Search

Pequi (Caryocar spp.) is a fruit native to the Brazilian Savannah (Cerrado), and Caryocar brasilienseCamb. is one of the most prevalent species in this biome. The consumption of the pequi pulp has been associated with health benefits, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, and anticarcinogenic effects. These benefits have been attributed to its high density in nutrients and bioactive compounds. However, there is evidence about considerable variation in the nutritional profile among pequi pulps of different species, and among pulps of the same species, but from different areas of the Cerrado. In addition, there is no information in literature regarding the polyphenols profile of C. brasiliense pulp, neither about the influence of the native area of the fruit on the composition of these phytochemicals. So, this study analyzed the nutrient composition and identified the phenolic compounds in the pulp of C. brasiliense fruits native to four different areas of the Cerrado. There was a remarkable variation in the contents of energy (176.3-387.2 kcal/100 g) and lipids (13.0-37.5 g/100 g) among samples. In contrast, no difference was observed in the polyphenols composition, since gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, catechin, epicatechin, p-coumaric acid, and ellagic acid were identified in all pequi pulps. C. brasiliense pulp shows potential to be used as a functional ingredient rich in bioactive compounds, but with different contents of energy and lipids according to the fruit’s native area to attempt distinct health allegations of the product. RESUMO: O pequi (Caryocar spp.) é um fruto nativo do cerrado brasileiro e Caryocar brasiliense Camb. é uma das espécies mais prevalentes neste bioma. O consumo da polpa de pequi tem sido associado a benefícios à saúde, como efeitos antioxidantes, anti-inflamatórios, hipolipidêmicos, hepatoprotetores e anticarcinogênicos. Esses benefícios têm sido atribuídos à sua alta densidade em nutrientes e compostos bioativos. No entanto, há evidências de considerável variação no perfil nutricional entre polpas de pequi de diferentes espécies, e entre polpas da mesma espécie, mas de diferentes áreas do cerrado. Além disso, não há informações na literatura sobre o perfil de polifenóis da polpa de C. brasiliense, tampouco sobre a influência da área nativa do fruto na composição desses fitoquímicos. Assim, este estudo analisou a composição de nutrientes e identificou os compostos fenólicos na polpa de frutos de C. brasiliense nativos de quatro diferentes áreas do Cerrado. Houve notável variação nos teores de energia (176,3-387,2 kcal/100 g) e lipídios (13,0-37,5 g/100 g) entre as amostras. Em contrapartida, não foi encontrada diferença na composição em polifenóis, uma vez que ácido gálico, ácido protocatecuico, catequina, epicatequina, ácido p-cumárico e ácido elágico foram identificados em todas as polpas de pequi analisadas. A polpa de C. brasiliense tem potencial para ser utilizada como ingrediente funcional rico em compostos bioativos, porém com diferentes teores de energia e lipídios de acordo com a área nativa do fruto para atender a distintas alegações de saúde do produto.

Jabuticaba (Plinia cauliflora) is a native Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest fruit tree. Its fruits are purplish berries with a short shelf life, due to fermentative processes that begin shortly after harvest. Recently, commercial jabuticaba exploitation has intensified, justifying the application of postharvest technologies. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the chemical characteristics and nutraceutical compounds of “ponhema” jabuticabas stored at room and cold temperatures. Chemical analyzes (soluble solids (SS), titratable acidity (TA), pH, soluble sugars, soluble pectins and pectinamethylesterase (PME) activity), and nutraceutical compounds (total anthocyanins (TA), yellow flavonoids (YF), total phenolic compounds (TFC)) were performed. A completely randomized experimental design was applied. Analyzes were performed every 2 days, at days 0, 2, 4 for the room temperature (25° C) assay and at days 0, 2, 4 and 6 for the cold temperature (13° C) experiment. Fruits stored under cold temperature presented lower acetaldehyde and ethanol contents, as well as high soluble sugar, total anthocyanin, and total phenolic compound levels. Fruits stored at room temperature displayed marked wilting and fermentation on the fifth day of storage, preventing their consumption after this period. Fruits presented a shelf-life gain of up to two days when stored at cold temperature, displaying better characteristic maintenance, such as soluble solids, titratable acidity, pH and soluble sugars, which were verified by the acetaldehyde and ethanol tests. Total anthocyanin and phenolic compound levels were higher in fruits stored at cold temperature

Luffa operculata (L.) is a native Brazilian biome plant used for the treatment of respiratory diseases. Although Brazil’s flora comprises 67% of the world’s plants, only 8% of Brazilian plant species are studied each year. The studies indicate that climate change in tropical biomes intensifies the increase in salinized areas by about 10% per year for several reasons, including high temperatures, low rainfall and high evapotranspiration rates, due to surface water scarcity. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the germination behavior and vigor of L. operculata seeds submitted to saline stress at different temperatures. To simulate salt stress conditions, sodium chloride was applied at 0.0; 3.0; 6.0; 9.0 and 12.0 dS m-1, at 25, 30, 35, 20-30 °C, with treatments distributed in a 5 x 4 factorial scheme (five levels of osmotic potential and four temperatures), using four replications. The seeds were then evaluated concerning water content, germination tests, first counts, germination speed index and seedling root and shoot lengths. At 30 and 35 °C, the seed germination and vigor of L. operculata were less affected up to an osmotic potential of 9.0 dS m-1, where it is considered a moderate salinity tolerance. At 35 ºC, the germination uniformity was reduced to 98 and 93% by applying the 6 and 9 dS m-1 solutions, respectively. For the same temperature, the germination velocity remained 6.09 (IVG) until the saline potential of 9.0 dS m-1

