CIMO - Resumos em Proceedings Não Indexados à WoS/Scopus
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- Assessing the prebiotic potential of xylooligosaccharides produced by one-step fermentation using agro-residuesPublication . Cordeiro, Ana; Fernandes, Andreia; Sousa, Joana; Cardoso, Beatriz; Alves, Joana; Silvério, Sara; Peres, António M.; Rodrigues, Lígia R.; Amorim, CláudiaThe prebiotic effect is a fundamental concept in the fields of nutrition and gut health, referring to the beneficial effects of specific non-digestible dietary components on the gut microbiota, including xylooligosaccharides (XOS). These compounds function as food sources for beneficial gut bacteria, fostering their growth and activity. In this work, in vitro studies were performed to evaluate the prebiotic potential of XOS produced from olive stones (OS) and coffee silver skin (CSS) via a one step fermentation using a recombinant Bacillus subtilis 3610 harbouring the xylanase gene xyn2 from Trichoderma reesei. This potential was compared with a commercially available prebiotic oligofructose (Orafti®, BENEO, Germany). A mixture of human faeces from four healthy donors aged between 24 and 28 years old was used as inoculum. The pH variation and the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), gases, and ammonia were analysed during the 48 hours fermentations. The prebiotic supplementation resulted in a reduction of the pH value over time, with oligofructose presenting the most significant pH drop at 48 hours (ΔpH=3.65). The addition of prebiotics also significantly increased the production of beneficial SCFAs, with oligofrutose exhibiting a notable increase in the production of lactic and acetic acid production after 48 hours (28.0±0.1 and 28±1 mM, respectively), while OS-XOS and CSS-XOS demonstrated a more prominent rise towards the production of acetic acid (14.8±0.4 and 20.4±0.1 mM, respectively), butyric acid (2.5±0.3 and 3.29±0.04 mM, respectively), and valeric acid (75±1 and 110±14 mM, respectively) at 48 hours. Remarkably, the gas analysis revealed that the addition of OS/CSS-XOS fully suppressed the production of CH4 and increased the CO2 generation after 48 hours (2.6±0.7 and 5.20±0.05 mmol.L-1medium, respectively). These findings strongly suggest that the XOS produced from OS and CSS holds potential prebiotic properties for human health.
- Assessment of farmer's knowledge about fungi and mycotoxin in Southern MozambiquePublication . Bila, João; Macuamule, Custódia; Bombe, Amina; Ribeiro, Maria Isabel; Venâncio, Armando; Afonso, Sandra; Rodrigues, PaulaMycotoxins find their way into the human and animal body through the consumption of mycotoxin contaminated foods, which may result in acute or chronic intoxication. This study aimed to assess knowledge about fungi and mycotoxins among farmers in the provinces of Gaza and Inhamban.e, in southem Mozamhique.Data were collected using quantitative study hased on non-probabilistic questionnaire, covering 180 farmers from Gaza (90) and Inhambane (90) Provinces, from October to November 2022. Data were subjected to descriptive and statistical analysis. The majority of farmers were aged 36 or over (75.0%), were female (75.2%), had no education or only had primary education (80.6%) and had been a farmer for longer 15 years old (64.4%). The level of knowledge about fungi and mycotoxins is mainly explained by the province of residence, followed by the level of education, age and gender, with producers with higher levels of education and of male gender recording a higher level of knowledge. Regarding mycotoxins, most fanners have never heard about these toxic compounds. Likewise, regardless of the province, a significant number of farmers did not know or have never accounted for production losses or income losses due to fungal or mycotoxin contamination.
