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The economic and financial crisis that struck Europe over the last few years has imposed much stricter capital and liquidity requirements for commercial banks thereby reducing their ability to provide funding to infrastructure projects. To circumvent this problem the European Union has promoted the Europe 2020 Project Bond Initiative (PBI) aimed at using European funds for credit enhancement to increase the appetite of institutional investors– such as pension funds and insurance companies– to boost large-scale infrastructure financing. In this paper we describe the specific constraints and attractiveness of the PBI within Europe using the SWOT methodology to analyse the information coming from both pilot case studies and the responses that institutional investors and other stakeholders provided to the EC public consultation about the PBI. On the basis of this information we found that even though the initiative may contribute to facilitate infrastructure financing in Europe, there are still some challenges to be addressed for its right implementation. First published online 9 January 2017&nbsp

As recomendações de adubação potássica para a cultura do meloeiro variam de região para região, sendo essas recomendações influenciadas principalmente pelas condições de clima, solo, e condições de cultivo. Portanto, o objetivo foi avaliar doses de potássio sobre a produtividade e a qualidade dos frutos de duas cultivares de meloeiro produzidas em céu aberto no município de Cassilândia-MS. O delineamento experimental foi de blocos casualizados com quatro repetições, em esquema fatorial 2x5 (cultivares x doses de potássio), utilizando-se duas cultivares, o híbrido Amarelo Giorgio (Cucumis melo var. inodorus), e o híbrido Cantaloupe Rafael (Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis) e cinco doses de potássio (0, 60, 120, 180 e 240 kg ha-1 de K2O) aplicadas no plantio e em cobertura na forma de grânulos. Foram avaliadas as seguintes variáveis: produtividade, massa, comprimento e diâmetro médio dos frutos, espessura da casca, ºBrix e pH da polpa, e porcentagem de frutos comerciais. A dose de potássio estimada que proporcionou a maior produtividade do meloeiro foi de 136,75 kg de K2O ha-1. Dentre as cultivares estudadas em cultivo a céu aberto no município de Cassilândia-MS, o híbrido Amarelo Giorgio produziu frutos que atendem os padrões de comercialização em níveis adequados.

Background Childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (c-SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease which increases cardiovascular risk factors (CRF) such as elevated homocysteine, TNF-α, and hs-C reactive protein. Methods We evaluated BMI, waist circumference (WC), 24-h recalls, SLEDAI-2 K, SLICC/ACR-DI, serum levels of homocysteine, folate, TNF-α, hs-C reactive protein, lipid profile, proteomic data, and duration of corticosteroid therapy in 19 c-SLE and 38 healthy volunteers. Physiological and anthropometric variables of c-SLE and healthy controls were compared by ANCOVA. k-cluster was used to separate c-SLE into two different groups with the best and the worst metabolic profile according to previous analysis showing some metabolites that were statistically different from controls, such as homocysteine, TNF-α, hs-CRP and folate levels. These two clusters were again compared with the control group regarding nutritional parameters, lipid profile and also proteomic data. Results Individuals with c-SLE presented higher BMI, WC, homocysteine, triglycerides, TNF-α, hs-CRP and lower folate levels when compared to controls. We found 10 proteins whose relative abundances were statistically different between control group and lupus clusters with the best (LCBMP) and the worst metabolic profile (LCWMP). A significant positive correlation was found between TNF-α and triglycerides and between hs-CRP and duration of corticosteroid therapy. Conclusion Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk parameters were worse in c-SLE. A less protective CVD proteomic profile was found in LCWMP.

El análisis de isótopos estables en sedimentos, vegetales y animales representa una herramienta de importancia para estudios ecológicos, reconstrucciones paleoclimáticas y paleoambientales. Con base en la diferenciación isotópica entre productores primarios, esta técnica ha tenido un gran impacto en la identificación de flujos de energía entre ecosistemas terrestres y acuáticos adyacentes y en la estructura trófica. Se sintetizan aquí la nomenclatura y los principios básicos para la aplicación de isótopos estables en estudios de ambientes acuáticos. Además, se muestra su utilidad describiendo tres ejemplos recientes en ambientes costeros de Uruguay con diferentes objetivos: 1) evaluar el origen de la materia orgánica en sedimentos del Río de la Plata, 2) determinar la importancia trófica de una especie de diatomea en playas arenosas de Uruguay, y 3) evaluar la influencia de la materia orgánica antropogénica en la Bahía de Montevideo. La composición isotópica de las fuentes de materia orgánica permitió inferir los mecanismos involucrados en la transferencia de materia orgánica en los ecosistemas costeros. En esta revisión se subrayan las ventajas de este marcador isotópico de carbono que permite discriminar fuentes de materia orgánica. Asimismo, la combinación con otros análisis complementarios como la espectrofluorometría o los biopolímeros resulta importante en investigaciones de funcionamiento ecosistémico.

This research aims to study the broadcasting of the audiovisual heritage of television through the internet, based on the case study of the National Institute of Audiovisual (INA), seeking the contributions that the actions of management of the French audiovisual heritage can give professionals of audiovisual collections Brazilians. It analyzes how the access network works and the incentive to use the INA collection over the Internet in order to provide greater democratization of information and knowledge production, highlighting online curatorship focused on the educational function of heritage and the valua-tion of archives. Cette recherche vise à étudier la propagation du patrimoine audiovisuel de la télévision par Internet, à partir de l'étude de l'Institut national de l'audiovisuel (INA), à la recherche des contributions que les mesures de gestion du patrimoine audiovisuel français peuvent donner aux professionnelles de las collections audiovisuelles brésiliens. Analyse comment le réseau d'accès et d'encourager l'utilisation de la collection INA sur Internet afin de fournir une plus grande démocratisation de l'information et de la production de connaissances, en soulignant la curation en ligne axé sur la fonction éducative des actifs et la récupération de fichiers. Esta pesquisa se destina a estudar a difusão do patrimônio audiovisual de televisão pela internet, a partir do estudo de caso do Instituto Nacional do Audiovisual (INA), buscando as contribuições que as ações de gestão do patrimônio audiovisual francês podem dar aos profissionais de acervos audiovisuais brasileiros. Analisa como funciona a rede de acesso e o incentivo ao uso do acervo do INA pela internet de modo a proporcionar maior democratização da informação e produção de conhecimento, destacando a curadoria online voltada à função educativa do patrimônio e a valorização dos arquivos.

