CBQF - Contribuições em Revistas Científicas / Contribution to Journals
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- A novel sampling strategy for metal ions determination in water: application to the determination of cadmiumPublication . Rodrigues, Francisco A. P.; Ribas, Tânia C. F.; Mesquita, Raquel B. R.; Rangel, António O. S. S.This work proposes a novel, portable, and reusable device for in situ water sampling, sample preparation, and analyte enrichment in a single step. For this purpose, a commercial cationic exchange resin (Chelex 100), was used to obtain a solid-phase extraction column for cadmium (II) retention and enrichment. The optimization of key parameters such as sample volume, reagents concentration, and flow-rate, was performed to maximize cadmium retention and elution efficiency. The method was applied to real samples, and the results agreed with those obtained with reference methodologies, with no significant differences (< 10%). Additionally, recovery rates of 97.8 ± 3.5% were achieved. This method integrates, in one step, the sampling and sample preparation procedures and employs reusable devices, contributing to providing a sustainable solution for metal ions monitoring in aquatic environments.
- Intestinal mucosal alterations parallel central demyelination and remyelination: insights into the gut-brain axis in the cuprizone model of multiple sclerosisPublication . Ferreira, Carolina; Carvalho, Filipa; Vieira, Pedro; Alves, André; Palavra, Filipe; Almeida, Jani; Alves, Vera; Coscueta, Ezequiel; Pereira, Patrícia Dias; Pintado, Manuela; Sá, Helena; Castelo-Branco, Miguel; Reis, Flávio; Viana, SofiaBackground: The gut-brain axis has been increasingly recognized as a critical factor in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) pathophysiology. While its role in demyelination is well documented, gut-brain axis involvement during remyelination remains largely unexplored. Methods: Using the cuprizone (CPZ) model, which induces reversible demyelination and spontaneous remyelination upon toxin withdrawal, we investigated gut and brain changes during both disease stages in C57BL/6 mice. Animals were administered 0.2% cuprizone for 5 weeks to induce demyelination, followed by a 2-week recovery phase. Intestinal changes were evaluated through 1) gut microbiota profiling and metabolite production (short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), indoxyl sulfate), 2) structural and barrier integrity via histology, mucus staining, and tight junction markers (ZO-1, occludin, claudin-5), 3) mucosal immunity through M1/M2 macrophage profiling and Th17/Treg ratios, and 4) expression of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. Differences in brain demyelination/remyelination, gliosis and related molecular changes were determined using immunohistochemistry and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results: The demyelination peak was characterized by reduced abundance of SCFA-producing genus Akkermansia and Dubosiella, increased intestinal permeability at the level of the mucus layer and tight junction networks, and shifts in mucosal immunity toward a pro-inflammatory state characterized by M1 macrophages and Th17 cell expansion together with elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-17, IL-1?) and changes in oxidative stress-related enzymes (iNOS, HO-1, SOD1/2), all of which were partially reversed during the remyelination phase. Centrally, cuprizone-induced demyelination/remyelination and gliosis showed region-specific patterns. Neuroinflammation peaked during demyelination (TNF-?, IL-1?, IL-6, IL-17) and only partially resolved, suggesting that a balanced inflammatory response may aid remyelination. Conclusion: Our findings reveal that cuprizone-induced intestinal dysfunctions temporally parallel central nervous system (CNS) lesion dynamics, disclosing temporal coordination of both compartments and highlighting gut-brain axis impact on both disease stages.
- Flavonoid-rich extracts from lemon and orange by-products: microencapsulation and application in functional cookiesPublication . Dellapina, Giovanna; Poli, Giovanna; Moscatelli, Vanna; Magalhães, Daniela; Vilas-Boas, Ana A.; Pintado, ManuelaCitrus by-products are increasingly recognized as a valuable source of bioactive compounds (BCs), particularly flavonoids. Their incorporation into food matrices as functional ingredients aligns with sustainability goals and consumer demand for health-promoting products. However, challenges such as poor stability and undesirable sensory properties limit their direct use in food systems. This study aimed to develop and evaluate functional cookies enriched with microencapsulated flavonoid-rich extracts derived from lemon and orange peels. Flavonoids were extracted with hydroethanolic solvent and characterized by HPLC-DAD. The extracts exhibited high total flavonoid contents: 1960.1 mg/L for orange and 845.7 mg/L for lemon. The extracts were encapsulated using a 1% sodium alginate and 1.36% corn starch blend, producing thermally stable microbeads with flavonoid retention higher than 85% after heating at 230 °C for 30 min. These microbeads were incorporated into gluten-free oat and buckwheat cookies, delivering 166.11 mg/100 g (orange) and 177.13 mg/100 g (lemon) of flavonoids in the product, which covers approximately one-third of the recommended daily intake. Sensory analysis using triangle tests (ISO 4120) (n = 23) showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) between control and enriched cookies, indicating successful masking of potential bitterness or astringency associated with flavonoids. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of microencapsulation in protecting citrus flavonoid-rich extracts and support the development of sustainable, health-oriented bakery products. Moreover, this approach promotes the valorization of agro-industrial by-products, contributing to a more circular food supply chain.
