Effect of a brief training program on the knowledge of Filipino primary care providers in a rural and a remote setting: A before and after study

Background and Objective@#Primary care providers are key players in providing quality care to patients and advancing Universal Health Care (UHC). However, effective and quality healthcare delivery may be affected by inadequate knowledge and failure to adhere to evidence-based guidelines among providers. The Philippine Primary Care Studies (PPCS) is a five-year program that pilot tested interventions aimed at strengthening the primary care system in the country. Evidence-based training modules for healthcare providers were administered in Sorsogon and Bataan from the years 2018 to 2021. Module topics were selected based on common health conditions encountered by providers in rural and remote settings. This program aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of training in increasing provider knowledge.@*Methods@#A series of training workshops were conducted among 184 remote- and 210 rural-based primary care providers [nurses, midwives, barangay or village health workers (BHWs)]. They covered four modules: essential intrapartum and newborn care (EINC), integrated management of childhood illness (IMCI), non-communicable diseases (NCD), and geriatrics. A decision support system (UpToDate) was provided as a supplementary resource for all participants. We administered pre-tests and post-tests consisting of multiple-choice questions on common health conditions. Data was analyzed using paired one-tailed t-test, with an alpha of 0.05.@*Results@#The knowledge of nurses, midwives, and BHWs improved after the training workshops were conducted. The largest increase from pre-test to post-test scores were observed among the midwives, with a mean difference (MD) of 32.9% (95% CI 23.9 to 41.9) on the EINC module, MD of 25.0% (95% CI 16.6 to 33.4) in the geriatrics module, and MD of 13.5% (95% CI 6.9 to 20.1) in the NCDs module. The nurses had the greatest improvement in the IMCI module (MD 10.8%, 95% CI 2.5 to 19.1). The knowledge of BHWs improved in all participated modules, with greatest improvement in the NCD module (MD 9.0%, 95% CI 5.77 to 12.14). @*Conclusions@#Primary care workshops, even if conducted as single-sessions and on a short-term basis, are effective in improving short-term knowledge of providers. However, this may not translate to long-term knowledge and application in practice. Furthermore, comparisons across provider categories cannot be made as participant composition for each training workshop varied. Ultimately, this study shows enhancing provider knowledge and competence in primary care will therefore require regular and diverse learning interventions and access to clinical decision support tools.

Effect of Hayani Date (Phoenix dactylifera L) Peels on Blood Sugar, Blood Lipids, Liver and Kidney Functions, and Inflammation in Diabetic Rats

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Hayani date peel powder and its methanolic extract on glycemia and lipidemia in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats as well as their effects on kidney and liver functions in addition to their anti-inflammatory activity. Twenty-four rats were used in this study, six of them served as normal control (group 1) which continued feeding on the basal diet, while the remaining 18 rats were injected with streptozotocin (50mg/kg) to induce diabetes. The diabetic rats were divided into three groups (6 rats each), one of them feeding on the basal diet only which acted as diabetic control (group 2), another group fed on the basal diet and treated orally with the peel extract in a concentration of 250 mg/kg body weight (group 3), while the third group was treated with peel powder merged in the basal diet with a concentration of 5% w/w (group 4). The results showed that the extract and the powder of the peels significantly decreased the blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbAlc), total cholesterol (TC), total triglycerides (TG), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-c), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), creatinine, and uric acid as well as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin 2 (PGE2), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-?), interleukin 1B (IL-1?), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) levels. In contrast, significant increases in serum insulin, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), and albumin were noticed in comparison to diabetic control. Generally, the peel extract was more effective than the peel powder. It is recommended by eating the whole fruit of date without peeling.

Effect of date palm cultivars on chemical and phytochemical properties of date vinegars

@#Introduction: Phoenix dactylifera, commonly known as date or date palm, is a flowering plant species in the palm family Arecaceae, cultivated for its edible sweet fruit called dates. Dates are high in dietary fibre and antioxidant compounds, known for preventing cancer and cardiovascular diseases. This research studied the chemical properties, antioxidant activities, and total phenolic content of fermented date vinegars from Phoenix dactylifera L. fruits, which had three cultivars - Barhi, Siam S1, and KL1. Methods: The first step was making date wines by using Saccharomyces cerevisiae (0.75% v/v of date juice content) to produce alcohol; the second step was making date vinegars by using Acetobacter pasteurianus (10% v/v of inoculum). Thereafter, the wines and vinegars were analysed for their chemical properties [high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)], antioxidant activities [2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay], and total phenolic content (folin ciocalteu method). Results: Results showed that the highest alcohol content was 9.35% (v/v) in Siam S1 wine. The highest acetic acid was 7% (v/v) in Siam S1 vinegar. From the phytochemical analysis of vinegars, the highest antioxidant activity was found to be 24.96 mg/mL in Siam S1 vinegar, while the highest total phenolic content was found to be 208.35 mg GAE/L in KL1 vinegar. Conclusion: This novel research showed that the Siam S1 date had the highest acetic acid and antioxidant activity in vinegar. Thus, this cultivar could be processed to make new, healthy products that can further lead to income generation for the people in Thailand.