This study is aimed to identify the different sources of sedimentary organic matter (SOM) within Montevideo coastal zone (MCZ). To this end δ13C, δ15N and C/N ratio were analysed in surface sediments and a sediment core. Sediment core analysis showed that until ~ 1950 CE SOM was mainly marine, observing a shift towards lower δ13C in recent sediments, evidencing an estuarine composition. This trend was associated to the climatic variability, which exerted a major influence on the SOM composition, leading to an increased input of terrigenous material and associated anthropogenic contaminants. Surface sediments collected during different El Nino South Oscillation (ENSO) phases did not show inter-annual variability in SOM composition, which was mainly marine in both eastern and western region of MCZ and estuarine in Montevideo Bay. This spatial pattern provides new insights on the dynamics and factors affecting organic matter sources available for primary consumers along the study region.

Moringa oleifera tree has been recognized internationally for its nutritional, therapeutic and medicinal properties. Dry seeds are rich sources of oil with a high potential of commercial exploitation. The present study reports the physicochemical characterization, polyphenol content, DPPH radical scavenging capacity and fatty acid profile of moringa seed oil, and the chemical composition of the seed cultivated in Sonora, Mexico. Moisture, ash, protein and lipid contents in the seed were found to be 4.7, 5.8, 26 and 39%, respectively. The oil showed a refractive index of 1.4642. The saponification number was 183 mg KOH/g oil, iodine value: 75 g I/100 g of oil, acid value: 0.49 (% oleic acid). The polyphenol content was 0.137 mg of gallic acid equivalent/g and DPPH radical scavenging capacity was 87.39%. The moringa seed oil was rich (68%) in the major fatty acid, oleic acid (C18:1n9). Moringa oil extracted by sonication showed a fatty acid profile and physicochemical properties comparable to the oil from s...

The petrographic and geochronological similarities between Formiga and Pedro Lessa (Minas Gerais, Brazil) and Kinga-Comba and Sembe-Ouesso (Congo, Africa) mafic dykes extend to the lithochemical aspects, by which they are identical and parts of a same swarm. All of them are continental intraplate tholeiitic basalts, but they keep a signature of oceanic islands basalts that reveals a highly enriched source. This source could either be related to a Tonian mantle plume or it could result from partial melting of an oldest fossil plume head. The dykes record a lithospheric breakup attempt (Taphrogenesis) of the Rodinia supercontinent during Tonian.

The concentration and pollution level of heavy metals and As in surface sediments from Montevideo coastal zone (Rio de la Plata estuary) were measured in 18 sites in March 2015, ranging from the western portion at the mouth of Santa Lucia river to the east at the mouth of Carrasco stream. The study area receives a continuous discharge of untreated domestic and industrial effluents through two streams and one submarine sewage pipe. Sediments were analysed for sediment fractions, organic matter content and heavy metal and As concentrations (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, Sc, Al, Fe and Mn). Results showed that in the study area the contribution of sand was low, with exception of the innermost region of Montevideo Bay at the mouth of Miguelete and Pantanoso streams. Total organic matter contents were in general high (ranged between 3.82 and 15.72%), and values are typical for estuarine, low energy and anthropized ecosystems. Concentrations in a descending order was Zn>Cr>Cu>Pb>Ni>As>Sc>Cd and highest concentrations were found in the innermost stations of the bay, while lower in the western portion of the study area. Pearson correlation and principal component analysis suggest the similar distinctiveness of Cr, Cu, Pb and Zn. The different indices applied suggest that the study area can be considered from low to mildly polluted by metals in general, and compared with previous results all the studied metals showed marked reductions, highlighting the importance of management measures. In this sense, efforts made by the government and industries some years ago apparently had positive results in terms of reclamation/reduction of particular metallic elements.

Orientador: Paulo Kharmandayan Dissertação (mestrado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas Resumo: Introdução: O poliácido absorvível, poli (L-ácido láctico) (PLLA) é um dos materiais mais utilizados e estudados em engenharia de tecidos, devido a sua biocompatibilidade e biodegradabilidade. O uso de scaffolds (arcabouços) de PLLA tem sido de grande valia para a engenharia de tecidos, pois estes auxiliam na proliferação, migração e diferenciação celular, permitindo uma regeneração tecidual mais eficiente. Métodos: Nesse estudo foi utilizado PLLA sintetizado pelo Instituto Nacional de Biofabricação, a partir da polimerização de abertura do anel lactato. Este PLLA foi utilizado para a manufatura de scaffolds na forma de membranas de nanofibras obtidas pelo processo de eletrofiação. As membranas de nanofibras de PLLA foram então comparadas com membranas eletrofiadas de PLDL ®Purac. A citotoxicidade do material foi avaliada através dos ensaios propostos na norma ISO 10993-5: MTT (Sigma), Live/Dead® (Molecular Probes), Ensaios de Eluição, ContatoDireto e Difusão em Ágar. Os ensaios de MTT e Eluição foram analisados por meio de análise estatística ANOVA. Resultados: O teste de MTT após o período de 24 horas de exposição indicou que as células do tipo fibroblasto em contato com o PLLA apresentaram uma taxa de proliferação maior do que o PLDL Purac®, sendo significativamente diferentes (p 0,05). O teste de Eluição não apresentou diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre o controle negativo, PLLA, o PLDL Purac®, após 24h, 48h e 72h da cultura (p> 0,05). O ensaio de Live/Dead® indicou que após 24h, 48h e 72h de exposição dos biomateriais à cultura de fibroblastos, estes não causaram efeito tóxico às células. Os ensaios de Contato Direto e Difusão em Ágar indicaram que a presença dos biomateriais não afetou a morfologia celular, que foi considerada normal, não mostrando sinais de citotoxicidade. Conclusão: Os resultados dos ensaios indicaram que a presença dos biomateriais PLLA e PLDL Purac® não causou efeitos tóxicos à cultura de fibroblastos a que foram expostos. Os resultados dos ensaios também demonstraram que o PLLA é um material biocompatível, com resultados semelhantes ao PLDL Purac®. Assim, o PLLA sintetizado no Instituto Nacional de Biofabricação é um biomaterial biocompatível que pode ser utilizado na manufatura de nanofibras que podem ser adaptadas para diferentes aplicações biomédicas Abstract: Introduction: The absorbable polyacid, poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA) is one of the most widely used and studied material in tissue engineering, due to its biocompatibility and biodegradability. The use of the PLLA scaffolds has been of great value for tissue engineering, since it supports cell proliferation, migration and differentiation, allowing a more efficient tissue regeneration. Methods: In this study PLLA was synthesized by the National Institute of Biofabrication, using ring-opening polymerization. PLLA was used for the manufacture of scaffolds in the form of nanofiber membranes obtained by the electrospinning process. PLLA nanofibers membranes were then compared to PLDL ® Purac nanofiber membranes. The cytotoxicity of the materials were evaluated through the tests proposed by ISO 10993-5: MTT (Sigma), Live/Dead® (Molecular Assays), Elution, Direct Contact and Agar Diffusion Assays. The MTT and Elution statistical analysis were obtained by ANOVA test. Results: The MTT test after 24 hours of exposure indicated that fibroblast cells in contact with PLLA had a higher proliferation rate than PLDL®Purac, being significantly different (p 0.05). The Elution test did not show statistically significant differences between the negative control, PLLA and PLDL®Purac, after 24h, 48h and 72h of the culture (p> 0.05). The Live/Dead® assay indicated that in 24h, 48h, and 72h of exposure of the biomaterials to the fibroblast culture, they did not cause toxic effect to the cells. The Direct Contact and Agar Diffusion assays indicated that the presence of biomaterials did not affect the cellular morphology, which was considered normal, showing no signs of cytotoxicity. Conclusion: The results of the tests indicate that the presence of PLLA and PLDL®Purac did not cause toxic effects to the culture of fibroblasts. Test results also demonstrate that PLLA is a biocompatible material, with similar results to PLDL®Purac. Thus, the PLLA synthesized at the National Institute of Biofabrication is a biocompatible biomaterial that can be used in the manufacture of nanofibers that can be adapted for different biomedical applications Mestrado Fisiopatologia Cirúrgica Mestra em Ciências CAPES 01-P-1744/2016