The Cerrado is the second largest vegetation formation in Brazil, after the Amazon, and is the richest tropical savanna in the world in terms of biodiversity. This study aimed to evaluate cagaita fruits for bioactive compounds and nutrients during their physiological development. The fruits were assessed for phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, vitamin C, and β-carotene in the period between 10 and 37 Days after Anthesis (DAA); the basic chemical composition and mineral levels were estimated at 18 DAA. Bioactive compounds acted mainly as a result of the defense system, especially in younger fruits, whereas the vitamin C content was relatively low throughout fruit development. The basic chemical composition of cagaita fruits was characterized by high moisture content, and lower protein, carbohydrate, and ash contents, and considerable lipids levels. Most of the physiological changes in the fruits started from the 27th day onward, which may indicate the beginning of climacteric in the fruit, culminating in the synthesis and degradation of compounds, leading to ripening. The cagaita fruit presents great potential for agricultural applications and shown potential use in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate chemical and microbiological parameters of industrialized and artisanal bacuri (Platonia insignis Mart) and cupuaçu (Theobroma grandiflorum Schum) pulps, native Brazilian Amazon fruits. Several fruit pulp brands were selected as follows: industrialized pulps (IP), brands A and B and artisanal pulps (AP), brands C and D. The chemical analyses were based on the determination of initial pH, total titratable acidity (TTA), total soluble solids (TSS) and their ratio (TSS/TTA). Microbiological analyzes quantified mold, yeast, Staphyloccus aureus and Salmonella spp. Their contamination were also determined. Chemical characterization demonstrated that bacuri pulps had lower level of TTA and TSS than cupuaçu pulp. However, ration between TSS and TAA showed higher level in bacuri pulp/brand AP/D. The microbiological analyses showed a ranging from 2.83x105 to 9.35x107 and 7.32x106 to 7.06x107 mold and yeast colony forming units (CFU/g) for bacuri and cupuaçu pulps, respectively. All pulps presented high amounts of Staphylococcus aureus. The presence of Salmonella was verified in industrialized pulp for both bacuri and cupuaçu fruits. We concluded that both industrialized and artisanal bacuri and cupuaçu pulps have poor microbiological food quality, indicating a health threat to the consumers.

As the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic hit Portugal, it forced the country to reintroduce lockdown measures due to hospitals reaching their full capacities. Under these circumstances, environmental contamination by SARS-CoV-2 in different areas of one of Portugal’s major Hospitals was assessed between 21 January and 11 February 2021. Air samples (n = 44) were collected from eleven different areas of the Hospital (four COVID-19 and seven non-COVID-19 areas) using Coriolis® μ and Coriolis® Compact cyclone air sampling devices. Surface sampling was also performed (n = 17) on four areas (one COVID-19 and three non-COVID-19 areas). RNA extraction followed by a one-step RT-qPCR adapted for quantitative purposes were performed. Of the 44 air samples, two were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA (6575 copies/m3 and 6662.5 copies/m3, respectively). Of the 17 surface samples, three were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA (200.6 copies/cm2, 179.2 copies/cm2, and 201.7 copies/cm2, respectively). SARS-CoV-2 environmental contamination was found both in air and on surfaces in both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 areas. Moreover, our results suggest that longer collection sessions are needed to detect point contaminations. This reinforces the need to remain cautious at all times, not only when in close contact with infected individuals. Hand hygiene and other standard transmission-prevention guidelines should be continuously followed to avoid nosocomial COVID-19.

Financiado para publicación en acceso aberto: Universidade de Vigo/CISUG Uvaia (Eugenia pyriformis Cambess – Myrtaceae family) is an unexplored native fruit from the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest with a high potential for agro-industrial processing. Nevertheless, scientific information on existing research of uvaia should be explored to provide the trends and perspectives for the industrial application of this fruit. This review summarized the chemical composition, bioactive compounds, and biological activity of uvaia. The novelty enclosed in this review is based on the perspectives for the industrial formulation of health products from uvaia. Uvaia fruits reveal a remarkable aroma, high content of nutritional and bioactive compounds, high antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activity. The findings elucidated in this review support the application of uvaia in the industrial development of health products, such as foods, beverages, medicines, and cosmetics, contributing to the worldwide dissemination of this unexplored fruit. The São Paulo Research Foundation | Ref. #2014/13473–7 The São Paulo Research Foundation | Ref. #2014/12606–3 National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) | Ref. 458123/2014–5 The São Paulo Research Foundation | Ref. 2019/26925–7

Accumulation of color compounds including proanthocyanidins (PAs) and anthocyanins were evaluated during berry ripening at 33, 56, 70, 96, and 105 Days after bloom (DAB), due to early leaf removal (ELR) treatments in Merlot applied at pre-bloom. Three treatments were used: 1) pre-bloom manual leaf removal (PB-MA), 2) pre-bloom mechanical leaf removal (PM-ME), and 3) undefoliated control (C). Whole berries were separated into their major components (skins and seeds). PAs were determined by vanillin assay and Non-Extractable Polymeric proanthocyanidins (NEPA) methods; Antioxidant capacity was evaluated as the inhibition percentage of DPPH radical and FRAP. Total phenolic content was measured in whole berries, skins, and seeds, while sugars, anthocyanin, and flavonols by HPLC-MS were also analyzed in whole berries. PAs were strongly modulated by the ERL treatments, while NEPA accumulation was different by the type of tissue. Anthocyanin and flavonol contents began to accumulate at 70 DAB (verasion) and increased throughout the berry development. ELR enhanced cluster microclimate conditions, resulting in an increased accumulation of color compounds. These results support the use of PA in addition to anthocyanins and flavanols profile as excellent candidates for studies aiming to modify canopy architecture, with early leaf removal strategies.