Effect of sowing dates on physiological characteristics, yield, and quality of Carthamus tinctorius / 中国中药杂志

A field experiment was conducted to measure the physiological characteristics, yield, active ingredient content, and other indicators of Carthamus tinctorius leaves undergoing 13 sowing date treatments. The principal component analysis(PCA) and redundancy analysis were used to analyze the correlation between these indicators to explore the effect of sowing date on the yield and active ingredient content of C. tinctorius in Liupanshan of Ningxia. The results illustrated that the early sowing in autumn and spring had significant effects on leaf photosynthetic parameters, SPAD value, antioxidant enzyme activity, nitrogen metabolism enzyme activity, filament yield, grain yield, and hydroxy safflower yellow A(HYSA) of C. tinctorius. Sowing in mid-November and late March had the best effect. Leaf transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, nitrate reductase, nitrite reductase, glutamine synthetase, and glutamate synthase increased by 44.9%, 52.4%, 15.9%, 60.8%, 10.3%, and 38.3%, respectively. The activities of superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase decreased by 10.8%, 4.1%, and 20.9%, respectively. The improvement of photosynthetic physiological characteristics promoted the dry matter accumulation and reproductive growth of C. tinctorius. The yield of filaments and seeds increased by 15.5% and 11.7%, and the yield of HYSA and kaempferol increased by 17.9% and 20.0%. In short, the suitable sowing date can promote the growth and development of C. tinctorius in Liupanshan of Ningxia, and significantly improve the yield and quality, which is conducive to the high quality and efficient production of C. tinctorius.

Effect of date palm pollen supplementation on female sexual function in non-menopausal women: A double blind randomized clinical trial / 中草药·英文版

Objective: Despite numerous experimental studies in the literature, there are few clinical trials regarding the effect of date palm pollen (DPP) supplementation on sexual function improvement. In the present study, we sought to evaluate the impact of DPP on female sexual function in Iranian non-menopausal women. Methods: Between October 2019 and December 2019, health centers in the city of Khalkhal, volunteers meeting the inclusion criteria were recruited in randomized clinical trials. Sixty-eight women were randomly stratified and assigned to one of the two study groups: placebo group (n = 35) and palm pollen group (n = 35), and received a starch or palm pollen capsule (300 mg per day), respectively, for 35 d. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) instrument was used to assess female sexual function. Results: After DPP supplementation, the increase in desire, lubrication, and the overall score, was statistically significant compared to the placebo group (P = 0.002, P = 0.000, and P = 0.042; respectively); Whilst there was no significant differences in the remaining domains (arousal: P = 0.763; orgasm: P = 0.370; satisfaction: P = 0.474; pain: P = 0.259). There was a statistically significant positive correlation between the coitus and preintervention levels of desire (r = 0.298, P = 0.038), arousal (r = 0.328, P = 0.021), lubrication (r = 0.361, P = 0.011), orgasm (r = 0.320, P = 0.025), satisfaction (r = 0.327, P = 0.022), and overall scores (r = 0.338, P = 0.018). Conclusion: This study suggests that DPP (300 mg supplementation for 35 d), given to non-menopausal women, could improve the lubrication and desire domains of FSFI.

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L) / Avaliação de alguns critérios de qualidade nutricional de 17 variedades e clones marroquinos de datas, frutos de tamareira (Phoenix dactylifera L)

Date fruit is known to be the staple food in the Arab countries. It provides a lot of potential health benefits and can be the essential source of nutrients. The majority of Moroccan varieties are not characterized for their chemical, biochemical and quality properties. The aim of this work was to assess the chemical composition of 17 varieties of Moroccan date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) and to determine their nutritive components. The analysis showed that the dates are rich in sugars (51.80-87.98%), they contain low concentration of proteins (1.09-2.80%) and lipids (0.16-0.39%). The predominant mineral is potassium (1055.26-1604.10 mg/100 g DW). Moreover, they contain high concentrations of malic acid (69.48-495.58 mg/100 g (DW)), oxalic acid (18.47-233.35 mg/100 g DW) and tartaric acid (115.70-484.168 mg/100 g DW). These results suggest that the date fruit are nutritious and can be an excellent source for human nutrition and health benefits.

A fruta da tâmara é conhecida por ser o alimento básico nos países árabes. Oferece muitos benefícios potenciais à saúde e pode ser a fonte essencial de nutrientes. A maioria das variedades marroquinas não se caracteriza por suas propriedades químicas, bioquímicas nem de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição química de 17 variedades de frutos de tâmara marroquina (Phoenix dactylifera L.) e determinar seu valor nutritivo. A análise mostrou que as tâmaras são ricas em açúcares (51,80-87,98%) e contêm baixa concentração de proteínas (1,09-2,80%) e lipídios (0,16-0,39%). O mineral predominante é o potássio (1.055,26-1.604,10 mg/100 g DW). Além disso, contêm altas concentrações de ácido málico (69,48-495,58 mg/100 g DW), ácido oxálico (18,47-233,35 mg/100 g DW) e ácido tartárico (115,70-484,168 mg/100 g DW). Esses resultados sugerem que o fruto da tamareira é nutritivo e pode ser uma excelente fonte de nutrição humana e conferir benefícios à saúde.

