BACKGROUND: The negative effects of loneliness on population health and wellbeing requires interventions that transcend the medical system and leverage social, cultural, and public health system resources. Group-based social interventions are a potential method to alleviate loneliness. Moreover, nature, as part of our social and health infrastructure, may be an important part of the solutions that are needed to address loneliness. The RECETAS European project H2020 (Re-imagining Environments for Connection and Engagement: Testing Actions for Social Prescribing in Natural Spaces) is an international research project aiming to develop and test the effectiveness of nature-based social interventions to reduce loneliness and increase health-related quality of life. METHODS: This article describes the three related randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that will be implemented: the RECETAS-BCN Trial in Barcelona (Spain) is targeting people 18+ from low socio-economic urban areas; the RECETAS-PRG Trial in Prague (Czech Republic) is addressing community-dwelling older adults over 60 years of age, and the RECETAS-HLSNK trial is reaching older people in assisted living facilities. Each trial will recruit 316 adults suffering from loneliness at least sometimes and randomize them to nature-based social interventions called "Friends in Nature" or to the control group. "Friends in Nature" uses modifications of the "Circle of Friends" methodology based on group processes of peer support and empowerment but including activities in nature. Participants will be assessed at baseline, at post-intervention (3 months), and at 6- and 12-month follow-up after baseline. Primary outcomes are the health-related quality-of-life according to 15D measure and The De Jong Gierveld 11-item loneliness scale. Secondary outcomes are health and psychosocial variables tailored to the specific target population. Nature exposure will be collected throughout the intervention period. Process evaluation will explore context, implementation, and mechanism of impact. Additionally, health economic evaluations will be performed. DISCUSSION: The three RECETAS trials will explore the effectiveness of nature-based social interventions among lonely people from various ages, social, economic, and cultural backgrounds. RECETAS meets the growing need of solid evidence for programs addressing loneliness by harnessing the beneficial impact of nature on enhancing wellbeing and social connections. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Barcelona (Spain) trial: ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT05488496. Registered 29 July 2022. Prague (Czech Republic) trial: ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT05522140. Registered August 25, 2022. Helsinki (Finland) trial: ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT05507684. Registered August 12, 2022.
- MeSH
- Quality of Life * MeSH
- Middle Aged MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Loneliness * psychology MeSH
- Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic MeSH
- Aged MeSH
- Social Work MeSH
- Research Design MeSH
- Check Tag
- Middle Aged MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Aged MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
- Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't MeSH
- Clinical Trial Protocol MeSH
Práce se zabývá oblastí environmentální psychologie, nověji tzv. conservation psychology, jejíž koncepty nejsou zatím v českém prostředí rozšířeny. Studie vychází z teze, že psychologie má významný potenciál přispět k řešení globálního problému neudržitelnosti lidských aktivit. Z pozice conservation psychology, která hledá způsoby, jak působit na environmentální chování člověka, se práce zabývá některými složkami vztahu dětí školního věku k přírodě. Je stručně nastíněn vývoj zkoumání vztahu člověka a životního prostředí v psychologii a jsou uvedeny vybrané teoretické koncepty, kterými se zabývá současný výzkum v conservation psychology. Vztah člověka k přírodě je konceptualizován pětidimenzionálním modelem J. Krajhanzla (2006). Práce se dále zabývá dvěma složkami vztahu člověka k přírodě – jeho emoční reakcí na přírodu a množstvím zkušeností s přírodou. Jsou ověřovány hypotézy o odlišnosti těchto dvou charakteristik u dětí školního věku, které pravidelně navštěvují skautské oddíly, a dětí, které tuto možnost nevyužívají. Práce využívá srovnávacích dat získaných v rámci „Výzkumu odcizování člověka přírodě“ z let 2004-2005 (Národní program výzkumu MŽP: Krajina a sídla budoucnosti, číslo projektu IC/4/40/04). Výsledky podporují stanovené hypotézy. Byly zjištěny odlišnosti jak v pozitivnější emoční reakci, tak v množství zkušeností s přírodou u dětí ze skautských oddílů. Skauti mají více zkušeností zejména s aktivitami rozvíjejícími schopnosti pro pobyt v přírodě, častěji přicházejí do kontaktu s volně žijícími zvířaty a častěji se účastní environmentálně-výchovných aktivit. Práce uvádí, jakým způsobem mohou skautské oddíly přispívat k rozvíjení vztahu dětí k přírodě, a zároveň upozorňuje na omezení, kterým čelí.
