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- The association of milk and dairy consumption with iodine status in pregnant women in Oporto regionPublication . Ferreira, Pedro; Pinheiro, Cátia; Coelho, Cláudia Matta; Guimarães, Juliana; Pereira, Gonçalo; Moreira, Nara Xavier; Cortez, Alice; Bracchi, Isabella; Pestana, Diogo; Mota, Inês Barreiros; Prucha, Carmo; Martins, Cristina; Ribeiro, Célia Alves; Pinto, Edgar; Almeida, Agostinho; Delerue-Matos, Cristina; Montenegro, Nuno; Dias, Cláudia Camila; Moreira-Rosário, André; Azevedo, Luís Filipe; Brantsæter, Anne-Lise; Ramalho, Carla; Fernandes, Virgínia Cruz; Calhau, Conceição; Leite, João Costa; Keating, ElisaThe role of milk and dairy products in supplying iodine to pregnant women is unknown in Portugal. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between milk and dairy product consumption and the iodine status of pregnant women in the IoMum cohort of the Oporto region. Pregnant women were recruited between 10 and 13 weeks of gestation, when they provided a spot urine sample and information on lifestyle and intake of iodine-rich foods. Urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was determined by inductively coupled plasma MS. A total of 468 pregnant women (269 iodine supplement users and 199 non-supplement users) were considered eligible for analysis. Milk (but not yogurt or cheese) intake was positively associated with UIC, in the whole population (P = 0·02) and in the non-supplement users (P = 0·002), but not in the supplement users (P = 0·29). In non-supplement users, adjusted multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that milk consumption <3 times/month was associated with a five times increased risk of having UIC < 50 µg/l when compared with milk consumption ≥2 times/d (OR 5·4; 95 % CI 1·55, 18·78; P = 0·008). The highest UIC was observed in supplement users who reported consuming milk once per d (160 µg/l). Milk, but not yogurt or cheese, was positively associated with iodine status of pregnant women. Despite the observed positive association, daily milk consumption may not be sufficient to ensure adequate iodine intake in this population.
- Association of trace element status in COVID-19 patients with disease severityPublication . Bego, Tamer; Meseldžić, Neven; Prnjavorac, Besim; Prnjavorac, Lejla; Marjanović, Damir; Azevedo, Rui; Pinto, Edgar; Duro, Mary; Couto, Cristina; Almeida, AgostinhoCaused by the new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) evolves with clinical symptoms that vary widely in severity, from mild symptoms to critical conditions, which can even result in the patient’s death. A critical aspect related to an individual response to SARS-CoV-2 infection is the competence of the immune system, and it is well known that several trace elements are essential for an adequate immune response and have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that are of particular importance in fighting infection. Thus, it is widely accepted that adequate trace element status can reduce the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and disease severity. In this study, we evaluated the serum levels of Cu, Zn, Se, Fe, I and Mg in pa- tients (n = 210) with clinical conditions of different severity (“mild”, “moderate”, “severe” and “exitus letalis”, i. e., patients who eventually died). The results showed significant differences between the four groups for Cu, Zn, Se and Fe, in particular a significant trend of Zn and Se serum levels to be decreased and Cu to be increased with the severity of symptoms. For Mg and I, no differences were observed, but I levels were shown to be increased in all groups.
- Effect of skimmed milk on intestinal tract: prevention of increased reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide formationPublication . Pinho, Susana C. M.; Faria, Miguel A.; Melo, Armindo; Pinto, Edgar; Almeida, Agostinho; Alves, Rui; Cabrita, Ana R. J.; Fonseca, António J. M.; Ferreira, Isabel M. P. V. O.The capacity of skimmed milk to neutralise increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and to attenuate nitric oxide (NO) production, as well as to present cytoprotective effect at the intestinal level was assessed after in vitro gastro-intestinal digestion. The impact on ROS modulation was evaluated at a non-cytotoxic concentration of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in a co-culture of Caco-2 and HT-29 intestinal cells. In parallel, a cytotoxic concentration of H2O2 was used to study the effect of digested milk against induced cell apoptosis. Concerning induced NO production, it was evaluated using the model lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells. Results showed that digested milk prevented the increase of basal ROS level in the intestinal epithelium and attenuated NO production by LPS-stimulated macrophage cells. In the H2O2-induced cytotoxicity assay, digested milk had no protection against apoptosis, confirmed by the failure in attenuating activated caspase-3/7.