User acceptability has become a critical issue for the successful implementation of transport pricing measures and policies. Although several studies have addressed the public acceptability of road pricing, little evidence can be found of the effects of pricing strategies. The acceptability of alternative schemes for a toll network already in operation is an issue to be tackled. This paper contributes to the limited literature in this field by exploring perceptions toward road-pricing schemes among toll road users. On the basis of a nationwide survey of toll road users in Spain, the study developed several binomial logit models to analyze user acceptability of three approaches: express toll lanes, a time-based pricing approach, and a flat fee (vignette) system. The results show notable differences in user acceptability by the type of charging scheme proposed. Express toll lanes were more acceptable by travelers who perceived greater benefits from saving travel time. The acceptability of time-based approaches (peak versus off-peak) decreased for users who felt forced to use the toll road, whereas this was not an aspect that significantly influenced users’ support for flat fee schemes. In addition, a flat fee strategy was more acceptable for long-distance trips and truck drivers who regularly used the toll facilities. The results from this analysis can inform policy makers and planners for the promotion of more efficient, socially inclusive, and publicly acceptable road-pricing schemes.

Human activities in the Antarctica including tourism and scientific research have been raised substantially in the last century with the concomitant impact on the Antarctic ecosystems through the release of wastewater mainly from different scientific stations activities. The aim of this study was to assess the wastewater contamination of surface waters and sediments of three melt-water streams (11 sites) by leaking septic tanks located in the vicinity of the Uruguayan Scientific Station in the Fildes Peninsula, King George Island, Antarctica, during summer 2015. For this purpose, we combined the analysis of fecal steroids in sediments by using gas chromatography and six enteric viruses in surface waters by quantitative and qualitative PCR. Coprostanol concentrations (from 0.03 to 3.31μgg-1) and fecal steroids diagnostic ratios indicated that stations C7 and C8 located in the kitchen stream presented sewage contamination. Rotavirus was the only enteric virus detected in five sites with concentration ranging from 1.2×105gcL-1 to 5.1×105gcL-1 being three of them located downstream from the leaking AINA and Kitchen septic tanks. This study shows for the first time the presence of both virological and molecular biomarkers of wastewater pollution in surface waters and sediments of three melt-water streams in the vicinity of a scientific station in the Antarctica. These results highlight the importance of the complementation of these biomarkers in two different matrices (surface waters and sediments) to assess wastewater pollution in an Antarctic environment related to anthropogenic activities in the area.

Food access restriction is associated to changes in gene expression of the circadian clock system. However, there are only a few studies investigating the effects of non-photic synchronizers, such as food entrainment, on the expression of clock genes in the central oscillators. We hypothesized that different feeding restriction patterns could modulate the expression of clock genes in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) “master” clock and in extra-SCN oscillators such as the paraventricular (PVN) and arcuate (ARC) hypothalamic nuclei. Wistar rats were divided into four groups: Control group (CG; food available ad libitum), Restricted night-fed (RF-n; food access during 2 hours at night), Restricted day-fed (RF-d; food access during 2 hours at daytime), Day-fed (DF; food access during 12 hours at daytime). After 21 days, rats were decapitated between ZT2-ZT3 (0800-0900h); ZT11-ZT12 (1700-1800h), or ZT17-18 (2300-2400h). Plasma corticosterone was measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA). The expression of Clock, Bmal1, Per1, Per2, Per3, Cry1, Cry2, Rev-erbα, and Rorα were assessed in SCN, PVN, and ARC hypothalamic nuclei by RT-PCR and calculated by the 2[-Delta Delta CT(Cycle threshold)](2-ΔΔCT) method. Restricted food availability during few hours led to decreased body weight in RF-n and RF-d groups compared to controls and DF group. We also observed an anticipatory corticosterone peak before food availability in RF-n and RF-d groups. Furthermore, the pattern of clock gene expression in response to RF-n, RF-d, and DF schedules was affected differently in the SCN, PVN, and ARC hypothalamic nuclei. In conclusion, the master oscillator in SCN as well as the oscillator in PVN and ARC, all brain areas involved in food intake, responds in a tissue-specific manner to feeding restriction.

