Material Content Research Articles

Magnetic Phase-Change Microcapsules with High Encapsulation Efficiency, Enhancement of Infrared Stealth, and Thermal Stability

Due to energy shortages and the greenhouse effect, the efficient use of energy through phase-change materials (PCMs) is gaining increased attention. In this study, magnetic phase-change microcapsules (Mag-mc) were prepared by suspension polymerization. The shell layer of the microcapsules was formed by copolymerizing methyl methacrylate and triethoxyethylene silane, with the latter enhancing the compatibility of the shell layer with the magnetic additive. Ferric ferrous oxide modified by oleic acid (Fe3O4(m)) was added as the magnetic additive. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) testing revealed that the content of phase-change materials in microcapsules without and with ferric ferrous oxide were 79.77% and 96.63%, respectively, demonstrating that the addition of Fe3O4(m) improved the encapsulation efficiency and enhanced the energy storage ability of the microcapsules. Laser particle size analysis showed that the overall average particle sizes for the microcapsules without and with ferric ferrous oxide were 3.48 μm and 2.09 μm, respectively, indicating that the incorporation of magnetic materials reduced the size and distribution of the microcapsules. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that the thermal stability of the microcapsules was enhanced by the addition of Fe3O4(m). Moreover, the infrared emissivity of the microcapsule-containing film decreased from 0.77 to 0.72 with the addition of Fe3O4(m) to the shell of microcapsules.

Investigation of mechanical and tribological properties of NiCrAlY/ZrO2-Y2O3 coatings obtained by detonation spraying

In this study, multilayer gradient NiCrAlY/ZrO2-Y2O3 coatings obtained by detonation spraying in 1D (spot sputtering) and 2D (full-surface scanning sputtering) modes were investigated. The structure of coatings was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and electron dispersion analysis, mechanical properties (hard- ness, modulus of elasticity) were determined using various techniques. The tribological characteristics of the coatings including abrasion resistance and coefficient of friction were also studied. It was determined that the coatings consist of alternating layers of NiCrAlY and ZrO2-Y2O3, creating a multilayer gradient structure. It was found that the NiCrAlY layers act as a bonding element, providing interlayer adhesion, and the ceramic ZrO2-Y2O3 layer serves as a thermal barrier protecting the substrate from high temperature loads. It was found that the coatings in 2D mode have high microhardness compared to coatings in 1D mode. It was deter- mined that the hardness of coatings smoothly increases from the substrate to the surface layers due to the gra- dient increase in the content of ceramic materials. It was found that coatings obtained in 2D mode have better wear resistance and lower coefficient of friction compared to coatings in 1D mode, indicating the greater effi- ciency of coatings in dry friction conditions and their ability to prevent wear of the substrate material.

Comparison and Determination of the Content of Mosapride Citrate by Different qNMR Methods.

As a salt-type compound, mosapride citrate's metabolism and side effects are correlated with its salt-forming ratio. Several techniques were developed in this work to compare various quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance (qNMR) methodologies and to quantitatively examine the content of raw materials. Among the qNMR techniques, methods for 1H NMR and 19F NMR were developed. Appropriate solvents were chosen, and temperature, number of scans, acquisition time, and relaxation delay parameter settings were optimized. Maleic acid was chosen as the internal standard in 1H NMR, and the respective characteristic signals of mosapride and citrate were selected as quantitative peaks. The internal standard in 19F NMR analysis was 4,4'-difluoro diphenylmethanone, and the distinctive signal peak at -116.15 ppm was utilized to quantify mosapride citrate. The precision, repeatability, linearity, stability, accuracy, and robustness of the qNMR methods were all validated according to the ICH guidelines. By contrasting the outcomes with those from high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), the accuracy of qNMR was assessed. As a result, we created a quicker and easier qNMR approach to measure the amount of mosapride citrate and evaluated several qNMR techniques to establish a foundation for choosing quantitative peaks for the qNMR method. Concurrently, it is anticipated that various selections of distinct quantitative objects will yield the mosapride citrate salt-forming ratio.