- Population structure of the brazilian carapeba eugerres brasilianus in a complex of lagoon systems from southwest atlantic ocean Inferred from otolith elemental and shape signatures †Publication . Almeida, Paulo; Costa, Marcus; Oliveira, Raiane; Pinto, Edgar; Almeida, Agostinho; Azevedo, Rui; Monteiro-Neto, Cassiano; Correia, Alberto TeodoricoThe Brazilian mojarra, Eugerres brasilianus, is an economically important species for the artisanal fisheries that exist in the estuarine environments along the Southwest Atlantic Ocean. Despite this, knowledge about its population structure is scarce, and no management strategies have been applied to ensure the sustainability of E. brasilianus fisheries in Brazil. Thus, the present study intended to understand the population structure of E. brasilianus in a complex system of lagoons in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean. A total of 90 individuals were collected in the lagoons of Piratininga-Itaipu (IP), Saquarema (SQ) and Araruama (AR) between December 2019 and March 2020. For the analyses, 30 individuals per location from the same age group (2 years old), following age estimation by counting the annual growth increments, were used. The contour of the shape of each otolith was evaluated using elliptical Fourier descriptors (EFD). Multi-elemental signatures (MES) of the whole otoliths were obtained using solution-based inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate statistics to assess the degree of separation between individuals from different lagoons. EFD data showed differences between regions. MES exhibited distinct regional patterns, mainly driven by differences in Sr/Ca, Mg/Ca, Mn/Ca, Li/Ca and Cu/Ca ratios. Reclassification accuracy rates obtained from linear discriminant function analyses using both EFD and MES of otoliths were 100% (IP), 90% (SQ) and 97% (AR). Therefore, a clear distinction between the population groups was observed, probably related to the inherent characteristics of each lagoon system, their semi-restricted connectivity with the adjacent coastal zone, as well as the estuarine-opportunistic behavior of the species. Thus, the results suggest that these fisheries should be managed as different population-units.
- Exploring geographical influences on physicochemical characteristics of honey: the Montesinho Natural Park scenarioPublication . Soares, Sónia; Magalhães, Leandro; Moreira, Manuela M.; Rede, Diana; Fernandes, Virgínia Cruz; Viegas, Olga; Pinto, Edgar; Almeida, Agostinho; Azevedo, Rui; Delerue-Matos, CristinaIn recent years, there has been a substantial increase in the global consumption of honey, driven by the high demand for natural products that offer health benefits. Consequently, consumers show a preference for honey, recognised for its superior quality, namely honey with a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) or honey produced in protected areas, as it is associated with superior attributes and characteristics. Portugal is one of the leading countries in the production of PDO honey, with Montesinho Natural Park (MNP) being an excellent example of high-quality Portuguese honey, known for its distinctive attributes. However, environmental threats pose a double challenge, leading to a decline in honey production and compromising its overall quality. This study aimed to assess the specific physicochemical parameters and nutritional characteristics of MNP honey and investigate their correlation with the different locations of apiaries. MNP honey samples (n=13) were obtained from local producers or purchased at supermarkets. Standard physicochemical parameters, such as 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, diastase activity, moisture and ash content, free acidity, electrical conductivity and pH, were determined according to honey legislation. Additionally, colour parameters, protein, low-molecular-weight carbohydrates (mono- and disaccharides), and mineral content were determined. The results obtained were consistent with the requirements outlined in the legislation and those described in the literature. The results suggest that geographical factors within the park and boundaries do not contribute to variations in the analysed parameters. A significant level of homogeneity was evident in all parameters evaluated among the MNP honey samples. This is the first comprehensive study of the physicochemical properties of honey from various apiaries within the MNP.
- Iodine knowledge is associated with iodine status in Portuguese pregnant women: results from the IoMum cohort studyPublication . Pinheiro, Cátia; Moreira, Nara Xavier; Ferreira, Pedro; Coelho, Cláudia Matta; Guimarães, Juliana; Pereira, Gonçalo; Cortez, Alice; Bracchi, Isabella; Pestana, Diogo; Mota, Inês Barreiros; Prucha, Carmo; Martins, Cristina; Ribeiro, Célia Alves; Pinto, Edgar; Almeida, Agostinho; Delerue-Matos, Cristina; Montenegro, Nuno; Dias, Cláudia Camila; Moreira-Rosário, André; Azevedo, Luís Filipe; Brantsæter, Anne-Lise; Ramalho, Carla; Fernandes, Virgínia Cruz; Leite, João Costa; Calhau, Conceição; Keating, ElisaLack of knowledge about iodine has been suggested as a risk factor for iodine deficiency in pregnant women, but no studies have addressed this issue in Portugal. So, the aim of this study was to investigate iodine knowledge among Portuguese pregnant women and its association with iodine status. IoMum, a prospective observational study, included 485 pregnant women recruited at Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de S. João, Porto, between the 10th and 13th gestational weeks. Partial scores for knowledge on iodine importance, on iodine food sources or on iodised salt were obtained through the application of a structured questionnaire. Then, a total iodine knowledge score was calculated and grouped into low, medium and high knowledge categories. Urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was measured in spot urine samples by inductively coupled plasma MS. Of the pregnant women, 54 % correctly recognised iodine as important to neurocognitive development, 32 % were unable to identify any iodine-rich food and 71 % presented lack of knowledge regarding iodised salt. Of the women, 61 % had a medium total score of iodine knowledge. Knowledge on iodine importance during pregnancy was positively associated with iodine supplementation and also with UIC. Nevertheless, median UIC in women who correctly recognised the importance of iodine was below the cut-off for adequacy in pregnancy (150 µg/l). In conclusion, knowledge on iodine importance is positively associated with iodine status. Despite this, recognising iodine importance during pregnancy may not be sufficient to ensure iodine adequacy. Literacy-promoting actions are urgently needed to improve iodine status in pregnancy.