The dominant SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant (B.1.617.2) became the main circulating variant among countries by mid 2021. Attention was raised to the increased risk of airborne transmission, leading to nosocomial outbreaks even among vaccinated individuals. Considering the increased number of COVID-19 hospital admissions fueled by the spread of the variant, with Spain showing the highest COVID-19 rates in mainland Europe by July 2021, the aim of this study was to assess SARS-CoV-2 environmental contamination in different areas of a University Hospital in the region of Castile-León, Spain, during the peak of the 5th wave of COVID-19 in the country (July 2021). Air samples were collected from sixteen different areas of the Hospital using a Coriolis® μ air sampler. Surface samples were collected in these same areas using sterile flocked plastic swabs. RNA extraction followed by a one-step RT-qPCR were performed for detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Of the 21 air samples, only one was positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA, from the emergency waiting room. Of the 40 surface samples, 2 were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA, both from the microbiology laboratory. These results may be relevant for risk assessment of nosocomial infection within healthcare facilities, thus helping prevent and minimize healthcare staff’s exposure to SARS-CoV-2, reinforcing the importance of always wearing appropriate and well-fit masks at all times and proper PPE when in contact with infected patients.

Kinesin and dynein are two types of ATP-dependent mechanochemical motors that are involved in the transport of a variety of cytoplasmic cargos along microtubule fibers, the regulation of microtubule stability and the maintenance of centrosome integrity. Besides being responsible for both the maintenance of cell morphology and physiological functions, kinesins also play important roles in cell division, cell motility, spindle assembly, chromosome aggregation and separation. Although its role might be different in different types of cancer, some KIFS have been known to play a role in many types of cancer development, and they have also been pointed as interacting with viruses during viral infection, notably during viral egress. With an ongoing need for novel anti-retroviral treatments, these findings open the way for further studies with this motor protein, aiming the development of new and more efficient treatment strategies for chronic diseases such as AIDS caused by these fast-mutating viruses. This article presents an overview of KIF4 structure and functions and focus on its interactions with the Gag retroviral polyprotein during retroviral infection. Moreover, we draw attention to KIFs clinical potential as a therapeutic target to block retroviral infections by interfering with the production of new viral particles through microtubules destabilization.

In this study, biodegradable films produced with starch, citric pectin, and functionalized with antioxidant compounds from feijoa (Acca sellowiana (Berg) Burret) were in situ applied for the conservation of ground beef, bread, and grapes. The results demonstrated that the films produced were an excellent source of stable antioxidant compounds, with antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Shigella. The bioactive films based on biological macromolecules positively stabilized the polyunsaturated fatty acids and deterioration reactions in ground beef. The release of bioactive compounds from the films was responsible for inhibiting molds and yeasts in bread, increasing their shelf life for 30 days of storage. The application of film coating and packaging in grapes increased postharvest conservation and maintained steady physicochemical characteristics. Therefore, the innovative films produced can release bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, and consequently, can be proposed as an effective material for food conservation, increasing the shelf life of perishable food products.

Background Although an increasing body of data reports the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in air, this does not correlate to the presence of infectious viruses, thus not evaluating the risk for airborne COVID-19. Hence there is a marked knowledge gap that requires urgent attention. Therefore, in this systematic review, viability/stability of airborne SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV viruses is discussed. Methods A systematic literature review was performed on PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science and Scopus to assess the stability and viability of SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 on air samples. Results and discussion The initial search identified 27 articles. Following screening of titles and abstracts and removing duplicates, 11 articles were considered relevant. Temperatures ranging from 20 °C to 25 °C and relative humidity ranging from 40% to 50% were reported to have a protective effect on viral viability for airborne SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV. As no data is yet available on the conditions influencing viability for airborne SARS-CoV-2, and given the genetic similarity to SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, one could extrapolate that the same conditions would apply. Nonetheless, the effect of these conditions seems to be residual considering the increasing number of cases in the south of USA, Brazil and India, where high temperatures and humidities have been observed. Conclusion Higher temperatures and high relative humidity can have a modest effect on SARS-CoV-2 viability in the environment, as reported in previous studies to this date. However, these studies are experimental, and do not support the fact that the virus has efficiently spread in the tropical regions of the globe, with other transmission routes such as the contact and droplet ones probably being responsible for the majority of cases reported in these regions, along with other factors such as human mobility patterns and contact rates. Further studies are needed to investigate the extent of aerosol transmission of SARS-CoV-2 as this would have important implications for public health and infection-control policies., Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image, Highlights • Detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the air do not correlate to infectivity. • Virus viability in air is important to understand the aerosol transmission. • SARS-CoV-2 may be less stable in higher temperatures and relative humidity. • The effect of temperature and humidity on SARS-CoV-2 seems to be residual.

