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Chestnuts (Castanea sativa) are valuable fruits that are extremely economically important for south European mountainous regions. During chestnut processing, large amounts of C. sativa shells (CSS)...

This study aimed to prepare and characterize organogels containing microparticles of ascorbic acid (AA) obtained from propolis by-product. The formulations F1 (5% of microparticles) and F2 (10% of microparticles) were evaluated regarding rheological and textural properties, antioxidant and radical scavenging activity

A new bioadsorbent from Luffa cylindrica and cross-linked chitosan was proposed in the present study. Luffa was used as a natural support medium for chitosan crosslinked with glutaraldehyde (LCsG) and epichlorohydrin (LCsE). Biosponges were applied to remove Allura red from aqueous solutions. LCsG and LCsE were produced using different concentrations of chitosan (1%, 3% and 5% (m v−1)) and crosslinking agents (0.5%, 1.0% and 1.5% (v v−1)). Based on the FT-IR spectra, functional groups characteristic of chitosan crosslinked with glutaraldehyde and epichlorohydrin confirmed the crosslinking. In addition, the biosorbent revealed highly efficient functional groups and morphology with irregularities favorable for adsorption. It was found that the increase in the percentage of glutaraldehyde and epichlorohydrin increased the sample's swelling degree, and the degree of cross-linking was greater than 80% for all LCsG. The results regarding the degree of swelling and degree of crosslinking corroborated with the evaluation of the biosponge's adsorptive potential. The Sips model predicted the equilibrium isotherms, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 89.05 mg g−1 for LCsG and 60.91 mg g−1 for LCsE. The new procedure was successful. Luffa was excellent support for chitosan, resulting in an attractive, low-cost bioadsorbent, preventing renewable sources.

In this work, a novel and effective hydrochar was prepared by hydrothermal treatment of Prunus serrulata bark to remove the pesticide atrazine in river waters. The hydrothermal treatment has generated hydrochar with a rough surface and small cavities, favoring the atrazine adsorption. The adsorption equilibrium time was not influenced by different atrazine concentrations used, being reached after 240 min. The Elovich adsorption kinetic model presented the best adjustment to the kinetic data. The Langmuir model presented the greatest compliance to the isotherm data and indicated a higher affinity between atrazine and hydrochar, reaching a maximum adsorption capacity of 63.35 mg g-1. Thermodynamic parameters showed that the adsorption process was highly spontaneous, endothermic, and favorable, with a predominance of physical attraction forces. In treating three real river samples containing atrazine, the adsorbent showed high removal efficiency, being above 70 %. The hydrochar from Prunus serrulata bark waste proved highly viable to remove atrazine from river waters due to its high efficiency and low precursor material cost.

In this investigation, the coal fires in different Colombian coal mines were studied using advanced electron beam and X-ray diffraction techniques. The results were compared with information from high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) equipped with a dispersive X-ray detector (EDS). Amorphous phases, salammoniac, anatase, muscovite, goethite, jarosite, calcite, gypsum, kaolinite, illite, and quartz are the dominant mineral matter constituents in almost all of the coal fires, with minute quantities of native sulfur, magnetite, siderite, pyrite, pickeringite, epsomite, hexahydrite, halotrichite being present in around half of the investigated coal fire samples. Other minerals that are present in some particular samples are chlorite, ankerite, and dolomite. Fe-sulfides were also detected particularly in the pyrite-bearing coal fires, possibly indicating oxidation of the Fe-sulfides occurring with coal fires. Exhaust discharge data indicate an overall trend of reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) releases (between 1.5 and 34%) from the coal fires. This is the first report on Colombian coal fires, which would be important for different perspectives of the research in the area.

Olea europaea cultivar, native in the Mediterranean basin, has expanded worldwide, mainly due to the olive oil industry. This expansion is attributed to the benefits of olive oil consumption, since this product is rich in nutritional and bioactive compounds. However, the olive industry generates high amounts of wastes, which could be related to polluting effects on soil and water. To minimize the environmental impact, different strategies of revalorization have been proposed. In this sense, the aim of this work was to develop high cosmetic value added oleuropein-enriched extracts (O20 and O30), a bioactive compound from olive byproducts, performing a comprehensive characterization using high performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and evaluate their bioactivity by in vitro assays. A total of 49 compounds were detected, with oleuropein and its derivatives widely found in O30 extract, whereas iridoids were mainly detected in O20 extract. Moreover, 10 compounds were detected for the first time in olive leaves. Both extracts demonstrated strong antioxidant and antiradical activities, although O30 showed higher values. In addition, radical oxygen and nitrogen species scavenging and enzyme inhibition values were higher in O30, with the exception of HOCl and hyaluronidase inhibition assays. Regarding cell viability, olive byproduct extracts did not lead to a decrease in keratinocytes viability until 100 µg/mL. All data reported by the present study reflect the potential of industrial byproducts as cosmetic ingredients.