[ES] A pesar de la existencia de diferentes herramientas, en la actualidad no existe una metodología estandarizada para la evaluación ex–ante de la sostenibilidad en proyectos de infraestructura durante su ciclo de vida. Aunque las técnicas tradicionalmente aceptadas ofrecen un valioso apoyo en la evaluación de los proyectos, abordan muy someramente los tres componentes de sostenibilidad de manera holística. Esta investigación se centra en uno de los métodos más comunes de evaluación y toma de decisiones sobre proyectos de transporte: El análisis de decisión multicriterio (MCDA). A pesar de que este método puede tratar de manera explícita los diferentes componentes de sostenibilidad, aún persisten algunas dificultades fundamentales. Uno de los principales problemas es establecer con precisión los pesos de importancia relativa a los diferentes criterios definidos. Con el objeto de encontrar el balance (trade-off) entre los impactos sociales, económicos y ambientales en la evaluación ex–ante de los proyectos de transporte, esta investigación desarrolla una adaptación al procedimiento clásico de estimación de las prioridades o pesos dentro de un enfoque multicriterio. Para ello, se ha diseñado un modelo de ponderación compuesto que permite la incorporación de juicios y preferencias basadas en el consenso de expertos (utilizando los métodos REMBRANDT y Delphi), junto con la influencia del contexto geográfico y social del proyecto. Esta nueva metodología se aplica con éxito a un caso de estudio real en España. El resultado demuestra que el modelo es significativo y puede ser aplicado como una herramienta útil en un proceso de evaluación multicriterio.

This paper proposes to investigate the persuasive elements present in the speeches of Sergipe former governor Marcelo Déda, published in his personal Twitter account. Marcelo Déda was one of the main representatives not only of the Northeast of Brazil but also the entire country - between 2010 and 2013 - in the use of online social networks for political and governmental purposes. Due to the need to examine instances of production and circulation of these discourses, according to the argumentative strategies used by Déda, the aim of this study is grounded in textual analysis method Discourse proposed by Galiazzi and Moraes (2007), which uses the analysis speech at the production stage and the content analysis, the circulation stage of tweets. For the particularities of the object, it was also carried out a biographical study of the former governor, according to the guidelines suggested by Gobbi ( DUARTE ed., 2010), to contextualize its discursive profile. In addition to this study, it is presented here all the material collected and the guiding concepts that supported this research. The results of the analyzes show that the policy-governmental communication appropriates various techniques and rhetorical elements of language, also common in advertising, and it is becoming more appropriate to the new reality of convergence of multiple information flows of social media on search of the collective ownership of ideas. Este trabalho propõe-se a investigar os elementos persuasivos presentes nos discursos do ex- governador sergipano, Marcelo Déda, publicados na sua conta pessoal do Twitter. Marcelo Déda foi um dos principais representantes do Nordeste e do Brasil - entre 2010 e 2013 - no uso das redes sociais digitais para fins políticos e governamentais. Devido à necessidade de analisar as instâncias de produção e de circulação desses discursos, em função das estratégias argumentativas utilizadas por Déda, a proposta deste estudo está embasada no método de Análise Textual Discursiva, proposto por Galiazzi e Moraes (2007), que utiliza a análise de discurso na etapa de produção e a análise de conteúdo, na etapa de circulação dos tweets. Em razão das especificidades do objeto, também foi realizado um estudo biográfico do ex- governador, de acordo com as orientações sugeridas por Gobbi (DUARTE org., 2010), para contextualizar seu perfil discursivo. Além desse estudo, é apresentado aqui todo material coletado e os conceitos norteadores que embasaram esta pesquisa. O resultado das análises realizadas revela que a comunicação política-governamental apropria-se de diversas técnicas e elementos retóricos de linguagem, também comuns na publicidade, e está cada dia mais adequada à nova realidade de convergência dos múltiplos fluxos informacionais das mídias sociais, na busca da adesão coletiva de ideias.

Obese fat pads are frequently undervascularized and hypoxic, leading to increased fibrosis, inflammation, and ultimately insulin resistance. We hypothesized that VEGF-A–induced stimulation of angiogenesis enables sustained and sufficient oxygen and nutrient exchange during fat mass expansion, thereby improving adipose tissue function. Using a doxycycline (Dox)-inducible adipocyte-specific VEGF-A overexpression model, we demonstrate that the local up-regulation of VEGF-A in adipocytes improves vascularization and causes a “browning” of white adipose tissue (AT), with massive up-regulation of UCP1 and PGC1α. This is associated with an increase in energy expenditure and resistance to high fat diet-mediated metabolic insults. Similarly, inhibition of VEGF-A–induced activation of VEGFR2 during the early phase of high fat diet-induced weight gain, causes aggravated systemic insulin resistance. However, the same VEGF-A–VEGFR2 blockade in ob/ob mice leads to a reduced body-weight gain, an improvement in insulin sensitivity, a decrease in inflammatory factors, and increased incidence of adipocyte death. The consequences of modulation of angiogenic activity are therefore context dependent. Proangiogenic activity during adipose tissue expansion is beneficial, associated with potent protective effects on metabolism, whereas antiangiogenic action in the context of preexisting adipose tissue dysfunction leads to improvements in metabolism, an effect likely mediated by the ablation of dysfunctional proinflammatory adipocytes.

The objective of this research was to study the functional properties and proximate composition of three different flours prepared from cactus pear cladodes. Immature cactus pear cladodes were dried at 60 °C, 70 °C and 80 °C. The flours were analyzed for chemical composition, amino acid profile, fatty acid composition, functional properties and color. The analyses showed no significant differences in crude protein, total lipid, crude fiber and total ash content in the flours, possibly due to the drying temperature effect. Nevertheless, during the drying at 80 °C, a reduction of the water holding capacity (55%) was observed, along with a reduction of the green color intensity (34%) - characteristic of cactus pear. The heating produced larger concentrations of tyrosine, proline, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid. In the lipids of the flours, the most abundant fatty acids were palmitic acid (C16:0), linoleic acid (C18:2n6), linolenic acid (C18:3n3), and oleic acid (C18:1n9). The cladodes flours prepared at 60 °C presented a higher quality regarding their nutritional and functional properties. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi estudar as propriedades funcionais e a composição centesimal de três diferentes farinhas preparadas dos cladódios da palma forrageira. Palmas forrageiras não maturadas foram secadas a 60 °C, 70 °C e 80 °C, e as farinhas obtidas foram analisadas na sua composição química, no perfil dos aminoácidos, na composição de ácidos graxos, nas propriedades funcionais e na cor. Não houve diferenças significativas nos teores de proteína bruta, lipídios totais, fibra bruta e de cinzas totais nas farinhas pelo efeito da temperatura de secagem. No entanto, durante a secagem a 80 °C foi observada uma redução da capacidade de retenção de água (55%) e da intensidade da cor verde (34%), característica da palma forrageira. A tirosina, a prolina, o ácido aspártico e o ácido glutâmico foram encontrados em alta concentração. Nos lipídios das farinhas os ácidos graxos mais abundantes foram o ácido palmítico (C16: 0), o ácido linoleico (C18: 2n6), o ácido linolênico (C18: 3n3) e, o ácido oleico (C18:1n9). As farinhas dos cladódios da palma forrageira preparadas a 60 °C apresentaram uma alta qualidade em termos de suas propriedades nutricionais e funcionais.