The intake of fruits and vegetables rich in nutrients with bioactive properties is associated with the prevention of a range of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer that originate from physiological disorders, which can be promoted by the accumulation of free radicals in the body. Several chemical compounds with bioactive functions are found in fruits and vegetables. Among these, phenolic compounds stand out for having high antioxidant capacity. These compounds originate from the secondary metabolism of plants, being essential for their growth and reproduction. In addition, they can be more expressed by plants under stress conditions, such as infections by microorganisms, lesions, severe climate changes, nutritional deficiency, among others. The highest concentrations of these phenols are found in fruit and vegetable skins, due to their potential use in protecting against UV rays, pathogens and predators. The search for new sources of natural and/or synthesized antioxidants has been growing due to the wide biological activity observed for these compounds, such as the inhibition of lipid oxidation and its action against the inactivation of free radicals. These compounds can be synthesized via the shikimate/phenylpropanoid pathway. It is believed that after consumption they are partially degraded in the small intestine, about 5 to 10%, and the rest in the large intestine. Here we review how the plant synthesizes phenolic compounds and their health effects, demonstrating the significant dietary activity of these compounds in metabolic processes. La ingesta de frutas y verduras ricas en nutrientes con propiedades bioactivas está asociada a la prevención de una serie de enfermedades crónicas como las enfermedades cardiovasculares, la diabetes y el cáncer que tienen su origen en trastornos fisiológicos, que pueden ser promovidas por la acumulación de radicales libres en el organismo. Varios compuestos químicos con funciones bioactivas se encuentran en frutas y verduras. Entre estos, los compuestos fenólicos destacan por tener una alta capacidad antioxidante. Estos compuestos se originan en el metabolismo secundario de las plantas, siendo esenciales para su crecimiento y reproducción. Además, pueden ser más expresados por las plantas en condiciones de estrés, como infecciones por microorganismos, lesiones, cambios climáticos severos, deficiencia nutricional, entre otros. Las concentraciones más altas de estos fenoles se encuentran en las pieles de frutas y verduras, debido a su uso potencial en la protección contra los rayos UV, patógenos y depredadores. La búsqueda de nuevas fuentes de antioxidantes naturales y/o sintetizados ha ido en aumento debido a la amplia actividad biológica observada para estos compuestos, como la inhibición de la oxidación lipídica y su acción frente a la inactivación de radicales libres. Estos compuestos se pueden sintetizar a través de la vía del shikimato/fenilpropanoide. Se cree que después del consumo se degradan parcialmente en el intestino delgado, alrededor del 5 al 10%, y el resto en el intestino grueso. Aquí revisamos cómo la planta sintetiza compuestos fenólicos y sus efectos en la salud, demostrando la importante actividad dietética de estos compuestos en los procesos metabólicos. A ingestão de frutas e hortaliças ricas em nutrientes com propriedades bioativas está associada à prevenção de uma série de doenças crônicas como doenças cardiovasculares, diabetes e câncer que se originam de distúrbios fisiológicos, que podem ser promovidos pelo acúmulo de radicais livres no organismo. Vários compostos químicos com funções bioativas são encontrados em frutas e hortaliças. Dentre estes, os compostos fenólicos se destacam por possuírem alta capacidade antioxidante. Esses compostos são originários do metabolismo secundário das plantas, sendo essenciais para seu crescimento e reprodução. Além disso, podem ser maior expressos pelas plantas sob condições de estresse, como infecções por microrganismos, lesões, mudanças climáticas severas, deficiência nutricional, entre outros. As maiores concentrações desses fenóis são encontradas nas cascas de frutas e vegetais, devido ao seu potencial uso na proteção contra raios UV, patógenos e predadores. A busca por novas fontes de antioxidantes naturais e/ou sintetizados vem crescendo devido a ampla atividade biológica observada para estes compostos, como por exemplo, a inibição da oxidação lipídica e a sua ação frente a inativação dos radicais livres. Esses compostos podem ser sintetizados através da via chiquimato/fenilpropanóide. Acredita-se que após o consumo são parcialmente degradados no intestino delgado, cerca de 5 a 10%, e o restante no intestino grosso. Aqui revisamos como a planta sintetiza os compostos fenólicos e seus efeitos na saúde, demonstrando a atividade dietética significativa desses compostos nos processos metabólicos.

Environmental factors play a key role in the zoonotic transmission of emerging pathogenic viruses as mankind is constantly disturbing wildlife's ecosystems usually by cutting down forests to build human settlements or by catching wild animals for food, which deprives the viruses of their natural hosts and gives them opportunity to infect humans. In December 2019, a new coronavirus emerged from bats and was named SARS-CoV-2 by the International Committee for Taxonomy of Viruses, and the disease it causes named COVID-19 by the World Health Organization. Disease outbreaks such as SARS in 2002–2003, MERS in 2012 and the current COVID-19 pandemic are the result of higher mutation rates of coronaviruses and their unique capacity for genetic recombination, resulting in adaptations that make them more suitable to cross the species barriers and infect other species. This ability for host switching and interspecies infection is often attributed to the great diversity of these viruses, which is a result of viral and host factors such as the low fidelity of their RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, the high frequency of their homologous RNA recombination, and the adaptation of the S protein to bind host receptors like the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in the case of SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2, and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DDP4) in MERS-CoV. This review presents an overview of the zoonotic transmission of SARS, MERS and COVID-19, focusing on the viral, host and environmental factors that favor the spillover of these viruses into humans, as well as the biological and ecological factors that make bats the perfect animal reservoir of infection for these viruses., Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image, Highlights • Environmental factors play a key role in the zoonotic transmission of emerging. • Ability for host switching and interspecies infection is often attributed. • Bats are the main reservoir hosts for a lot of coronaviruses like SARS-CoV-2. • SARS-CoV-2 uses the same ACE2 cell receptor and entry mechanism as SARS-COV-1.

Producción Científica, Coronavirus disease 19, or COVID-19, is an infection associated with an unprecedented worldwide pandemic caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which has led to more than 215 million infected people and more than 4.5 million deaths worldwide. SARS-CoV-2 cell infection is initiated by a densely glycosylated spike (S) protein, a fusion protein, binding human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (hACE2), that acts as the functional receptor through the receptor binding domain (RBD). In this article, the interaction of hACE2 with the RBD and how fusion is initiated after recognition are explored, as well as how mutations influence infectivity and immune response. Thus, we focused on all structures available in the Protein Data Bank for the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 S protein and hACE2. Specifically, the Delta variant carries particular mutations associated with increased viral fitness through decreased antibody binding, increased RBD affinity and altered protein dynamics. Combining both existing mutations and mutagenesis studies, new potential SARS-CoV-2 variants, harboring advantageous S protein mutations, may be predicted. These include mutations S13I and W152C, decreasing antibody binding, N460K, increasing RDB affinity, or Q498R, positively affecting both properties.

