentanyl, paracetamol, morphine, and local anesthetic infiltration (n 8). The postoperative pain was quantified using a numerical rating scale (0–4) with mean value of 1.07 on day 1, a mean value of 1 on day 2, and a mean value of 0.67 on day 3. Postoperative analgesia with morphine patient-controlled analgesia was used for every patient, combined with paracetamol in 89% of cases. The average number of bolus demands was 60 with 26.4 effective boluses, the mean total administered dose was 26.6 mg. The major side effects were constipation (18%), pruritus (14%), nausea (13%), and vomiting (1.8%). The following relations were significance: age and score of pain, pruritus and total dose of morphine, preoperative analgesia, and pain score on day 2. Conclusions. Our results suggest that analgesia with morphine patient-controlled analgesia was an effective method to achieve control of postoperative pain in this population with few side effects.
- Study of antioxidant properties and consumer acceptance of sour cherry based jamsPublication . Costa, E.; Silva, S.; Monteiro, M.; Pintado, M.In recent years a major market trend has been the design of more natural foodstuffs with chemical constituents being replaced by natural compounds and ingredients. Sour cherry is a phenolic rich fruit that has already been incorporated into the food chain, namely through a Portuguese traditional liquor (Ginjinha), however other food matrices may be the carrier for this antioxidant fruit, but formulation and processing conditions may affect functionality and acceptability. With that in mind the goal of this work was to expand the incorporation of sour cherry into the food chain via development of novel sour cherry based recipes or foodstuffs, with the most promising one being sour cherry jams with reduced sugar content. From this work two formulations resulted, one with whole cherries and other with cherry pulp? These products where characterized in terms of antioxidant activity, phenolic compounds and anthocyanin profile and consumer acceptance. The results obtained through chemical and sensorial analysis of the two formulations showed that from a chemical standpoint the jams possessed significant antioxidant capacity with a high content of phenolic compounds, namely caffeic acid. Regretfully when considering the anthocyanin content due to the high temperature used during processing they were highly reduced. When considering the sensorial analysis of the two jams through a focus group, results showed that over 77% of the panellists liking both products, with their texture and sweet flavour being remarked as the strong points of both products. Furthermore 72% of the panellists stated their intention to buy the products. In conclusion the results obtained show that the developed products were market ready and that, despite the thermal treatment involved in their processing, both jams validated for consumption still maintained a significant level of biologically active compounds.