This report discusses the fi eld of environmental psychology, currently called conservation psychology, concepts of which have not become widespread in the Czech Republic yet. The study is based on a premise that psychology could potentially signifi cantly contribute to the solution of the global problem consisting in the unsustainability of human activities. The study analyzes several components of the relationship between school-age children and the Nature from the position of conservation psychology that searches for methods of infl uencing environmental behavior of humans. It briefl y outlines the development of studying the relationship between humans and the environment in psychology and lists selected theoretical concepts that are studied by the current conservation psychology. The relationship between humans and the Nature is outlined in the fi ve-dimension model of J. Krajhanzl (2006). The study also discusses two components of the relationship between humans and the Nature - human emotional reaction to the Nature and the amount of human experience with the Nature. It tests hypotheses about the differences in these two characteristics in school-age children who regularly attend Scout clubs and in those who do not attend these clubs. The study uses the comparison data acquired from the “Research into Increasing Alienation between Humans and the Nature” from 2004 - 2005 (National Research Program of the Ministry of the Environment): Countryside and Settlements of Future, Project No. IC/4/40/04). The acquired results support the previously established hypotheses. There were discovered differences in the more positive emotional reaction and in the larger experience with the Nature exhibited by children from the Scout clubs. Scout club members have larger experience especially with activities developing their outdoor skills, they more frequently come into contact with wild animals and they also more frequently participate in environmentally-oriented educational activities. The study describes how the Scout clubs could contribute to the development of the children’s relationship to the Nature and it also notes the limitations placed on such a development.
- Keywords
- conservation psychology, environmentální vzdělávání, vztah člověka k přírodě, skauting,
- MeSH
- Child MeSH
- Ecology education MeSH
- Ecosystem MeSH
- Emotions classification MeSH
- Evaluation Studies as Topic MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Adolescent MeSH
- Nature MeSH
- Psychology, Social MeSH
- Statistics as Topic MeSH
- Child Rearing MeSH
- Environment MeSH
- Life Style MeSH
- Check Tag
- Child MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Adolescent MeSH
- Male MeSH
- Female MeSH
Iron is an essential trace element, but at high doses, this element may pose a health risk. Wastewater from iron ore mining, steel production, and metal processing, among other heavy metals, also contains high concentrations of iron (Fe3+). The use of sorption on natural materials is a potential alternative to conventional methods for removing iron ions, also because of low cost. The methods presented in this article are based on the study of kinetic properties and the acquisition of adsorption isotherms, which are one of the most important characteristics of adsorption mechanisms. The course of sorption is analyzed according to the Freundlich sorption isotherm model. Isotherm parameters are evaluated using experimental results of ferric cation sorption. The results presented relate to the investigation of natural zeolite-clinoptilolite as a ferric cation sorbent, providing a measurement of the sorption kinetics as well as the observed sorption parameters of iron cations from aqueous media. The optimal time for equilibrium in the adsorption system is determined from the kinetic dependencies. The dependence of the achieved equilibrium concentration on the initial concentration of the solution was also expressed, both graphically and analytically. The new prediction model was compared with the traditional Freundlich model. Finally, adsorption isotherms tested under laboratory conditions for a practical application can be recommended for the preliminary examination of the possible technological use of natural zeolite in the wastewater treatment process.
The deterministic models of dissolution are commonly used in pharmaceutical studies, however, experimental results point to stochastic nature of the dissolution processes. In this paper we present stochastic modifications of deterministic models using the concept of Wiener process. The models are given in form of stochastic differential equations and their properties are studied. Probability distributions of the dissolution data are derived for all the stochastic models. Variability of the dissolution data is discussed and sources of the random fluctuations are divided into two categories - the variability of the dissolution vessel environment and the measurement errors. Based on these considerations a function describing variability of the dissolution data at each time instant is proposed. Practical application of the stochastic approach based on experimental data is illustrated by finding maximum-likelihood estimation of model parameters and identification of noise sources and their levels in the system. Their influence on the estimates of the mean dissolution time is shown.