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.)

Abstract Date fruit is known to be the staple food in the Arab countries. It provides a lot of potential health benefits and can be the essential source of nutrients. The majority of Moroccan varieties are not characterized for their chemical, biochemical and quality properties. The aim of this work was to assess the chemical composition of 17 varieties of Moroccan date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) and to determine their nutritive components. The analysis showed that the dates are rich in sugars (51.80-87.98%), they contain low concentration of proteins (1.09-2.80%) and lipids (0.16-0.39%). The predominant mineral is potassium (1055.26-1604.10 mg/100 g DW). Moreover, they contain high concentrations of malic acid (69.48-495.58 mg/100 g (DW)), oxalic acid (18.47-233.35 mg/100 g DW) and tartaric acid (115.70-484.168 mg/100 g DW). These results suggest that the date fruit are nutritious and can be an excellent source for human nutrition and health benefits.

Resumo A fruta da tâmara é conhecida por ser o alimento básico nos países árabes. Oferece muitos benefícios potenciais à saúde e pode ser a fonte essencial de nutrientes. A maioria das variedades marroquinas não se caracteriza por suas propriedades químicas, bioquímicas nem de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição química de 17 variedades de frutos de tâmara marroquina (Phoenix dactylifera L.) e determinar seu valor nutritivo. A análise mostrou que as tâmaras são ricas em açúcares (51,80-87,98%) e contêm baixa concentração de proteínas (1,09-2,80%) e lipídios (0,16-0,39%). O mineral predominante é o potássio (1.055,26-1.604,10 mg/100 g DW). Além disso, contêm altas concentrações de ácido málico (69,48-495,58 mg/100 g DW), ácido oxálico (18,47-233,35 mg/100 g DW) e ácido tartárico (115,70-484,168 mg/100 g DW). Esses resultados sugerem que o fruto da tamareira é nutritivo e pode ser uma excelente fonte de nutrição humana e conferir benefícios à saúde.

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L. ) / Avaliação de alguns critérios de qualidade nutricional de 17 variedades e clones marroquinos de datas, frutos de tamareira (Phoenix dactylifera L. )

Date fruit is known to be the staple food in the Arab countries. It provides a lot of potential health benefits and can be the essential source of nutrients. The majority of Moroccan varieties are not characterized for their chemical, biochemical and quality properties. The aim of this work was to assess the chemical composition of 17 varieties of Moroccan date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) and to determine their nutritive components. The analysis showed that the dates are rich in sugars (51.80-87.98%), they contain low concentration of proteins (1.09-2.80%) and lipids (0.16-0.39%). The predominant mineral is potassium (1055.26-1604.10 mg/100 g DW). Moreover, they contain high concentrations of malic acid (69.48-495.58 mg/100 g (DW)), oxalic acid (18.47-233.35 mg/100 g DW) and tartaric acid (115.70-484.168 mg/100 g DW). These results suggest that the date fruit are nutritious and can be an excellent source for human nutrition and health benefits.

A fruta da tâmara é conhecida por ser o alimento básico nos países árabes. Oferece muitos benefícios potenciais à saúde e pode ser a fonte essencial de nutrientes. A maioria das variedades marroquinas não se caracteriza por suas propriedades químicas, bioquímicas nem de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição química de 17 variedades de frutos de tâmara marroquina (Phoenix dactylifera L.) e determinar seu valor nutritivo. A análise mostrou que as tâmaras são ricas em açúcares (51,80-87,98%) e contêm baixa concentração de proteínas (1,09-2,80%) e lipídios (0,16-0,39%). O mineral predominante é o potássio (1.055,26-1.604,10 mg/100 g DW). Além disso, contêm altas concentrações de ácido málico (69,48-495,58 mg/100 g DW), ácido oxálico (18,47-233,35 mg/100 g DW) e ácido tartárico (115,70-484,168 mg/100 g DW). Esses resultados sugerem que o fruto da tamareira é nutritivo e pode ser uma excelente fonte de nutrição humana e conferir benefícios à saúde.

Relative Age Effect on Brazilian male elite futsal athletes according to playing position and performance by goals scored on Brazil National Futsal Leagues

Abstract Introduction: The relative age effect is prevalent in different elite team sports. However, little is known about this phenomenon in high-level adult male futsal players. Aim: The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence of relative age effect in Brazilian male elite futsal players, and its relationship with playing position and goals scored on Brazil National Futsal Leagues (BNFL) from 2016 to 2020. Methods: The distribution of birth dates, playing positions, and goals scored by male participants of the Brazil National Futsal Leagues were analyzed. Chi-squared tests were used to analyze the birth dates distribution based on quarters and semesters of the year, according to playing position (defender, winger, pivot, and goalkeeper) and scoring performance (high and low). Results: The overall analysis indicated that the relative age effect is prevalent on the pool of athletes analyzed. However, this effect was position-dependent, since relatively older athletes were overrepresented only in wingers and defenders playing positions. On the other hand, scoring performance was not associated with the relative age effect, since this effect was found in both performance levels. Conclusion: Relative age effects are prevalent in Brazilian male elite futsal athletes, especially for defenders and wingers. Considering the high level of competitiveness for spots in elite futsal teams, coaches and sports administrators must be educated about the prevalence of the relative age effect in this sporting context. This is necessary in order to reduce the inequalities generated by age categories based on arbitrary cut-off dates, which may reduce potential talent loss.

