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DOAJ Open Access 2025
Improvement of Gel Properties of <i>Nemipterus virgatus</i> Myofibrillar Protein Emulsion Gels by Curdlan: Development and Application to Emulsified Surimi

Zhiqin Wu, Yongyan Qu, Ouhongyi Li et al.

This study aims to improve the gel properties of <i>Nemipterus virgatus</i> myofibrillar protein (MP) emulsion gels by Curdlan (Cur) and investigate the effect of the emulsion gels on the quality of emulsified surimi gels. The effects of different concentrations of Cur on the gel properties of MP emulsion gels were investigated. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) results indicated that intermolecular interactions between Cur and MP were primarily hydrogen bonds. Cur enhanced the adsorption capacity of MP at the oil/water interface, inducing the formation of a more uniform and dense composite network structure in Cur/MP emulsion gels. Adding 6% (<i>w</i>/<i>v</i>) of Cur significantly increased the hardness, gel strength, water-holding capacity (WHC) and rheological properties of the gel. In addition, microstructural images showed that MP formed a complex interpenetrating network with Cur, thus enhancing the gel network skeleton. Low-field NMR confirmed that the addition of Cur decreased water mobility in the emulsion gel system. Compared to the direct addition of oil, the application of Cur/MP emulsion gels to surimi significantly improved the texture, gel strength, and WHC of the surimi gel. These findings provide a reference for the development of myofibrillar protein emulsion gels and broaden their potential application in the food industry.

Science, Chemistry
DOAJ Open Access 2025
Physical and Gastrointestinal Digestive Properties of Sodium Caseinate Emulsions Regulated by Four Different Polysaccharides

Mengyao Kang, Denglin Luo, Lihua Zhang et al.

Polysaccharide intervention is an effective strategy to regulate properties of emulsions. In this study, xanthan gum (XG), konjac glucomannan (KGM), guar gum (GG), and inulin (IN) were selected to regulate physical and gastrointestinal digestive properties of sodium caseinate (CAS) oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. The results indicate that IN could not improve CAS emulsion properties, while XG, KGM, and GG significantly reduced droplet size and improved emulsions’ stability. With the increase of the polysaccharide concentration, the G′ and G″ of the emulsions increased and the emulsions showed an obvious “solid-like” state, which effectively slowed down the “strain-thinning” phenomenon. The microstructure demonstrated that the polysaccharide chains are effectively connected with the surface membrane of droplets, which effectively improves interfacial membrane strength and inhibits droplet aggregation. In vitro digestion simulations proved that polysaccharides effectively modulate emulsion lipid release, providing an excellent lipid environment for curcumin absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. The order of the four polysaccharides in improving CAS emulsions was XG > KGM > GG > IN. This study dissects the differential regulation of physical and gastrointestinal digestive properties of emulsion by polysaccharides, providing theoretical support for functional emulsions for diverse requirements.

Science, Chemistry
DOAJ Open Access 2024
Harmonizing Innovations: An In-Depth Comparative Review on the Formulation, Applications, and Future Perspectives of Aerogels and Hydrogels in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Nour Alhuda Alaghawani, Hala Alkhatib, Layla Elmancy et al.

Gels, specifically hydrogels and aerogels, have emerged as versatile materials with profound implications in pharmaceutical sciences. This comprehensive review looks into detail at hydrogels and aerogels, providing a general introduction to gels as a foundation. The paper is then divided into distinct sections for hydrogels and aerogels, each delving into their unique formulations, advantages, disadvantages, and applications. In the realm of hydrogels, we scrutinize the intricacies of formulation, highlighting the versatile advantages they offer. Conversely, potential limitations are explored, paving the way for a detailed discussion on their applications, with a specific focus on their role in antimicrobial applications. Shifting focus to aerogels, a thorough overview is presented, followed by a detailed explanation of the complex formulation process involving sol–gel chemistry; aging; solvent exchange; and drying techniques, including freeze drying, supercritical drying, and ambient-pressure drying (APD). The intricacies of drug loading and release from aerogels are addressed, providing insights into their pharmaceutical potential. The advantages and disadvantages of aerogels are examined, accompanied by an exploration of their applications, with a specific emphasis on antimicrobial uses. The review culminates in a comparative analysis, juxtaposing the advantages and disadvantages of hydrogels and aerogels. Furthermore, the current research and development trends in the applications of these gels in pharmaceutical sciences are discussed, providing a holistic view of their potential and impact. This review serves as a comprehensive guide for researchers, practitioners, and enthusiasts, seeking a deeper understanding of the distinctive attributes and applications of hydrogels and aerogels in the ever-evolving research concerning pharmaceutical sciences.