Tribotechnical processes of the soil environment interaction with the working bodies of soil tillage and earthmoving machines reinforced with composite materials

The work presents the study results of the stress-strain state of the soil, as a continuous medium filled with abrasive particles under the action of the working bodies of soil tillage and earthmoving machines. One of the main properties of the soil, which determines the specifics of the force interaction of the working surfaces of the working bodies of soil tillage and earthmoving machines with the technological environment, is taken into account, namely the tendency of the contact layer of the treated layer to compaction. The relationship between stress in the soil and the wear of the working bodies of soil tillage and earthmoving machines has been established experimentally. A theoretical analysis is presented for the stress-strain state of the local region of the strengthened surface layer that is used in the working bodies of soil tillage and earthmoving machines, in which the filler, inclusion or strengthening phase is placed. An analysis of the contact characteristics of the stress-strain state and their changes during friction and wear was carried out based on the formulation and solution of the contact interaction problems of abrasive soil particles with the inhomogeneities of the composite coatings components based on ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene with fillers during strengthening of the working bodies of soil tillage and earthmoving machines. Computer modeling was performed to study the nature of stress distribution in the reinforced surface layer of the working bodies of soil tillage and earthmoving machines in the area of the contact zone in stationary and dynamic conditions. The contact problem is formulated, the boundary conditions and the solution in the form of components of the stress field are given. The characteristics of the filler, their content in the composite material and coating are taken into account, the relationship between the stress-strain state and wear is established.

Effect of Land Cover Variations on the Fertility Status of Soils of Umuhu in Ngor-Okpala Area of Imo State

The study was conducted to ascertain the effect of four different land covers (cassava cultivated field (CCF), oil palm plantation (OPP), plantain plantation (PP) and forest land (FL)) on the fertility status of soils of Umuhu in Ngor-Okpala area of Imo State, Nigeria. Random sampling technique was used in the collection of soil samples from the four different land covers. The sampling was done at the beginning, middle and end of each land cover. Twelve (12) composite samples were collected from all the land cover types with 3 per land cover. The composite samples were prepared for routine laboratory analyses. Data generated were analyzed statistically using analysis of variance. The textural classes of all the sampled soils were of loamy sand. The soil which had plantain plantation as its cover had the highest pH (6.4), Total N (0.229 %), Soil organic matter 4.70%, Available P (27.05 mg kg-1), Exch. Ca (6.492 cmolc kg-1), Exch. Mg (3.942 cmolc kg-1), Exch. K (0.953 cmolc kg-1), Exch. Na (0.06 cmolc kg-1), Exch. H (1.2 cmolc kg-1) and CEC (28.4 cmolc kg-1) with its Exch. Al in trace amount (<0.001 cmolc kg-1). The soil under CCF, despite being under low cover, did not show much degeneration due to the shifting cultivation being practiced in the study location. However, the result obtained from the study indicated that the different land covers especially that under plantain plantation (PP) have affected the soils fertility at different rates. This observed factor is strongly controlled by high content of organic materials, a dense vegetative cover which mitigates erosion effects and the addition of ash as a means of fertilizing the soils under plantain plantation being practiced in the study area.

Synergetic Approach Model for Improving Vocational Education: Characteristics, Guidelines and Applications

The main purpose of vocational education is to prepare students for their future professional development, including the acquisition of skills and competencies necessary for the labor market. The research aims to present a model that gains effectiveness of applying a synergetic approach for improving vocational education. The synergetic approach could be an innovative pedagogical concept in VET that creates an open educational environment utilizing the application of different approaches and teaching methods. Basically the model proposed combines the change in curricula, the use of learning resources for practical teaching and the change in the way of assessment as kernel guideines for achieving better student outcomes. The ensuing benefits of applying a synergetic approach in VET are related to the possibility that vocational education is required to meet the needs of the contemporary labor market, as well as it answers to the expectations of society to prepare young people for their successful employment in industry. Other benefits are related to the possibility of restructuring the learning content, using various teaching methods, formative assessment, acquisition of permanent knowledge, as well as acquisition of skills for critical evaluation of information and self-evaluation of the achieved results to increase motivation. In synergetic learning, the content of the learning materials differs significantly from those traditionally used in vocational training, and the teacher has the opportunity to adapt the learning content to the needs of the specific student.