Relative Age Effect in Brazilian water polo: analysis of male and female athletes from U16 to senior categories

Abstract Aim: To investigate the existence of relative age effect (RAE) in Brazilian water polo athletes according to sex and age category. Methods: The birthdate of 574 Brazilian water polo athletes were organized according to the athletes' birthdates into quarters of the year (Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4), and classified according to sex (male and female) and age category (U16, U18, U20, and senior). To verify the existence of RAE, the Chi-Square tests (χ2) were performed, and the effect sizes (ω) were calculated for each of the tests. We also calculated odds ratio (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals, setting the level of significance to 0.05. As post hoc analysis, multiple comparisons between quarters were performed, with Bonferroni's correction (significance level set to 0.0083 in these cases). Results: The results indicated an uneven distribution of birthdates for male water polo athletes (χ2 = 12.257; p = 0.007; ω = 0.173), with an overrepresentation of athletes born in the first (p < 0.006) and second (p < 0.002) quarters. When sex and age category were considered, male athletes presented uneven distributions in U20 (χ2 = 10.747; p = 0.013; ω = 0.345) and senior (χ2= 12.614; p = 0.006; ω = 0.383) categories. In females, no differences were found. Conclusion: We conclude that there is an uneven distribution of birthdates in male Brazilian water polo athletes, indicating the presence of RAE in this group.

Nutritional properties, aromatic compounds and in vitro antioxidant activity of ten date palm fruit (Phoenix dactylifera L.) varieties grown in Tunisia

Abstract Phoenix dactylifera L. has traditionally been used as a medicine in many cultures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional properties, aromatic compounds, total phenolic content and the antioxidant activity of ten ripe date fruit varieties grown in Tunisia. Sugar profiles were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography, while fatty acid compounds were detected by gas chromatography and aromatic compounds were analyzed by GC-Electron Impact Mass Spectroscopy. Total phenolic contents were measured using colorimetric methods, whereas antioxidant capacities were evaluated in vitro using DPPH and ABTS radicals. It has been found that total sugars are the predominant component in all date varieties, followed by moisture, along with moderate amounts of proteins, ash, and fats. Multivariate tests based on the volatile compounds profile showed significant differences among varieties. Between the sixty-two volatile compounds detected, alcohols, aldehydes and unsaturated hydrocarbons constituted the main chemical classes. The date varieties exhibited strong antioxidant potential that correlated with phenolic content. In conclusion date varieties can play a major role in human nutrition and health because of their wide range of valuable nutritional components and natural antioxidants that could potentially be considered as a functional food ingredient.

Alleviation of diabetes-induced hepatotoxicity by date palm hydroalcoholic extract in rat model; a biochemical, immunohistochemical and stereological study / Alivio de la hepatotoxicidad inducida por diabetes mediante el extracto hidroalcohólico de palmera datilera en modelo de rata: un estudio bioquímico, inmunohistoquímico y estereológico

SUMMARY: The present study was aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of date palm hydroalcoholic extract (DP)in diabetic rats using biochemical and histopathological approaches. Diabetes was induced by administration of 60 mg/kg of streptozotocin intraperitoneally. In this analysis 32 adult rats were randomly divided into four groups; group 1: non-diabetic control whic received 0.1 mL normal saline, group 2:served as non-diabetic control which treated with 270 mg/kg of DP, group 3: served as untreated diabetic, and group 4: diabetic rats treated with 270 mg/kg of DP. Diabetic rats treated with the DP extracts exhibited lower hepatic oxidative stress and lower hepatic enzymes level. Extract treatment decreased the level of malondealdehyde (MDA) as a marker of lipid peroxidation. Stereological estimations revealed a significant increase in the liver volume in diabetic rats which was reduced in DP-treated rats. Immunofluorescence staining showed high synthesis of acrolein as a byproduct of lipid proxidation. While, optical density measurement revealed significant decrease in acrolein after DP administration. Histopathological examination showed severe changes in untreated diabetic liver tissue manifested by dilated portal vein, leukocytic infiltration, fatty degeneration and necrotic nuclei, whereas, DP treatment attenuated the adverse effects of diabetes on the liver represented by relatively healthy hepatocytes and sinusoids. The obtained results indicated that date pam extract was beneficial in the prevention of diabetes-induced hepatotoxicity due to its natural antioxidant constituents. Further preclinical and clinical studies are needed for considering this plant in management of prediabetes and diabetes hepatic complications.