- Benchmarking lamp primer design platforms for pyrethroid resistance SNP detection in varroa destructorPublication . Bejaoui, Mohamed; Costa, Maíra; Pinto, M. Alice; Henriques, DoraVarroa destructor, an ectoparasitic mite of Apis mellifera, is a driver of colony and pollination service declines. Widely used pyrethroid acaricides targeting the mite voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) have selected for resistance mutations at codons 918 and 925 in Domain II. Genotyping 100 mites from 35 apiaries at the locus revealed ~40% pyrethroid-resistant haplotypes, with the double-resistant M918L/L925V variant at 43%, establishing the Portuguese baseline. PCR-based assays at this locus are robust but laboratory-bound, whereas loop-mediated amplification (LAMP) offers an isothermal, rapid, low-cost alternative for field resistance surveillance. Using this baseline, we benchmarked mutation - focused LAMP primer sets with PrimerExplorer V5, NEB LAMP Designer, and LAMP Designer v1.16 under shared, explicitly defined thermodynamic constraints. We constrained outer primers and inner-primer Tm to 55–70 °C, loops to ≈62–65 °C, GC to 40–70%, F2–B2 span to 120–180 bp, and filtered candidates using ΔG thresholds for hairpins and dimers. PrimerExplorer V5 provided flexible control over primer geometry around codons and loop placement, but required a loop-primer step and external specificity checks. NEB LAMP Designer rapidly generated optimised sets with conservative end-stability and self-dimer filtering, although limited parameter tuning and absence of BLAST restricted mutation-centred optimization. LAMP Designer v1.16 delivered an exhaustive thermodynamic assessment of hairpins, self-dimers, and cross-dimers together with BLAST-supported specificity and evaluation, at the cost of a steeper learning curve and reliance on proprietary software. In NEB LAMP Designer and LAMP Designer v1.16, targeted codons were embedded in distinct inner-primer segments (918 in F2, F1c; 925 in F1c, B1c, respectively), whereas PrimerExplorer V5 was used to design assays on codon 925 alone, given that M918L never occurred without L925V. Collectively, these comparisons show how software architecture and Tm/ΔG criteria shape LAMP primer solutions for resistance SNPs and inform the design of field-deployable diagnostics for evolutionary surveillance.
- Breakthrough Curves for the Continuous Adsorption of Micropollutants on Activated Carbon/Geopolymer MixturesPublication . Baldo, Arthur P.; Silva, Ana P. F.; Silva, Adriano S.; Díaz de Tuesta, Jose Luis; Marin, Pricila; Peres, José A.; Gomes, Helder T.Breakthrough curves are key for designing continuous flow adsorption systems, typically obtained experimentally or through modeling [1]. In this study, a mixture of activated carbon (AC) and geopolymers (GP) was tested in a continuous treatment system for the removal of model contaminants from waters in a single-component system composed of sulfamethoxazole (SMX), acetaminophen (ACT), or gallic acid (GA). In addition, the adsorbent materials were also tested in a multi-component water matrix to evaluate the interactions between adsorbates and adsorbents. Adsorption tests were conducted using 1g of GP and 0.5g of AC, filled with glass beads. The experiments were carried out at room temperature, considering 100 mg/L for all contaminants and natural pH of the solutions. The flow was set to 1 mL/min and controlled by a peristaltic pump. The breakthrough curves are shown in Figure 1. Based on the experimental data, the useful operating times were calculated, assuming that the effluent concentration should not exceed 5% of the initial concentration [2], yielding 228 minutes for ACT, 46 minutes for SMX, and 53 minutes for GA in the multi-component system. A reduction in time was observed when compared to the single-component system due to faster saturation caused by competition for active sites. The useful adsorption capacities were also calculated, with values of 45.7 mg/g for ACT, 9.2 mg/g for SMX, and 10.7 mg/g for GA in the multicomponent system. The overall results indicated that the column was efficient, as the contaminating compounds were removed up to the system breakthrough. In conclusion, this preliminary study suggests that these materials can be effectively combined and applied in tertiary wastewater treatments, as permeable reactive barriers.
