III. Unidades de Investigação, Desenvolvimento e Outras
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Percorrer III. Unidades de Investigação, Desenvolvimento e Outras por Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS) "06:Água Potável e Saneamento"
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- Documentos das provas de agregação de Luísa Paula Viola Afonso Barreira. Titulo da Lição: Tratamento e valorização de efluentes usando microalgasPublication . Barreira, LuísaSumário pormenorizado da Lição apresentada no âmbito das Provas Públicas de Agregação, conforme estipulado na alínea c) iii) do artigo 4º do Regulamento nº 502/2024 da Universidade do Algarve que regula a atribuição do Título de Agregado da Universidade do Algarve. A unidade curricular “Métodos Instrumentais de Análise em Biologia e Biotecnologia” é aqui proposta como disciplina opcional para os mestrados em Biotecnologia, Biologia Marinha, Biologia Molecular e Microbiana, e Aquacultura e Pescas, da Universidade do Algarve. Esta proposta surge no seguimento de vários anos de experiência na orientação de teses de dissertação dos mestrados referidos, nos quais se observou falhas na capacidade dos alunos para aplicar técnicas analíticas avançadas nos seus trabalhos. Isto deve-se ao facto de a maioria dos alunos a frequentar estes mestrados ter formação base em licenciaturas da área das Ciências Biológicas que geralmente não inclui formação em Métodos Instrumentais de Análise. Considerando que, num contexto científico e tecnológico em rápida evolução, o domínio de métodos instrumentais modernos é essencial para o desenvolvimento de competências analíticas avançadas, a UC proposta poderá ajudar a complementar a formação dos alunos nesta área permitindo o desenvolvimento de uma investigação mais rigorosa e com maior inovação tecnológica. Os principais objetivos da unidade curricular (UC) são, assim, proporcionar aos alunos um conhecimento profundo dos métodos instrumentais de análise mais relevantes em biologia e biotecnologia, bem como capacitá-los a aplicar essas técnicas de forma eficiente e crítica em contextos de investigação e indústria. Os alunos serão introduzidos a uma variedade de técnicas instrumentais, como espetrofotometria de absorção e emissão, espectrometria de massa, e cromatografia líquida e gasosa. Além disso, serão incentivados a compreender os princípios teóricos subjacentes a essas técnicas, bem como a interpretar e analisar dados de maneira rigorosa.
- Effect of petrochemical contaminants on the photosynthetic physiology on the seagrass Halophila baillonii AschersonPublication . Lima, Maria Cecilia S.; Lima, Thomaz Henrique A.; Sperandio, Marcus V. Loss; Yogui, Gilvan Takeshi; Silva, João; Magalhães, Karine M.Oil spills represent a significant threat to seagrasses as hydrocarbons can impair photosynthetic processes and plant functioning, although physiological responses may vary depending on the spill and environmental conditions This study investigates the physiological responses of Halophila baillonii when exposed to the watersoluble fraction (WSF) of crude oil. Photosynthetic pigment composition, maximum quantum yield (Fv/Fm), and oxidative stress indicators malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were analyzed after shortterm exposure. A significant increase in chlorophyll a and b concentrations and variations in carotenoid levels were detected, while photochemical efficiency and oxidative stress indicators were maintained. These findings suggest that the species dynamically adjusts its pigment composition to optimize light capture and mitigate oxidative stress, demonstrating physiological plasticity. Its ability to tolerate WSF exposure highlights the species' short-term resilience to hydrocarbon pollution. Future studies should investigate the effects of long-term exposure to different oil types, such as boat fuel, and the recovery mechanisms of seagrasses.
