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Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MNs) emerged as new promising drug-delivery platforms capable to overcome resistance in bacteria. Dual loading of drugs on these nanocarriers, exploiting synergistic interactions between the nanoparticles and the drugs, could be considered as a way to increase the efficacy against resistant bacteria with a positive effect even at very low concentrations. Considering that patients with cancer are highly susceptible to almost any type of bacterial infections, in this work, nanocarriers mesoporous silica-based, MNs and MNs@EPI were synthetized and submitted to single and/or dual loading of antibiotics (ofloxacin – OFLO) and anticancer drugs (Doxorubicin – DOX; Epirubicin – EPI), and investigated regarding their antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin–resistant S. aureus (MRSA), Enterococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Formulations containing ofloxacin such as MNs-OFLO, MNs-EPI + OFLO, MNs-DOX + OFLO and MNs@EPI + OFLO, present antibacterial activity in all bacterial strains tested. All these are more effective in E.coli with MIC and MBC values for MNs-OFLO, MNs-EPI + OFLO and MNs-DOX + OFLO of around 1 and 2 µgnanomaterial/mL, corresponding to ofloxacin concentrations of 0.03, 0.02 and 0.04 µg/mL, respectively. In the cocktail formulations the conjugation of epirubicin with ofloxacin presents a more effective antibacterial activity with more than 3-fold reduction of ofloxacin concentration when comparing to the single ofloxacin system. By far, the most effective synergistic effect was obtained for the system where epirubicin was functionalized at nanoparticles surface (MNs@EPI), where a 40-fold and 33-fold reductions of ofloxacin concentration were obtained, in P. aeruginosa in comparison to the MNs-OFLO and MNs-EPI + OFLO systems, respectively. These effects are shown in all bacterial strains tested, even in strains that have acquired resistance mechanisms, such as MRSA.

Cold storage conditions during long-term periods can be critical for the quality of gluten-free products. The objective of this work was to elaborate gluten-free pasta using cassava starch and study the influence of different storage conditions on the textural and sensorial properties of gluten-pasta compared to regular pasta. Samples were initially frozen at two different temperatures, -50 °C and -150 °C, and then stored for six months at -25 °C. Physicochemical and rheological analyses were used to characterize the pasta dough. Then microbiological, instrumental texture, and sensorial analysis were used to further characterize the pasta throughout the cold storage period of 6 months. The gluten-free pasta's nutritional composition showed low fat and protein content and high crude fiber, carbohydrates, and energy value content in relation to the gluten-containing pasta. Both kinds of pasta dough presented a pseudoplastic behavior; however, the wheat flour pasta presented lower apparent viscosity. The texture profile of frozen pasta during the evaluation period did not significantly vary when comparing the two freezing temperatures. Although the firmness, chewability, and cohesiveness parameters slightly decreased during the storage, losses of firmness were not detected by the judges at the sensorial analysis. Finally, cassava starch pasta had a high acceptance. According to the purchase intention research, the judges routinely consume gluten-free pasta, showing the high commercialization potential of the obtained product., Manihot esculenta crantz; Gluten-free pasta; Nutritional composition; Shelf life.

The aim of this work was to develop bionanocomposites based on chitosan/montmorillonite (MMT) incorporated with rosemary essential oil (REO) and to evaluate its activity as primary packaging of fresh poultry meat. Chitosan film form dispersions were incorporated with MMT and different levels of REO (0.5%, 1% and 2% v/v). Good interaction between the phenolic compounds present in the REO, the MMT and the chitosan was observed from FTIR spectra. The incorporation of REO increases film permeability to both water vapour and oxygen, whereas MMT incorporation reduced both permeabilities. However, all the developed films showed oxygen permeability values comparable with EVOH (a gas barrier used in packaging). In the in vitro essays, chitosan films with REO demonstrated good antimicrobial activity against Bacillus cereus (reduction of 7.2 log) and Salmonella enterica (reduction of 5.3 log) and in the migration assay, the total phenolic compounds increased with the level of REO incorporated. In the in situ essays, fresh poultry meat was wrapped with the films developed and stored under refrigeration (5 °C ± 2 °C) for 15 days. Compared to control (meat without film), meat wrapped with bioplastics showed reduction of 1.2–2.1 log CFU/g on the total microorganisms count, and active films also succeeded on retarding poultry lipid peroxidation and discoloration. Yet, the incorporation of MMT increased the interaction between the polymer/phenolic compounds/MMT, diminishing the release of the active compounds. In conclusion, the films showed potential to be used by the food industry, once they can substitute the commercial plastic films and extend products (poultry meat) shelf life. When improvement of the mechanical properties is not an issue, chitosan incorporated with REO and without MMT are the most promising materials.