Abstract B025: Assessing the content and quality of online patient education material on clinical trials from NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers

Abstract Background: Online patient educational material on cancer clinical trials is available on NCI- designated comprehensive cancer center websites and official YouTube channels. Online health information is an important resource for patients seeking to learn more about treatment options. Objective: Examine the quality and content themes in online patient educational material (PEM) related to cancer clinical trials published by comprehensive cancer centers. Methods: A random sample of comprehensive cancer centers (21) was chosen to represent the national network of cancer centers. Each website was searched for webpages containing patient-oriented clinical trial information. Official YouTube channels were also searched for relevant video material. Each webpage and video (N=196) were assessed for quality and content themes. Quality was measured using an abbreviated Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool which scores understandability and actionability of text and audio-visual materials, and content themes were assessed by the use of a content characteristic codebook. Results: Common content themes in the sample (N=196) of online PEM from comprehensive cancer centers were defines purpose of trials, physician speaker, animated or illustrated elements, and defines phases of trials. Online PEM had an average score of 83 for understandability and 26 for actionability, an area for improvement. Only 10% of materials reviewed scored high for understandability (>90) and for actionability (>70). Online webpages that mixed text and video scored highest on the quality assessment. Video-only content scored lowest on the quality assessment. Only a small percentage of PEM included FAQs (10%), instructions on how to find a trial (16%), mentioned consent (14%) or costs associated with trials (12%). Mentions or depictions of minority populations were not commonly observed in the material (11%). Conclusions: Online PEM published by comprehensive cancer centers is an important and easily accessible resource for patients looking to learn more about clinical trials. Cancer centers should add various audio-visual formats and interactive tools to their webpages to increase the quality of the clinical trial resources. Including representation of historically underserved populations and adding actionable advice for patients has the potential to engage patients’ interest and increase enrollment in cancer clinical trials. Citation Format: Trista Beard, Diana Morales, Fatimata Sanogo, Chanita Hughes Halbert. Assessing the content and quality of online patient education material on clinical trials from NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B025.

Heat transfer mechanism of superabsorbent polymers phase change energy storage cold-formed steel wall under fire

The superabsorbent polymer phase change materials (SAP materials) exhibit exceptional water absorption and retention properties, offering substantial potential for fire protection in steel structures, thereby reducing the need for sheathing boards and fire-retardant coatings, while minimizing energy consumption. Understanding the heat-mass exchange theory of SAP materials is crucial for enhancing their application in the building industry. This study develops a comprehensive theoretical model for heat-mass exchange in cold-formed steel (CFS) walls incorporating SAP materials. An equilibrium phase change model and a simplified thermal radiation model were developed to capture the water loss and dynamic heat exchange processes in SAP materials. These models were integrated into a transient fluid-solid-thermal coupling model using Ansys Fluent and User Defined Functions. In the case study, the newly developed numerical models can accurately predict temperature field changes in CFS walls with SAP materials, demonstrating the heat transfer mechanisms of hot and cold flanges at different temperature rise stages. The developed numerical model was used to investigate the effects of factors such as the moisture content of the SAP material, web depth, and flange width on the fire resistance of the CFS wall. Results indicated that increasing the wall stud height improves fire resistance, while increasing flange width has little effect on hot flange temperature. These findings provide a theoretical foundation and practical guidelines for the application of SAP phase change insulation materials in the building industry, promoting energy reduction and supporting sustainable construction practices.

Determination of the silicon content of geological materials by reactor fast neutron activation analysis

Determination of the silicon content of geological materials by reactor fast neutron activation analysis

Influence of fly ash and granulated blast furnace slag on autogenous shrinkage and drying shrinkage of cement-based materials mixed with alkali accelerator and alkali-free accelerator

Shotcrete shrinkage and cracking are getting more threatening due to its high content of cementitious materials, small aggregate particle size and a large amount of accelerator, which poses a great threat to the construction safety of engineering structures. This paper studies the volume stability of cement mortar with different contents of fly ash (FA) and granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS) (10%/20%/30%) under the condition that the dosage of alkali liquid accelerator is 4% and that of the alkali-free liquid accelerator is 7%. This work is designed to provide a guidance for the basic research and practical application. By comparing the autogenous shrinkage, drying shrinkage, mass loss caused by drying condition, and internal humidity change of drying condition of cement mortar within 180 days of age. Combined with MIP analysis, XRD hydration product analysis, and SEM hydration product morphology analysis, the results show that both fly ash and granulated blast furnace slag can reduce the autogenous shrinkage and drying shrinkage of cement mortar mixed with accelerator to a certain extent, and the shrinkage reduction effect of FA is more prominent. The reduction effect of GBFS is more obvious at high dosages. Adding FA and high content of GBFS can increase the mass loss of cement mortar under drying shrinkage conditions. The high content of mineral admixtures will exacerbate the rate of decrease in the internal humidity of the cement mortar. The reasons for the reduction of autogenous shrinkage and drying shrinkage of cement mortar mixed with accelerators due to the addition of FA and GBFS are: the early activity of the two mineral admixtures is low, and the hydration process is slow. And the reduction of pore size with the range of 5-50nm leads to the reduction of capillary tensile stress and the weakening of the driving force for shrinkage deformation. Among them, the shrinkage reduction effect of fly ash is more pronounced. Therefore, mineral admixture can be used to replace a certain amount of cement in actual shotcrete construction, so as to increase the volume stability of shotcrete.