Science, Chemistry
DOAJ Open Access 2024
In Vitro Investigation of Novel Peptide Hydrogels for Enamel Remineralization

Codruta Sarosi, Alexandrina Muntean, Stanca Cuc et al.

This study investigates the microstructure of dental enamel following demineralization and re-mineralization processes, using DIAGNOdent scores and images obtained via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and microhardness (Vickers). The research evaluates the effects of two experimental hydrogels, Anti-Amelogenin isoform X (ABT260, S1) and Anti-Kallikrein L1 (K3014, S2), applied to demineralized enamel surfaces over periods of 14 and 21 days. The study involved 60 extracted teeth, free from cavities or other lesions, divided into four groups: a positive group (+), a negative group (−) and groups S1 and S2. The last three groups underwent demineralization with 37% phosphoric acid for 20 min. The negative group (−) was without remineralization treatment. The DIAGNOdent scores indicate that the S1 group treated with Anti-Amelogenin is more effective in remineralizing the enamel surface compared to the S2 group treated with Anti-Kallikrein. These findings were corroborated by SEM and AFM images, which revealed elongated hydroxyapatite (HAP) nanoparticles integrated into the demineralized structures. Demineralization reduced enamel microhardness to about 1/3 of a healthy one. Both tested hydrogels restored enamel hardness, with S1 being more effective than S2. Both peptides facilitated the interaction between the newly added minerals and residual protein binders on the enamel surface, thereby contributing to effective enamel restoration.

Science, Chemistry
DOAJ Open Access 2024
Adsorption Behavior of Chitosan-MWCNTs Nanocomposite for the Elimination of Ofloxacin Medication

Zainab Jasim Khudair, Zeina Mohammad Kadam

A nanocomposite of chitosan and poly acrylic acid grafting multi-walled carbon nanotubes p(CS-co-AA)/MWCNTs was produced using free radical polymerization to study its efficiency in eliminating the antibiotic ofloxacin (OFL) from aqueous solutions. The synthesized nanocomposite material has undergone characterization using FTIR, XRD, FESEM, TEM, EDX, and Zeta potential techniques. The adsorption of OFL on the p(CS-co-AA)/MWCNTs has been evaluated using three established Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin isotherm models. The isotherm constant (KF) of 0.218 and the separation factor (R2) of 0.956 indicate strong and desirable adsorption of OFL on p(CS-co-AA)/MWCNTs with a concentration of 100 mg/L at a temperature of 293K and an acidic medium with a pH of 7.0. The primary cause of the reduction in OFL adsorption and dehydrogenation is the increase in pH level. The Van't Hoff equation indicates that the OFL adsorption process exhibits fast kinetics, as seen by a negative thermodynamic parameter ΔH of -0.012 kJ/mol. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2= 1.00) confirms this observation. The results indicate that the synthesized nanocomposite can effectively remove OFL from polluted aqueous solutions.

Chemistry, General. Including alchemy
DOAJ Open Access 2024
3D Bioprintable Self-Healing Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel with Cysteamine Grafting for Tissue Engineering

Kasula Nagaraja, Amitava Bhattacharyya, Minsik Jung et al.