The phenolic profile and antioxidant activity of Cape Verde's Artemisia gorgonum Webb and Hyptis pectinata (L.) Poit. infusions before and after in vitro simulation of the gastrointestinal digestion were determined. The LC-UV/DAD fingerprinting analysis allowed the identification of 3-O-caffeoylquinic acid, chlorogenic acid, 3,5 dicaffeoylquinic acid, 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid and other caffeoylquinic acids derivatives on A. gorgonum infusion, and of caffeoylquinic acid and quercetin derivatives on H. pectinata infusion. Despite some decrease in the chromatographic area of several peaks, no relevant qualitative alterations on the chromatographic profile were observed between the digested and undigested herbal infusions. Results obtained showed a decrease on the antioxidant capacity of both tested herbal infusions after the in vitro digestion. This decrease was more pronounced for H. pectinata than for A. gorgonum and was also more pronounced regarding the radical scavenging capacity than regarding the reducing capacity. After complete digestion the superoxide anion and the DPPH-radical scavenging capacities decreased ≈ 43 and 75% for H. pectinata and ≈ 31 and 70% for A. gorgonum. Despite the observed differences before and after simulated gastrointestinal digestion, both infusions still had antioxidant activity at the end of this process. Thus, the antioxidant potential of A. gorgonum and H. pectinata infusions from Cape Verde, prepared as traditionally used, seems to be kept in some extend throughout the digestive system.

Legume species are important food sources to reduce hunger and deal with malnutrition, they also play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture in the tropical dry islands of Cabo Verde. To improve the knowledge of the heritage of plant genetic resources in this Middle Income Country, this study had three main goals: (i) to provide a checklist of food legumes, (ii) to investigate which species are traded in local markets and, based on field surveys, to compare species for their chemical, phenolic, antioxidant, and nutritional composition, and (iii) to discuss the agronomic value and contribution to food security in this archipelago. Our results revealed that 15 species are used as food and 5 of them are locally traded (Cajanus cajan, Lablab purpureus, Phaseolus lunatus, Phaseolus vulgaris, and Vigna unguiculata). The role of these species as sources of important minerals, antioxidants, and nutritional components for food security is highlighted, and the native ones (Lablab purpureus and Vigna unguiculata) stand-out as particularly well-adapted to the climate of these islands, which are already experiencing the adverse effects of climate change. We conclude that the sustainable use of these genetic resources can contribute to the reduction of hunger and poverty, thus meeting some challenges of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Summer Savory (Satureja hortensis L.) is a plant traditionally used as a food spice in the Mediterranean region. Surprisingly, not much is known about the health beneficial effects of its phenolic-rich extracts. The majority of publications have always focused on the properties of their essential oil. One of the main phenolic compounds of Summer Savory is rosmarinic acid, which has demonstrated anti-inflammatory outcomes in several animal models of inflammatory-mediated diseases. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease, in addition to Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn&rsquo, s Disease, frequently related with increased morbidity and even mortality due to the complications associated, including colorectal cancer. Our work has shown, to our knowledge, for the first time, that administration of a phenolic extract of Summer Savory in a mouse model of Ulcerative Colitis led to the reduction of several markers for intestinal injury, including reduction of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2 or prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase) expression, two well-known mediators of tissue inflammation and progression to cancer and led also to a reduction of the mortality. Given the chemical constitution found in the extract and the preclinical evidence of a beneficial effect of polyphenols in inflammatory processes, an opportunity arises for pharmacological modulation of pathways relevant for IBD and progression to cancer with phenolic-rich extracts.

POCI-01-0145-FEDER-007265 PD/BD/142865/2018 CEECIND/00648/2017 UIDB/04077/2020 Sem PDF conforme despacho. Current antibiotics effectiveness relies on higher doses and administration frequency, which are responsible for the growth of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR is one of the major threatening issues of the century with last-line antibiotics already failing. To overcome such problems associated with bacterial infections, nanoparticles combined with antibiotics emerged as a promising strategy. In this work, nanocarriers comprising of gold–silica core–shell mesoporous nanoparticles (Au@MNs) and silica mesoporous nanoparticles (MNs) were synthesized, loaded with amoxicillin (Amox) and ofloxacin and investigated regarding its antibacterial activity towards S. aureus, methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), E. coli and P. aeruginosa. Both nanocarriers showed a beneficial role in the effective delivery of amoxicillin against MRSA and the well-known β-lactam resistant P. aeruginosa. Reductions of 10-fold (Amox@MNs) and 20-fold (Amox@Au@MNs) in the amount of antibiotic to treat P. aeruginosa; and a reduction of 20-fold (Amox@MNs) towards MRSA allied to a full reversion of resistance, strongly supports the promising potential of these nanocarriers to tackle antibiotics resistance. publishersversion published

Stemphylium vesicarium (Wallr.) E. G. Simmons is the pathogen responsible of brown spot disease in pear and has become one of the main concerns for European pear producers. In Portugal, S. vesicarium is responsible for significant yield reduction and economic losses in &ldquo, Rocha&rdquo, pear (Pyrus communis L. cv Rocha) production. Considering the antimicrobial potential of propolis, the high incidence of brown spot in pears and the emergence of fungicides resistance in S. vesicarium, this study aimed to evaluate the potential of Portuguese propolis as an alternative strategy to control brown spot disease in &ldquo, pear. In vitro assays showed that propolis extracts were able to inhibit up to 90% the S. vesicarium mycelial growth. In vivo assays in artificially wounded and inoculated &ldquo, pears showed that, compared to the control, the disease incidence decreased up to 25% and the lesions diameter up to 57%, in fruits treated with propolis. Moreover, propolis seems to be more efficient in reducing the disease incidence when applied after pathogen inoculation (curative assay) than when applied before pathogen inoculation (prophylactic assay). Thus, the results suggest that propolis extracts have potential to be applied as part of an integrated approach for the control of brown spot of pear.