- Comparative evaluation of oranges available for consumption in PortugalPublication . Fajardo, Ana S.; Serra, Valéria; Peres, António M.; Veloso, Ana C.A.; Henriques, Marta H.F.Citrus production in Portugal, particularly in Algarve, plays a significant role in the national and European markets. Oranges from this region are highly regarded for their exceptional quality, due to unique climatic and geographical conditions. Many of these oranges hold the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) "Citrinos do Algarve" certification, ensuring their authenticity and superior characteristics. While Algarve oranges dominate the market, other varieties also reach consumers, warranting a broader comparative analysis. This study aimed to compare 5 orange varieties, Baía, Dalmau, Navelate, Lane Late, and Salustiana, sourced from different regions, cultivation methods, and market sources. A versatile approach was used, combining physicochemical and sensory analyses, to determine their quality attributes. External properties (appearance, dimensions, and color) were measured along juice parameters such as total solids (TS), density, total soluble solids (SS) (°Brix), titratable acidity (TA), SS/TA ratio, and color. Sensory perception was assessed by an untrained panel evaluating aspects like appearance, taste, sweetness, and acidity. Additionally, an electronic tongue (E-tongue) was employed to detect and analyze chemical patterns associated with sweetness perception, ensuring precise and consistent results. Results showed all varieties except Dalmau had over 70% sensory acceptance, with scores exceeding 4.2 on a 7-point scale. Lane Late variety was the most favored among consumers, excelling in both external attributes and taste. Lane Late physicochemical analysis supported these preferences: pH of 3.53 ± 0.12, TA of 0.50 ± 0.12 g citric acid/100 g, SS of 12.14 ± 0.66 °Brix, and the highest SS/TA ratio of 22.99 ± 3.27, reinforcing its perceived sweetness. E-tongue analysis successfully distinguished flavor profiles. A classification model using 40 lipid sensor membranes achieved a 94.4% correct classification rate. The linear discriminant analysis (LDA) model, enhanced by the simulated annealing (SA) variable selection algorithm, efficiently separated the 5 orange cultivars. Two discriminant functions (DF1 accounting for 99.8% variability and DF2 for 0.10%) effectively differentiated the samples. The E-tongue's ability to detect and classify sweet and acidic sensations contributed to its strong predictive performance. This integrated analytical approach provided a comprehensive comparison of the sweetness profiles of oranges available in Portugal, blending objective and subjective evaluations. The study reaffirmed the superior qualities of Algarve oranges, with the PGI-certified Lane Late standing out. With an average diameter of 87.41 ± 3.76 mm, second only to Baía (92.14 ± 5.40 mm), and an intermediate peel thickness of 5.27 ± 0.58 mm, Lane Late demonstrated notable physical attributes. Its TS content (12.01 ± 0.72%) was close to Navelate (12.62 ± 1.49%), while it had the lowest ash content (0.38 ± 1.13%), reinforcing its distinctiveness.
- Comprehensive analysis of oranges available for consumption in Portugal: A comparative studyPublication . Fajardo, Ana S.; Serra, Valéria; Peres, António M.; Veloso, Ana C.A.; Henriques, Marta H.F.Citrus production in Portugal's Algarve region is a major economic activity, contributing to both local and national markets with exports primarily to Europe.
- Contamination by aflatoxins in different food matrices produced and consumed in Mozambique.Publication . Matusse, Cláudio ; Macuamule, Custódia; Bila, João; Sampaio, A.; Venâncio, Armando; Rodrigues, Pedro JoãoMycotoxins are toxic metabolites produced by various moulds that frequently contaminate food worldwide, being significant contributors to food losses in developing countries. In Mozambique, there is no comprehensive knowledge of the risk of mycotoxins in the country, nor structured actions to reduce the impacts of mycotoxins and promote health and food security in disadvantaged populations. This research aimed to analyse the level of contamination by aflatoxins in different food matrices produced and consumed in southern Mozambique. Ten samples were collected from each matrix (maize, rice, and peanut) in each of the 3 districts (Chongoene, Manjacaze and Chókwe) of Gaza province, and 10 peanut samples in each of the 3 districts (Massinga, Inhambane and Inharrime) of Inhambane province, in a total of 120 samples. Samples were collected between January and June 2023 from local markets and producers. Samples were analysed for total aflatoxins using the lateral flow strip, AgraStrip® ProWATEX® (Romer Labs) method. Results showed that, from all matrices, the highest levels of aflatoxins were found in maize, with averages ranging from 369.2 (in Manjacaze) to 1,972.6 ug/kg (in Chokwe). Average aflatoxin levels in rice ranged between 1.2 (Chongoene) and 63.08 ug/kg (Manjacaze). Peanuts from the province of Inhambane were more contaminated than those from Gaza, with averages ranging from 5.6 (Manjacaze, Gaza) to 95 ug/kg (Inhambane). Considering that the maximum admissible levels for total aflatoxins recommended by the Codex Alimentarius Commission for cereals and pulses is 15 ug/kg, the level of aflatoxin contamination in food produced and consumed in southern Mozambique is high and constitutes a public health risk for the population. Therefore, risk mitigation strategies are urgently needed.