RESUMEN: El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar los efectos hepatoprotectores del extracto hidroalcohólico (DP) de la palmera datilera en ratas diabéticas utilizando enfoques bioquímicos e histopatológicos. La diabetes fue inducida mediante la administración de 60 mg / kg de estreptozotocina por vía intraperitoneal. Se dividieron al azar 32 ratas adultas en cuatro grupos; grupo 1: control no diabético que recibió 0,1 mL de solución salina normal, grupo 2: control no diabético tratado con 270 mg / kg de DP, grupo 3: fue separado como diabético no tratado, y grupo 4: ratas diabéticas tratadas con 270 mg / kg de DP mg / kg de DP. Las ratas diabéticas tratadas con los extractos de DP mostraron menor estrés oxidativo hepático y menor nivel de enzimas hepáticas. El tratamiento con extracto disminuyó el nivel de malondealdehído (MDA) como marcador de la proxidación de lípidos. Las estimaciones estereológicas revelaron un aumento significativo en el volumen del hígado en ratas diabéticas que se redujo en las ratas tratadas con DP. La tinción por inmunofluorescencia mostró una alta síntesis de acroleína como subproducto de la proxidación de lípidos. Mientras que, la medición de la densidad óptica reveló una disminución significativa de la acroleína después de la administración de DP. El examen histopatológico mostró cambios significativos en el tejido hepático diabético no tratado manifestados por vena porta dilatada, infiltración leucocítica, degeneración grasa y núcleos necróticos, mientras que el tratamiento con DP atenuó los efectos adversos de la diabetes en el hígado representados por hepatocitos y sinusoides relativamente sanos. Los resultados obtenidos indicaron que el extracto de palmera datilera fue beneficioso en la prevención de la hepatotoxicidad inducida por diabetes debido a sus constituyentes antioxidantes naturales. Se necesitan más estudios clínicos para considerar esta planta en el manejo de la prediabetes y las complicaciones hepáticas de la diabetes.

Expiration Date Effect on Mechanical and Chemical Properties of Glass Ionomer Cements

ABSTRACT: The glass ionomer cements (GICs) is a generic name given to a group of materials widely used in clinical dentistry which if used after the specified expiration date, material properties may be affected. to evaluate the Vick ers microhardness, surface morphology and the energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX), of GICs with different expiration dates that were stored at room temperature. specimens of highly viscous glass ionomer cement (HVGIC) (Ketac Cem and Ketac Molar) and resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) (Vitrebond) with different expiration dates (current, close to their expiration and expired) were prepared for Vickers microhardness test and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) with EDX, measuring 5 mm in diameter and 2 mm length, per the manufacturer's instructions, in standard cylindrical teflon molds. For the comparison of obtained values, the ANOVA test was used, while Tukey test was used for the multiple comparisons. In all the GICs used, the microhardness decreased as the expiration date approached, finding a significant statistical differen ce (P<0.05) in Ketac Molar and Vitrebond. SEM sample analysis revealed similar cohesive cracks in all tested materials. The EDX analysis revealed the presence of the elements F, Al and Si in all GICs and Ca only in Ketac Molar and Ketac Cem. The elements were found in a higher atomic percentage in the GICs with an current date and in a lower percentage in those with an expired date. HVGIC and RMGIC with an expiration date finish and that were stored at room temperature, suffer significant physical and chemical changes, which could put doubts its clinical effectiveness.

RESUMEN: El cemento de ionómero de vidrio (CIV) es un nombre genérico que se le da a un grupo de materiales ampliamente utilizados en odontología clínica que si se usan después de la fecha de vencimiento especificada, las propiedades del material pueden verse afectadas. evaluar la microdureza Vickers, la morfología superficial y el microanálisis de energía dispersa de rayos X (EDX), de CIV con diferentes fechas de caducidad almacenados a temperatura ambiente. Muestras de cemento de ionómero de vidrio de alta viscosidad (CIVAV) (Ketac Cem y Ketac Molar) y cemento de ionómero de vidrio modificado con resina (CIVMR) (Vitrebond) con diferentes fechas de vencimiento (vigente, próximo a su vencimiento y vencido) de 5 x 2 mm, fueron preparadas para microscopía electrónica de barrido (MEB) con EDX y microdureza Vickers, según las instrucciones del fabricante, en moldes de teflón cilíndricos estándar. Para la comparación de los valores obtenidos se utilizó la prueba ANOVA, mientras que para las comparaciones múltiples se utilizó la prueba de Tukey. En todos los CIV utilizados, la microdureza disminuyó a medida que se acercaba la fecha de vencimiento, encontrándose una diferencia estadística significativa (P <0.05) en Ketac Molar y Vitrebond. El análisis de la muestra en MEB reveló grietas cohesivas similares en todos los materiales probados. El análisis EDX reveló la presencia de los elementos F, Al y Si en todos los GIC y Ca solo en Ketac Molar y Ketac Cem. Los elementos se encontraron en mayor porcentaje atómico en los GIC con fecha vigente y en menor porcentaje en aquellos con una fecha vencida. Los CIVAV y CIVMR con fecha de caducidad vencida y que fueron alma- cenados a temperatura ambiente, sufrieron cambios físicos y químicos importantes, lo que podría poner en duda su efectividad clínica.