There has been a growing interest in the recovery and valorization of chemical products from biomass wastes. In the present study pomace from sour cherry liquor was analyzed in order to evaluate its potential for valorization. Two different samples of liquor pomace and two different extraction methods were screened through determination of their phenolic content (HPLC/PDA) and antioxidant activity (FRAP and DPPH assay). Results obtained showed that skins (pomace without kernel) presented a higher extraction yield, polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity than pomace with kernel (skin+kernel). Decoction at 100 °C allowed a higher recovery of phenolic compounds, but, maceration with water at 25 °C was considered a more sustainable process. HPLC analyses allowed the identification and quantification of phenolic compounds such as cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, (+)catechin and (−)epicatechin and some phenolic acids. The analyzed by-products might be a promising source of natural polyphenolic compounds, which can act as a new eco-friendly antioxidant ingredient, with potential to be incorporated in nutraceutical formulations or applied in food or cosmetic industries. The residues remaining after extraction have a high calorific value and fat content, suggesting its valorization as a source of energy or through the extraction of value-added oil. proof published

The aim of this work was to evaluate the physical properties of bionanocomposites based on chitosan (Ch) reinforced with different commercial nanoclays and further incorporated with rosemary essential oil (REO). Cloisite®Na+, Cloisite®Ca++ and Cloisite®20 were evaluated through mechanical and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses. Incorporation of montmorillonites (MMT´s) improved the mechanical properties, with natural MMT’s providing greater reinforcement. Cloisite®Na+ was chosen to be casted incorporated with different concentrations of REO (0; 0.5; 1; 2%), due to its higher hydrophilic character. Rosemary essential oil reduced the tensile strength (33% at 2% of REO) and films turned opaque, more saturated in colour, and UV light block was improved (between 25–75% at 400 nm for 0.5–2% of REO). Superficial hydrophilicity and water solubility increased with the addition of REO while swelling index decreased. Bionanocomposites showed greater potential than pure chitosan for being used as packaging for food industry.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) have received considerable attention as an antibacterial agent particularly in the textile industry. In the present work a successful procedure for in situ growth of ZnONPs in textiles was developed. The results obtained showed that a combination of in situ synthesis and the sol–gel method promoted a uniform and dense adsorption of the nanoparticles both inside and on the surface of fabric fibres. The fabrics finished with ZnONPs have been investigated for antibacterial properties by the agar diffusion method and by the absorption method according to the ISO 20743:2013 standard and exhibited an antibacterial effect against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus ATCC33591, Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC1228, Staphylococcus aureus RN4220 and Propionibacterium acnes ATCC6919. Moreover, tests conducted with hydrogen peroxide suggested the involvement of reactive oxygen species, namely the involvement of hydrogen peroxide, in the antibacterial activity of the zinc oxide nanoparticles. Therefore, the synthesised nanoparticles showed great potential to be used as coatings for medical, cosmetic or sports fabrics.

Considering the increasing demand towards “ready-to-cook” processed seafood products, recognised as being potential contributors to high sodium (Na) intake by consumers, this study aimed to assess the effect of sodium chloride (NaCl) reduction on physicochemical, microbiological and sensory properties of European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) sausages stored in chilling conditions during 5 weeks. Three formulations were tested in comparison with a control (100% NaCl, CTR): (i) 50% NaCl+50% ME (oleoresins microcapsules) (F1); (ii) 50% NaCl+50% KCl (F2); and (iii) only 50% NaCl (F3). The NaCl reduction mainly affected the texture and the salty taste, resulting in softer and perceived as less salty sausages after processing. However, hardness differences disappeared after 5 weeks. It seems that an antioxidant protection was obtained in sausages formulated with oleoresins microcapsules. No or low growth of psychrotrophic and mesophilic bacteria was observed (≤2.40 log CFU/g). Decreasing NaCl content and/or partially replacing it (50%) by KCl or oleoresins microcapsules seem to be suitable solutions to reduce Na (30.9–36.3%) levels, while maintaining the chilled sausages quality for 5 weeks. The partial replacement of NaCl by KCl also allows obtaining a product richer in K (997.2 mg/100 g), which ingestion may contribute for a cardiovascular protective effect. This research was supported by European and national funds through the SEAFOODTOMORROW (European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under Grant Agreement no. 773400), SmoKlean (Mar 2020 FEAMP-0025) and Saltreduction (where oleoresins microcapsules were developed) projects as well as Foundation for Science and Technology (projects: UIDB/04077/2020, UIDB/ 04423/2020 and UIDP/04423/2020).

Industrial cooking of common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) under well-established procedures is advantageous for current consumers, which demand healthy and convenient food. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of industrial water boiling, without the addition of salt, on the nutritional profile of common octopus. True retentions (TRs) were calculated for essential nutrients and toxic elements. After boiling, the moisture content decreased, resulting in a concentration of other constituents (protein, fat, fatty acids, majority of amino acids, phosphorus, zinc, and iodine). High TRs were obtained for some essential nutrients: 90.2% (eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA), 89.1% (docosahexaenoic acid, DHA), &ge, 74.6% (indispensable amino acids, IAA), and 86.8% (iodine). In both raw and boiled octopus, polyunsaturated fatty acids (252.2 and 425.1 mg/100 g), leucine (940.1 and 1613.4 mg/100 g), glutamate (1971.5 and 3257.1 mg/100 g), sodium (393.3 and 332.5 mg/100 g), and zinc (12.6 and 16.6 mg/kg) were, respectively, the most abundant fatty acids, IAA, dispensable amino acids, macro, and micro elements. Cadmium, lead, and mercury levels found in boiled octopus were 0.02, 0.10, and 0.08 mg/kg, respectively. The consumption of 150 g (usual portion) of boiled octopus is advisable because it contributes to significant daily intakes of EPA+DHA (&gt, 100%), selenium (75.6%), and iodine (12.4%), and 25% of the daily adequate intake of sodium for adults.