Electrophoretic analysis of proteins from raw materials and commercial diets used in animal feed

In aquaculture, balanced feed accounts for 50% to 70% of the operational costs of cultivating aquatic organisms. This feed is made from various raw materials that serve as protein sources, which significantly influence the final cost of the feed. Therefore, an electrophoretic study was conducted to compare the protein content in different raw materials and commercial diets used in animal feed. Electrophoretic profiles with standard concentration gels (SDS-PAGE) were used to separate protein fractions from animal-origin raw materials, including Earthworm Meals of Eisenia andrei (HLF) and Eisenia fetida (HLT), meat-bone meal (MBM), and fish meal (FM), as well as plant-origin meals, such as Leucaena leaf meal (LLM), corn meal (YCM), and wheat bran (WBM). Commercial diets (A, B, and C) were also evaluated. The protein content of the samples was determined. For electrophoretic analysis, a protease inhibitor cocktail was used, along with a molecular weight standard with a range from 250 to 4 kDa. The molecular weights of the diets ranged between 31.1 and 234.1 kDa, 36.3 and 190.4 kDa, and 4.281 and 95.685 kDa. Some of the protein bands in the analyzed samples (HLF, HLT, FM, YCM, and WBM) were very close to the reference protein bands at 148, 98, 64, 50, and 36 kDa, corresponding to the molecular weight standard used. Electrophoretic characterization provided insight into the different protein fractions, offering valuable information about their potential functional and nutritional properties. Electrophoresis is an essential analytical tool for assessing both the quality and safety of raw materials and foods.

COMPARISON OF SOME QUALITY PARAMETERS IN SOUR CHERRY JUICE IN DIFFERENT PACKAGING

Fruits and their products are of great importance in the food industry. Fruit juices are found in almost every market, which helps consumers to get nutritional value from their consumption. The quality and insurance must be at the right level, but even more important to apply permanent control. Sampling was carried out randomly directly in the supermarket, and the analysis of parameters in the study of sensory quality (color, taste, aroma, and homogeneity) and physical-chemical (pH, °Brix, total acidity, and turbidity) in sour cherry juice is of importance because the same juice in different packaging is compared. After the analyses that have been carried out and the results obtained, they provide additional insight into the analyzed parameters. So, the consumer receives additional information, also confidence in the quality of the product will increase based on the results obtained. In conclusion, even though we are talking about the same sour cherry juice, as a result of the % content of the raw material with different amounts and the different packaging, the analyses for the parameters under study prove the differences, but at the limit, so the analyzed juices are within the standard for quality.

Effect of Extraction and Spray Drying Temperatures on The Bioactive Materials Content in Red Dragon Fruit Skin

Effect of Extraction and Spray Drying Temperatures on The Bioactive Materials Content in Red Dragon Fruit Skin

Effects of different thermal processing methods on amino acid, fatty acid, and volatile flavor substance contents of Aohan millet (Golden seedling millet)

AbstractAohan millet has been cultivated for 8000 years and has rich nutritional value, such as high‐quality fatty acids and amino acids. Thermal processing is a conventional approach to food preparation. However, the effect of thermal processing on the formation of flavor substances in millet has not been clarified. Therefore, in this study, the effects of three different thermal processing techniques, namely, steaming, stir‐frying, and puffing, on the amino acids, fatty acids, and volatile flavor substances of Aohan millet were investigated using high‐speed automatic amino acid analyzer, headspace solid‐phase microextraction method, combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS‐SPME/GC–MS) and gas chromatography (GC) with Aohan millet from Inner Mongolia as the raw material. All three thermal processing methods notably reduced the levels of protein, starch, polyphenols, and flavonoids in Aohan millet when compared to the raw millet (p < .05). Amino acid and fatty acid contents demonstrated an increase in fried and puffed millet relative to steamed millet, with notable distinctions in amino acid and fatty acid contents between these two groups. Following the steaming process, there was a significant increase in the flavor compounds of Aohan millet, rising from 53 to 80, while this increase was not observed in the other two groups. The correlation analysis suggested that the formation of flavor compounds was predominantly influenced by the types and levels of amino acids. The study suggested that different heat treatments affected the amino acid, fatty acid, and more significantly flavor material content and composition of Aohan millet. In conclusion, steaming treatment could retain more nutrients and richer flavor substances; while puffing treatment would enhance amino acid and fatty acid content, which provides a fundamental basis for scientifically guided processing and rational culinary application of Aohan millet.