Indexado en Scopus Air pollution has become a major problem in urban areas due to increasing industrialization and urbanization. In this study ambient concentrations of PM1 and metal concentrations as well as source contributions were identified and quantified by using Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) in receptor modeling in the Metropolitan Area of Porto Alegre, Brazil. The PM1 samples were collected on PTFE filters from December 2012 to December 2014 in two sampling sites. Major ion and trace element concentrations were assessed. The average concentrations were 12.8 and 15.2 µg/m3 for Canoas and Sapucaia do Sul sites, respectively. Major ion contributions of PM1 were secondary pollutants such as sulfate and nitrate. Trace elements, especially Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd, and Ni also made important contributions which are directly associated with anthropogenic contributions. Our results show significantly higher levels in winter than in summer. Most of the PM1 and the analyzed PM species and elements originated from anthropogenic sources, especially road traffic, combustion processes and industrial activities, which are grouped in 7 major contributing sources. A back-trajectory analysis showed that the long-range transport of pollutants was not relevant in relation to the contribution to PM1 and metal concentrations. This work highlights the importance of urban planning to reduce human health exposure to traffic and industrial emissions, combined with awareness-raising actions for citizens concerning the impact of indoor sources. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion Revisión por pares

This study used the bark of the forest species Campomanesia guazumifolia modified with H2SO4 to absorb the anti-inflammatory ketoprofen from aqueous solutions. FTIR spectra confirmed that the main bands remained after the chemical treatment, with the appearance of two new bands related to the elongation of the carbonyl group present in hemicellulose. Micrographs confirmed that the surface started to contain a new textural shape after acid activation, having new pores and cavities. The drug adsorption’s optimum conditions were obtained by response surface methodology (RSM). The adsorption was favored at acidic pH (2). The dosage of 1 g L−1 was considered ideal, obtaining good indications of removal and capacity. The Elovich model very well represented the kinetic curves. The isotherm studies indicated that the increase in temperature negatively affected the adsorption of ketoprofen. A maximum adsorption capacity of 158.3 mg g−1 was obtained at the lower temperature of 298 K. Langmuir was the best-fit isotherm. Thermodynamic parameters confirmed the exothermic nature of the system (ΔH0 = −8.78 kJ mol−1). In treating a simulated effluent containing different drugs and salts, the removal values were 35, 50, and 80% at 15, 30, and 180 min, respectively. Therefore, the development of adsorbent from the bark of Campomanesia guazumifolia treated with H2SO4 represents a remarkable alternative for use in effluent treatment containing ketoprofen.

Sustainability arises as a challenge in the last decades and the cosmetic field is not an exception. The search for new cosmetic active principles extracted from food byproducts through eco-innovative technologies has emerged as a novel concept. However, the European Regulation is very restrictive and different assays should be performed to guarantee the products' efficacy and safety. Considering a multidisciplinary approach, this paper aims to compare chestnut shell extracts prepared by three different green techniques – Subcritical Water Extraction (SWE), Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE) and Supercritical Fluids Extraction (SFE) – regarding antimicrobial activity, hyaluronidase and elastase inhibitory activities, in-vitro cytotoxicity on dermal cells (HaCaT and HFF-1) and skin permeation (using Franz cells coupled to human skin). The best extract was tested on skin and ocular 3D models and through an in-vivo patch test to evaluate its irritancy and safety. The results demonstrated the antimicrobial properties of the extracts (particularly against Staphylococcus aureus) as well as the capacity to inhibit the hyaluronidase (IC50 = 0.76–54.36 mg/mL) and elastase (33.56–82.70% at 0.4 mg/mL) activities. Regarding in-vitro cell assays, UAE and SWE extracts revealed the best outcomes. Between 0.1 and 100 μg/mL, none of the extracts conducted to a decrease of cell viability in both cell lines (HaCaT and HFF-1). The ex-vivo assay proved that SWE extract led to a higher polyphenol's permeation (1061.6 μg/g dw), being selected for further assays. Ellagic acid was the major polyphenol that permeated the human skin (732.1–847.0 μg/g dw). The 3D skin and ocular models evidenced absence of irritation by SWE extract, without decreasing cell viability and releasing IL-1α. Finally, an in-vivo patch test confirmed the absence of irritation in humans based on the acute irritation index of 0.50 achieved 24 h after the patch removal. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that validated by in-vitro and in-vivo assays, and in accordance with the European Regulation 1223/2009, a new cosmetic ingredient extracted from chestnut shells., The authors' kindly thanks to Sortegel (Sortes, Portugal) for the samples. This research was funded by FCT/MCTES through national funds (UIDB/50006/2020) and project PTDC/ASP-AGR/29277/2017 - Castanea sativa shells as a new source of active ingredients for Functional Food and Cosmetic applications: a sustainable approach, financially supported by national funds by FCT/MCTES and co-supported by Fundo Europeu de Desenvolvimento Regional (FEDER) throughout COMPETE 2020 - Programa Operacional Competitividade e Internacionalização (POCI-01-0145-FEDER-029277). This work was also supported by Project UIDB/04033/2020 (CITAB-Center for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences). Diana Pinto (SFRH/BD/144534/2019) is grateful for the PhD grant financed by FCT/MCTES and POPH-QREN and supported by funds from UE and Fundo Social Europeu (FSE) through Programa Operacional Regional Norte. Francisca Rodrigues is thankful for her contract (CEECIND/01886/2020) financed by FCT/MCTES—CEEC Individual 2020 Program Contract.