The abundance of hyaluronic acid (HA) in human tissues attracts its thorough research in tissue regenerating scaffolds and 3D bioprintable hydrogel preparation. Though methacrylation of HA can lead to photo-crosslinkable hydrogels, the catalyst has toxicity concerns, and the hydrogel is not suitable for creating stable complex 3D structures using extrusion 3D bioprinting. In this study, a dual crosslinking on methacrylated HA is introduced, using cysteamine-grafted HA and varying concentrations of 2-hydroxy ethyl acrylate. The resultant hydrogel is suitable for extrusion 3D printing (or bioprinting), mechanically robust, self-standing, stable in phosphate-buffered saline at 37 °C for more than 42 days, has high water absorption capacity with a low swelling ratio (1.5), and exhibits self-healing and adhesive properties. Complex 3D structures like ears and pyramid shapes with more than 2 cm of height are 3D printed using the optimized composition. All the synthesized hydrogels have shown nontoxicity and cell-supportiveness. Loading of cells, tetracycline, and bovine serum albumin into the hydrogel led to better bioink properties such as cell attachment, growth, and proliferation for osteoblast cells. The test results suggest that this hydrogel is biocompatible and has potential for 3D bioprinting of self-standing structures in bioink form in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Science, Chemistry
DOAJ Open Access 2024
Wound Healing Potential of Herbal Hydrogel Formulations of <i>Cedrus brevifolia</i> Extracts in Mice

Georgia Lyggitsou, Christina Barda, Maria Anagnostou et al.

Wound healing stands as a paramount therapeutic pursuit, imposing significant challenges on healthcare, particularly for vulnerable populations. <i>Cedrus brevifolia</i>, a species endemic to Cyprus, thrives in the Tripylos region, commonly known as Cedar Valley, within the Paphos forest. Despite its endemism, this species exhibits negligible genetic divergence from its Mediterranean related species. This study aims to investigate the potential of <i>C. brevifolia</i> resin and bark extracts in promoting wound healing in a mouse model. Previous in vitro investigations have elucidated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of extracts and isolates derived from the title plant, warranting further exploration in an in vivo setting. This experimental design employed 40 male SKH-hr2 black and brown mice aged 2–4 months. Wounds measuring 1 cm<sup>2</sup> were meticulously induced in the anesthetized mice and the potential healing effect of the herbal hydrogel formulations was evaluated. The healing potential of the <i>C. brevifolia</i> extracts was rigorously assessed through the daily application of gel formulations containing resin concentrations of 5% and 10% <i>w</i>/<i>w</i>, alongside sapwood and heartwood extracts at concentrations of 0.5% and 1% <i>w</i>/<i>w</i>. The evaluation of the treatments encompassed a multifaceted approach, incorporating clinical observations, skin biophysical parameter assessments utilizing an Antera 3D camera, and FT-IR spectroscopy, in addition to histopathological examination. The chemical compositions were also investigated through NMR and bio-guided isolation. The most prominent herbal hydrogel preparation proved to be the 10% resin, followed by the sapwood at 1%. The chemical analysis unveiled abietic acid, manool, and lariciresinol derivatives that potentially contributed to the observed results. Bridging the gap between in vitro observations and in vivo outcomes attempts to shed light on the potential therapeutic benefits of <i>C. brevifolia</i> hydrogels in wound care.

Science, Chemistry
DOAJ Open Access 2024
Effect of Crosslinking Agents on Chitosan Hydrogel Carriers for Drug Loading and Release for Targeted Drug Delivery

Md Salah Uddin, Suyash Khand, Chao Dong

Numerous studies report on chitosan hydrogels in different forms, such as films, porous structures, nanoparticles, and microspheres, for biomedical applications; however, this study concentrates on their modifications with different crosslinking agents and observes their effects on drug loading and releasing capacities. Linear chitosan, along with chitosans crosslinked with two major crosslinkers, i.e., genipin and disulfide, are used to formulate three different hydrogel systems. The crosslinking process is heavily impacted by temperature and pH conditions. Three different drugs, i.e., thymoquinone, gefitinib, and erlotinib, are loaded to the hydrogels in de-ionized water solutions and released in phosphate-buffered solutions; thus, a total of nine combinations are studied and analyzed for their drug loading and releasing capabilities with ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy. This study finds that thymoquinone shows the lowest loading efficacy compared to the two other drugs in all three systems. Gefitinib shows stable loading and releasing regardless of crosslinking system, and the genipin-crosslinked system shows stable loading and releasing with all three drug molecules. These experimental results agree well with the findings of our previously published results conducted with molecular dynamics simulations.

Science, Chemistry
DOAJ Open Access 2024
The Use of Gel Electrophoresis to Separate Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction Amplicons Allows for the Easy Identification and Assessment of the Spread of Toxigenic <i>Clostridioides difficile</i> Strains

Tomasz Bogiel, Patrycja Kwiecińska, Robert Górniak et al.