The authors acknowledge SICOPAL-Namibe for donating Chaceon maritae specimens. Despite being highly appreciated and consumed, the nutritional value of Chaceon maritae from Namibe (Angola) had never been studied. In the present work, edible tissues (muscle, ovaries, and hepatopancreas) of boiled female C. maritae caught o Namibe coast in two distinct seasons were analyzed in terms of proximate chemical composition (fat, ash, protein, and moisture), fatty acid and amino acid profiles, cholesterol, essential minerals (macro and trace) and toxic elements. Results showed that, in both seasons, C. maritae muscle was a valuable source of protein, essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and essential elements, especially zinc, selenium, iodine, and copper. Ovaries and hepatopancreas are also good sources of protein, but were richer in fat, particularly when caught in October. Ovarian fat is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and that of hepatopancreas has higher values of monounsaturated and saturated fatty acids. Hepatopancreas and ovaries are also good sources of copper and, especially ovaries, of zinc. Moreover, in both seasons, all the edible tissues of C. maritae analyzed presented very low contents of heavy metals (mercury, cadmium, lead, and arsenic). This work was funded by FCT/MCTES as the funding entity of the MEtRiCs unit under the project UID/EMS/04077/2019, and by the post-doctoral grant: Ref.: SFRH/BPD/91498/2012 (FCT/MCTES) for the author J.R. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

In this work, zinc oxide (ZnO) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanostructures were grown on different cellulose paper substrates, namely, Whatman, office, and commercial hospital papers, using a hydrothermal method assisted by microwave irradiation. Pure ZnO and TiO2 nanostructures were synthesized; however, the growth of TiO2 above ZnO was also investigated to produce a uniform heterostructure. Continuous ZnO nanorod arrays were grown on Whatman and hospital papers; however, on office paper, the formation of nanoplates originating nanoflower structures could be observed. TiO2 nanoparticles homogeneously covered all the substrates, in some conditions forming uniform TiO2 films. Structural characterization was carried out by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy. The optical characterization of all the materials was carried out. The produced materials were investigated for multifunctional applications, like photocatalyst agents, bacterial inactivators, and ultraviolet (UV) sensors. To evaluate the photocatalytic activity under UV and solar radiations, rhodamine B was the model-test contaminant indicator and the best photocatalytic activity was achieved with Whatman paper. Hospital paper with TiO2 nanoparticles showed significant antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus. ZnO-based UV sensors demonstrated a responsivity of 0.61 μA W-1.

Acacia spp. are widespread all over the Portuguese territory, representing a threat to local biodiversity and to the productivity of the forest sector. The measures adopted in some countries for their eradication or to control their propagation are expensive, have been considered unfeasible from practical and economical perspectives, and have generated large amounts of residue that must be valorized in a sustainable way. This review brings together information on the valorization of bark, wood, leaves, flowers, pods, seeds, roots, and exudates from Acacia spp., through the production of high-value bioactive extracts (e.g., antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antiviral, anthelmintic, or pesticidal agents, suitable to be explored by pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, cosmetics, and food and feed industries), its incorporation in innovative materials (e.g., polymers and composites, nanomaterials, low-cost adsorbents), as well as through the application of advanced thermochemical processes (e.g., flash pyrolysis) and pre-treatments to decompose biomass in its structural components, regarding the production of biofuels along with valuable chemicals derived from cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. The knowledge of this research is important to encourage an efficient and sustainable valorization of Acacia spp. within a biorefinery concept, which can bring a significant economic return from the valorization of these residues, simultaneously contributing to forest cleaning and management, to reduce the risk of fires, and to improve the social-economic development of rural areas.

Despite the bioaccessibility of nutrients and contaminants present in individual seafood products has been thoroughly studied, information is extremely limited in what concerns complete seafood-based meals, where interactions between ingredients may occur. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of different ingredients and cooking processes in mercury (Hg) and cadmium (Cd) bioaccessibility in complete meals of tuna (Thunnus spp.) and edible crab (Cancer pagurus), respectively. The addition of ingredients/side dishes decreased Hg levels in cooked tuna meals, but increased Hg bioaccessibility (up to 31% of bioaccessible Hg in complete meals, against 13.5% in stewed tuna alone). Cd levels in edible crab meals were significantly decreased by the addition of ingredients (~36% and ~65% decrease in boiled crab and pate, respectively), but its' bioaccessibility was not significantly affected (>94% in all cases). Results showed that the weekly consumption of 2 complete tuna meals does not exceed MeHg tolerable weekly intake (TWI), whereas Cd's TWI is largely surpassed with the consumption of 50 g/week of edible crab meals. This highlights the importance of determining contaminant levels and bioaccessibility in a whole seafood-based meal context, as such approach enables a more realistic assessment of the risks that seafood can pose to consumers.