Castanea sativa is an outstanding species that represents a valuable natural resource for rural populations. C. sativa shells (CSS), an abundant agro-industrial by-product generated during chestnut peeling process, is commonly discarded or used as fuel. Nevertheless, CSS produced are not depleted by this application and huge amounts are still available, being particularly rich in bioactive compounds (polyphenols, vitamin E, lignin and oligosaccharides) with health benefits. Phytochemical studies reported not only antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, but also anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic and neuroprotective activities. The application of a suitable extraction technique is required for the isolation of bioactive compounds, being green extraction technologies outstanding for the industrial recovery of chestnut shells' bioactive compounds. CSS were highlighted as remarkable sources of functional ingredients with promising applications in food and nutraceutical fields, mainly as natural antioxidants and effective prebiotics. This review aims to summarize the phytochemical composition and pro-healthy properties of CSS, emphasizing the sustainable extraction techniques employed in the recovery of bioactive compounds and their potential applications in food and nutraceutical industries., This work received financial support from project PTDC/ASP-AGR/29277/2017- Castanea sativa shells as a new source of active ingredients for Functional Food and Cosmetic applications: A sustainable approach, supported by national funds by FCT / MCTES and co-supported by Fundo Europeu de Desenvolvimento Regional (FEDER) throughout COMPETE 2020 - Programa Operacional Competitividade e Internacionalização (POCI-01-0145-FEDER-029277). This work was also supported by UIDB/50006/2020 and UIDP/50006/2020 by FCT / MCTES through national funds. Diana Pinto (SFRH/BD/144534/2019) is thankful for the PhD grant financed by FCT/MCTES and POPH-QREN and supported by funds from UE and Fundo Social Europeu (FSE) through Programa Operacional Regional Norte. María de la Luz Cádiz-Gurrea is also grateful to the University of Granada for a “Perfeccionamiento de Doctores” postdoctoral contract. Anna Vallverdú-Queralt thanks the Spanish Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades for the Ramon y Cajal contract (RYC-2016-19355). Francisca Rodrigues is thankful for her contract (CEECIND/01886/2020) financed by FCT/MCTES—CEEC Individual 2020 Program Contract.

Hardy kiwifruit (Actinidia arguta) is a highly appreciated exotic fruit endowed with outstanding bioactive compounds. The present work proposes to characterize the pulp from A. arguta organic fruits, emphasizing its radicals scavenging capacity and effects on intestinal cells (Caco-2 and HT29-MTX). The physicochemical properties and phenolic profile were also screened. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC, respectively) of pulp were 12.21 mg GAE/g on dry weight (DW) and 5.92 mg CE/g DW, respectively. A high antioxidant activity was observed (FRAP: 151.41 μmol FSE/g DW; DPPH: 12.17 mg TE/g DW). Furthermore, the pulp did not induce a toxic effect on Caco-2 and HT29-MTX cells viability up to 1000 μg/mL. Regarding in vitro scavenging capacity, the pulp revealed the highest scavenging power against NO. (IC50 =3.45 μg/mL) and HOCl (IC50 =12.77 μg/mL). These results emphasize the richness of A. arguta fruit pulp to be used in different food products.

In this work, Diospyros kaki fruit waste was employed as a precursor material to develop a high surface area activated carbon, which efficiently removed the toxic herbicide atrazine (ATZ) from synthetic water solutions and river waters. The alternative activated carbon presented excellent characteristics and structure, including high values of specific surface area (1067 m2 g-1) and pore volume (0.530 cm3 g-1) and some important functional groups on the surface. The temperature positively influenced the adsorption capacity, from 194.20 to 211.51 mg g- 1. The Freundlich model was the proper one to represent the equilibrium data. Thermodynamic parameters confirmed the endothermic nature of the adsorption process. Kinetic studies confirmed that equilibrium was reached until 240 min, regardless of ATZ initial concentration. The LDF model adjusted well to the kinetic data, resulting in a diffusion coefficient ranging from 0.89x10-9 to 1.63x10-9 cm2 s-1 as the ATZ concentration increased. The activated carbon also decreased 85% of the ATZ concentration in a river water sample. Overall, the activated carbon developed from Diospyros kaki fruit waste presented an efficient ATZ removal from aqueous matrices.

This work focused on evaluating the possibility of using vineyard pruning wastes from two Portuguese Vitis vinifera varieties, Touriga Nacional (TN) and Tinta Roriz (TR), as new potential ingredients for the nutraceutical industry. An environmentally friendly extraction technique, namely subcritical-water extraction (SWE), was employed. The overall results indicate that phenolic acids were the major class of compounds quantified, being gallic acid the principal one. The highest value for total phenolic content (TPC) was obtained for the TR extract at 250 °C (181 ± 12 mg GAE/g dw). In terms of antioxidant activity, the DPPH values for the extracts obtained at 250 °C were approximately 4-fold higher than the ones obtained at 125 °C, with TR extract presenting the highest value (203 ± 22 mg TE/g dw). Thus, the TR extract obtained through SWE at 250 °C was selected to evaluate the scavenging activity and the in vitro effects on cells due to the best results achieved in the previous assays. This extract presented the ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (O2●-, HOCl and ROO●). No adverse effects were observed in HFF-1 viability after exposure to extract concentrations below 100 μg/mL. This work demonstrated that vine-canes extracts could be a potential ingredient to nutraceutical industry

The majority of works about vine-canes are focused on the evaluation of their chemical composition and antioxidant potential. To the best of our knowledge, the possible applications of produced extracts in cosmetic formulations have never been explored. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant properties of vine-canes subcritical water extracts for use as active ingredients in the cosmetic industry. For that, the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of six vine-cane varieties, namely Alvarinho and Loureiro from the Minho region and Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz (TR) from both the Douro and D&atilde, o regions, were evaluated through spectrophotometric and chromatographic methods. All extracts presented similar antioxidant activity and the highest phenolic content was reported for TR variety from the Douro region (33.7 &plusmn, 1.9 mg GAE/g dw). The capacity of vine-cane extracts to capture reactive oxygen species superoxide (O2&minus, ) was also studied, with the highest IC50 value being obtained for Loureiro variety (56.68 &plusmn, 2.60 &micro, g/mL). Furthermore, no adverse effects on HaCaT and HFF-1 dermal cell lines in concentrations below 100 and 1000 g/mL, respectively, were determined. Finally, Loureiro vine-cane extract was incorporated into a topical formulation, and physical and microbiological properties were within expected values, demonstrating that vine-canes extracts can be successfully incorporated in cosmetic products.