Summary Context The association between large for gestational age (LGA) phenotype, postnatal growth and cardiometabolic risk (CMR) in adult life remains unclear. The role of IGF1 genotype on LGA-related outcomes in adult life is unknown. Aim To assess the postnatal growth, IGF-I levels, CMR and the influence of the 737.738 IGF1 in adults born LGA. Subjects Case–control study (n = 515) nested in a population-based prospective cohort (n = 2063); 117 LGA and 398 gender-matched controls appropriate for gestational age (AGA) subjects. Methods Anthropometry was evaluated at birth, at 9–10 and at 23–25 years old. At the age of 23–25 years, blood pressure (BP), glycaemia, insulinaemia, homeostasis model assessment – insulin resistance, lipids, fibrinogen, and plasma IGF-I and 737.738 IGF1 polymorphism were assessed. Results Large for gestational age subjects remained heavier and taller than AGA at 9–10 and 23–25 years (P

Background/Aims: Aldosterone and the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) play a major role in sodium balance and blood pressure control. They are also involved in adipocyte metabolism. The aim of this study was to analyze the association between the MR p.I180V polymorphism with hypertension and markers of cardiovascular risk. Design and methods: Case-control study nested within a cohort of 2063 subjects followed since birth to date. All subjects (age 23–25 yr old) from the entire cohort with systolic and diastolic hypertension (no.=126) were paired with 398 normotensive controls. MR p. I180V genotype association with anthropometric and biochemical markers of cardiometabolic risk was tested. Results: There was a significant association of the MR p. I180V genotype with body mass index (BMI) and LDL-cholesterol level (p

Protein hydrolysates were prepared through lactic acid fermentation of the inedible portions of shrimp (cephalothorax and exoskeleton), the by-products of shrimp processing operations. The protein-rich liquid hydrolysate was further processed into a concentrated paste via vacuum evaporation at 80 °C or was also processed into a dry powder using a spray drying method at 180 °C/140 °C (inlet/outlet temp). The laboratory compared the composition of the three forms of shrimp protein hydrolysates. The protein and ash content of the hydrolysates ranged from 8.43 ± 0.22 to 46.73 ± 1.29 and 2.03 ± 0.52 to 8.25 ± 0.14 g/100 g of wet weight. All the samples were analyzed for fifteen amino acids; the powder form was analyzed for colour, microbial content, and for heavy metal occurrence. The shrimp by-products were successfully converted into micro-nutrient by-products rich in amino acids for potential recommendations in the supplementation of animal and human diets.

// Rafael H. Abduch 1, * , Ana Carolina Bueno 1, * , Leticia F. Leal 1, # , Marcelo M. Cavalcanti 1 , Debora C. Gomes 6 , Silvia R. Brandalise 5 , Maria J. Masterallo 5 , Jose A. Yunes 5 , Carlos E. Martinelli Jr 1 , Luiz G. Tone 1 , Silvio Tucci 3 , Carlos A.F. Molina 3 , Fernando S. Ramalho 4 , Ayrton C. Moreira 2 , Izilda A. Cardinalli 5 , Carlos A. Scrideli 1 , Leandra N.Z. Ramalho 4 , Margaret de Castro 2 , Sonir R. Antonini 1 1 Department of Pediatrics, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil 2 Department of Internal Medicine, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil 3 Department of Surgery, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil 4 Department of Pathology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil 5 Boldrini Children’s Center, Campinas, Brazil 6 Federal University of Uberlandia, Brazil # Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, SP, Brazil * These authors have contributed equally to this work Correspondence to: Sonir R. Antonini, email: antonini@fmrp.usp.br Keywords: adrenocortical tumor, outcome, YAP1, Hippo pathway, Wnt/beta-catenin pathway Received: February 12, 2016 Accepted: September 12, 2016 Published: October 1, 2016 ABSTRACT Background: Overexpression of the oncogene yes-associated-protein-1 (YAP1) is associated with increased cell proliferation in human cancers. YAP1 is a potential target of the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway, which plays an important role in adrenocortical tumors (ACT). The role of YAP1 in adrenocortical tumorigenesis has not been assessed. Aims: To evaluate YAP1 expression in normal adrenals and pediatric ACT and its association with disease outcome. To investigate the interaction between YAP1 and the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway in adrenocortical cells. Results: Strong YAP1 staining was present in fetal adrenals and pediatric ACT but weak in postnatal adrenals. In pediatric ACT, YAP1 mRNA overexpression was associated with death, recurrent/metastatic disease and lower overall survival. The inhibition of the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway increased YAP1 mRNA expression. siYAP1 increased CTNNB1 /beta-catenin expression and nuclear staining regardless of DLV2 , moreover, it decreased cell growth and impaired cell migration. Materials and methods: We assessed in 42 pediatric ACT samples the YAP1 protein expression by immunohistochemistry and mRNA expression by RT-qPCR and analyzed their association with outcome. As controls, we resort 32 fetal and postnatal normal adrenals for IHC and 10 normal adrenal cortices for RT-qPCR. The interaction between YAP1 and the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway was assessed in NCI-H295 adrenocortical cells by inhibiting the TCF/beta-catenin complex and by knocking down YAP1 . Conclusion: YAP1 overexpression is a marker of poor prognosis for pediatric patients with ACT. In adrenocortical cells, there is a close crosstalk between YAP1 and Wnt/beta-catenin. These data open the possibility of future molecular therapies targeting Hippo/YAP1 signaling to treat advanced ACT.

Attempts to integrate sustainability in the decision-making process for transport infrastructure projects continue to gain momentum. A number of tools and methodological frameworks are available — such as rating systems, traditional decision-making techniques, checklists, and different evaluation frameworks and models. While these tools are highly valuable, some practical issues remain unsolved. There is also a need for more standardized tools to appraise the sustainability of transport projects. This paper is a presentation of a review on the current assessment tools of sustainability applied to transport infrastructure projects. The preliminary part of the paper is an explanatory and comparative analysis of the tools and methods in terms of their effectiveness to appraise sustainability. The analysis is a critical evaluation of the current state of the art to identify the limitations of existing approaches, point out new areas of research, and propose a sustainability appraisal agenda for the future.

