Composition Parameters Research Articles

A case of severe Covid-19 infection as the first manifestation of Cushing's disease.

Cushing's disease (CD) is characterized by distinct syndromic features, often accompanied by obesity and depression. However, considering its gradual onset of symptoms, it is usually associated with diagnostic delays. In rare instances, CD may lead to severe infections due to the observed immunosuppression in affected individuals. We present a rare case of an undiagnosed CD in a 20-year-old male with a medical history of depression and obesity, complicated by severe COVID-19 infection. He presented to the Emergency Room with respiratory distress, hypertensive crisis, and fever, ultimately receiving the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. The patient required mechanical ventilation and intensive care unit (ICU) admission due to severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). During ICU care, he received remdesivir and dexamethasone, subsequently developing severe hyperglycemia and worsened hypertension, requiring insulin and multiple antihypertensive agents to manage metabolic disruption. Upon physical examination, classic signs of hypercortisolism were noted. Subsequent laboratory tests and pituitary magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis of CD. The patient underwent surgical resection with significant improvements in body composition and metabolic parameters postoperatively. After surgery, remission of hypercortisolism was evident, accompanied by notable improvements in mood and overall health. This case underscores the importance of recognizing hypercortisolism in the context of metabolic, physical, and mood changes. Timely diagnosis of CD is crucial to mitigate complications such as severe opportunistic infections and their outcomes. Despite some hallmark features such as proximal myopathy, easy bruising, purple striae, and facial plethora, Cushing's disease (CD) is a challenging diagnosis due to its nonspecific signs and symptoms and gradual onset. The case emphasizes the importance of recognizing subtle signs of CD, such as social isolation, depressive symptoms, and changes in body composition, which may be confounded by external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients with CD are prone to severe infections due to chronic hypercortisolism-induced immunosuppression. CD diagnostic delays are common, leading to worsening of metabolic and immune dysfunction over time. Heightened clinical suspicion and early intervention are essential to prevent diagnostic delays and optimize patient outcomes.

The effect of using Echinacea extract as an immune system stimulant and antioxidant on blood indicators, growth efficiency, and carcass characteristics in broiler chickens to produce a healthy product

This study aimed to discover how echinacea powder extract (EPE), an antioxidant, affects the growth rate, body composition, and blood parameters in broilers as an alternative to antibiotics. In a completely randomized design study, four experimental groups received 280 broiler chicks, 5 days old (Cobb 500). Each group was distributed into seven replicates, each containing ten unsexed chicks. Four groups were randomly selected from the chicks; the first group (the control group) was given drinking water only. Conversely, the birds in treatments 2, 3, and 4 were supplemented with EPA in their drinking water. They received 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 cm3 EPA/liter water every 3 days weekly until the end of the trial (30 days). Our findings found significant differences in avian mass between experimental treatments during growth phases. The control group weighed 887 g, while the 3.0 cm3 EPE group weighed 850 g. The Duncan test showed a difference in FI and FCR among those favoring the EPE groups. Our results showed no significant changes in carcass features, except for spleen, gizzard, and abdominal fat, with the 3.0 cm3 EPE group having weight-higher organs and lower abdominal fat. Also, the control had higher TP, albumin, and globulin levels, while the EPE diet increased ALT and AST and decreased TC, TG, LDL, and VLDL levels. Furthermore, EPE-containing diets resulted in higher IgG concentrations, lower MDA levels, and higher SOD activity compared to the control group. According to the ANOVA analysis, the water consumption rate did not significantly differ across the trial groups. It included adding EPE with 3.0 cm3 enhanced growth performance, carcass traits, and antioxidant activity to obtain health outcomes for end users.

Reprecipitation-mediated regulation on the surface architecture of uniform spray dried lactose microspheres

Lactose microspheres (LMs) are commonly used in the pharmaceutical field. Although the surface architecture of LMs directly correlates with the performance of the final products, surface manipulation remains challenging. In this study, uniform LMs were fabricated using template-assisted spray drying with polyethylene glycol 200 as the template. The influence of the solvent composition (methanol, ethanol, 1-butanol, and acetone, with and without added water) and post-treatment parameters (time and temperature) on the moisture content, particle morphology, surface architecture, and crystal polymorphism were investigated. The sample surfaces post-treated using methanol were covered with particulate crystals with a crystallinity of ∼88.3 %, whereas those treated using acetone were covered by coral-like crystals with a crystallinity of ∼80.6 %. This is attributed to the higher solubility of lactose in methanol than in acetone. Adding a small amount of water to the post-treatment solvent facilitated amorphous lactose reprecipitation, achieving a block-like crystal stacking surface with a more stable Lα∙H2O content (∼40.4 % w/w). Lα∙H2O enriched on the LM surfaces prevents water absorption during storage, thus maintaining their high dispersity, uniformity, and surface architecture. This study provides a promising strategy for tailoring the surface architecture of spherical crystalline lactose microspheres.