- Desarrollo de modelos predictivos para la selección de genotipos de aceituna de mesa menos susceptibles a Bactrocera oleae (Rossi)Publication . González-Fernández, Antonio; Rallo, Pilar; Peres, António M.; Pereira, José Alberto; Morales-Sillero, AnaLa mosca del olivo (Bactrocera oleae Rossi), considerada como la plaga más devastadora en los olivares, causa importantes pérdidas en la producción y en la calidad de la aceituna de mesa y del aceite de oliva a nivel mundial. Esto conlleva a que se le otorgue atención a la tolerancia a esta plaga en los programas de mejora del olivo durante el proceso de selección de genotipos. Son múltiples los factores que influyen en la preferencia de la mosca del olivo por ciertas variedades, entre otros los parámetros físicos y químicos del fruto, que deben interpretarse de forma colectiva. Los objetivos de este trabajo han sido identificar las diferencias de susceptibilidad a B. oleae en una selección de genotipos y desarrollar modelos predictivos basados en rasgos físicos y químicos del fruto, capaces de predecir el comportamiento de la mosca. Para ello se han empleado frutos de cuatro genotipos: dos selecciones avanzadas del programa de mejora genética de aceituna de mesa de la Universidad de Sevilla, y dos variedades tradicionales muy apreciadas para el aderezo (US 06-1388; US-06-194; ‘Hojiblanca’; ‘Kalamon’), todos procedentes de un ensayo de material vegetal localizado en Morón de la Frontera (Sevilla). En condiciones controladas de laboratorio, se ha estudiado, por un lado, la preferencia de la mosca mediante bioensayos de oviposición y, por otro lado, se han desarrollado modelos predictivos basados en parámetros como el peso, tamaño, color y textura del fruto, además de los contenidos en compuestos fenólicos.
- Determination of global heat transfer coefficient in olive paste malaxation and its impact on olive oil quality outcomePublication . Martins, Davide Coelho; Thiago Pereira Pio de; Peres, António M.; Rodrigues, NunoEffective control of malaxation conditions is crucial for extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) quality. This study evaluated the combined effects of malaxation temperature (25, 32, 40ºC), duration (30, 45, 60 min), and olive paste mass (350 g, 700 g) on EVOOs’ physicochemical and sensory parameters. Global heat transfer coefficients (U) were calculated under steady-state conditions ranging from 2 to 63 Wm−2ºC−1 and correlated with the oil’s quality parameters. Principal component analysis confirmed that processing variables studied strongly influenced EVOO profiles. Higher U values improved sensory attributes at shorter malaxing durations but detrimental under prolonged heating. Antioxidant activity increased either with lower paste mass and 45 min of malaxation, or with higher paste mass and 30 min of malaxation, at temperatures of 25–32°C. Results highlight the complex interaction of processing conditions and suggest that U may be a useful integrating metric of malaxing conditions and, to some extent, EVOO profiles.
- Development of LAMP Primers for the Detection of Pyrethroid Resistance Mutations in Varroa destructorPublication . Costa, Maíra; Yadró Garcia, Carlos A.; Lopes, Ana Rita; Bejaoui, Mohamed Khalil; Almeida, Jhennifer; Correia, Lucas; Sánchez, Sara; Li, Fernanda; Pinto, M. Alice; Henriques, DoraVarroa destructor is one of the main threats to Apis mellifera L., directly affecting colony health and contributing to their global decline. Control of this mite is traditionally achieved using acaricides, with pyrethroids such as tau-fuvalinate and fumethrin being the most used, acting on voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSC). However, the intensive use of these compounds by beekeepers has led to the emergence of resistance, associated with mutations at residues 918 and 925 of the VGSC gene [1]. Traditional methods for detecting these mutations, such as PCR, TaqMan and RT-PCR, are effective but require expensive laboratory equipment. In this context, Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) is a promising alternative, offering rapid and cost-effective detection without the need for thermal cycling [2]. LAMP is based on the use of a set of four to six primers, including two inner primers (FIP and BIP), two outer primers (F3 and B3), and optionally two loop primers (LoopF and LoopB), which are introduced to accelerate the amplification reaction [3]. This study aimed to develop specific LAMP primers, using the NEB LAMP software, for the detection of the main mutations associated with Varroa destructor resistance to pyrethroids in Portugal. The predictive efficiency, specificity, and thermodynamic properties of the designed primers were assessed using BLAST, eLAMP, and OligoAnalyzer tools, considering qPCR parameters. This work successfully identified specific primer sets, including loop primers, for the detection of the mutation at position 925, which may be used in future experimental validations for rapid diagnostic applications.