- Interactions between microplastics and trace metals: ecotoxicological implications for tropical marine invertebrates, Mussel Perna Perna (Linnaeus, 1758) and sea Urchin Echinometra Lucunter (Linnaeus, 1758)Publication . Palanch, Maria Fernanda; França, Letícia Albanit; Moura, Pedro Henrique Paixão de; Santana, Felipe Teixeira; Prieto, Camila Martins; Castro, João Vítor; Guimarães, Murilo Vieira; Pereira, Vinícius Gonçalves; Oliveira, Otto Muller Patrão de; Belem, Andre L.; Ribeiro, Caio CesarMicroplastics (MPs) are recognized as emerging contaminants in marine ecosystems, not only due to their physical persistence but also for their capacity to adsorb and transport chemical pollutants, such as trace metals. In this study, we investigated the interactions between four types of virgins microplastics, like polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP), and polypropylene with additives (PPa) and two trace metals, copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn), at environmentally relevant and elevated concentrations. We quantified metal adsorption using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry and assessed the toxicological effects of MP-metal mixtures on the embryonic development of two tropical marine invertebrates: the mussel Perna perna and the sea urchin Echinometra lucunter. Our results show that metal adsorption onto microplastics was consistently higher at environmentally realistic concentrations, with PE exhibiting the highest Zn adsorption (43.16 mu gg(-)(1)) and PPa the highest Cu adsorption (17.94 mu gg(-)(1)). Ecotoxicological assays revealed species-specific sensitivities, with P. perna embryos showing complete developmental inhibition (0%) when exposed to Cu-Zn mixtures combined with PE or PS. E. lucunter exhibited significant developmental impairments in response to PP and PPa (76 +/- 12,3%, 79 +/- 16,8%), as well as selective toxicity from specific MP-metal combinations. These findings underscore the importance of polymer composition, metal speciation, and biological context in determining the toxicity of plastic-associated contaminants. The observed synergistic effects between MPs and trace metals emphasize the need to incorporate multi-stressor interactions into environmental risk assessments and regulatory frameworks addressing marine pollution.
- Living on the shores of the Alboran sea. The neolithic on the coast of Málaga (Spain) a multiproxy approachPublication . Simón-Vallejo, María D.; Lozano-Francisco, M. Carmen; Riquelme-Cantal, José A.; Macías-Tejada, Sara; Camuera, Jon; Uzquiano Ollero, Paloma; Sánchez Marco, Antonio; Garrido-Anguita, Juan M.; Jiménez-Espejo, Francisco; Parrilla-Giráldez, Rubén; Vera-Lozano, José A.; Vera-Peláez, José L.; Cortés-Sánchez, MiguelContext: The coast of Málaga is one of the core areas for the Neolithic in southern Iberia with the earliest occupations dating to the middle of the 8th millennium cal BP. From the outset, evidence shows a fully developed and highly diversified system of agriculture and animal husbandry. The palaeoenvironmental conditions during this period in the southern Iberian Peninsula reveal phases of aridity. Objectives: This study aims to understand how Neolithic communities adapted to these adverse environmental conditions. It also explores the role of wild resources and seasonal patterns in subsistence strategies. Methods: A multiproxy approach was applied, combining regional palaeoenvironmental data with archaeological, archaeofaunal, archaeobotanical and anthropological evidence. The analysis focuses on sites located near aquifer discharges. Results: Fully developed and highly diversified agriculture and herding practices are documented from the earliest Neolithic phases. The challenges posed by arid conditions appear to have been mitigated by settlement in areas linked to major aquifer outlets and by the cultivation of drought-resistant cereals. Multiple lines of evidence suggest a seasonal pattern of occupation, primarily from late autumn to early summer, when marine resources were likely exploited. Neolithic groups may have engaged in regular hunting and gathering activities or maintained interactions with local Epipalaeolithic–Mesolithic populations. Agricultural and pastoral management emerge as key factors for evaluating the contribution of wild resources to their subsistence. Conclusions: The integration of environmental, archaeological and biological records provides a more holistic perspective and better understanding of Neolithic economy and society along the Málaga coast between c. 7.6th—5th millennium cal BP, offering insights into subsistence strategies under arid conditions in a coastal setting.