<i>Clostridioides difficile</i> is a common etiological factor of hospital infections, which, in extreme cases, can lead to the death of patients. Most strains belonging to this bacterium species synthesize very dangerous toxins: toxin A (TcdA) and B (TcdB) and binary toxin (CDT). The aim of this study was to assess the suitability of agarose gel electrophoresis separation of multiplex PCR amplicons to investigate the toxinogenic potential of <i>C. difficile</i> strains. Additionally, the frequency of <i>C. difficile</i> toxin genes and the genotypes of toxin-producing strains were determined. Ninety-nine <i>C. difficile</i> strains were used in the detection of the presence of genes encoding all of these toxins using the multiplex PCR method. In 85 (85.9%) strains, the presence of <i>tcdA</i> genes encoding enterotoxin A was detected. In turn, in 66 (66.7%) isolates, the gene encoding toxin B (<i>tcdB</i>) was present. The lowest number of strains tested was positive for genes encoding a binary toxin. Only 31 (31.3%) strains possessed the <i>cdtB</i> gene and 22 (22.2%) contained both genes for the binary toxin subunits (the <i>cdtB</i> and <i>cdtA</i> genes). A relatively large number of the strains tested had genes encoding toxins, whose presence may result in a severe course of disease. Therefore, the accurate diagnosis of patients, including the detection of all known <i>C. difficile</i> toxin genes, is very important. The multiplex PCR method allows for the quick and accurate determination of whether the tested strains of this bacterium contain toxin genes. Agarose gel electrophoresis is a useful tool for visualizing amplification products, allowing one to confirm the presence of specific <i>C. difficile</i> toxin genes as well as investigate their dissemination for epidemiological purposes.

Science, Chemistry
DOAJ Open Access 2023
Patient-Specific 3D Printed Soft Models for Liver Surgical Planning and Hands-On Training

Arnau Valls-Esteve, Aitor Tejo-Otero, Pamela Lustig-Gainza et al.

<b>Background</b>: Pre-surgical simulation-based training with three-dimensional (3D) models has been intensively developed in complex surgeries in recent years. This is also the case in liver surgery, although with fewer reported examples. The simulation-based training with 3D models represents an alternative to current surgical simulation methods based on animal or ex vivo models or virtual reality (VR), showing reported advantages, which makes the development of realistic 3D-printed models an option. This work presents an innovative, low-cost approach for producing patient-specific 3D anatomical models for hands-on simulation and training. <b>Methods</b>: The article reports three paediatric cases presenting complex liver tumours that were transferred to a major paediatric referral centre for treatment: hepatoblastoma, hepatic hamartoma and biliary tract rhabdomyosarcoma. The complete process of the additively manufactured liver tumour simulators is described, and the different steps for the correct development of each case are explained: (1) medical image acquisition; (2) segmentation; (3) 3D printing; (4) quality control/validation; and (5) cost. A digital workflow for liver cancer surgical planning is proposed. <b>Results</b>: Three hepatic surgeries were planned, with 3D simulators built using 3D printing and silicone moulding techniques. The 3D physical models showed highly accurate replications of the actual condition. Additionally, they proved to be more cost-effective in comparison with other models. <b>Conclusions</b>: It is demonstrated that it is possible to manufacture accurate and cost-effective 3D-printed soft surgical planning simulators for treating liver cancer. The 3D models allowed for proper pre-surgical planning and simulation training in the three cases reported, making it a valuable aid for surgeons.

Science, Chemistry
DOAJ Open Access 2023
Ultrasonic-Assisted Glycosylation with Glucose on the Functional and Structural Properties of Fish Gelatin

Wenwen Guo, Keying Ding, Kaiyuan Su et al.

The effects of ultrasound-assisted glycosylation (UG) with glucose (GLU) on the emulsifying properties, foaming properties, gelling properties, and structural properties of fish gelatin (FG) were investigated. It was shown that UG with high power and a long duration facilitated the Maillard reaction through the reduction of the free amino acid contents. UG significantly improved the emulsifying ability index and foaming capacity of FG whilst decreasing the gel strength. Rheological analysis showed that UG modification prolonged the gelling time by hindering the triple-helix formation and decreasing the apparent viscosity of the gelatin solution. Structural analysis showed that UG treatment changed the secondary structure of the gelatin molecule by the formation of Millard reaction products (MRPs). Moreover, the UG treatment generally decreased the bound water contents of the gelatin gels with an increase in free water.