Inconsistent and consistent classifications for small liver lesions by contrast-enhanced ultrasound LI-RADS and CECT/MRI LI-RADS / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective:To explore the inconsistent and consistent classifications for lesions ≤2 cm by contrast-enhanced ultrasound(CEUS) Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System(LI-RADS) v2017 and contrast-enhanced computed tomography/contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging(CECT/MRI) LI-RADS v2018.Methods:The focal liver lesions ≤2 cm underwent CEUS and CECT/MRI within 1 month were enrolled in this retrospective study.Each nodule was categorized according to the CEUS LI-RADS v2017 and CECT/MRI LI-RADS v2018. Intermodality agreement between the CEUS LI-RADS and CECT/MRI LI-RADS for each lesion was assessed with Cohen′s Kappa. Lesions with inconsistent classification for CEUS LI-RADS and CECT/MRI were analyzed.Results:A total of 145 lesions with a size of (1.65±0.33)cm in 145 patients were included. The numbers of lesions in LR-3, 4, 5 and M were 16, 23, 90 and 16 on CEUS LI-RADS, 25, 31, 87 and 2 on CECT/MRI, respectively. And 73.1% lesions were classified as LR-5 or M on CEUS, while 61.4% lesions were classified as LR-5 or M on CECT/MRI ( P=0.033). The incidences of HCC in LR-3, 4 and 5 were 37.5%, 52.2% and 97.8% on CEUS LI-RADS, 56.0%, 64.5% and 96.6% on CECT/MRI LI-RADS respectively. Among the 145 lesions, 56 lesions had inconsistent classifications of CEUS and CECT/MRI LI-RADS. Twenty-eight lesions in CECT/MRI LR-3 and 4 were escalated to LR-4 and 5 by CEUS and 82.1% of them were found to be HCC. Fourteen lesions on CEUS LR-3 and 4 were escalated to LR-4 and 5 by CECT/MRI and 85.7% of them were found to be HCC. Conclusions:The LR-5 of the CEUS and CECT/EOB-MRI LI-RADS has a comparable incidence of HCC. However, the inter-modality agreement of the LI-RADS category between CEUS and CECT/EOB-MRI is poor. The proportion of lesions in CEUS LR-5 and M is much higher than that in CECT/MRI LR-5 and M, while the proportion of lesions in CECT/MRI LR-3 and 4 is high than that in CEUS LR-3 and 4.

Application Practice to Determine Structure of UDI-PI in Implementation of UDI System / 中国医疗器械杂志

The purpose of UDI-PI and related international regulations/guidelines is analyzed. The application practice for the registrant/filing applicant to determine the composition of UDI is given. The article provides reference for the related stakeholders to implement UDI system.

Consistency of ultrasonic indicators evaluated by different seniority sonographer with C-TIRADS and comparison of diagnostic efficiency / 中华健康管理学杂志

Objective:To investigate the consistency and diagnostic efficiency of Chinese Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Date System (C-TIRADS) in thyroid nodule evaluation by different seniority sonographers.Methods:The preoperative ultrasonographic datum of 134 thyroid nodules in 112 patients from January to November 2020 were independently analyzed by sonographers with different seniority. According to the C-TIRADS guidelines, the C-TIRADS ultrasonographic indicators of each nodule were recorded and C-TIRADS classification was performed. Cohen′s Kappa (K) statistical method was used to analyze the consistency of ultrasonic indicators evaluated by different seniority sonographers. Using postoperative pathological results as the gold standard, the diagnostic efficacy of C-TIRADS classification for differentiating benign and malignant thyroid nodules by junior and senior sonographers was calculated respectively, and the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were drawn respectively.Results:The solid structure and vertical orientation of thyroid nodule judged by different seniority sonographers were very consistent ( K=0.84, 0.81). The consistencies of very hypoechoic and microcalcifications were substantial agreement ( K=0.80, 0.61), and moderate ( K=0.531) for the margin of the nodules. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of distinguishing benign and malignant thyroid nodules by junior and senior sonographers were 91.8%, 65.8%, 77.6%, 69.1%, 90.6% and 96.7%, 67.1%, 80.6%, 71.1%, 96.1%, respectively. The corresponding area under the ROC curves were 0.788 and 0.819, respectively ( Z=1.369, P=0.171). Conclusion:Ultrasonologists with different experience have good consistency in evaluating the C-TIRADS ultrasonic indicators of thyroid nodule, and the diagnostic efficacy of C-TIRADS classification in differentiating benign and malignant thyroid nodule was similar.