Three new C-seco limonoids (1-3) and one new tetracyclic limonoid (4) were isolated from a methanol extract of the ripe fruits of Melia azedarach collected in Curitiba, Brazil, and their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic data analysis and comparison of spectral data with those of the previously known compounds. Among the limonoids isolated in the present study, compounds 3 and 4 exhibited significant inhibitory activity against HeLa S3 cancer cells, whereas 1 and 2 showed weak cytotoxicity.

Although the Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) has made progress towards appraising and measuring the performance of smart and sustainable transport projects, it still has important issues that need to be addressed such as the problem associated with incomparable quantities, the inherent subjective qualitative assessment, the complexity of identifying impacts to be included and its measurement method, and the corresponding weights. The issue of trading-off different sustainability criteria is the main unresolved matter. This problem may lead to lack of accuracy in the decision making process. This paper presents a new methodology to set the weights of the sustainability criteria used in the MCDA in order to reduce subjectivity and imprecision. We suggest eliciting criteria weights based on both expert preferences and the importance that the sustainability criteria have in the geographical and social context where the project is developed. This novel methodology is applied to a real case study to quantify sustainable practices associated with the design and construction of a new roadway in Spain. The outcome demonstrates that the approach to the weighting problem has significance and general application in a multi-criteria evaluation process.

Objetivou-se identificar fatores higiênicos e motivacionais segundo a Teoria dos Dois Fatores na prática do enfermeiro, bem como a relação destes com a satisfação/insatisfação profissional. Estudo exploratório-descritivo, envolvendo nove enfermeiros da enfermaria de cardiologia de um hospital do interior paulista, no período entre agosto e setembro de 2013. Utilizou-se um questionário autoaplicável, composto por questões abertas e fechadas. Os dados foram categorizados em higiênicos e motivacionais. Os resultados mostram a satisfação dos enfermeiros com autonomia, trabalho individual e em equipe, deveres, conteúdos e responsabilidades do cargo. E insatisfação com possibilidade de crescimento, condições de trabalho, políticas e administração da instituição, supervisão e falta de apoio institucional. Fatores de satisfação e insatisfação como relacionamentos, reconhecimento e remuneração. A satisfação dos enfermeiros é determinada por múltiplos fatores, muitas vezes, controversos.

The present study aimed to identify hygienic and motivational factors in the nursing work according to the Two-Factor Theory, as well as their relation with professional satisfaction/dissatisfaction. This exploratory-descriptive study involved nine nurses from the cardiology ward of a hospital in the interior of the State of São Paulo, between August and September 2013. A self-applied questionnaire was used, including open and closed questions. The data were categorized as hygienic and motivational. Results show the nurses' satisfaction with autonomy, work itself and teamwork, duties, content and responsibilities of the job. Dissatisfaction is related to career growth possibilities; work, political and administrative conditions at the institution, supervision and lack of institutional support. Satisfaction and dissatisfaction factors include relationships, acknowledgements and remuneration. Nurses' satisfaction is determined by multiple and often controversial factors. La finalidad fue identificar factores higiénicos y motivacionales del enfermero de acuerdo con la teoría de los dos factores, y también su relación con la satisfacción/insatisfacción profesional. Estudio exploratorio-descriptivo, involucrando a nueve enfermeros de la enfermaría de cardiología de un hospital del interior paulista, en el período de agosto y septiembre de 2013. Se utilizó un cuestionario autoaplicable, compuesto por cuestiones abiertas y cerradas. Los datos fueron categorizados en higiénicos y motivacionales. Resultados muestran la satisfacción de los enfermeros con autonomía, trabajo en sí y en equipo, deberes, contenidos y responsabilidades del cargo. Insatisfacción con posibilidad de crecimiento, condiciones de trabajo, políticas y administración de la institución, supervisión y falta de apoyo institucional. Factores de satisfacción e insatisfacción como relaciones, reconocimiento y remuneración. La satisfacción del enfermero la determina múltiples factores, muchas veces, controvertidos. Objetivou-se identificar fatores higiênicos e motivacionais segundo a Teoria dos Dois Fatores na prática do enfermeiro, bem como a relação destes com a satisfação/insatisfação profissional. Estudo exploratório-descritivo, envolvendo nove enfermeiros da enfermaria de cardiologia de um hospital do interior paulista, no período entre agosto e setembro de 2013. Utilizou-se um questionário autoaplicável, composto por questões abertas e fechadas. Os dados foram categorizados em higiênicos e motivacionais. Os resultados mostram a satisfação dos enfermeiros com autonomia, trabalho individual e em equipe, deveres, conteúdos e responsabilidades do cargo. E insatisfação com possibilidade de crescimento, condições de trabalho, políticas e administração da instituição, supervisão e falta de apoio institucional. Fatores de satisfação e insatisfação como relacionamentos, reconhecimento e remuneração. A satisfação dos enfermeiros é determinada por múltiplos fatores, muitas vezes, controversos.

The phenotypic effects of ADIPOQ mutations early in life, prior to type 2 diabetes onset, have not been studied.The objective of the study was to characterize the impact of a novel ADIPOQ mutation in vitro and in vivo.The design of the study was ADIPOQ screening, adiponectin oligomerization, and cardiometabolic phenotype assessment.Fourteen hypoadiponectinemic (3 μg/mL) and 686 normoadiponectinemic young adults (23-25 y) were prospectively followed up since birth.Human and recombinant murine mutant adiponectin oligomerization, the proband's ADIPOQ and ADIPOR1/R2 adipose tissue (AT) expression, and cardiometabolic profile were measured.The heterozygous ADIPOQ p.M40K mutation was identified in one hypoadiponectinemic male (2.4 μg/mL) and three other family members. Carriers presented a marked reduction of serum high-molecular weight to total adiponectin ratio when compared with controls (9.4% ± 1% vs 56.6% ± 13%; P.05) and family noncarriers (9.4% ± 1% vs 42% ± 0.5%; P = .05). Both mRNA and protein levels of adiponectin were increased in the AT of the proband (2.3- and 1.6-fold, respectively). However, the high-molecular weight to total adiponectin ratio of adiponectin was decreased (3.3-fold). Moreover, the expressions of ADIPOR1 and ADIPOR2 were significantly down-regulated in the AT of the proband (6- and 1.2-fold, respectively). The results were confirmed by in vitro studies on the recombinant murine homologous mutation (p.M43K). The proband's cardiometabolic phenotype progression was further characterized: born small for gestational age and adolescence-onset obesity; insulin resistance (homeostasis assessment model of insulin resistance of 4.7), and dyslipidemia at 25 years; decreased high-molecular weight adiponectin (0.24 μg/mL = 10%), hypertension (180/120 mm Hg), steatosis (fat liver = 40% ± 6%), increased carotid intima-media thickness at 31 years, and type 2 diabetes (glycosylated hemoglobin = 6.6%) at 34 years of age. Of note, all of the affected family members presented features of metabolic syndrome.The newly identified ADIPOQ p.M40K mutation associates with severe cardiometabolic dysfunction due to the impairment of high-molecular weight adiponectin complex formation.