(1) Background: Toxoplasma gondii is an important zoonosis and one of the major causes of abortion in sheep worldwide. (2) Methods: We performed a 2-year longitudinal serological anti-T. gondii IgG screening on a cohort of a spatially confined population of a Portuguese autochthonous sheep breed in central Portugal. (3) Results: From the screening of the 2015 and 2016 sera, an increase of seroprevalence was observed (57.7% (95% CI: 49.9–65.3%) versus 69.1% (95% CI: 61.5–75.9), from 2015 and 2016, respectively) (p = 0.031). (4) Conclusions The present study is the first to provide prospective data on the anti-T. gondii serological status of a sheep cohort in Portugal, showing an increase in the occurrence of T. gondii. There is a need to provide a clearer understanding of T. gondii epidemiology in Portugal, ideally by implementing monitoring programs on sentinel herds, not only due to the high impact of T. gondii on animal health but also for it being a zoonosis.

(1) Background: Toxoplasma gondii is an important zoonosis and one of the major causes of abortion in sheep worldwide. (2) Methods: We performed a 2-year longitudinal serological anti-T. gondii IgG screening on a cohort of a spatially confined population of a Portuguese autochthonous sheep breed in central Portugal. (3) Results: From the screening of the 2015 and 2016 sera, an increase of seroprevalence was observed (57.7% (95% CI: 49.9–65.3%) versus 69.1% (95% CI: 61.5–75.9), from 2015 and 2016, respectively) (p = 0.031). (4) Conclusions The present study is the first to provide prospective data on the anti-T. gondii serological status of a sheep cohort in Portugal, showing an increase in the occurrence of T. gondii. There is a need to provide a clearer understanding of T. gondii epidemiology in Portugal, ideally by implementing monitoring programs on sentinel herds, not only due to the high impact of T. gondii on animal health but also for it being a zoonosis.

Little is known about contaminated surfaces as a route of transmission for SARS-CoV- 2 and a systematic review is missing and urgently needed to provide guidelines for future research studies. As such, the aim of the present study was to review the current scientific knowledge and to summarize the existing studies in which SARS-CoV-2 has been detected in inanimate surfaces. This systematic review includes studies since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, available in PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus. Duplicate publications were removed, and exclusion criteria was applied to eliminate unrelated studies, resulting in 37 eligible publications. The present study provides the first overview of SARS-CoV-2 detection in surfaces. The highest detection rates occurred in hospitals and healthcare facilities with COVID-19 patients. Contamination with SARS-CoV-2 on surfaces was detected in a wide range of facilities and surfaces. There is a lack of studies performing viability testing for SARS-CoV-2 recovered from surfaces, and consequently it is not yet possible to assess the potential for transmission via surfaces., Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image

This study evaluated the effect of freeze-drying treatment (lyophilization) on the chemical composition of malagueta (Capsicum frutescens), cheiro (Capsicum chinense cv.), and murupi (Capsicum chinense cv.) peppers. Proximal composition, minerals, vitamins, fatty acids, and volatile compounds were determined in fresh and lyophilized samples, and then, discriminated by multivariate analysis. The results demonstrate that the freeze-drying treatment of the peppers conserved the content of palmitic and linoleic acids, potassium, vitamin C, and β-carotene in malagueta pepper. Sixty-two volatile compounds in a distinct profile between the samples were identified in samples. The freeze-drying treatment significantly decreased the volatile composition in peppers. By multivariate approach, peppers were discriminated into three groups (1st, freeze-dried malagueta; 2nd, freeze-dried cheiro and murupi; and 3rd, fresh malagueta, cheiro, and murupi) based on the nutritional composition, minerals, vitamins, and fatty acid content. In conclusion, the freeze-drying process preserved the nutritional composition, minerals, and fatty acid content in peppers from the Brazilian Amazonia region, suggesting that this technological process could be applied for the future production of lyophilized peppers.

Few licensed drugs and vaccines are available concerning COVID-19, a disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2). Furthermore, numerous recent SARS-COV-2 variants of have arisen globally, demonstrating the need to develop broadly protective interventions for different coronavirus strains. Polyphenols are the largest class of natural bioactive compounds, categorized as flavonoids (catechins, quercetin and kaempferol) and non-flavonoids (gallic acid and resveratrol), and these compounds have been described as effective antiviral agents. This is because they can inhibit coronavirus enzymes, blocking replication and infection. The present short manuscript aimed to summarize and report the current evidence from well-known powerful flavonoid (catechin, quercetin, and kaempferol) and non-flavonoid (gallic acid and resveratrol) polyphenols obtained from plant extracts that inhibit coronavirus strains in in vitro models or by computer modeling. The knowledge of strategies beyond conventional treatments may be helpful in the development of new coronavirus drugs, treatments/medicines, or formulations.

open access article Dihydromyricetin (DHM) dramatically improved the quality of life for Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats and significantly increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes in the liver. Moreover, DHM successfully ameliorated diabetes-induced liver damage by suppression of apoptosis in the liver, as indicated by the decreased levels of Bax and cleaved caspase-3. In diabetic rats, the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β in the liver were significantly increased. However, the administration of DHM (100–400 mg/kg/day) for 6 weeks restored the cytokine levels to their normal values in a dose-dependent manner in diabetic rats by the regulation of nuclear factor-kappa B signaling pathway. In addition, DHM significantly induced 5' AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation and decreased MyD88, TLR4, p38, GSK-3β protein expression levels in the liver of diabetic rats. In conclusion, DHM could improve STZ-induced liver impairment by preventing oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation.