Chestnut processing industry generates large amounts of by-products, including leaves, burs and shells that are a source of bioactive compounds. The purpose of this study was to establish an ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of phenolic and antioxidant compounds from industrial chestnut shells. A central composite design (CCD) was conducted to analyze the effects of time (4&ndash, 46 min) and temperature (34&ndash, 76 &deg, C) in the antioxidant activity (2,2&prime, azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)) and total phenolic compounds (TPC) of chestnut shells extracts. The optimal extraction conditions were obtained at 70 &deg, C for 40 min. The optimal extract was characterized regarding phenolic profile, radical scavenging capacity, and effects on intestinal and dermal cell lines. The optimal extract revealed high amounts of ellagic acid (40.4 &micro, g/mg dw), followed by caffeic acid derivative (15.4 &micro, g/mg dw) and epigallocatechin (15.3 &micro, g/mg dw). Indeed, the extract exhibited the highest scavenging efficiencies against NO● (IC50 = 0.1 &micro, g/mL) and HOCl (IC50 = 0.7 &micro, g/mL) and did not conducted to a decrease on HaCaT and HFF-1 viability up to 100 &mu, g/mL. Oppositely, a decrease on Caco-2 and HT29-MTX viability was observed. This study suggests that UAE could be a sustainable option to valorize chestnut shells as raw material for different industries.

Castanea sativa shells (CSS), an abundant and underexploited agro-residue in chestnut producing countries, are an excellent source of bioactive compounds with outstanding health-promoting properties. The aim of this study was to recover bioactive compounds from CSS employing Supercritical Fluid Extraction-CO2 (SC-CO2). The optimization of the extraction was performed based on the antioxidant activity of CSS extracts evaluated by FRAP, DPPH and ABTS assays. The optimal CSS extract was further characterized regarding in vitro radical scavenging capacity, phenolic profile and intestinal cell effects. The optimal conditions were 60 °C, 350 bar and 15% of co-solvent. The results demonstrated that CSS extract was an effective scavenger of NO (IC50 = 0.76 μg/mL) and HOCl (IC50 = 1.57 μg/mL). The IC50 calculated for Caco-2 and HT29-MTX were, respectively, 477.94 μg/mL and 3.71 μg/mL. Indeed, the phenolic profile revealed the presence of phenolic acids (particularly ellagic acid and caffeic acid derivative) and flavonoids (epigallocatechin and catechin/epicatechin). Overall, this work suggests the valorization of CSS extracted by SC-CO2 as promising nutraceutical ingredient based on its bioactivity and safety. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that employed SC to recover bioactive compounds from CSS.

The present study reports for the first time the identification and quantification of phenolic compounds, the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities as well as the in vitro radical scavenging activity and intestinal cell effects of A. arguta leaves extracts. Extractions were carried out under water, water:ethanol (50:50) and ethanol. The highest antioxidant activity were obtained in alcoholic extract (IC50 = 53.95 ± 3.09 μg/mL for DPPH; 6628.42 ± 382.49 µmol/mg dry weight basis for FRAP) while the phenolic profile confirmed by HPLC analysis revealed highest amounts of phenolic acids (hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives) and flavonoids (flavan-3-ol and flavonols derivatives). An excellent scavenging activity against reactive oxygen and nitrogen species were determined for all extracts as well as no adverse effects on Caco-2 and HT29-MTX cells in concentrations below 100 μg/mL and 1000 μg/mL, respectively. These results highlight the potentialities of hardy kiwi leaves valorization.

Propolis is a natural adhesive resinous compound produced by honeybees to protect hives from bacteria and fungi, being extremely expensive for food industry. During propolis production, a resinous by-product is formed. This resinous waste is currently undervalued and underexploited. Accordingly, in this study the proximate physical and chemical quality, as well as the antioxidant activity, radical scavenging activity and cell viability of this by-product were evaluated and compared with propolis in order to boost new applications in food and pharmaceutical industries. The results revealed that the by-product meets the physical and chemical quality standards expected and showed that the propolis waste contains similar amounts of total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) to propolis. Also, a good scavenging activity against reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS, respectively) determined by the assays of superoxide anion radical (O2-), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), hypochlorous acid (HOCl), nitric oxide (NO) and peroxyl radical (ROO) were determined. Linear positive correlations were established between the TPC of both samples and the antioxidant activity evaluated by three different methods (DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assays). The extracts were also screened for cell viability assays in two different intestinal cell lines (HT29-MTX and Caco-2), showing a viability concentration-dependent. Similarly, the Artemia salina assay, used to assess toxicity, demonstrated the concentration influence on results. Finally, the antifungal activity against ATCC species of Candida was demonstrated. These results suggest that propolis by-product can be used as a new rich source of bioactive compounds for different areas, such as food or pharmaceutical.