- Matrix solid-phase dispersion procedure for determination of antibiotics and metabolites in mussels: application in exposure bioassaysPublication . Mejías, Carmen; GARCIA DA FONSECA, TAINÁ; García-Criado, Noelia; Martín, Julia; Santos, Juan Luis; Aparicio, Irene; Alonso, EstebanAbstract: The presence of antibiotics in seafood for human consumption may pose a risk for consumers. Furthermore, some marine organisms, such as mussels, can result in appropriate bioindicators of marine contamination. In this work, a multiresidue analytical methodology suitable for the determination of antibiotics and metabolites in mussels is proposed. The target compounds include three sulphonamides and trimethoprim (TMP) and six of their main metabolites. Sample treatment involves extraction and clean-up in a single step using matrix solid-phase dispersion with acetonitrile. Analytical determination was carried out by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Good linearity (R2 > 0.99), accuracy (from 80.8 to 118%), and limits of quantification (lower than 5 ng g−1 (dry matter, dm)) were obtained for all selected compounds. The method was applied to the determination of antibiotics in mussel samples from an exposure assay with contaminated seawater with TMP and sulfamethoxazole (SMX). Both antibiotics were detected in the analysed samples with concentrations up to 77.5 ng g−1 dm. TMP was bioconcentrated to a higher extent than SMX, attributable to its higher hydrophobicity. None of the metabolites were detected. These results demonstrate that Mytilus galloprovincialis is a suitable bioindicator to assess marine pollution.
- Microplastics hot spots at the South Iberian MarginPublication . Bebianno, Maria; Cristina, Sónia; Nathan, Justine; Goela, Priscila; Dias Duarte Fragoso, Bruno; Icely, John David; Moura, DelmindaThe persistent accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in sediments poses ecological risks to benthic organisms and contributes to the broader issue of marine pollution. This study quantitatively analysed MPs in sediments, water and mussels Mytilus galloprovincialis from eleven sites of the South Portuguese coast in two contrasting climatic seasons (summer and winter). MPs were detected in sediments, water, and M. galloprovincialis at all study sites, although their abundance, colour, size, and type varied across compartments, locations, and seasons. Three hot spots of MPs contamination were identified at the South Portuguese coast. In these areas, the concentration of MPs in sediments was three orders of magnitude higher than water and mussels. The MPs identified had distinct colour patterns: transparent particles dominated in sediments, while blue was the most common in water and mussels. A size-dependent accumulation pattern was observed in the sediments, suggesting selective retention of MPs according to natural particle size, and a relationship was observed between MP levels in sediments and in mussels. Polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) were dominant polymers in sediments while PP, PE and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were consistently present in water and mussels. Polybuthyl methachrylate (PBMA) was also detected in surface water and ingested by mussels. These findings suggest that variability in MPs abundance and polymer composition is linked to differences in local human activities. They also provide strong evidence for the importance of controlling land-based sources of MPs, particularly those transported to the coastal area by transported by rivers.
- Novel bacterial strains for nonylphenol removal in water and sewage sludge: insights from gene expression and toxicityPublication . Lara-Moreno, Alba; Aguilar-Romero, Inés; Madrid, Fernando; Villaverde, Jaime; Carlier, Jorge; Santos, Juan Luís; Alonso, Esteban; Morillo, EsmeraldaAbstract: 4-Nonylphenols (4-NPs) are persistent endocrine disruptors frequently found in wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluents and sewage sludge. This study evaluated the ability of eight bacterial strains that were isolated from sewage sludge to degrade 4-n-NP in an aqueous solution. Bacillus safensis CN12, Shewanella putrefaciens CN17, and Alcaligenes faecalis CN8 showed the highest degradation rates, removing 100%, 75%, and 74% of 4-n-NP (10 mg L−1 ), with DT50 values of 0.90, 8.9, and 10.4 days, respectively. Despite the reduction in 4-n-NP concentrations, ecotoxicity assays revealed that the resulting transformation products (TPs) were more toxic than the parent compound. To investigate the potential degradation mechanisms, in silico and gene expression analyses were conducted on B. safensis CN12, revealing a significant upregulation of the multicopper oxidase gene, cotA (7.25-fold), and the ring-cleaving dioxygenase gene, mhqO (13.9-fold). Although the CN12 strain showed potential for mineralization based on gene expression studies, this was not observed in the aqueous solution. However, when 4-n-NP was adsorbed on sludge and treated with CN12 in the presence of hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPBCD) as a bioavailability enhancer, mineralization reached up to 33%, indicating a synergistic effect with the native sludge microbiota.