Active packaging incorporated with natural extracts is a promising technology to extend shelf life of perishable food. Therefore, this study aimed to produce a bionanocomposite based on chitosan reinforced with sodium montmorillonite (MMT) and incorporated with ginger essential oil (GEO). In vitro activity was assessed through migration assay and antimicrobial study against foodborne bacteria. Phenolic compounds were diffused within 48 h of contact, and retained some of their antioxidant activity. Films demonstrated antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and -negative bacteria tested. The effect on the shelf life of fresh poultry meat was determined on samples wrapped in the biopolymers and stored under refrigeration for 15 days, through physicochemical and microbiological analyses. Compared to unwrapped poultry meat, samples wrapped in the bionanocomposites showed a reduction in microorganisms count of 1.2-2.6 log CFU/g, maintained color and pH values and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) index increased at a lower rate, extending fresh poultry meat shelf life. The incorporation of GEO enhanced the biopolymer activity, by reducing lipid oxidation and microbiological growth of the poultry meat. In contrast, reinforcement with MMT imprisoned the active compounds in the polymeric chain, hindering its activity. In conclusion, the bionanocomposites tested represent promising substitutes to commercial and unsustainable plastic films. publishersversion published

This work was supported by CNPq/Brazil (grant number 200790/2014-5); CAPES (APQ-1 2009/02 E-26/110.414/2010, APQ-1 2011-2 E-26/110.269.2012, E-26/111.435/2012 - CsF/Brazil - BEX 11943-13-0); CENIMAT/I3N and MEtRiCS through FCT/MCTES (project number and UID/SEM/04077/2013CN). The aim of this work was to develop an active biopolymer based on chitosan by incorporating natural antioxidants. Five essential oils (ginger, rosemary, sage, tea tree and thyme) and six hydro-alcoholic extracts (from ginger, green and black tea, kenaf leaves, rosemary and sage plants) were tested. Migration assays were carried out to evaluate the films’ activity, and total phenolic content and antioxidant activity were monitored in the simulant during storage. Interaction between natural compounds and polymeric matrix was evaluated by FTIR spectroscopy. The diffusion of the phenolic compounds was not detected in the films incorporated with hydro-alcoholic extracts (HAEs), indicating their entrapment in the chitosan. Migration was observed in the films with essential oils (EOs), and biobased films incorporated with ginger, sage or rosemary essential oils, presented the highest diffusion and antioxidant activity in the simulant, highlighting their functionality and potential to be used as food active packaging material publishersversion published

An increasing global awareness that the supply and security of petroleum-based materials is diminishing, coupled with environmental concerns related to climate change, water availability, and soil degradation, has increased demand for more renewable, diversified, and sustainable agricultural production systems. The objective of this work was to determine if a biogenic approach, focused on producing perennial grasses on marginal Mediterranean land as feedstock for bioenergy or bio-based products, could reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions without depleting soil nutrients, water supplies, or negatively impacting biological and landscape diversity. This study, funded by European Union (EU), was conducted under project optimization of perennial grasses for biomass production (OPTIMA) using environmental impact assessment (EIA) protocols to quantify local environmental impacts of producing perennial grasses, in the Mediterranean region. Different end uses were investigated and biogenic products were compared with conventional ones. The EIA assessment indicated that the biogenic system had low erodibility potential, reduced disturbance of soil properties, and minimal hydrological impacts. Less tillage and high biomass production supported biological and landscape diversity, but site-specific factors should be used to appropriately match the specific crop and location. We conclude that producing perennial grasses on marginal Mediterranean land is feasible and if appropriately managed will have relatively few environmental side effects.

Giant reed (Arundo donax) and Miscanthus spp. were tested to evaluate their tolerance and phytoremediation capacity in soils contaminated with heavy metals. Giant reed was tested under 450 and 900 mg Zn kg−1, 300 and 600 mg Cr kg−1, and 450 and 900 mg Pb kg−1 contaminated soils, while the Miscanthus genotypes M. × giganteus, M. sinensis, and M. floridulus were tested on 450 and 900 mg Zn kg−1 contaminated soils, along 2 years. Giant reed biomass production was negatively affected by the contamination; however, yield reduction was only significant under 600 mg Cr kg−1 soil. Zn contamination reduced significantly M. × giganteus production but not M. sinensis or M. floridulus yields. Yet, M. × giganteus was also the most productive. Both grasses can be considered as indicators, once metal concentration in the biomass reflected soil metal concentration. Regarding giant reed experiments, higher modified bioconcentration factors (mBCFs, 0.3–0.6) and translocation factors (TFs, 1.0–1.1) were obtained for Zn, in the contaminated soils, followed by Cr (mBCFs, 0.2–0.4, belowground organs; TFs, 0.2–0.4) and Pb (mBCFs, 0.06–0.07, belowground organs; TFs, 0.2–0.4). Metal accumulation also followed the same pattern Zn > Cr > Pb. Miscanthus genotypes showed different phytoremediation potential facing similar soil conditions. mBCFs (0.3–0.9) and TFs (0.7–1.5) were similar among species, but highest zinc accumulation was observed with M. × giganteus due to the higher biomass production. Giant reed and M. × giganteus can be considered as interesting candidates for Zn phytoextraction, favored by the metal accumulation observed and the high biomass produced. A. donax and Miscanthus genotypes showed to be well suited for phytostabilization of heavy metal contamination as these grasses prevented the leaching of heavy metal and groundwater contamination.