The purpose of this study was to optimize the extraction of antioxidants from Salicornia ramosissima by-product through Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The impacts of time (10–60 min) and temperature (40–80 °C) in total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant/antiradical activity were assessed. The optimal extract was attained at the binomial 80 °C/10 min and characterized regarding phenolic composition, pigments quantification, radicals quenching capacity, anti-acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, and cell viability effects. The optimal extract was characterized by low carotenoids content (8.15 μg/g on dry weight (dw)) and high amounts of hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives (23.12 mg/g dw). A remarkable scavenging efficiency was observed, particularly for HOCl (IC50 = 27.61 μg/mL) and ONOO− (IC50 = 47.32 μg/mL). No adverse effects were detected on HaCaT and HFF-1 viability up to 1000 μg/mL. Additionally, the neuroprotective properties of the optimal extract were demonstrated by AChE inhibition (32.34% at 1000 μg/mL). This study encourages the sustainable recovery of antioxidants from the undervalued biowaste of S. ramosissima as a new raw material for different industries.

In the present work, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were used as support material for the impregnation of metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) produced by green synthesis. The influences of the plant extracts (pomegranate (Punica Granatum), Eucalyptus, and pecan (Carya illinoinensis, leaves), metal species (copper and iron), metallic concentrations, and type of functionalization (OH and COOH) on the characteristics of the obtained materials were studied. The precursor and impregnated MWCNTs were characterized through X-ray diffraction, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, point of charge, N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms and, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. All the synthesized materials were tested as adsorbents to remove glyphosate (GLY) in an aqueous medium. The MWCNTs were resistant to withstand the synthesis process, preserving its structure and morphological characteristics. The copper and iron on the surface of MWCNTS confirm the successful synthesis and impregnation of the MNPs. The MWCNTs impregnated with high metallic concentrations showed favorable adsorption of GLY. The adsorption capacity and percentage of removal were 21.17 mg g−1 and 84.08%, respectively, for the MWCNTs impregnated with iron MNPs using the pecan leaves as a reducing agent. The results indicated that an advanced adsorbent for GLY could be obtained by green synthesis, using MWCNTs as precursors and pecan leaves as a reducing agent.

This paper reports the application of an advanced multilayer model to study the adsorption of food dyes FD&C blue No. 2, acid red 18, FD&C red No. 2, and FD&C yellow 5 from aqueous solutions with a chitosan film. These dyes' adsorption mechanisms were discussed and analyzed at 298–328 K and pH 4–7 via statistical physics calculations. Physicochemical parameters were utilized to explain the dye adsorption at the molecular scale. Modeling results showed dye aggregation phenomena where each functional group of chitosan film adsorbed several dye molecules simultaneously at different tested temperatures. Aqueous solution temperature reduced the dye adsorption capacities, attributed to the exothermic nature of dye removal. The chitosan film was more effective for the adsorption of dye FD&C yellow 5. The estimated adsorption energies for dye-chitosan film and dye-dye interactions confirmed an exothermic physisorption associated with van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding. This study's results contributed to expanding the knowledge on the adsorption mechanisms of dye molecules using biopolymers like chitosan.

The cosmetic industry is a field on rise where the search for novel antioxidant ingredients, preferably from natural matrixes, became a new challenge. The reuse of Castanea sativa shells as a source of phytochemicals with pro-healthy effects in skin care products may be a valuable alternative to valorize this underexploited agro-industrial by-product. A previous study of our research group demonstrated the antioxidant properties of chestnut shells extract obtained by ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), as well as its safeness on skin cell lines, namely keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Based on the extract richness in antioxidants, a formulation containing C. sativa shells extract obtained by this environmentally friendly technology was successfully developed in the present study. The oil-in-water (O/W) cream incorporating the chestnut shells extract was further characterized regarding organoleptic and technological properties, namely color, pH, droplets size, and viscosity. A stability study over time was also accomplished. The results demonstrate that the formulation not only displayed pleasant organoleptic characteristics attractive to consumers but also a pH compatible with skin and a suitable viscosity for topical application. The stability study revealed minor changes to droplet size and color, without affecting the general stability of the formulation. In conclusion, this study emphasized the prominent benefits of chestnut shells extract as a novel ingredient for skin care formulations.

During kiwiberry production, different by-products are generated, including leaves that are removed to increase the fruit’s solar exposure. The aim of this work was to extract bioactive compounds from kiwiberry leaf by employing microwave-assisted extraction (MAE). Compatible food solvents (water and ethanol) were employed. The alcoholic extract contained the highest phenolic and flavonoid contents (629.48 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per gram of plant material on dry weight (dw) (GAE/g dw) and 136.81 mg of catechin equivalents per gram of plant material on dw (CAE/g dw), respectively). Oppositely, the hydroalcoholic extract achieved the highest antioxidant activity and scavenging activity against reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (IC50 = 29.10 μg/mL for O2•−, IC50 = 1.87 μg/mL for HOCl and IC50 = 1.18 μg/mL for •NO). The phenolic profile showed the presence of caffeoylquinic acids, proanthocyanidin, and quercetin in all samples. However, caffeoylquinic acids and quercetin were detected in higher amounts in the alcoholic extract, while proanthocyanidins were prevalent in the hydroalcoholic extract. No adverse effects were observed on Caco-2 viability, while the highest concentration (1000 µg/mL) of hydroalcoholic and alcoholic extracts conducted to a decrease of HT29-MTX viability. These results highlight the MAE potentialities to extract bioactive compounds from kiwiberry leaf.