Biogenic amines in high concentration can affect the quality of foods and cause several diseases since they are present in products like seafood, wines, and other fermented products. Shrimp by-products are a rich source of protein hydrolysate that can be used as dietary supplements. Samples (from shrimp by-products) of dry protein powder, liquid protein hydrolysate and flour of shrimp head were analyzed to evaluate the histamine and tyramine contents. Amines were extracted with trichloroacetic acid 5% and derivatized with o-phthaldialdehyde. The chromatographic separation was performed in an analytical column, Chrom SEP SS C18 5 µm (4.6 mm × 150 mm) and a fluorescence detector was used with wavelengths at λex = 335 nm and λem = 440 nm. The mobile phase was a mixture of tetrahydrofuran, methanol and phosphate buffer at a flow rate of 0.6 mL min-1 using elution gradient. Under these conditions, the repeatability (relative standard deviation, RSD < 6.55%), reproducibility (< 5.60%) and accuracy were of satisfying quality. The recovery values were 84.51, 90.75, 95.37, 98.68 and 84.29% for L-tyrosine, L-tryptophan, L-lysine, tyramine and histamine, respectively. This method has been successfully applied for the quantification of precursor amino acids and biogenic amines in different matrices. Aminas biogênicas em alta concentração podem afetar a qualidade dos alimentos e causar várias doenças, pois estão presentes em produtos como frutos do mar, vinhos e outros produtos fermentados. Subprodutos do camarão são uma fonte rica de proteína hidrolisada que podem ser usadas como suplemento alimentar. Amostras (de subprodutos de camarão) de proteína seca em pó, proteínas hidrolisadas líquidas e farinha da cabeça de camarão foram analisadas para avaliar o conteúdo de histamina e tiramina. As aminas foram extraídas com ácido tricloroacético 5% e posteriormente derivatizadas com o-ftaldialdeído. A separação cromatográfica foi realizada em uma coluna analítica, Chrom SEP C18 SS 5 mm (4,6 mm × 150 mm) com eluição por gradiente, os comprimentos de onda foram λex = 335 nm e λem = 440 nm. A fase móvel utilizada foi uma mistura de tetrahidrofurano, metanol e tampão fosfato a uma vazão de 0,6 mL min-1. Sob essas condições, a repetibilidade (desvio padrão relativo < 6,55%), reprodutibilidade (< 5,60%) e exatidão foram satisfatórias. Os valores de recuperação foram 84,51, 90,75, 95,37, 98,68 e 84,29% para L-tirosina, L-triptofano, L-lisina, tiramina e histamina, respectivamente. Este método tem sido aplicado com sucesso para a quantificação de aminoácidos precursores e aminas biogênicas em matrizes diversas.

Orientador: Cristian Favio Coletti. Dissertação (mestrado) - Universidade Federal do ABC. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Matemática, 2012.

To report a new case of bladder hernia. We reviewed the clinical features, diagnosis and treatment of this disease.Case report of a patient diagnosed with bladder hernia.We expose the clinical picture and the most common form of diagnosis and the more effective treatment.Bladder hernia is rare disorder that is diagnosed clinically and whose treatment is surgical, with very good results.

Micose fungoide é um tipo de linfoma não Hodgkin de células T raro que acomete primariamente a pele. Caracteriza-se pela presença de placas eritematosas que evoluem para lesões ulceradas, tumores em toda a pele ou ainda infiltração de medula óssea em estágios avançados. Como opção de tratamento para os casos iniciais, tem-se quimioterapia e corticoterapia tópica, fototerapia e radioterapia. Este estudo relata o caso de um doente com múltiplas lesões tumorais na pele já biopsiadas com diagnóstico de micose fungoide. O paciente foi refratário ao tratamento com quimioterapia tópica e fototerapia, sendo então indicada irradiação total da pele com elétrons Mycosis fungoides is a rare type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of T cells that primarily affects the skin. It is characterized by the presence of erythematous plaques that evolve into ulcerated lesions, tumors throughout the skin or even bone marrow infiltration in advanced stages. Chemotherapy and topical steroids, phototherapy and radiotherapy are treatment options for early cases. This study reports the case of patient with multiple tumor lesions in the skin already biopsied with diagnosis of mycosis fungoides. The patient was refractory to both treatments with topical chemotherapy and phototherapy. It was then indicated total skin irradiation with electrons

The relationship between lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and erectile dysfunction (ED)is the result of their greater association in advanced age. Nevertheless, several investigations show that urinary tract symptoms have an independent relationship with sexual dysfunction and lower satisfaction. Likewise, the severity of LUTS correlates with the magnitude of sexual dysfunction in all age groups, which suggests a possible causal relationship. A series of hypothesis have been posed to explain the existence of a common physiopathology for LUTS and ED. Currently, this relationship between LUTS and ED is supported on four theories, which are not mutually excluding, (a) autonomic hyperactivity and metabolic syndrome hypothesis, (b) changes in nitric oxide/nitric oxide (NOS/NO) synthetase in the guanine monophosphatase pathway in penis and prostate, (c) the activation of Rho kinase and the endothelin pathway, and (d) the physiopathological consequences of pelvic arteriosclerosis. Given the contribution of sexual function to keep the quality of life, possible negative effects on sexual function should be taken into consideration when choosing treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia. The combined therapeutic approach of these two entities (ED and LUTS)brings a benefit to the patient both in urinary symptoms and sexual sphere, although placebo controlled studies are required to confirm these data and to ascertain the role of combination therapy in the treatment of both conditions.