Two new macrocyclic DOTA-like chelates containing one phosphonate pendant arm were synthesised as potential contrast agents for MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). The chelates bind to the lanthanide(III) in an octadentate manner, via four nitrogen atoms, three carboxylate and one phosphonate oxygen atoms. Solution structures of [Ln(do3ap(OEt2))(H(2)O)] and [Ln(do3ap(OEt))(H(2)O)](-) were studied using (31)P and (1)H NMR spectroscopy and SAP (square-antiprismatic)/TSAP (twisted square-antiprismatic) isomerism was observed. Depending on the nature of the lanthanide(III) ion, the lanthanide(III) complexes of H(4)do3ap(OEt) are present in solution as up to four different diastereoisomers observable with NMR. The TSAP isomer is the most abundant at the beginning of the lanthanide series and, with a decrease of the ionic radius of lanthanide(III) ions, both TSAP and SAP forms were observed. A second interconversion (SAP<-->TSAP') becomes important at the end of the series (TSAP' means the TSAP species without a coordinated water molecule). The remaining axial coordination site is occupied by one water molecule for the Gd(3+)-complex. The calculated fraction of the TSAP isomer in the gadolinium(III) complexes increases in the order [Gd(DOTA)(H(2)O)](-) < [Gd(do3ap(OEt2))(H(2)O)] < [Gd(do3ap(OEt))(H(2)O)](-) < [Gd(do3ap)(H(2)O)](2-). Gadolinium(III) complexes of phosphorus-containing chelates, generally, have the advantage of a relatively fast water exchange rate due to a greater sterical demand of the phosphorus acid moiety and of the presence of the second-sphere water shell, which also contributes to the overall relaxivity. The [Gd(do3ap(OEt2))(H(2)O)] and [Gd(do3ap(OEt))(H(2)O)](-) complexes were studied by variable-temperature (17)O NMR and (1)H NMRD. The experimental data were evaluated simultaneously with commonly used equations based on Solomon-Bloembergen-Morgan approximation, extended by a contribution of the second coordination sphere. The water exchange rates were found to be strongly dependent on the TSAP/SAP isomeric ratio and the overall charge of the complex: the monoanionic [Gd(do3ap(OEt))(H(2)O)](-) complex with TSAP molar fraction equal to 0.36 has the water exchange rate of 20 x 10(6) s(-1) (tau(M) = 50 ns) while neutral [Gd(do3ap(OEt2))(H(2)O)] complex with TSAP molar fraction 0.28 has an exchange rate equal to 4.4 x 10(6) s(-1) (tau(M) = 227 ns).
- MeSH
- Financing, Organized MeSH
- Gadolinium chemistry MeSH
- Heterocyclic Compounds, 1-Ring chemistry MeSH
- Contrast Media chemical synthesis MeSH
- Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy methods MeSH
- Models, Molecular MeSH
- Molecular Structure MeSH
- Organophosphonates chemistry MeSH
- Organometallic Compounds chemical synthesis MeSH
- Solutions MeSH
- Water chemistry MeSH
Crystalloids, artificial and natural colloids have been opposed as representing different strategies for shock resuscitation, but it may be relevant to distinguish fluids based on their oncotic characteristics. This study assessed the risk of renal adverse events in patients with shock resuscitated using hypo-oncotic colloids, artificial hyperoncotic colloids, hyperoncotic albumin or crystalloids, according to physician's choice. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING: International prospective cohort study including 1,013 ICU patients needing fluid resuscitation for shock. Patients suffering from cirrhosis or receiving plasma were excluded. MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS: Influence of different types of colloids and crystalloids on the occurrence of renal events (twofold increase in creatinine or need for dialysis) and mortality was assessed using multivariate analyses and propensity score. Statistical adjustment was based on severity at the time of resuscitation, risks factor for renal failure, and on variables influencing physicians' preferences regarding fluids. A renal event occurred in 17% of patients. After adjustment on potential confounding factors and on propensity score for the use of hyperoncotic colloids, the use of artificial hyperoncotic colloids [OR: 2.48 (1.24-4.97)] and hyperoncotic albumin [OR: 5.99 (2.75-13.08)] was significantly associated with occurrence of renal event. Overall ICU mortality was 27.1%. The use of hyperoncotic albumin was associated with an increased risk of ICU death [OR: 2.79 (1.42-5.47)]. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that harmful effects on renal function and outcome of hyperoncotic colloids may exist. Although an improper usage of these compounds and confounding factors cannot be ruled out, their use should be regarded with caution, especially because suitable alternatives exist
- MeSH
- Albumins adverse effects MeSH
- Adult MeSH
- Incidence MeSH
- Isotonic Solutions adverse effects MeSH
- Intensive Care Units MeSH