Recently, an increased interest in nanoscience applications can be observed in various fields. Soils around coal power plants may contain potentially hazardous elements (PHEs) and nanoparticles (NPs), which can be neo-produced pollutants or can be a product of industrial coal utilization. While titanium (Ti)-NPs contact is a worldwide concern, transference of Ti-NPs to infants as well as their human health impact is still imprecise. In general, the toxicity and the human health risk assessment associated with the presence of some Ti-NPs, needs to be determined with a robust and fast analytical methodology. The mode of occurrences of Ti-NPs in children’s playgrounds were evaluated by advanced electron microscopy techniques (field emission scanning electron microscope-FE-SEM and high resolution transmission electron microscope-HR-TEM) coupled with an energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis system (EDS); Raman Spectroscopy (RS); and X-Ray Diffractions (XRD). The reported data showed that when the size of the NPs reduced, the ability of sedimented dust aggregates to transport PHEs increased. Carbonaceous matter and amorphous silica were the main factors that influenced the distribution of PHEs among the studied Ti-NPs aggregates. Together, the data indicate that the proportions of PHEs in sedimented urban dust in the urban area around coal power plants are mainly due to emissions related to vehicle traffic and the coal industry, representing immediate environmental risks and long-term health risks. Therefore, actions are required to monitor and mitigate the impact of Ti-NPs aggregates in the urban area and nearby ecosystems. Such pollutants are necessary to be observed as children represent a susceptible cluster likened to adults. The currently estimated risk can be influenced by factors such as absorption, form of Ti-NPs, particle fraction, particle size, and physico-geochemical properties in relation to toxicity, among others. Analysis of actual particle concentrations in human organs, as well as organ concentrations and effects in liver and the reproductive system after chronic exposure to well-characterized Ti-NPs in animals are recommended to refine this assessment.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the optimal Subcritical Water Extraction (SWE) conditions of antioxidants and polyphenols from chestnut shells using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). A central composite design (CCD) was conducted to analyse the time (6–30 min) and temperature (51–249 °C) effects in antioxidant activity (ABTS, DPPH and FRAP) and Total Phenolic Compounds (TPC). TPC ranged from 315.21 to 496.80 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g DW; the DPPH from 549.23 to 1125.68 mg Trolox equivalents (TE)/g DW; ABTS varied between 631.16 and 965.45 mg ascorbic acid equivalents (AAE)/g DW and FRAP from 2793.95 to 11393.97 mg ferrous sulphate equivalents (FSE)/g DW. The optimal extraction conditions were 30 min/220 °C, revealing excelling scavenging efficiencies against HOCl (IC50 = 0.79 µg/mL) and O2 − (IC50 = 12.92 µg/mL) without toxicity on intestinal cells (0.1 µg/mL). The phenolic composition revealed high amounts of pyrogallol and protocatechuic acid. SWE can be a useful extraction technique for the recovery of polyphenolics from chestnut shells.

Pollution caused by hazardous and carcinogenic inorganic elements and organic compounds from coal may be more severe when coupled by other sources of pollution. In addition, the modes of occurrence of potential hazardous elements (PHEs) in coal cleaning rejects (CCRs) have been widely investigated using different methods, including statistical methods, which, however, in some cases resulted in misleading interpretations. In order to verify this potential problem and find an effective solution, we selected a data set, which contained comprehensive analyses of CCRs. The secondary products in sulphides-bearing coal mine rejects were studied in demand to determine their geochemical and ecological structures and to assess their position in the reduction of PHEs in the nature. A zone located in south Brazil, which is the major coal power plant in South America, can be given as an example of such a problem. In this work, a novel methodology for the analysis of PHEs in soils and sediments is proposed for this affected coal area. The analytical method combining X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and advanced electron microscopies shows the importance of nanomineralogy in understanding different circumstances of coal contamination. Several ultrafine-nanoparticles (UNPs) were identified in the sampled soils and river sediments together with the PHEs. A decrease in PHEs was identified in association with UNPs. However, still further investigations are required with regard to the mobility of PHEs in water, atmosphere, soils, and sediments. The site studied around the coal power plant showed the highest sorption capacity possibly due to the high retention ability of components of soil and sediments such as carbon and clay. These observations of the coal-derived nanoparticles confirm their capability of regulating the mobility of hazardous elements, implying the need for restoring complex abandoned coal areas.

Actinidia deliciosa and A. arguta fruits (kiwifruit and kiwiberry, respectively) are an excellent source of bioactive compounds. The aim of this paper is to valorize the fruits that are not commercialized (e.g. due to inadequate size or physical damage) in infusions and decoctions. The antioxidant activity, the scavenging activity against reactive species, the phenolic profile and the intestinal effects of infusions and decoctions of dehydrated fruits were evaluated and compared. Decoctions presented the highest antioxidant activity and a good ability to capture HOCl and NO. The phenolic composition of A. arguta present quinic acid, cis-caftaric acid and its derivatives, caffeoyl hexoside, luteolin glucuronide, quercetin derivatives and myristin, while A. deliciosa extracts were characterized by the presence of quinic acid, caffeic acid and its derivatives and caffeoyl hexoside. No adverse effects were observed on Caco-2 and HT29-MTX cells. Kiwiberry decoctions showed to be the best option to keep the fruits benefits., Diana Pinto is thankful for the research grant from project UID/QUI/50006. Tânia Gonçalves Albuquerque is grateful for the PhD fel-lowship (SFRH/BD/99718/2014) funded by Foundation for Scienceand Technology. Francisca Rodrigues is thankful for her postdoc re-search grant from the project Operação NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000011. Iva Fernandes is grateful for the Post-Doctoral Grant SFRH/BPD/86173/2012 from Foundation for Science and Technology. Thiswork receivedfinancial support from the European Union (FEDERfunds through COMPETE), under the Partnership Agreement PT2020,and National Funds (FCT, Foundation for Science and Technology)through project LAQV/UID/QUI/50006/2013 and NORTE-07-0124-FEDER-000069–Food Science.