The aim of the present study was to identify volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by SPME-GC and quantify the bioactive compounds (ascorbic acid, total flavonoids and total phenolic content), antioxidant capacity (DPPH and ORAC) and physicochemical characteristics of ocorocillo, cambuca, murici da praia and murici do campo, four native South American fruits. A total of 41 volatile compounds were identified in ocorocillo, of which 17 were terpenes. Cambuca’s volatile profile contained aldehydes, aromatic hydrocarbons and alcohols. Murici da praia and murici do campo contained high levels of fatty acid volatiles and esters, that contribute to their remarkable aroma. Ocorocillo contained high levels of ascorbic acid and total flavonoids, while cambuca presented lower ascorbic acid, flavonoid and phenolic levels. Murici da praia and murici do campo contained high amounts of phenolic compounds and high free-radical scavenging capacity (DPPH and ORAC). In addition, this fruit was sweeter and less acid compared to the other assessed fruits. The results suggest that these native fruits constitute a good source of volatile compounds and bioactive compounds, which may aid in their preservation interest and potential use in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.

Jabuticaba is a native fruit from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. The fruit is commercialized in Brazil and in the world in its fresh and processed forms due to its attractive colour and flavour. The objective of this study was to quantify the chemical properties and bioactive compounds in fruits from two jabuticaba species that have rarely been study, ‘Pendula’ (Plinia trunciflora) and ‘Ponhema’ (Plinia cauliflora). Extracts of jabuticaba fruits species ‘Pendula’ and ‘Ponhema’ were evaluated by SPME combined with GC–MS for volatile compounds. Organic acids, sugars, and ascorbic acid were determined by HPLC. Minerals were determined by ICP-OES, phenolic content, antioxidant capacity (DPPH and ORAC assay), and centesimal composition were assayed on the same jabuticabas extracts. Jabuticaba ‘Pendula’ presented higher levels of ash (4.26 g 100 g−1), lipids (1.21 g 100 g−1), proteins (5.07 g 100 g−1), dietary fibers (29.73 g 100 g−1) and minerals (1122.91 mg 100 g−1). Jabuticaba ‘Ponhema’ expressed higher amounts of total monomeric anthocyanins (TMA) (0.10 g 100 g−1), total flavonoids (0.08 g 100 g−1) and total phenolic compounds (0.43 g 100 g−1). These two species had high antioxidant capacity (5.73–9.12 mmol trolox 100 g−1 by DPPH method and 23.54–71.16 mmol trolox 100 g−1 by ORAC method). There were found 37 new compounds, mainly terpenes (67%), that have not been previously described in jabuticaba fruit. Jabuticaba ‘Pendula’ and ‘Ponhema’ fruits can be beneficial to the human diet and potentially serve as raw material for industrial purposes.

This study analyzed six uvaia (Eugenia pyriformis Cambess) accessions (‘Comum’, ‘Rugosa’, ‘Doce de Patos de Minas’, ‘Pera’, ‘Rugosa Doce’ and ‘Dura’) with respect to chemical composition, nutritional value, bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity. The ‘Rugosa Doce’ and ‘Doce de Patos de Minas’ accessions were sweeter (20.18 g 100 g−1 and 18.88 g 100 g−1, respectively), while the ‘Rugosa’ and ‘Pera’ accessions were less acid (0.28 g 100 g−1 and 0.33 g 100 g−1, respectively). Terpenes were the major volatile compounds (46.75%) identified by SPME-GC/MS. The ‘Rugosa’ accession contained high levels of fibers (43.81 g 100 g−1) and minerals (2235.10 mg 100 g−1). The ‘Rugosa Doce’ and ‘Rugosa’ accessions were distinguished by total flavonoids and phenolic compounds. ‘Rugosa Doce’ and ‘Rugosa’ may potentially serve as a raw material for food, while ‘Doce de Patos de Minas’ and ‘Pera’ can be used for cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries purposes.

The anthropic interference in aquatic ecosystems, favors the disordered colonization of T. domingensis, damaging the production of hydroelectric power and river traffic. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of C. typhae as a mycoherbicide in the control of T. domingensis, in vitro and in greenhouse. 107 samples of symptomatic T. domingensis leaves were collected in flooded areas of rivers in Brazil, with identification and isolation of the collected fungal species. The concentration of inoculum was determined to evaluate the incidence and severity of the disease, the influence of temperature on mycelial growth and conidia germination, the effect of temperature and leaf wetness period on T. domingensis infection by C. typhae and the host range test. The growth of the colonies of C. typhae was higher at 25 to 30 ºC, there was no interference of the photoperiod on germination of the spores, but the highest percentage of germination occurred at 17.39 ºC. The influence of environmental conditions on infection of inoculated leaves of T. dominguensis indicated that at 15 ºC and the period of leaf wetness of 48 hours promoted the highest incidence of the disease, as well as the severity for the same period of leaf wetness. The specificity test showed that C. typhae is specific and pathogenic to T. domingensis. Being this the first report of the occurrence of this pathogen in aquatic macrophytes of this species and in T. domingensis in Brazil.