Bioenergy and biomaterials from fiber crops are regarded as promising substitutes for conventional ones, considering the growing concern about oil and other non-renewable resources depletion and the environmental impacts of the conventional systems. In this paper, the environmental aspects of fiber crops cultivation and use are reviewed. The analysis was based on the following categories: use of resources, emission of gases, effects on the quality of soil and water and biological and landscape diversity. As bioenergy and biomaterials carriers, fiber crops offer ecological advantages over conventional ones by contributing to carbon sequestration and energy savings, and to the reduction of greenhouse gases and non-renewable resources. However, other environmental outcomes, such as acidifying and eutrophication emissions, may limit the conversion and use of fiber crops. Even so, the low input requirements associated with this class of crops and its phytoremediation aptness for wastewaters or contaminated land, are some of the environmental advantages associated with fiber crops. Crop management options and processing choices can influence the outcomes, but site specific factors should be accurately assessed to evaluate the adequacy between crop and location. Opportunities for improvement are indicated, in order to provide new insights for the future development of these crops in a sustainable agro-industrial framework.

Novel bionanocomposite films of chitosan/montmorillonite (CS/MMT) activated with ginger essential oil (GEO) were produced and characterized in terms of their physical and morphological properties. The homogenization process led to a good interaction between the chitosan and the nanoparticles, however the exfoliation was diminished when GEO was incorporated. Film glass transition temperature did not statistically change with the incorporation of either MMT or GEO, however the value was slightly reduced, representing a relaxation in the polymer chain which corroborated with the mechanical and barrier properties results. Pristine chitosan films showed excellent barrier properties to oxygen with a permeability of 0.184 &times, 10&minus, 16 mol/m&middot, s&middot, Pa being reduced to half (0.098 &times, Pa) when MMT was incorporated. Although the incorporation of GEO increased the permeability values to 0.325 &times, Pa when 2% of GEO was integrated, this increment was smaller with both MMT and GEO (0.285 &times, Pa). Bionanocomposites also increased the UV light barrier. Thus, the produced bioplastics demonstrated their ability to retard oxidative processes due to their good barrier properties, corroborating previous results that have shown their potential in the preservation of foods with high unsaturated fat content.

Purpose: Little is known about the pharmacological effects of the phenolic compounds of Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium). This Mediterranean aromatic plant, used as a gastronomic spice and as food preservative by the food industry has been studied mainly due to its essential oil antibacterial properties, composed primarily by monoterpenes. With this work, we aimed to evaluate the effects of a phenolic extract of pennyroyal in the impairment of inflammatory processes in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) and in the potential inhibition of progression to colorectal cancer (CRC). Methods: To that purpose, we evaluated the effect of pennyroyal extract administration in a model of TNBSinduced colitis in mice and further determined its effect on human colon carcinoma cell proliferation and invasion. Results: The phenolic extract of pennyroyal exhibited antioxidant properties in in vitro assays and administration of the extract in a rat model of carrageenan-induced paw oedema led to significant anti-inflammatory effects. Further results evidenced a beneficial effect of the phenolic extract in the attenuation of experimental colitis and a potential antiproliferative effect on cultured colon cancer cells, effects not previously described, to our knowledge. A reduction in several markers of colon inflammation was observed following administration of the extract to colitis-induced mice, including functional and histological indicators. A successful inhibition of cancer cell invasion and proliferation was also observed in in vitro studies with HT-29 cells. Furthermore, the extract also led to a reduced expression of iNOS/COX-2 in the colon of colitis-induced mice, both being crucial mediators of intestinal inflammation. Conclusions: Taking into consideration the central role of inflammation in the pathophysiology of CRC and the recognised connection between inflammatory events and cancer, these results enlighten the relevance of the phenolic constituents of pennyroyal as important pharmacological sources in the investigation of new treatment options for patients with inflammatory bowel diseases info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

Background: Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) encompasses both Crohn&rsquo, s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, known to be connected to an enlarged risk for developing colorectal cancer (CRC). Spearmint (Mentha spicata L.) is a Mediterranean plant used as an aromatic agent, and studies have mainly focused on the essential oil suggesting an anti-inflammatory activity. This work aimed to perform a preliminary screening of the in vivo anti-inflammatory effects of a spearmint phenolic extract in an acute inflammation model, in a chronic inflammation model of colitis, and also study the effects in vitro on a colon cancer model. Methods: Spearmint extract was administered to rats of a paw oedema model (induced by carrageenan) and to mice from a TNBS-induced colitis model in parallel with studies using HT-29 CRC cells. Results: Administration of the extract led to reduced paw inflammation, reduction of colon injury and inflammation, with attenuation of histological markers, and reduction of iNOS expression. It repressed the in vitro movement of HT-29 cells in a wound healing assay. Conclusions: These findings suggest that spearmint extract exhibits acute and chronic anti-inflammatory activity and is able to inhibit migration of cancer cells, suggesting a potential role in the supplementary therapy of IBD patients.

Ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation constitutes a minor part of the solar spectrum, being most of this solar radiation absorbed by the UV-screening stratospheric ozone layer. Yet, a global depletion of the ozone layer, largely due to the release of chlorofluorocarbons caused by human activities, has resulted in an increase of solar UV-B radiation at the earth’s surface. Accordingly, in the temperate latitudes, such ozone decrease reached ca. 3% and 6% in the North and South hemispheres, respectively, between 2002 and 2005 (as compared to the 1970s). Despite the uncertainty of long-term predictions, it is also estimated an UV-B increase of 5-10% over temperate latitudes within the next 15 years In this context, this work aim at to present an overview of plants sensitivity/tolerance to UV-B irradiation mostly considering the key photosynthetic metabolism. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.9755/ejfa.v24i6.14673

The production of energy crops must be studied and evaluated in terms of environmental impact, in order to integrate them into a sustainable agricultural development. As bioenergy carriers they offer ecological advantages over fossil fuels by contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases and acidifying emissions. However, there could be ecological shortcomings related to the intensity of agricultural production. There is a risk of polluting water and air, losing soil quality, enhancing erosion, and reducing biodiversity. In the scope of the project Future Crops for Food, Feed, Fiber and Fuel (4F Crops), supported by the European Union, an environmental impact assessment study was developed and applied to the production of potential energy crops in Europe. The following variables were selected as categories: use of water and mineral resources, soil quality and erosion, emission of minerals and pesticides to soil and water, waste generation and utilization, landscape, and biodiversity. In addition, a normalization and weighting procedure was applied, which attempts to aggregate environmental impacts. Results suggest that growing energy crops does not inflict higher impact on the environment compared to potato and wheat farming (regarding the studied categories). Although the different indicators did not yield a common pattern, overall results suggest that woody and lignocellulosic crops have an advantage over annual crop systems, namely regarding erodibility and biodiversity. Some crop management options, such as pesticides and fertilizers inputs, can influence the outcomes. However, site-specific factors should be accurately assessed to evaluate the adequacy between crop and location. Environmental hotspots in the systems are detected and options for improvement are presented. © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd

Y459H and V492E mutations of cytochrome P450 reductase (CYPOR) cause Antley–Bixler syndrome due to diminished binding of the FAD cofactor. To address whether these mutations impaired the interaction with drug-metabolizing CYPs, a bacterial model of human liver expression of CYP1A2 and CYPOR was implemented. Four models were generated: POR null , POR wt , POR YH , and POR VE , for which equivalent CYP1A2 and CYPOR levels were confirmed, except for POR null , not containing any CYPOR. The mutant CYPORs were unable to catalyze cytochrome c and MTT reduction, and were unable to support EROD and MROD activities. Activity was restored by the addition of FAD, with V492E having a higher apparent FAD affinity than Y459H. The CYP1A2-activated procarcinogens, 2-aminoanthracene, 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone, and 2-amino-3-methylimidazo(4,5- f )quinoline, were significantly less mutagenic in POR YH and POR VE models than in POR wt , indicating that CYP1A2, and likely other drug-metabolizing CYPs, are impaired by ABS-related POR mutations as observed in the steroidogenic CYPs.

The lowest 50% lethal (effective) concentration, L(E)C50, of phenol in a battery of seven microbiotests with species representing different trophic levels was 1–10 mg l−1, classifying it as “toxic”. A phenol-degrading microorganism was isolated from soil samples of the salt mine of Clona in Portugal, after enrichment in the presence of phenol and high salt concentration. Based on cultural and morphological characteristics, the strain CLONA2 was identified as belonging to Penicillium chrysogenum. It was found to be a halotolerant fungus able to grow in a nutrient-rich medium with 5.8% NaCl. It degraded at least 300 mg l−1 phenol as sole source of carbon and energy, without accumulation of intermediates. The samples were also tested for toxicity using the Microtox® assay. Data showed that P. chrysogenum CLONA2 could be effectively utilized to reduce phenol toxicity. The results suggest also that phenol under saline conditions can be successfully mineralized by P. chrysogenum CLONA2.

We report here on strain BTC, a new Escherichia coli mutagenicity tester strain for the expression of human cytochrome P450 (CYP) with an enhanced sensitivity for the detection of alkylating agents. This strain was developed first through knocking out of the genes ada and ogt in our previously developed strain BMX100, resulting in PD1000. Strain PD1000 demonstrated a significantly higher detection sensitivity towards several alkylating agents such as N-nitrosodiethylamine (NNdEA), N-nitrosodi-n-propylamine (NNdPA), 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) and N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG). Unexpectedly, this strain also showed an enhanced sensitivity towards 2-aminoanthracene (2AA), 4-aminobiphenyl (4AbPh), 2-aminofluorene (2AF) and 2-nitroanthracene (2NA) mutagenicity. Subsequently, our previously developed bi-plasmid system for the co-expression of a specific human CYP form (CYP1A2, 2A6 or 2E1) with human NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase (RED) was introduced in strain PD1000, resulting in strains BTC1A2, BTC2A6 and BTC2E1, respectively. The mutagenicity of NNdEA and NNK was successfully detected with strains BTC2A6 and BTC2E1 and with strains BTC1A2 and BTC2A6, respectively, in contrast to the corresponding MTC (ada+ ogt+) CYP strains. The (ada- ogt-) deficient strain BTC1A2 also showed an enhanced sensitivity towards the detection of 2AA mutagenicity, when compared with the proficient repair strain MTC1A2. This enhancement was much more pronounced with strain PD1000 using the rat liver S9 fraction than with strain BTC1A2.

Catechols from abietic acid were prepared by a short and good yielding chemical process and further evaluated for several biological activities namely, antifungal, antitumoral, antimutagenic, antiviral, antiproliferative and inhibition of nitric oxide. Their properties were compared with those of carnosic acid (6), a naturally occurring catechol with an abietane skeleton and known to possess potent antioxidant activity, as well as anticancer and antiviral properties. From all the synthetic catechols tested compound 2 showed the best activities, stronger than carnosic acid. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.