The Foundations of Russian Statehood

The content of Russian educational material on moral-cultural issues has gradually shifted over the Putin tenure toward a standard that emphasizes state patriotism, syncretic pride in the achievements and heroes of the Tsarist, Soviet, and post-Soviet periods, and traditional sociocultural values, including respect for religious authorities. The onset of the 2022 Russo-Ukrainian War has caused a shift in debates over national pedagogic inculturation among domestic Russian elites, with many calling for the return of “ideology” to properly ensure the formation of future, regime-loyal generations. This article analyzes the first official document of the wartime period that deals with questions of Russia’s ideology—the educational curriculum guidance packet titled “Foundations of Russian Statehood” (FORS) and promoted by the Presidential Administration for use in Russian universities. The article typifies the state of pre-war Russian moral-cultural pedagogical material within its shifting, illiberal ideological context, compares this pre-war setting with the FORS document and the concomitant discursive shift among key Russian officials, and provides a descriptive analysis of FORS itself. In doing so, the article identifies the evocative “pentabasis” framework of the FORS document as a potential core of a crystallizing, official ideology in modern wartime Russia.

Mechanical study reinforced magnesium-yttrium alloys by eggshell powder using resistance casting

Magnesium-based alloys are relatively new materials for orthopedic implants. One common component that makes magnesium-based alloys biocompatible and chemically stable is the addition of minor compositions of rare earth metals like yttrium to anchor other chemically active components. From an orthopedic perspective, two goals are of primary concern. One is sufficient mechanical support to stabilize the fracture and reduce inflammation. Another is assistance for the transition of osteogenesis and intramembranous ossification for bone production and remodeling. To attain both goals and further improve the current magnesium-yttrium alloys, adding extra ingredients to improve osseointegration is a common and effective approach. By the nature of bone chemistry, calcium is the top choice as calcium is the key element in maintaining bone integrity and biochemical metabolism. In this study, the mechanical behaviors of a calcium-added magnesium-based alloy (Mg-Y3.5 wt%) are investigated by experiments. This inventive idea for the natural source of calcium is obtained from chicken eggs due to their (1) cost-effective and abundant availability, and (2) naturally synthesized calcium carbonate along with a minor content of organic materials. The fabrication processes involved are the ball-milling of eggshells as an additive at 1, 3, and 5 wt%. into magnesium-yttrium alloys and resistance casting to form composites. Material characterization includes microstructural analysis by X-ray diffraction, morphological/elemental analysis via optical microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopes, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, mechanical properties by uniaxial compression and Vickers microhardness tests. Experimental results supplemented by statistical and finite element analysis indicate that the new composite exhibits enhanced ductility; and the 3 wt% eggshell-added alloys show better reinforcement of mechanical properties among all samples with an ultimate compression strength of 161.19 MPa, maximum elongation of 17.53 %, and hardness of 457.48 (N/mm2). Note that the comparable mechanical strength of the composite to that of human bones could reduce the stress shielding on bones and further help the process of bone remodeling.

Lignocellulose nanofiber and starch for surface application on recycled linerboard

In a paper production line, starch is widely used for surface treatment and strengthening of linerboard at a size press. Also, the application of lignocellulose nanofibers (LCNFs) is growing because of its relatively low production energy demand, cost, and less hydrophilic nature in comparison to lignin-free nanofibers. Therefore, the addition of LCNFs to starch for paper surface treatment to reinforce the starch film and improve certain physical and mechanical properties of recycled linerboard was investigated in this work. Various LCNF/starch ratios were homogenized and then applied on the paperboard surface. The results revealed that a low mixing ratio of LCNF (5%) with starch improved the tensile index of the recycled paperboard, and at 50% LCNF content in the surface-treating material, film forming on the linerboard was observed in field emission-scanning electron microscopy images. In the case of 95% LCNF addition to starch, bending stiffness was significantly increased. Additionally, the viscosity of the sizing suspension was studied as a crucial parameter in the process and was found to increase significantly following the addition of LCNF.