Effects of ripening stages and storage durations on resistance parameters of beef type tomatoes: part 1: spring period / Efeitos de estágios de maturação e durações de armazenamento em parâmetros de resistência de tomates coração de boi: parte 1: período de primavera

Following the harvest, agricultural products are subjected to various negative impacts throughout the way to consumers. Mechanical damages such as color darkening, abrasion, cuts, or punctures over the fruit surface are irreversible damages and such damages ultimately end up in significant quality and economic losses. In modern production systems, only a certain portion of the products directly reach from producer to consumers. The majority of these products are subjected to mechanical damages through the crush, squeeze, vibration, and similar impacts during the harvest and postharvest processes. In this study, Tybeef tomato cultivar grown over the experimental greenhouses of Bati Akdeniz Agricultural Research Institute (BATEM) (control) and 14-193 and 14-206 coded candidate cultivars developed through breeding programs of BATEM were used as the plant material. Resistance parameters of tomato cultivars were determined at 4 different ripening stages (green, turning, pink, and red) and 4 different storage durations (4, 8, 12, and 16 days). Resistance parameters decreased with the progress of ripening and storage durations. All measurements and assessments revealed that 14-193 coded candidate cultivars were prominent for resistance parameters.

Após a colheita, os produtos agrícolas estão sujeitos a diversos impactos negativos ao longo do caminho até os consumidores. Danos mecânicos como escurecimento da cor, abrasão, cortes ou perfurações na superfície da fruta são irreversíveis e acabam resultando em perdas significativas de qualidade e econômicas. Nos sistemas de produção modernos, apenas uma determinada parte dos produtos chega diretamente do produtor ao consumidor. A maioria desses produtos está sujeita a danos mecânicos por meio de esmagamento, compressão, vibração e impactos semelhantes durante os processos de colheita e pós-colheita. Neste estudo, a cultivar de tomate Tybeef cultivada em estufas experimentais do Bati Akdeniz Agricultural Research Institute (BATEM) (controle) e as cultivares candidatas codificadas 14-193 e 14-206 desenvolvidas por meio de programas de melhoramento do BATEM foram utilizadas como material vegetal. Os parâmetros de resistência dos cultivares de tomate foram determinados em 4 diferentes estágios de maturação (verde, pintado, rosado e vermelho) e 4 diferentes durações de armazenamento (4, 8, 12 e 16 dias). Os parâmetros de resistência diminuíram com o progresso do amadurecimento e durações de armazenamento. Todas as medições e avaliações revelaram que 14-193 cultivares candidatas codificadas eram proeminentes para os parâmetros de resistência.

Prospective production of fructose and single cell protein from date palm waste

BACKGROUND: Fructose and single cell protein are important products for the food market. Abundant amounts of low-grade dates worldwide are annually wasted. In this study, highly concentrated fructose syrups and single cell protein were obtained through selective fermentation of date extracts by Saccharomyces cerevisiae. RESULTS: The effect of air flow (0.1, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.25 and 1.5 vvm) and pH (4.5, 4.8, 5, 5.3 and 5.6) was investigated. Higher air flow led to lower fructose yield. The optimum cell mass production of 10 g/L was achieved at air flow of 1.25 vvm with the fructose yield of 91%. Similar cell mass production was obtained in the range pH of 5.0­5.6, while less cell mass was obtained at pH less than 5. Controlling the pH at 4.5, 5.0 and 5.3 failed to improve the production of cell mass which were 5.6, 5.9 and 5.4 g/L respectively; however, better fructose yield was obtained. CONCLUSIONS: Extension of the modified Gompertz enabled excellent predictions of the cell mass, fructose production and fructose fraction. The proposed model was also successfully validated against data from literatures. Thus, the model will be useful for wide application of biological processes.

Practices and attitudes concerning expiration date, unused, and expired medication disposal

Background: According to the product type, the date of expiration is set after manufacturing or after dispensing of the medication or after opening of the medication’s container. Objective: The objective of the study was to assess practices and attitudes concerning unused, disposal, and expiration date of medications among Saudi population in the Northern Border Region of Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted during a period of 9 months from April 2019 to January 2020 on a random sample, all data were analyzed by means of descriptive analysis. Results: The total number of people answered the questionnaire during the study period were 529, nearly all the participants (99%) keep medication in their homes at the study time. Only half of the participants (53%) were aware that expiry date on the bottle differs after bottle opening. About 24% of participants do not check the expiry date while purchasing medications. The main cause mentioned for not checking the expiry dates while purchasing medicines were that pharmacist already checked (71%), about half of study participants (56%) check the expiry date of stored medicines at the time of usage. About 34% and 41% of participants reported that if they buy eye/ear drops and ointment/cream respectively, they will keep it in bedroom. About 74% of study participants throw away expired medicine in household garbage as it is. Conclusion: It is obvious that Saudi people have a sufficient level of awareness of the expiry date of medication; however, their practices are poor. In light of the study findings, there is a great need to improve public awareness toward the storage and disposal of drugs and its bad consequences.