Instant coffee exhibits direct genotoxic activity in the tester strains TA 98, 100, 102, 104 and YG 1024. In the Ames tester strain TA 100, the presence of S9 mix, S100 mix, S9 mix without cofactors led to a significant decrease of the genotoxicity observed. The decrease observed in the presence of S9 mix seems to be highly correlated with the catalase content of S9 mix. The genotoxicity of instant coffee detected in strain TA 100 was dependent on the pH, with higher genotoxic effects at pH values above neutrality. Also, dependent on the pH was the ability of some phenolic molecules present in coffee promoting the degradation of deoxyribose in the presence of Fe3+/EDTA. These results suggest that apart from other molecules present in instant coffee responsible for their genotoxicity in several short term assays, phenolic molecules could also be implicated in the genotoxicity of coffee, via reactive oxygen species arising from its auto-oxidation.

The purpose of this work was to investigate the influence of crop management on the sorghum biomass quality and productivity, in Portugal, in order to access its potential as an industrial and energy feedstock. To do so, the effects of different fertilization levels, the sowing date and the harvest date in the biomass quality and productivity, were studied. Productivity was affected by the level of nitrogen and by the sowing date. Highest productivities were obtained in the most N-fertilised fields and in fields sowed between 251h March and 1’‘ May. Among subspecies, Sweet and Biomass Sorghum presented, globally, higher productivities than Fibre Sorghum. In all the experimental years, highest productivities, in all the fields, were achieved at 193 5 9 days after sowing, regardless of all the different sowing dates. Biomass quality was affected by the crop productivities. Fields with lowest productivities resulted in a biomass with a higher nitrogen and ash contents, namely the fields sowed at 2nd June and the fields without N-fertiliser. In the experimental conditions at Caparica, sweet sorghum crop showed a better potential as an industrial and energy feedstock, and to get better results, economically and environmentally, fields should he sowed between 25’h March and 1’‘ May, with a high nitrogen input (120 kg N/ha).

The purpose of this work was to investigate the influence of crop management on the kenaf biomass quality and productivity, in Portugal, in order to access its potential as an industrial and energy feedstock. To do so, the effects of different varieties, sowing dates, plant populations, different irrigation rates and nitrogen fertilization levels were studied in the biomass quality and productivity. Productivity was affected by the level of irrigation but not by the level of nitrogen fertilization. Higher productivities were obtained in the fields where 301 and 400 mm of water were added. Biomass quality was not affected either by the level of irrigation of the fields either by the level of N-fertilization. Productivity and biomass quality were affected by the sowing date but not by the density of plant population. Plants sowed earlier presented better productivities and better quality for fuel and pulp purposes than plants sowed latter. Tainung 2 and Everglades 41 presented similar productivities and mineral composition. Everglades 41 showed better quality for fuel purposes and Tainung 2 better quality for pulp purposes. Possibilities of industrial utilization under different field conditions were assessed and discussed, in the perspective of sustainable growth and development.

Instant coffee exhibits genotoxic activity upon nitrosation at acidic pH values in the Ames tester strain TA100. Using adsorption chromatography (Amberlit XAD-2) it was observed that the major fraction of molecules responsible for the genotoxic activity upon nitrosation was not retained on this resin, suggesting that the polar molecules present in instant coffee could be responsible for the genotoxicity observed upon nitrosation. Some phenolic molecules present in instant coffee (catechol, caffeic acid, and chlorogenic acid) were also genotoxic upon nitrosation under the same experimental conditions. The concentrations of nitrosatable phenolic compounds in the studied coffee were determined by HPLC and their contributions to the total genotoxicity observed were studied. The results obtained suggest that besides phenolic compounds other molecules were also involved in the genotoxicity of this beverage upon nitrosation. Teratogenesis Carcinog. Mutagen. 20:241-249, 2000.

Pennisetum clandestinum (Graminae/Poaceae) an active Si-accumulator, was cultivated in two different substrata, both with reduced Si solubility. Plants growing in organic-rich soils contained much less Ca, K, Na and Si, than species growing in sandy soils. Although the highest macronutrient concentrations were associated to the highest Si levels in the organs of P. clandestinum, the R correlation values indicate that Si does not influence the internal balance and the uptake of these elements. In ca 65% of the cases roots have the highest average values regardless of the type of culture, while the contents of Mg in the shoots and roots of P. clandestinum were generally not significantly different (P>0.05). A significant decline of the macronutrient levels associated to the shoots and roots of P. clandestinum was observed from the 4th to the 6th month assay, especially for Ca in both organs, while for Mg and Na the decline is focused mainly in the shoots; K and Si decline is generally below 10%. When average values of Si in shoots and roots of plants collected from organic- rich and sandy soils were plotted against the average concentrations of Ca, K, Mg and Na in the same organs, weak but positive R correlation values were obtained - the highest R values were observed for Na and K and the lowest for Ca and Mg, regardless of the culture. Exception for the high R value observed for K, although the influence of Si on the K status in the whole plant is time-depending - R values, diminished from the 4th to the 6th month, as it happens in the majority of the cases. In conclusion, P. clandestinum can grow well and healthily in substrata with acid pH values and high carbonate content and low solubility of Si suggesting that the definition of the essentiality of Si, even in a Si-accumulator plant is still a matter of great controversy. publishersversion published