Science, Chemistry
S2 Open Access 2022
A space-time calculus based on symmetric 2-spinors

Steffen Aksteiner, Thomas Bäckdahl

In this paper we present a space-time calculus for symmetric spinors, including a product with a number of index contractions followed by symmetrization. As all operations stay within the class of symmetric spinors, no involved index manipulations are needed. In fact spinor indices are not needed in the formalism. It is also general because any covariant tensor expression in a 4-dimensional Lorentzian spacetime can be translated to this formalism. The computer algebra implementation SymSpin as part of xAct for Mathematica is also presented.

4 sitasi en Physics
DOAJ Open Access 2022
A Thermal-Responsive Zwitterionic Polymer Gel as a Filtrate Reducer for Water-Based Drilling Fluids

Kaihe Lv, Hongyan Du, Jinsheng Sun et al.

It is crucial to address the performance deterioration of water-based drilling fluids (WDFs) in situations of excessive salinity and high temperature while extracting deep oil and gas deposits. The focus of research in the area of drilling fluid has always been on filter reducers that are temperature and salt resistant. In this study, a copolymer gel (PAND) was synthesized using acrylamide, N-isopropyl acrylamide, and 3-dimethyl (methacryloyloxyethyl) ammonium propane sulfonate through free-radical polymerization. The copolymer gel was then studied using FTIR, NMR, TGA, and element analysis. The PAND solution demonstrated temperature and salt stimulus response characteristics on rheology because of the hydrophobic association effect of temperature-sensitive monomers and the anti-polyelectrolyte action of zwitterionic monomers. Even in conditions with high temperatures (180 °C) and high salinities (30 wt% NaCl solution), the water-based drilling fluid with 1 wt% PAND displayed exceptional rheological and filtration properties. Zeta potential and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to investigate the mechanism of filtration reduction. The results indicated that PAND could enhance bentonite particle colloidal stability, prevent bentonite particle aggregation, and form a compact mud cake, all of which are crucial for reducing the filtration volume of water-based drilling fluid. The PAND exhibit excellent potential for application in deep and ultra-deep drilling engineering, and this research may offer new thoughts on the use of zwitterionic polymer gel in the development of smart water-based drilling fluid.

Science, Chemistry
DOAJ Open Access 2022
Decellularized Periosteum-Derived Hydrogels Promote the Proliferation, Migration and Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Shuyi Li, Rongli Deng, Tim Forouzanfar et al.

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) are promising for bone tissue engineering, which have a non-invasive harvesting process, high cell yield, favorable proliferation capacity, and low immunogenicity. However, the osteogenic efficacy of hUCMSCs is relatively lower than that of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Hydrogels from decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) preserve the biological compositions and functions of natural ECM, which can provide tissue-specific cues to regulate phenotypic expression and cell fate. It is unknown, however, whether hydrogels from periosteum can serve as pro-osteogenic carriers of hUCMSCs. Herein, a decellularized periosteum-derived hydrogel (dPH) was fabricated to reveal the effects of periosteum-specific cues on the bioactivities of hUCMSCs. A widely used non-bone/periosteum-derived ECM hydrogel product, Matrigel, was used as the control group. After decellularization, the absence of nuclei in the histological analysis indicated a successful removal of cellular components, which was also confirmed by DNA content quantification. The storage modulus of dPH increased (from 164.49 ± 29.92 Pa to 855.20 ± 20.67 Pa) with increasing concentration (from 0.5% to 1%). With a highly porous, fibrous microstructure, dPH had a more hydrophilic surface than Matrigel, of which the water contact angle reduced 62.62 ± 0.04%. Furthermore, dPH prominently promoted the initial cellular spreading with a significantly higher cell surface area (1.47-fold), cell spreading length (1.45-fold) and proliferation (approximately 1.05–1.13-fold) of hUCMSCs than those of Matrigel. Additionally, dPH was conducive to cell migration, whereas no cells migrated to Matrigel in the Transwell model. Compared with those of the Matrigel group, the osteogenesis-related genes expression levels (runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteopontin (OPN), and osteocalcin (OCN)) and mineralized matrix formation (9.74-fold) of the hUCMSCs significantly increased in the dPH group. Our study indicated that dPH could provide a pro-osteogenic microenvironment for hUCMSCs, thereby revealing a promising application potential to repair bone defects.