- A survey of thorium (Th) and uranium (U) in the groundwater of NW PortugalPublication . Pinto, Edgar; Almeida, Agostinho; Ferreira, Isabel M.P.L.V.O.Thorium (Th) and uranium (U) are both radioactive and chemical toxins and the role that radiation vs chemical effects play in its toxicology remains mysterious. In the last years, a great interest on the environmental toxicity of Th and U has been raised by two recent developments: (i) the global drive toward low-carbon energy which enhances the interest towards nuclear power, and (ii) its growing use as depleted uranium (DU) in military munitions. A third important factor from an exposure perspective, and maybe the one receiving the least attention, is the increasing worldwide consumption of groundwater. Recent evidence points to the fact that groundwater in many parts of the world is contaminated with Th and U from natural and industrial sources. Exposure to Th and U from drinking water is growing rapidly as more people increasingly rely on groundwater as their primary source of water.
- Lead levels in non-occupationally exposed women with preeclampsiaPublication . Gajewska, Katarzyna; Laskowska, Marzena; Almeida, Agostinho; Pinto, Edgar; Skórzyńska-Dziduszko, Katarzyna; Błażewicz, AnnaThere are many controversies regarding the relationship between lead exposure andcomplications in pregnancy. Preeclampsia (PE) is a maternal hypertensive disorder which is one of the main causes of maternal and foetal mortality. The aim of our study was to assess blood lead level (BLL) in Polish women with PE (PE group, n = 66) compared with healthy, non-pregnant women (CNP group, n = 40) and healthy pregnant women (CP group, n = 40). BLL was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and BLL in the CP group were significantly lower than in the PE group (p < 0.001). Logistic regression analyses of BLL showed a significant positive relationship with the presence of PE. Furthermore, both the SBP and DBP values were positively associated with BLL. This study indicates that preeclamptic women tend to present with significantly higher BLL compared to healthy pregnant women. There were no differences in the BLL between the CP and CNP groups.
- Geographic variation in opisthonema oglinum (Lesueur, 1818) in the southeastern brazilian bight inferred from otolith shape and chemical signaturesPublication . Martins Vaz-dos-Santos, André; Angélica Rautenberg, Kathleen; Gallego Augusto, Cristiane; Luis Cupertino Ballester, Eduardo; Ricardo Schwingel, Paulo; Pinto, Edgar; Almeida, Agostinho; Teodorico Correia, AlbertoThe thread herring Opisthonema oglinum (Lesueur, 1818) is a small pelagic fish distributed in the western margin of the Atlantic Ocean from the United States to Argentina. It is a target species for diverse commercial fisheries, including the Brazilian industrial purse seine fleets that operate in the Southeastern Brazilian Bight. To investigate the geographic variation in the thread herring populations in this fishing ground, sagittal otoliths were collected from two areas: Rio de Janeiro (RJ: 23°04′ S, 44°03′ W) and Santa Catarina (SC: 26°05′ S, 48°18′ W). Otolith shape analyses and multi-elemental signatures were statistically evaluated using elliptical Fourier descriptors and elemental/Ca ratios. Remarkable differences in the thread herring otoliths between the two areas were found. The previous scenario in which the thread herring constitutes a single panmictic population in the Atlantic Ocean is now debatable. The implications of these results in terms of rational fisheries management for this species are highlighted.
- Effects of Chrysosporum (Aphanizomenon) ovalisporum extracts containing cylindrospermopsin on growth, photosynthetic capacity, and mineral content of carrots (Daucus carota)Publication . Guzmán-Guillén, Remedios; Campos, Alexandre; Machado, Joana; Freitas, Marisa; Azevedo, Joana; Pinto, Edgar; Almeida, Agostinho; Cameán, Ana M.; Vasconcelos, VitorNatural toxins produced by freshwater cyanobacteria, such as cylindrospermopsin, have been regarded as an emergent environmental threat. Despite the risks for food safety, the impact of these water contaminants in agriculture is not yet fully understood. Carrots (Daucus carota) are root vegetables, extensively consumed worldwide with great importance for human nourishment and economy. It is, therefore, important to evaluate the possible effects of using water contaminated with cyanotoxins on carrot cultivation. The aim of this work was to investigate cylindrospermopsin effects on D. carota grown in soil and irrigated for 30 days, with a Chrysosporum ovalisporum extract containing environmentally relevant concentrations of cylindrospermopsin (10 and 50 μg/L). The parameters evaluated were plant growth, photosynthetic capacity, and nutritional value (mineral content) in roots of carrots, as these are the edible parts of this plant crop. The results show that, exposure to cylindrospermopsin did not have a clear negative effect on growth or photosynthesis of D. carota, even leading to an increase of both parameters. However, alterations in mineral contents were detected after exposure to crude extracts of C. ovalisporum containing cylindrospermopsin. A general decline was observed for most minerals (Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, Zn, Mo, and P), although an increase was shown in the case of K and Cu, pointing to a possible interference of the cyanobacterial extract in mineral uptake. This study is the first to evaluate the effects of C. ovalisporum extracts on a root vegetable, however, more research is necessary to understand the effects of this toxin in environmentally relevant scenarios.