- Prioritising research on endocrine disruption in the marine environment: a global perspectivePublication . Pinto, Patricia IS; Miglioli, Angelica; LaLone, Carlie A.; Baumann, Lisa; Baynes, Alice; Blanc‐Legendre, Mélanie; Cancio, Ibon; Cousin, Xavier; Dang, ZhiChao; Dumollard, Rémi; Ford, Alex T.; Green, Christopher; Iguchi, Taisen; Kearney, Philippa; Knigge, Thomas; Minier, Christophe; Monsinjon, Tiphaine; Monteiro, Marta S.; Sturve, Joachim; Watanabe, Haruna; Yamamoto, Hiroshi; Ankley, Gerald; Power, Deborah Mary; Katsiadaki, IoannaA healthy ocean is a crucial life support system that regulates the global climate, is a source of oxygen and supports major economic activities. A vast and understudied biodiversity from micro- to macro-organisms is integral to ocean health. However, the impact of pollutants that reach the ocean daily is understudied for marine taxa, which are also absent or poorly represented in regulatory test guidelines for chemical hazard assessment. Inspired by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science, which aims to reverse the decline in ocean health, this communication calls for global coordination in building resources for studying the effects of marine pollution. The bibliographic analysis, a collective product of scientists from diverse backgrounds, focused on endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). In this review, we (i) critically analyse the literature on endocrine signalling pathways and high-level physiological impacts of EDCs across 20 representative marine taxa; (ii) identify knowledge and regulatory gaps; (iii) apply bioinformatics approaches to marine species genomic resources, with relevance for predictions of susceptibility; and (iv) provide recommendations of priority actions for different stakeholders. We reveal that the scientific literature on EDCs is biased towards terrestrial and/or freshwater organisms, is limited to a handful of animal taxa, and marine organisms are dramatically underrepresented. Our bibliographic analysis also confirmed that only a small number of (neuro) endocrine pathways are covered for all animals, whilst basic knowledge on endocrine systems/endocrine disruption for most marine invertebrate phyla is minimal. Despite significant gaps in genomic resources for marine animals, endocrine-related protein conservation was evident across more than 500 species from diverse marine taxa, highlighting that they are at risk from EDCs. Despite recent technological advances, translation of existing knowledge into international regulatory test guidelines for chemical hazard assessment and monitoring programs is limited. Furthermore, the current understanding is confounded in part by transposing vertebrate endocrinology onto non-vertebrate taxa. In this context, specific recommendations are provided for all stakeholders, including academia (e.g. to expand knowledge across metazoan taxa and endocrine targets and translate it to New Approach Methodologies and Adverse Outcome Pathways; to increase and improve tools for comparative species-sensitivity distributions and cross-species extrapolations), regulators (e.g. increase awareness of specific risks for the marine environment, prioritise international standardisation of testing methods for marine species and request evidence for absence of endocrine disruption in marine phyla), policy makers (e.g. implement sustained, long-term international marine monitoring programs and increase global co-operation) and the public or non-governmental organisations (e.g. foster public engagement and behaviours that prevent marine chemical pollution; promote citizen science activities; and drive political actions towards protective and restorative marine policies). We hope that this and past reviews can contribute towards meeting ambitious international plans for marine water quality assurance, mitigation of marine pollution impacts and protection of marine biodiversity. The importance of marine biodiversity for climate change mitigation, food security and sustainable ecosystem services calls for urgent, cooperative action.