Science, Chemistry
DOAJ Open Access 2022
Self-Healing Alginate Hydrogel Formed by Dynamic Benzoxaborolate Chemistry Protects Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells against Oxidative Damage

Minhua Liu, Yate Huang, Chunwen Tao et al.

Oxidative stress is considered as a major factor causing retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) dysfunction and finally leading to retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Developing hydrogels for RPE cell delivery, especially those with antioxidant feature, is emerging as a promising approach for AMD treatment. Herein, a readily prepared antioxidant alginate-based hydrogel was developed to serve as a cytoprotective agent for RPE cells against oxidative damage. Alg-BOB was synthesized via conjugation of benzoxaborole (BOB) to the polysaccharide backbone. Hydrogels were formed through self-crosslinking of Alg-BOB based on benzoxaborole-diol complexation. The resulting hydrogel showed porous micro-structure, pH dependent mechanical strength and excellent self-healing, remolding, and injectable properties. Moreover, the hydrogel exhibited excellent cytocompatibility and could efficiently scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) to achieve an enhanced viability of ARPE-19 cells under oxidative condition. Altogether, our study reveals that the antioxidant Alg-BOB hydrogel represents an eligible candidate for RPE delivery and AMD treatment.

Science, Chemistry
DOAJ Open Access 2022
Synthesis and Weak Hydrogelling Properties of a Salt Resistance Copolymer Based on Fumaric Acid Sludge and Its Application in Oil Well Drilling Fluids

Zhongjin Wei, Fengshan Zhou, Sinan Chen et al.

Fumaric acid sludge (FAS) by-produced from phthalic anhydride production wastewater treatment contains a large amount of refractory organic compounds with a complex composition, which will cause environmental pollution unless it is treated in a deep, harmless manner. FAS included saturated carboxylic acid, more than 60%, and unsaturated carboxylic acid, close to 30%, which accounted for the total mass of dry sludge. A new oil well drilling fluid filtrate loss reducer, poly(AM-AMPS-FAS) (PAAF), was synthesized by copolymerizing FAS with acrylamide (AM) and 2-acrylamide-2-methyl propane sulfonic acid (AMPS). Without a refining requirement for FAS, it can be used as a polymerizable free radical monomer for the synthesis of PAAF after a simple drying process. The copolymer PAAF synthesis process was studied, and the optimal monomer mass ratio was determined to be AM:AMPS:FAS = 1:1:1. The temperature resistance of the synthesized PAAF was significantly improved when 5% sodium silicate was added as a cross-linking agent. The structural characterization and evaluation of temperature and complex saline resistance performance of PAAF were carried out. The FT-IR results show that the structure of PAAF contained amide groups and sulfonic acid groups. The TGA results show that PAAF has good temperature resistance. As an oilfield filtrate loss reducer, the cost-effective copolymer PAAF not only has excellent temperature and complex saline resistance, the API filtration loss (FL) was only 13.2 mL/30 min after 16 h of hot rolling and aging at 150 °C in the complex saline-based mud, which is smaller compared with other filtrate loss reducer copolymers, but it also has little effect on the rheological properties of drilling fluid.

Science, Chemistry
S2 Open Access 2021
Participation in leisure activities and quality of life of people with psychosis in England: a multi-site cross-sectional study