Thermally conductive phase change nanocomposites presenting PS-PEG/SeO2 and PS-PEG/BN/SeO2

The phase change and thermal conductivity properties of nanocomposite materials consisting of cross-linked Poly(Styrene-block-Ethylene Glycol Dimethyl Methacrylate) (PS-PEG DM), boron nitride (BN), and selenium dioxide (SeO2) were investigated in this study. The different content of phase-changed materials (PCM) nanocomposites was prepared by using the hydraulic pressure technique. Promising melting enthalpy values (104.5, 98.8 and 165.8 J g−1) have been reached for P1Se3, P2BN2Se2, and P3BN2Se2 PCM nanocomposites. The enthalpy efficiencies associated with the processes of melting and freezing, denoted as λm and λc, respectively, were determined by the analysis of data obtained from DSC. Our study was demonstrated to present comprehensive information on the PS-PEG/BN, PS-PEG/SeO2, and PS-PEG/BN/SeO2 phase change nanomaterials, thereby facilitating their potential applications in various fields. The phase change and thermal conductivity properties of PS-PEG/BN/SeO2 nanocomposites were investigated. The incorporation of SeO2 and BN nanoparticles significantly enhanced the thermal conductivity (for P2BN4Se5), reaching values up to 8.277 W m−1 K−1. The λm values of P1Se3, P2BN2Se2, and P3BN2Se2 were calculated as 68.79, 61.23, and 87.86, respectively. The λc values of P2Se3; P1BN2Se2 were also calculated at 70.10; 98.93 and 161.92, respectively.

Oleogel-based frying medium: influence of rice bran wax-canola oil oleogel on volatile profile in fried fish fillets

Oleogelation has proven to be a successful strategy for structuring oils. In recent years, the use of oleogels as a deep frying medium has gained popularity as an effective approach to minimise oil uptake and reduce the energy content of fried foods. This study was designed to evaluate an oleogel matrix consisting of rice bran wax and canola oil, prepared by oleogelation technique, as a deep frying medium. Two types of the oleogels (CRBO-3 with 3 g wax/100 g oil; CRBO-6 with 6 g wax/100 g oil) were formulated and these oleogels were tested as a frying medium for fish fillets. The prepared oleogels were compared with refined canola oil (CO, control) and evaluated for both the frying stability of the oils and the volatile profile of the fried fish fillets. In particular, differences were observed in the crystallization and melting profiles of oleogels before and after frying. Lower levels of total polar material, peroxide value and trans fatty acids contents were noticed in fish fillets fried in the oleogels. An increase in wax concentration had an impact on the volatile profile of fish fillets and lead significant increases in p-xylene, pentene-3-ol and nonanoic acid. In general, oleogel-based frying medium contributed to the formation of characteristic fish fillet including aroma notes of pineapple, balsamic and honey when compared to fish fried in refined canola oil. The findings suggest oleogels as an alternative frying medium for fish with reduced calorie value and improved aromatic quality.Graphical

Content and readability of patient educational materials about neuromodulation for childhood movement disorders

Purpose To assess content and readability of online patient educational materials (PEMs) for paediatric deep brain stimulation (DBS) and intrathecal baclofen (ITB). Methods A content analysis of PEMs identified from top children’s hospitals, institutions affiliated with published neuromodulation research, and DBS and ITB device manufacturers was conducted. PEM content was analysed using a predetermined framework. Readability was assessed using the Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG). Results Of 109 PEMs (72 DBS; 37 ITB) identified, most (77 (71%)) originated in the United States. More ITB PEMs (27 (73%)) contained specific paediatric information than DBS PEMs (16 (22%)). PEMS more frequently described benefits (DBS: 92%; ITB: 89%) than risks (DBS: 49%; ITB: 78%). Frequent content included pre- and post-operative care, procedural details, and device information. Less common content included long-term lifestyle considerations, alternatives, patient experiences, and financial details. Median readability of PEMs was 13.2 (interquartile range [IQR]: 11.4–14.45) for DBS and 11.8 (IQR: 11–12.9) for ITB. Conclusions Available ITB and DBS PEMs often miss important broader details of the treatments, and have additional shortcomings such as poor readability scores. Our findings highlight need for more holistic content within neuromodulation PEMs, improved accessibility, and more balanced representation of risks and benefits.