The Atlantic Forest is recognized as a biome rich in biodiversity. Cambuci trees (Campomanesia phaea) produce fruits that may be consumed as both fresh and processed forms but are still underutilized. The aim of this study was to describe the physicochemical characteristics and bioactive compounds in cambuci fruits from Brazilian Atlantic Forest, located at Natividade da Serra-SP, Brazil. Cambuci fruits of the fifty-nine accessions were characterized according to fresh weight, pulp yield, peel percentage, longitudinal and transversal diameters (LD and TD, respectively), pH, soluble solids content (SSC), titratable acidity (TA), SSC/TA ratio, ascorbic acid, total phenolic compounds content, and antioxidant activity using the DPPH assay. The soluble solids contents varied from 5.10 °Brix to 11.00 °Brix. The titratable acidity varied from 1.29 to 2.90 g citric acid 100 g-1. Ascorbic acid content was of 31.12 to 139.38 mg 100 g-1. Total phenolic compounds varied from 330.5 mg GAE 100 g-1 to 3,526.04 mg GAE 100 g-1. The antioxidant activity was of 65.03 µmol Trolox g-1 fruit pulp (fresh weight) to 199.78 µmol Trolox g-1 fruit pulp (fresh weight), a factor of 6.7 difference between the extremes. These results showed cambuci fruits presented as rich source of ascorbic acid, total phenolic compounds, and with high antioxidant capacity.

Pereskia aculeata Miller is a native cactaceae found from the Northeast to the South of Brazil. This plant is recognized by the high nutritional value of their leaves, which are the most used in cooking and folk medicine. However, studies on the chemical characteristics and antioxidant capacity of the ora-pro-nobis fruits are scarce. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the best harvest point of the ora-pro-nobis fruits to optimize the content of bioactive compounds and their antioxidant capacity. The fruits were manually harvested, defined by their peel colors in three maturity stages: unripe (green), intermediate (yellowish green), and ripe (yellow) stages. The following attributes were evaluated: soluble solids (SS), titratable acidity (TA), SS/TA ratio, pH, and content of bioactive compounds, such as total chlorophylls, carotenoids, yellow flavonoids, total phenolic compounds, and antioxidant capacity. There was a decrease in the content of chlorophyll followed by an increase in the of total carotenoids and yellow flavonoids, due to the maturity stage. For the total phenolic compounds, it was not observed significant difference between the stages. The antioxidant capacity was quantified by the ORAC method in lyophilized pulp in the unripe (1.95 mmol 100 g-1 trolox) and ripe (3.85 mmol 100 g-1 trolox) stages. The lowest contents were observed in the intermediate (0.80 mmol 100 g-1 trolox in lyophilized pulp) stage. The maturity stage significantly influenced the bioactive compounds of ora-pro-nobis, which presented higher values of total carotenoids, yellow flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity in ripe fruits. Resumo Pereskia aculeata Miller é uma cactaceae nativa encontrada do Nordeste ao Sul Brasileiro. A planta é reconhecida pelo alto valor nutritivo das folhas, parte mais utilizada na culinária e na medicina popular. Entretanto, trabalhos sobre as características químicas e a capacidade antioxidante dos frutos de ora-pro-nóbis são escassos. Diante disso, o objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o melhor ponto de colheita em frutos de ora-pro-nóbis, visando a otimizar a presença de compostos bioativos e a capacidade antioxidante. Os frutos foram colhidos manualmente, e os três estádios de maturação foram definidos pela coloração da casca, sendo: estádio verde (coloração verde), intermediário (coloração verde - amarelada) e maduro (coloração amarela). Os atributos avaliados foram os sólidos solúveis (SS), acidez titulável (AT), relação SS/AT, pH, e os compostos bioativos, como as clorofilas totais,carotenoides totais, flavonoides amarelos, compostos fenólicos totais e capacidade antioxidante. Houve diminuição da clorofila e aumento no teor de carotenoides totais e flavonoides amarelos, em função do avanço no estádio de maturação. Para os compostos fenólicos totais, não houve diferença significativa entre os estádios avaliados. A capacidade antioxidante foi quantificada pelo método ORAC, em polpa liofilizada no estádio verde, (1,95 mmol 100 g-1 trolox) e maduro (3,85 mmol 100 g-1 trolox). Os menores teores foram observados no estádio intermediário (0,80 mmol 100 g-1 trolox em polpa liofilizada). O estádio de maturação influenciou de forma significativa sobre os compostos bioativos de ora-pro-nóbis, que apresentaram valores mais elevados de carotenoides totais, flavonoides amarelos e capacidade antioxidante em frutos maduros.