K. Ngamaba, M. Webber, P. Xanthopoulou et al.

Background Leisure activities can improve quality of life in the general population. For people with psychosis, negative symptoms (e.g. being unmotivated, difficulty in sticking with activities) are often a barrier to engaging in social leisure activities. However, we do not know if participation in leisure activities is associated with quality of life in this group and, whether psychosocial interventions should aim to increase leisure activities. Aim This study investigates participation in social leisure activities of people with psychosis and whether their participation is associated with better quality of life. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 6 NHS mental health trusts. Adults aged 18–65 ( N  = 533) with a diagnosis of a psychosis-related condition (ICD-10 F20-29) were recruited from outpatient secondary mental health services. Several measures were used including an adapted version of the Time Use Survey (TUS), the Social contacts assessment (SCA) and Manchester Short Assessment of Quality of Life (MANSA). A Structural Equation Model (SEM) was used to explore the relationships between participation in leisure activities and quality of life, and whether social contacts mediated the link. Results Participants attended an average of 2.42 (SD = 1.47) leisure activities in the last 7 days. Their quality of life increased with the number of leisure activities they attended. Participation in leisure activities was positively associated with quality of life in people with psychosis ( B  = 0.104, SE = 0.051, p  = 0.042, 95% CI [0.003 to 0.204]). Leisure activities predicted social contacts, but the link between social contacts and the quality of life was not significant. After controlling for sociodemographic factors, being female and unemployed were negatively linked with quality of life ( B  = − 0.101, SE = 0.048, p  = 0.036, 95% CI [− 0.196 to − 0.006; B  = − 0.207, SE = 0.050, p  = 0.001, 95% CI [− 0.305 to − 0.108, respectively]. Conclusion People with psychosis who attend more leisure activities have a higher quality of life. Quality of life was lower amongst female and unemployed participants who attended leisure activities. Intervention which helps improve participation in leisure activities may be beneficial for people with psychosis. Trial registration number ISRCTN15815862.

12 sitasi en Medicine, Psychology
S2 Open Access 2021
Personalised cancer care in the era of precision medicine.

M. Iddawela, Elysia Thornton-Benko, J. Vardy et al.

BACKGROUND Advances in cancer treatment have not benefited all patients equally, underscoring the need for a personalised approach to care. OBJECTIVE The aim of this article is to outline the key elements of personalised cancer care, including delivery of goal-directed care, self-management and self-management support, care integration, focus on access and equity, reduction in cost and promotion of health literacy and e-health literacy. DISCUSSION Achievement of personalised cancer care requires a system-wide approach that targets the patient, healthcare provider and healthcare system with data informing practice. Primary care providers, including general practitioners (GPs) and practice nurses, play an important and growing part in the provision of personalised cancer care through support, advocacy, coordination, holistic care and health promotion. Cancer care systems can facilitate GPs' involvement in care through early input into multidisciplinary management, timely communication, rapid access to acute care and training opportunities.

11 sitasi en Medicine
DOAJ Open Access 2021
Tuning the Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Cryogels with the Aid of Surfactants

Rafael S. Dezotti, Laíse M. Furtado, Márcio Yee et al.

The mechanical and thermal properties of cryogels depend on their microstructure. In this study, the microstructure of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) cryogels was modified by the addition of ionic (bis (2-ethylhexyl) sodium sulfosuccinate, AOT) and non-ionic (Kolliphor<sup>®</sup> EL) surfactants to the precursor hydrogels (30 g/L). The surfactant concentrations varied from 0.2 mmol/L to 3.0 mmol/L. All of the hydrogels presented viscous behavior (G″ > G′). Hydrogels containing AOT (c > 2.0 mmol/L) led to cryogels with the lowest compressive modulus (13 ± 1 kPa), the highest specific surface area (2.31 m<sup>2</sup>/g), the lowest thermal conductivity (0.030 W/(m·°C)), and less hygroscopic walls. The addition of Kolliphor<sup>®</sup> EL to the hydrogels yielded the stiffest cryogels (320 ± 32 kPa) with the lowest specific surface area (1.11 m<sup>2</sup>/g) and the highest thermal conductivity (0.055 W/(m·°C)). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicated an interaction energy of −31.8 kcal/mol due to the interaction between the AOT sulfonate group and the HPMC hydroxyl group and the hydrogen bond between the AOT carbonyl group and the HPMC hydroxyl group. The interaction energy between the HPMC hydroxyl group and the Kolliphor<sup>®</sup> EL hydroxyl group was calculated as −7.91 kcal/mol. A model was proposed to describe the effects of AOT or Kolliphor<sup>®</sup> EL on the microstructures and the mechanical/thermal properties of HPMC cryogels.

Science, Chemistry

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