OBJETIVOS La relacion entre los sintomas del tracto urinario inferior (STUI) y la disfuncion erectil (DE) es el resultado de su mayor asociacion en edades avanzadas. Sin embargo, varias investigaciones demuestran que los sintomas urinarios se relacionan en forma independiente con disfuncion sexual y menor satisfaccion. Asimismo, la gravedad de los STUI se correlaciona con la magnitud de la disfuncion sexual en todos los grupos etarios, lo cual sugiere una posible relacion causal. Una serie de hipotesis se han formulado para explicar la existencia de una fisiopatologia comun entre STUI y DE. En la actualidad, esta relacion entre STUI y DE esta apoyada por cuatro teorias, no mutuamente excluyentes, que incluyen (a) la hiperactividad autonomica y la hipotesis de sindrome metabolico, (b) los cambios en la sintetasa de oxido nitrico / oxido nitrico (NOS / NO) de la via guanina monofosfatasa en la prostata y el pene, (c) la activacion de Rho-kinasa y la via de la endotelina, y (d) las consecuencias fisiopatologicas de la aterosclerosis pelvica. Dada la contribucion del funcionamiento sexual en el mantenimiento de la calidad de vida, en la eleccion del tratamiento para el paciente con hiperplasia prostatica benigna deben tomarse en cuenta los posibles efectos negativos sobre la funcion sexual. El enfoque terapeutico combinado de estas dos entidades (DE y STUI) provoca un beneficio sobre el paciente tanto en la sintomatologia urinaria como en la esfera sexual, aunque se precisan estudios controlados con placebo para confirmar estos datos y dilucidar el papel de la terapia de combinacion para el tratamiento de estas dos condiciones.

Mycosis fungoides is a rare type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of T cells that primarily affects the skin. It is characterized by the presence of erythematous plaques that evolve into ulcerated lesions, tumors throughout the skin or even bone marrow infiltration in advanced stages. Chemotherapy and topical steroids, phototherapy and radiotherapy are treatment options for early cases. This study reports the case of patient with multiple tumor lesions in the skin already biopsied with diagnosis of mycosis fungoides. The patient was refractory to both treatments with topical chemotherapy and phototherapy. It was then indicated total skin irradiation with electrons.

Sulforaphane (1-isothiocyanato-4-(methylsulfinyl)-butane) content in cruciferous vegetables. Sulforaphane is an isothiocyanate which has antimicrobial and anticarcinogenic properties, this compound is found in a wide variety of plants from genus Brassica oleracea, being the most important broccoli and cabbage. The objective of this research was to quantify sulforaphane in the edible parts of broccoli and cabbage leaves by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Sample preparation for the quantification of sulforaphane include the conversion of glucoraphanin to sulforaphane (45 +/- 2 degrees C for 2.5 h), extracted with dichloromethane, purification of the extract in columns of solid phase extraction and detection by HPLC- UV. Sulforaphane concentration in broccoli is in the range of 214 microg/g DW (stems) to 499 microg/g DW (inflorescences). The purple cabbage (101.99 microg/g DW) has values greater than the green cabbage (7.58 microg/g DW). The inflorescences of broccoli and red cabbage leaves are rich in sulforaphane.

La riboflavina (B2) es una vitamina hidrosoluble del complejo B, cuyo aporte nutritional es imprescindible para el buen funcionamiento del organismo. La leche es una de las principales fuentes de riboflavina en la dieta humana, sin embargo, en la mayoría de los alimentos se degrada durante los procesos térmicos convencionales y en el almacenamiento. En el presente trabajo se determinó el contenido de riboflavina en productos lácteos comerciales, leches para consumo directo y yogurt, por cromatografía líquida de alta resolución (HPLC) con detección por fluorescencia. La preparación de la muestra incluye una hidrólisis acida (HC10. IN), seguida por una digestión enzimática, y por último, la precipitación de proteínas (TCA100 %). En el análisis cromatográfico se utilizó un sistema isocrático (acetato de amonio 5 mM-metanol, 72:28 v/v). El contenido de riboflavina de las muestras de yogurt estuvo en el rango de 0,289 - 3,078 µ/g BS, mientras que en la leche ultrapasteurizada y pasteurizada de 0,61-13,64 µg/gBS y 11,73-15,41 µg/ g BS, respectivamente. Las leches para consumo directo y el yogurt comercial son fuentes de riboflavina, y su consumo regular puede ayudar a satisfacer los requerimientos diarios.

The objective of this research was to study the biochemical composition and physicochemical properties of three different flours prepared from broccoli crop remains. Florets, leaves and stalks of broccoli were dried at 60 degrees C, and the flours obtained were analysed for proximate composition, amino acid profile, fatty acid composition, and physicochemical properties. The florets flour showed the highest protein content (22.41 g/100 g dry weight); ash was higher in leaves flour (14.67 g/100 g dry weight), and the lipid content was similar in the flours of leaves and stalks. The stalks flour had high crude fibre content and low protein content. All flours presented a high water absorption index. Tyrosine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, proline and valine were found in larger concentration. The most abundant fatty acids in the lipids were linolenic acid (C18:3n3), palmitic acid (C16:0) and linoleic acid (C18:2n6). Broccoli flours prepared in this study are good source of nutrients and could be utilized as dietary supplements.

A simple and specific analytical method was developed and tested for the determination of sulforaphane in broccoli by-products. The method includes the optimization of the conversion of glucoraphanin to sulforaphane, followed by purification of extracts using solid-phase extraction and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. The response surface methodology was used to find optimum conditions for the preparation and purification procedure. Chromatographic conditions for reversed-phase HPLC with UV photodiode array detection were as follows: column, Exil ODS C(18), 25 x 0.46 cm, 5 microm; column temperature, 36 degrees C; mobile phase, a 30 : 70 (v/v) mixture of acetonitrile:water; flow rate, 0.6 mL/min. The detection wavelength was UV 202 nm. Under these conditions, excellent linearity was obtained (r(2) = 1), and the overall recovery was 97.5 and 98.1% for fresh florets and lyophilized florets, respectively. The precision results showed that the relative standard deviation of the repeatability for florets fresh and lyophilized was 3.0 and 4.0%, respectively. Sulforaphane contents were determined in the edible portion of fresh broccoli, and broccoli crop remains.