O território brasileiro possui uma grande diversidade de biomas, que apresentam uma extraordinária variedade de espécies de plantas, incluindo alguns frutos peculiares. Um dos biomas de maior destaque é a Mata Atlântica, que originalmente se estendia desde o Sul até o Nordeste da costa brasileira, mas atualmente apresenta pouca área da vegetação original, sendo reconhecido como um dos biomas mais degradados pela ação antropológica no mundo. Diante disso, objetivou-se avaliar os frutos de cambucá, jabuticaba e uvaia quanto aos parâmetros físicos, químicos e às propriedades funcionais. Foram realizadas análises físicas, químicas, compostos bioativos, como os flavonoides totais, vitamina C, compostos fenólicos, capacidade antioxidante, perfil dos compostos voláteis, composição centesimal e composição mineral. Os frutos de cambucá foram coletados em Campina do Monte Alegre e os frutos de jabuticaba e uvaia em Rio Claro, quando apresentaram-se aptos para o consumo, com coloração característica. Observou-se que os frutos de cambucá apresentam elevados teores de cinzas, proteínas, fibras e açúcares. Já frutos de jabuticaba \'Ponhema\' apresentam maior massa fresca, consequentemente maior rendimento de polpa e frutos mais firmes do que frutos de jabuticaba \'Pêndula\'. Já os frutos de jabuticaba \'Pêndula\' apresentam-se mais doces com menor acidez, resultando em maior ratio do que os frutos de jabuticaba \'Ponhema\'. Ambas as espécies possuem conteúdo relevante de vitamina C, antocianinas monoméricas totais, flavonoides totais, compostos fenólicos totais e elevada capacidade antioxidante, também apresentam elevados teores dos minerais P, K e Ca, lipídios, proteínas e fibras. Os frutos de uvaia, acessos \'Rugosa\' e \'Rugosa Doce\' apresentaram teores elevados de flavonóides totais, compostos fenólicos, vitamina C e boa capacidade antioxidante. As jabuticabas e as uvaias apresentaram terpenos, que podem ser benéficos quando incluídos na alimentação, como matéria-prima na indústria e/ou na área farmacêutica. De maneira geral, os frutos de cambucá, jabuticaba e uvaias apresentam caracteristicas funcionais interessantes. The Brazilian territory presents a great diversity of biomes, that present an extraordinary variety of species of plants, including some peculiar fruits. One of the most important biomes is the Atlantic Forest, where it originally extended from the South to the Northeast of the Brazilian coast, but currently presents little area of the original vegetation, being recognized as one of the biomes more degraded by the anthropological action in the world. The objective was to evaluate the fruits of cambuca, jabuticaba and uvaia as the physical, chemical parameters and functional properties. Physical, chemical and bioactive compounds analysis, such as total flavonoids, vitamin C, phenolic compounds, antioxidant capacity, profile of volatile compounds, centesimal composition and mineral composition were performed. The fruits of cambuca were collected in Campina do Monte Alegre and the fruits of jabuticaba and uvaia in Rio Claro, when all were fit for consumption with the characteristic coloration. It was observed that the cambucá fruits present high levels of ashes, proteins, fibers and sugars. Fruits of \'Ponhema\' jabuticaba have a higher fresh mass, consequently higher pulp yield and firmer fruits than \'Péndula\' jabuticaba fruits. On the other hand, the fruits of jabuticaba \'Péndula\' are more sweet with less acidity, resulting in a higher ratio than the fruits of \'Ponhema\' jabuticaba. Both species has relevant content of vitamin C, total monomeric anthocyanins, total flavonoids, total phenolic compounds and high antioxidant capacity, as well as P, K and Ca minerals, lipids, proteins and fibers. The fruits of the \'Rugosa\' and \'Rugosa Doce\' acessions presented high levels of total flavonoids, phenolic compounds, vitamin C and greater antioxidant capacity. Jabuticabas and uvaias showed terpenes, which may be beneficial both when included in the food, as raw material in the industry or/and pharmaceutical area. Overall, the fruits of cambuca, jabuticabas and uvaia presented interesting functional features.

Uvaia (Eugenia pyriformis Cambess) is a fruit tree native to the Atlantic Forest and that features peculiar aroma and flavor. Although this fruit is highly popular locally, its commercial farming is virtually nonexistent. In addition, limited studies on this fruit have been conducted. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the physical, chemical, and functional characteristics of two uvaia fruit populations grown in Salesópolis, SP, Brazil, in order to determine their potential for being consumed both in natura and processed. Uvaia fruits were evaluated as for skin color, whole fruit weight, longitudinal and transversal diameters, seed percentage, pulp yield, pulp firmness, pH, total soluble solids (TSS), total titratable acidity (TTA), TSS/TTA ratio, total soluble sugars, soluble and total pectins, total carotenoids, yellow flavonoids, total phenolic compounds, ascorbic acid, and in vitro antioxidant capacity (DPPH and ORAC assays). The total mineral content was also determined. Comparison among the two populations revealed that uvaia fruits showed significantly different firmness values, large fruits showing suitable characteristics for the fresh fruit market. However, small fruits were sweeter and richer in antioxidants, allowing the consumption of both natural and processed fruits. Thus, this native fruit denotes an important source of nutrients and bioactive compounds, especially iron. Resumo A uvaia (Eugenia pyriformis Cambess) é um fruto nativo da Mata Atlântica que apresenta características de aroma e sabor bastante peculiares. Embora seja apreciado por populações locais, o cultivo comercial é praticamente inexistente, assim como os trabalhos de pesquisa. Em vista disso, este trabalho teve como objetivo caracterizar frutos de duas populações de uvaia cultivadas em Salesópolis, SP, com relação aos aspectos físicos, químicos e funcionais, com vistas a determinar o potencial para consumo in natura e/ou para processamento. Os frutos de duas populações de uvaia (frutos grandes e frutos pequenos) foram colhidos manualmente, quando atingiram o completo amadurecimento. Foram avaliados quanto à coloração da casca, peso do fruto inteiro, diâmetros longitudinal e transversal, porcentagem de sementes, rendimento em polpa, firmeza da polpa, pH, teor de sólidos solúveis totais (SST), acidez titulável total (ATT), relação SST/ATT, açúcares solúveis totais, pectinas solúvel e total, carotenoides totais, flavonoides amarelos, compostos fenólicos totais, ácido ascórbico e capacidade antioxidante (DPPH e ORAC). Os teores de minerais totais (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, P, K, Ca e Mg) também foram determinados. Quando comparadas as duas populações, pode-se observar que as uvaias apresentaram diferenças expressivas na firmeza, sendo que os frutos do tipo grande apresentaram características vantajosas para a comercialização in natura. No entanto, os frutos do tipo pequeno mostraram-se mais doces e mais ricos em compostos antioxidantes, o que valoriza seu consumo nas formas in natura e processada. Portanto, esta fruta nativa constitui uma importante fonte de nutrientes e de compostos bioativos, com destaque para o Fe.