- Colloids adverse effects MeSH
- Middle Aged MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Kidney Diseases chemically induced mortality MeSH
- Odds Ratio MeSH
- Prospective Studies MeSH
- Rehydration Solutions adverse effects MeSH
- Risk MeSH
- Aged, 80 and over MeSH
- Aged MeSH
- Shock therapy MeSH
- Check Tag
- Adult MeSH
- Middle Aged MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Aged, 80 and over MeSH
- Aged MeSH
- Geographicals
- Europe MeSH
Hydrophobic fibrous slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces (SLIPS) were fabricated by electrospinning polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and polystyrene (PS) as a carrier polymer on plasma-treated polyethylene (PE) and polyurethane (PU) substrates. Subsequent infusion of blackseed oil (BSO) into the porous structures was applied for the preparation of the SLIPS. SLIPS with infused lubricants can act as a repellency layer and play an important role in the prevention of biofilm formation. The effect of polymer solutions used in the electrospinning process was investigated to obtain well-defined hydrophobic fibrous structures. The surface properties were analyzed through various optical, macroscopic and spectroscopic techniques. A comprehensive investigation of the surface chemistry, surface morphology/topography, and mechanical properties was carried out on selected samples at optimized conditions. The electrospun fibers prepared using a mixture of PDMS/PS in the ratio of 1:1:10 (g/g/mL) using tetrahydrofuran (THF) solvent showed the best results in terms of fiber uniformity. The subsequent infusion of BSO into the fabricated PDMS/PS fiber mats exhibited slippery behavior regarding water droplets. Moreover, prepared SLIPS exhibited antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacterium strains.
- MeSH
- Dimethylpolysiloxanes * MeSH
- Escherichia coli MeSH
- Polymers chemistry MeSH
- Polystyrenes * MeSH
- Porosity MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
We focused on the parametrization and evaluation of empirical models for fast and accurate calculation of conformationally dependent atomic charges in proteins. The models were based on the electronegativity equalization method (EEM), and the parametrization procedure was tailored to proteins. We used large protein fragments as reference structures and fitted the EEM model parameters using atomic charges computed by three population analyses (Mulliken, Natural, iterative Hirshfeld), at the Hartree-Fock level with two basis sets (6-31G*, 6-31G**) and in two environments (gas phase, implicit solvation). We parametrized and successfully validated 24 EEM models. When tested on insulin and ubiquitin, all models reproduced quantum mechanics level charges well and were consistent with respect to population analysis and basis set. Specifically, the models showed on average a correlation of 0.961, RMSD 0.097 e, and average absolute error per atom 0.072 e. The EEM models can be used with the freely available EEM implementation EEM_SOLVER.
- MeSH
- Time Factors MeSH
- Models, Chemical * MeSH
- Databases, Protein MeSH
- Insulin chemistry MeSH
- Protein Conformation MeSH
- Quantum Theory MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Peptide Fragments chemistry MeSH
- Gases MeSH
- Computer Simulation MeSH
- Solutions MeSH
- Sensitivity and Specificity MeSH
- Software * MeSH
- Static Electricity MeSH
- Ubiquitin chemistry MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
- Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't MeSH
1. elektronické vydání 1 online zdroj (144 stran)
Multimodal probes, which can be simultaneously visualized by multiple imaging modalities, enable the cellular uptake, intracellular fate, biodistribution and elimination to be tracked in organisms. In this study, we report the synthesis of crystalline WO3 and CaWO4 doped with Eu3+ or Tb3+ nanoparticles (size range of 10-160 nm) coated with polysaccharides, and these nanoparticles constitute a versatile easy-to-construct modular toolbox for multimodal imaging. The particles adsorb significant amounts of polysaccharides from the solution, providing biocompatibility and may serve as a platform for labeling. For WO3, the sorption is reversible. However, on CaWO4, stable coating is formed. CaWO4/Tb3+ coated with chemisorbed dextrin, mannan, guar gum and sodium alginate successfully underwent endocytosis with HepG2 cells and was visualized using confocal microscopy.
- MeSH
- Biocompatible Materials chemistry MeSH
- Hep G2 Cells MeSH
- Endocytosis physiology MeSH
- Microscopy, Confocal MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Luminescence * MeSH
- Nanoparticles administration & dosage chemistry radiation effects MeSH
- Polysaccharides chemistry MeSH
- Terbium chemistry MeSH
- Tungsten chemistry MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