The use of propolis by-product (PBP) microparticles (MP) as delivery systems can be a promising tool to surpass drawbacks related to low stability of ascorbic acid (AA). The objective of this study was to develop and characterize MP prepared with PBP containing AA. The MP was characterized regarding morphology, particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), association efficiency (AE), drug loading (DL), infrared and Raman spectroscopy as well as antioxidant and radical scavenging activity, in vitro release, and cellular studies. MP was shown to be spherical with some agglomeration. Its particle size was 1654 ± 0.210 nm with a PDI of 0.7. The AE and DL were, respectively, 100.30 ± 2.66% and 13.16 ± 0.59. Spectroscopic studies indicated a possible interaction between the PBP and AA. 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH˙), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays demonstrated that the MP containing AA have an excellent antioxidant capacity as well as a considerable scavenging activity against reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. The in vitro release profile showed a slow pattern of drug release of AA from MP. Viability studies with intestinal cells revealed that MP did not present toxicity in Caco-2 and HT29-MTX. Moreover, AA could permeate Caco-2 monolayers and triple co-culture substantially at the end of 8 h, opposite to the MP. Therefore, the proposed MP formulation represents a promising platform for oral delivery of AA with a local effect on intestines.

The aim of this study is to evaluate hardy kiwi (Actinidia arguta L.) leaves, a crop waste, as a source of bioactive compounds with potential application in different industries, such as food industry. For this study, a new, green and sustainable extraction technique was employed: Multi-Frequency Multimode Modulated Technology. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC, respectively) as well as the antioxidant activity (through DPPH and FRAP assays) and the scavenging capacity against reactive species (O2·-, H2O2, NO·, ROO·, HOCl and ONOO·) were evaluated. The cell viability effects were assessed on keratinocytes and fibroblasts and the phytochemical profile was stablished by HPLC-DAD-EIS-MS. The extract displayed a high antioxidant activity (IC50 = 270.17 ± 69.94 μg/mL through scavenging activity on DPPH radicals and 3219.55 ± 34.29 μmol Fe2+/g dm in the FRAP assay). The TPC was higher than the one reported for fruit. On the contrary, the TFC is lower. Concerning the scavenging capacity against reactive species, the extract was more effective against O2·- and H2O2. Regarding the cell viability assays, the extract did not affect the cell viability on HaCaT and HFF cells, in concentrations below 500 μg/mL and 125 μg/mL, respectively. The HPLC-DAD-EIS-MS-based phytochemical profile reported the presence of chlorogenic acid and glycosylated quercetin as well as kaempferol derivatives. Overall, the present results suggest that A. arguta leaves are a promising by-product when extracted by this innovative technology, being a valuable source of bioactive compounds for different industries, particularly food industry.

The nutritional composition of Calluna vulgaris flowers as well as the phytochemical profile, antioxidant (DPPH and FRAP assays), antimicrobial and cytotoxic (in human immortalized non-tumorigenic keratinocyte and fibroblasts) activities of aqueous, hydroalcoholic and ethanolic extracts were evaluated. A high content of fiber and carbohydrates (75%) and the prevalence of α-tocopherol as vitamer deserves attention. Linolenic (35%), linoleic (27%) and palmitic (21%) acids were the most abundant fatty acids. Qualitative and quantitative analysis by LC-MS and 1NMR indicated high levels of quercetin, kaempferol and myricetin derivatives as well as procyanidins. The hydro-alcoholic extract displayed the highest antioxidant activity and total phenolics (TPC) and flavonoid contents (TFC). No adverse effects on cells were observed until a concentration of 100 μg/mL and a good antimicrobial activity was reported against S. epidermidis and S. aureus with the hydro-alcoholic extract. The data obtained demonstrated that wild plants like heather, although not being a common nutritional reference, can be used in an alimentary base as a source of bioactive compounds, namely antioxidants. This work received financial support from the European Union (FEDER funds through COMPETE), under the partnership Agreement PT2020, and National Funds (FCT, Foundation for Science and Technology) through project LAQV/UID/QUI/50006/2013–POCI/01/0145/FEDER/007265. Francisca Rodrigues is thankful for her post-doc research grant from the project Operação NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000011. Diana Pinto is thankful for the research grant from project UID/QUI/50006. M. Antónia Nunes and Filipa B. Pimentel are grateful to the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT, Portugal) for the PhD fellowships (SFRH/BD/130131/2017 and SFRH/BD/109042/2015, respectively) financed by POPH-QREN and subsidised by the European Science Foundation and Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior. Tânia Gonçalves Albuquerque is grateful for the PhD fellowship (SFRH/BD/99718/2014) funded by FCT, FSE and MEC. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