- Seasonal, spatial, and high-frequency monitoring of dissolved oxygen and net ecosystem metabolism in a shallow coastal lagoon, Ria Formosa – PortugalPublication . Correia, Cátia; Jacob, José; Cravo, AlexandraThis study provides a detailed assessment of dissolved oxygen (DO) dynamics and net ecosystem metabolism (NEM) in the Ria Formosa coastal lagoon, highlighting how spatial and temporal variability shape mesotidal ecosystems. Complementary approaches were applied: short-term (24 h) diel oxygen open-water method at two stations (eastern and western boundaries) in comparison with the bottle incubation method, and a 2.5-year high-frequency dataset at an inner station lagoon. DO showed clear seasonal patterns, largely driven by photosynthesis and respiration, but strongly modulated by water circulation and hydrodynamics. Sporadic hypoxic events (DO ≤ 2 mg L−1) were observed but do not represent a risk. The boundary stations are shallower and colonized by submerged vegetation, displayed stronger diel fluctuations than at the inner station, underscoring the role of biological processes in lagoon metabolism. NEM estimates revealed strong spatial contrasts: the western station was autotrophic, while the eastern station predominantly attributed to restricted water exchange. Long-term records from the inner station indicated a slightly heterotrophic status, reinforcing the value of sustained high-frequency monitoring for capturing ecosystem trends overlooked by short-term approaches. The results also highlight lagoon–coastal ocean connectivity, suggesting dual exchanges: local production may be exported offshore to sustain adjacent coastal areas, while coastal processes, such as upwelling, can also influence lagoon metabolism. Methodological comparisons confirmed that bottle incubation method underestimated NEM relative to diel oxygen open-water method, emphasizing the role of hydrodynamics in mesotidal system metabolism. Although sampling focused on western and eastern boundaries and inner lagoon, the strong tidal renewal in the main and secondary channels suggests Ria Formosa overall is close to metabolic balance, with spatial heterogeneity shaped by hydrodynamics, vegetation, and coastal forcing. By integrating short-term, high-frequency, and long-term observations, this study advances understanding of metabolism in coastal lagoons, offering key insights for predicting ecosystem responses to climate change and for guiding management of vulnerable coastal environments.
- Towards the rational use of plastic packaging to reduce microplastic pollution: a mini reviewPublication . Athanasopoulou, Evmorfia; Power, Deborah Mary; Flemetakis, Emmanouil; Tsironi, TheofaniaPlastic pollution has been recognized as an emerging risk for the aquatic environment. Shifting from the prevailing linear “take-make-dispose” model to a “circular” economy framework is essential for mitigating the environmental impact of plastics. Microplastics (MPs) in the natural environment are formed when synthetic polymers are fragmented and micronized to a size ≤ 5 mm. MPs are a global environmental problem, particularly within aquatic ecosystems, due to their persistence, accumulation, and uncertain long-term effects. This review examines the degradation pathways of polymers that result in MP formulation, their rate and distribution across ecosystems, and their potential entry into food systems. Key challenges include a lack of standardized detection methods, specifically for nanoparticles; limited evidence of long-term toxicity; and the inefficiency of current waste management frameworks. Emphasis is placed on the cradle-to-grave lifecycle of plastic materials, highlighting how poor design, excessive packaging, and inadequate postconsumer treatment contribute to MP release. The transition from Directive 94/62/EC to the new Regulation (EU) 2025/40 marks a significant policy shift towards stronger preventive measures. In line with the waste hierarchy and reduction in unnecessary packaging and plastic use, effective recycling must be supported by appropriate collection systems, improved separation processes, and citizen education to prevent waste and improve recycling rates to minimize the accumulation of MPs in the environment and reduce health impacts. This review identifies critical gaps in current knowledge and suggests crucial approaches in order to mitigate MP pollution and protect marine biodiversity and public health.