- Arabinogalactan proteins: decoding the multifaceted roles in plant reproductionPublication . Silva, Jessy; Moreira, Diana; Ferreira, Maria João; Pereira, Ana Marta; Pereira, Luís Gustavo; Coimbra, SílviaArabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) are highly glycosylated cell wall proteins essential for plant growth and reproduction. AGPs are extensively decorated with arabinogalactan polysaccharides, composed primarily of arabinose and galactose, along with minor sugars such as glucuronic acid, fucose, and rhamnose. Their glycosylation patterns and glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor enable interactions with receptors, modulating signal transduction pathways critical for reproduction. AGPs also associate with cell wall components like pectin and hemicellulose, impacting cellulose deposition and cell wall integrity. Recent research highlights AGPs’ role as calcium (Ca2+) capacitors, regulating Ca2+ storage and release during crucial reproductive stages. Despite significant progress, their precise molecular mechanisms remain elusive. In this review, we explore the multifaceted roles of AGPs in plant reproduction, shedding light on the recent progress in their involvement in signalling pathways, cell wall interactions, and Ca2+ homeostasis, while highlighting the ongoing research needed to fully understand their mechanisms in reproductive success.
- Statutes of the International Committee on Systematics of Prokaryotes - July 2025 revisionPublication . Arahal, David R.; Göker, Markus; Hahnke, Richard L.; Manaia, Célia M.; Moore, Edward R. B.; Oren, Aharon; Sutcliffe, Iain C.; Ventura, StefanoThe members of the International Committee on Systematics of Prokaryotes (ICSP) have recently voted on a proposed revision of its statutes. We here present the outcome of the vote and the text of the revised statutes, as approved by the ICSP.
- Biochemical composition and functional application of enzyme-assisted extracts from leaves of Cannabis sativa L.Publication . Januskevice, V.; Gomes, A. M.; Sousa, S.; Cesoniene, L.; Streimikyte, P.; Viskelis, P.; Urbonaviciene, D.Enzyme-assisted extraction (EAE) has recently gained attention for its effectiveness and eco-friendly manner of extracting valuable compounds, enhancing their nutritional value at a lower cost. Cannabis sativa L. is a widely distributed and one of the oldest plant species in the Cannabaceae family. However, the plant leaves have not been widely studied for their biochemical and functional applications. This study aimed to investigate the biochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and prebiotic potential of EAE from C. sativa leaves. Extracts were obtained under optimal conditions (3:15 h of extraction, temperature 45°C, pH 4.9, and 1% enzyme (v/w of dry matter)). The extractions were performed using Viscozyme L, Cellulase enzymes, and control without enzyme. The antioxidant activity of C. sativa leaf extracts was assessed using ABTS•+, FRAP, and ORAC assays, while the total phenolic content was obtained using the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The prebiotic potential of C. sativa leaf extracts was evaluated in an in vitro screening model using probiotic strains Lactobacillus casei 01 and Bifidobacterium animalis BLC. Extracts were tested at 5% (v/v) and 50% (v/v) concentrations. The results indicated that the yield after EAE with Viscozyme L enzyme mixture increased by up to 44% compared with EAE with Cellulase enzyme and control. Moreover, the highest antioxidant activity was established in EAE with Viscozyme L enzyme extract within all tested assays. Furthermore, all tested extracts were established to possess prebiotic potential with tested probiotic strains, but the greatest results were obtained in EAE with Viscozyme L enzyme mixture extract. In conclusion, EAE may be an effective and sustainable method for biorefining bioactive compounds, potentially applicable in high-value functional foods and nutraceuticals.