This study aims to understand microorganisms' effect and relevance of aseptic conditions on wear performance of dental materials. Tribocouple zirconia/titanium was submitted to tribological tests in the presence of Streptococcus salivarius biofilm, the most abundant bacteria in the oral cavity. Reciprocating ball-on-plate tests were carried out at 37°C, pH 7, 2 N, and 1 Hz, during 2 h, using Ti6Al4V balls as pins and Y-TZP plates. Simultaneous OCP readings assessed corrosion tendency. Tested lubricants were artificial saliva, artificial saliva plus glucose, and artificial saliva plus glucose and S. salivarius. Wear volume and worn surfaces were analyzed after test. S. salivarius proliferation was enhanced in artificial saliva plus glucose. When a highly populated biofilm was present at the zirconia/titanium interface, titanium wear decreased by ~60% compared to artificial saliva and artificial saliva plus with glucose, respectively, with 0.0060 and 0.0053 mm3 loss. Wear was not observed in zirconia under any tested condition. Presence of S. salivarius also decreased corrosion activity during wear. Lowest free OCP value reached during sliding was -260 mV in artificial saliva, -246 mV in artificial saliva plus glucose, and -196 mV in artificial saliva plus glucose and bacteria. This decreased to -147 mV when a highly-populated S. salivarius biofilm was present at the interface. Overall, obtained results show that the presence of S. salivarius clearly changes the corrosion-wear performance of the tested dental materials, confirming that it must be recognized, and that asepsis level and conditions during wear test of dental materials must be clearly established and controlled to ensure reproducible results and supported conclusions. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 1393-1399, 2019.

Portuguese honeys (n = 15) from different botanical and geographical origins were analysed regarding their quality parameters (diastase activity, hydroxymethylfurfural content, moisture and pH), colour (L*, a*, b*) and antioxidant profile (total phenolics content, total flavonoids content, DPPH• scavenging activity, and ferric reducing power). The samples were analysed fresh and after 4-years of storage (at 25 °C and protected from light). The hydroxymethylfurfural content and diastase activity of the fresh samples were in accordance with the recommended values described in the legislation. In general, the antioxidant activity of the samples correlated more with the bioactive compounds content than with colour. The storage affected differently each individual sample, especially regarding the antioxidant profile. Nevertheless, although in general the lightness of the samples decreased (and the redness increased), after 4 years, 11 samples still presented acceptable diastase activity and hydroxymethylfurfural values.

Chestnuts are a common food product in Mediterranean countries, being recognized also for their beneficial effects on human health. Nevertheless, during processing, these fruits generate a large amount of food by-products, such as shells and burs. In the present work, the macronutrient composition, vitamin E profile and amino acid content of the burs were determined in samples from three different Portuguese regions (Minho, Tras-os-Montes and Beira-Alta). The nutritional composition was similar for all samples, being characterised by a high moisture content and low fat amounts. All essential amino acids were present in considerable amounts. Concerning vitamin E, the predominant vitamer was α-tocopherol for the Minho and Beira-Alta samples. The total phenolic compounds were quantified, and the antioxidant activity evaluated in different extracts using two biochemical assays (DPPH˙ and FRAP). All bur extracts showed a high total phenolic content, the highest obtained being that for the Beira-Alta samples. The chestnut bur from Minho showed the highest antioxidant activity in both assays. This study aims to demonstrate the potential of the Castanea sativa bur as a cosmetic and nutraceutical ingredient.

Synthesis of the bis-4-hydroxycoumarin-type compound, 3,3'-[3-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-3-oxopropane-1,1-diyl] bis(4-hydroxy-2H-chromen-2-one), was performed by two alternative pathways, either involving a basic organocatalyzed 1,4-conjugate addition tandem reaction of 4-hydroxycoumarin on chromone-3-carboxylic acid, or a double condensation of 4-hydroxycoumarin on omega-formyl-2'-hydroxyacetophenone. The anti-proliferative effects of the bis-4-hydroxycoumarin-type compound on human K-562 (chronic myeloid leukaemia) and JURKAT (acute T-cell leukaemia) cell lines using trypan blue staining, as well as its involvement in nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) regulation analyzed by luciferase reporter gene assay, gene expression analysis and western blots were analysed. This compound inhibited TNF alpha-induced NF-kappa B activation in K-562 (IC50 17.5 mu M) and JURKAT (IC50 19.0 mu M) cell lines, after 8 h of incubation. Interestingly, it exerted mainly cytostatic effects at low doses on both cell lines tested, whereas it decreased JURKAT cell viability starting at 50 mu M from 24 h of treatment. Importantly, it did not affect the viability of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy donors, even at concentrations above 100 mu M. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

We investigated the antioxidant properties of two synthetic diarylamines, MJQ1 and MJQ2. For one of them (MJQ1) the synthesis procedure is herein described. The compounds showed maximal protection of ADP/Fe(2+) induced mitochondrial lipid peroxidation for 50nM (MJQ1) and 60muM (MJQ2) concentrations. Both compounds were also effective in the prevention of mitochondrial DeltaPsi collapse. The effective antioxidant dose of MJQ1 in mitochondria (50nM) also proved to protect lipid peroxidation in PC12 cells and the effect seems not to be related with the compound's iron chelating ability. The modified structure of MJQ1 clearly resulted in an improvement of its antioxidant and toxic profile, evaluated in mitochondria and whole cells. This study demonstrates a high potential of these diarylamines, as radical scavengers, whose chemical structures can be manipulated if a specific target is well characterized.