Relative age in female futsal athletes: implications on anthropometric profile and starter status / Idade relativa em atletas de futsal feminino: implicações no perfil antropométrico e titularidade / Edad relativa en atletas de futsal femenino: implicaciones en el perfil antropométrico y titularidad

ABSTRACT Introduction: Evidence suggests that a higher distribution of elite athletes have birth dates in the first few months of the year. However, the advantages of birth month on performance related to starter status, structure and body composition in female futsal (5-a-side football played on a hard court, mainly indoors), are unknown. Objective: To determine the effect of relative age (ERA) on competitive female futsal athletes, and its influence on anthropometric profile and starter status. Methods: One hundred and fifteen athletes, participants in the 20th Brazilian Cup of Adult Futsal Clubs, special division, were submitted to measurements of body mass, height, skinfold thickness, body perimeters and bone diameters, in order to characterize the anthropometric profile and determine the body somatotype. The athletes were distributed in semesters and quartiles of the months of the year, according to their birth dates. Differences in the distribution of expected and observed birth dates were tested using Chi-square tests (χ2). Comparisons between semesters and birth quartiles were performed using parametric and non-parametric tests. Results: There was no ERA in distribution (p=0.248), anthropometric profile (p=0.872 to 0.912), or starter status between athletes born from January to June (p=0.352) and those born between July and December (p=0.744). On the other hand, those born in the first months of the year showed longer practice times than those born in the latter months of the year. Conclusion: Although the ERA in this study reveals longer practice times favoring female futsal athletes born in the first quartile of the year, it did not influence the starter status, the distribution in the teams, or any advantage in anthropometric profile. Level of evidence III, Case-Control Study.

RESUMO Introdução: Evidências sugerem maior distribuição de atletas de elite com data de nascimento nos primeiros meses do ano. Entretanto, as vantagens que o mês de nascimento exerce no desempenho relacionado à titularidade, estrutura e composição corporal no futsal feminino são desconhecidas. Objetivo: Determinar o efeito da idade relativa (EIR) em atletas de futsal feminino competitivo e sua influência no perfil antropométrico e na titularidade. Métodos: Cento e quinze atletas, participantes da XX Taça Brasil de Clubes de Futsal Feminino Adulto, divisão especial, foram submetidas a medidas de massa corporal, estatura, espessuras de dobras cutâneas, perímetros corporais e diâmetros ósseos, a fim de caracterizar o perfil antropométrico e determinar o somatotipo corporal. As atletas foram distribuídas em semestres e quartis dos meses do ano, de acordo com suas datas de nascimento. Diferenças na distribuição das datas de nascimento esperadas e observadas foram comparadas utilizando o teste de qui-quadrado (χ2). As comparações entre os semestres e os quartis de nascimento foram realizadas utilizando os testes paramétricos e não paramétricos. Resultados: Não houve EIR na distribuição (p=0,248), no perfil antropométrico (p=0,872 a 0,912) ou na titularidade entre as atletas nascidas de janeiro a junho (p=0,352) e as nascidas entre julho a dezembro (p=0,744). Por outro lado, as atletas nascidas nos primeiros meses do ano demonstraram maior tempo de prática do que as nascidas nos últimos meses do ano. Conclusão: Apesar do EIR neste estudo revelar maior tempo de prática favorecendo atletas de futsal feminino nascidas no primeiro trimestre do ano, não influenciou a condição de titular, a distribuição nas equipes, ou qualquer vantagem no perfil antropométrico. Nível de evidência III, Estudo Caso-Controle.

RESUMEN Introducción: Evidencias sugieren mayor distribución de atletas de élite con fecha de nacimiento en los primeros meses del año. Entretanto, las ventajas que el mes de nacimiento ejerce sobre el desempeño relacionado a la titularidad, estructura y composición corporal en el futsal femenino son desconocidas. Objetivo: Determinar el efecto de la edad relativa (EER) en atletas de futsal femenino competitivo y su influencia en el perfil antropométrico y en la titularidad. Métodos: Ciento quince atletas, participantes de la XX Copa Brasil de Clubes de Futsal Femenino Adulto, división especial, fueron sometidas a medición de masa corporal, estatura, espesores de los pliegues cutáneos, perímetros corporales y diámetros óseos, a fin de caracterizar el perfil antropométrico y determinar el somatotipo corporal. Las atletas fueron distribuidas en semestres y cuartiles de los meses del año, de acuerdo con sus fechas de nacimiento. Las diferencias en la distribución de las fechas de nacimiento esperadas y observadas fueron probadas usando el test de chi cuadrado (χ2). Las comparaciones entre los semestres y los cuartiles de nacimiento realizadas usando tests paramétricos y no paramétricos. Resultados: No hubo EER en la distribución (p = 0,248), en el perfil antropométrico (p = 0,872 a 0,912) o en la titularidad entre atletas nacidas de enero a junio (p = 0,352) y las nacidas entre julio a diciembre (p = 0,744). Por otro lado, las atletas nacidas en los primeros meses del año demostraron mayor tiempo de práctica que las nacidas en los últimos meses del año. Conclusión: Aunque el EER en este estudio revela un tiempo de práctica más prolongado que favorece a las atletas de futsal femenino nacidas en el primer trimestre del año, no influyó en la posición inicial, la distribución en los equipos ni ninguna ventaja en el perfil antropométrico. Nivel de evidencia III, Estudio Caso-Control.