- Evaluating pomegranate seed oil for potential topical applications: safety, anti-inflammatory activity and wound healing in skin cell modelsPublication . Costa, Eduardo M.; Machado, Manuela; Pintado, Manuela; Silva, SaraPomegranate seed oil (PSO), a by-product of pomegranate juice production, has a long-standing role in traditional medicine, yet is mechanistic and pharmaceutical potential for skin applications remains unexplored. This work explored the bioactivity of PSO in human keratinocytes (HaCaT) and dermal fibroblasts (HDFa) through evaluation of its impact upon cellular metabolism, anti-inflammatory properties and wound healing capacity. The data obtained showed that PSO exhibited no cytotoxic effects up to 500 µg/mL and significantly suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, TNF-?) under LPS-induced inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, wound closure in fibroblasts was accelerated by approximately 20% in a 24-h period. Although antioxidant activity was limited under induced oxidative stress, PSO exerted mild protective effects under basal conditions and fatty acid profiling revealed a PUFA-rich composition, including dihomolinolenic and punicic acids, potentially linked to the observed impact upon cellular metabolism. Overall, these findings offer novel insights into PSO’s dual functionality in skin regeneration and immune modulation, supporting its application as a bioactive ingredient for advanced topical therapies.
- Avaliação das alterações provocadas pela maturação no conteúdo de ácidos fenólicos e flavonóides de mirtiloPublication . Coelho, Marta; Silva, Sara; Costa, Eduardo M.; Pintado, Mª Manuela
- Dry-aged beef: a global review of meat quality traits, microbiome dynamics, safety, and sustainable strategiesPublication . Ribeiro, Ana J.; Silva, Filipe; Teixeira, Paula; Saraiva, Cristina M.Dry-aged beef is valued for its tenderness, complex aroma, and concentrated flavor. However, variability in aging protocols and limited understanding of underlying biological and technological processes can compromise consistent quality and safety. This review examines factors influencing meat characteristics, including genetics, breed, sex, age, diet, intramuscular fat deposition, antioxidant reserves, and endogenous enzyme pools. Postmortem biochemical pathways, such as proteolysis, lipid oxidation, and nucleotide degradation, are discussed in relation to flavor and texture development. The dynamics of surface microbiota are analyzed, highlighting the succession from psychrotrophic spoilage bacteria to molds and yeasts, which collectively form an enzymatic crust that contributes umami and nutty notes while providing antimicrobial barriers. Regulatory frameworks in major markets are reviewed, alongside valorization strategies that convert crust trimmings into umami-rich powders, bioactive peptides, starter cultures, or industrial enzymes. Despite advances, critical knowledge gaps remain, including the functional roles of minor crust taxa, the efficacy of defined starter cultures or bacteriophage blends, and standardized methods for texture and flavor measurement. By focusing on these biochemical and microbiological mechanisms and their applications, this review provides a roadmap for transforming dry aging into a reproducible, safe, and high-quality process in modern meat science.
- Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and cognitive decline in adults with non-dementia or mild cognitive impairment: an overview of systematic reviewsPublication . Barros, Maria Inês; Brandão, Teresa; Irving, Susana Couto; Alves, Paula; Gomes, Filomena; Correia, MartaBackground/Objectives: As global aging accelerates, prevalence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) continues to rise, challenging healthcare systems and diminishing older adults’ quality of life. There is great interest in better understanding the neuroprotective/anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids but the results from many published studies in humans come to different conclusions. This review aims to clarify the efficacy of n-3 fatty acids as a preventive or therapeutic strategy for cognitive health and to inform future clinical recommendations within aging populations. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines and a registered PROSPERO protocol, we reviewed systematic reviews (SRs) from 2014 to 2024 assessing exclusive n-3 fatty acid supplementation and cognitive outcomes via MMSE. Data were extracted on intervention details and cognitive scores. Meta-analyses used fixed and random-effects models, with Hedges’ estimating overall impact. Quality was assessed using AMSTAR-2, and statistical analyses were performed (SPSS 28). Results: A total of nine SRs incorporating 14 RCTs were included, representing 26,881 participants aged 40 years or older. The pooled random-effects meta-analysis showed a statistically significant but modest improvement in MMSE scores (effect size: 0.16; 95% CI: 0.01–0.32). Heterogeneity was moderate (I2 = 42.8%), and no publication bias was detected. Further analyses revealed no significant associations between treatment duration or dosage and cognitive outcomes, suggesting a threshold effect rather than a dose–response relationship. Conclusions: These findings support n3-PUFA supplementation as a complementary approach to lifestyle-based strategies for cognitive health, including diet, physical activity, sleep optimization, and cognitive training. While benefits appear modest, consistent effects across studies warrant further high-quality research and well-designed studies to strengthen clinical recommendations.