Effect of older age and/or ACL injury on the dose–response relationship between ambulatory load magnitude and immediate load-induced change in serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein

PurposeThis study aimed to assess the influence of older vs. younger age and previous anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury on resting serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (sCOMP[tpre]) concentration, on immediate load-induced sCOMP kinetics after a 30-min treadmill walking stress (∆_sCOMP[tpost]), and on the dose–response relationship between ambulatory load magnitude and ∆_sCOMP(tpost). MethodsA total of 85 participants were recruited in 4 groups (20–30 years: 24 healthy, 23 ACL-injured; 40–60 years: 23 healthy, 15 ACL-injured). Blood samples were collected immediately before and after a walking stress at 80%, 100%, or 120% bodyweight (BW) on 3 test days and analyzed for sCOMP concentration. Linear models were used to estimate the effect of age, knee status (unilateral ACL injury, 2–10 years prior), and sex on sCOMP(tpre), ∆_sCOMP(tpost)), and the dose–response between ambulatory load magnitude and ∆_sCOMP(tpost). ResultsWe found that sCOMP(tpre) was 21% higher in older than younger participants (p < 0.001) but did not differ between ACL-injured and healthy participants (p = 0.632). Also, ∆_sCOMP(tpost) was 19% lower in older than younger participants (p = 0.030) and increased with body mass index (p < 0.001), sCOMP(tpre) (p = 0.008), and with 120%BW (p < 0.001), independent of age, ACL injury, or sex. ConclusionAge but not prior ACL injury influences resting sCOMP and load-induced sCOMP. The dose–response relationship between ambulatory load magnitude and load-induced sCOMP changes is not affected by age, ACL injury, or sex. A better understanding of systemic sCOMP and the role of its mechanoresponse for the understanding of osteoarthritis pathophysiology and monitoring intervention efficacy may require knowledge of individual cartilage composition and tissue-level loading parameters.

Optimization of co-injecting CH4 with CO2 to enhanced oil recovery and carbon storage: A machine-learning based case study on H59 block of Jilin Oilfield, China

During CO2-EOR implementation, CH4 in the reproduced CO2-rich mixture are included in the recycle injection gas. However, improper injection gas composition and operation parameters can reduce the flooding performance.In this study, a machine-learning assisted framework combining Convolutional Neural Networks-Gate Recurrent Unit (CNN-GRU) and Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) was proposed to obtain the optimal parameters for simultaneous maximum oil production, carbon storage efficiency, and net present value. A case study from the CO2-EOR project in the H59 block of Jilin oilfield, China, was carried out. Base cases were established to evaluate the effects of reinjection CH4 on flooding performance.Results show that the built CNN-GRU model has high prediction accuracy and computational efficiency, and thus can be used as an alternative tool to the reservoir simulator. The proposed framework can find the optimum parameters to improve oil recovery, carbon storage and net present value. The co-injection of CH4 and CO2 improves oil production, and carbon storage performance, but reduces the net present value. This work provides engineers with multiple strategies for decision-making to simultaneously promote flooding performance with CH4 being a co-injectant in CO2-EOR projects.

Evaluation of prognostic factors of body composition, nutritional and analytical parameters in hospitalized patients at nutritional risk

Evaluation of prognostic factors of body composition, nutritional and analytical parameters in hospitalized patients at nutritional risk

Unlocking the potentials using humidifier-dehumidifier for proton exchange membrane fuel cell waste heat recovery

This study addresses the dual challenges of waste heat dissipation and operational longevity degradation in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) by proposing a novel hybrid system that integrates PEMFC with a humidifier-dehumidifier (HDH) unit. The primary objective is to enhance the energy efficiency and sustainability of PEMFC systems by leveraging waste heat for freshwater generation. A comprehensive mathematical model based on thermodynamic and electrochemical principles is developed to capture the system’s inherent irreversible losses. The performance metrics, including power density, energy efficiency, and exergy efficiency, are evaluated through systematic computational simulations. The proposed PEMFC/HDH hybrid system achieves a maximum power density of 4.8292 W cm-2 and an energy efficiency of 17.30%, showing a 1.48% improvement over standalone PEMFC systems. Parametric studies reveal that optimizing operating pressure significantly enhances system performance, while factors such as increased PEM thickness and thermodynamic loss composite parameter hinder it. Local sensitivity analysis identifies PEM thickness as the most critical parameter affecting performance. This research pioneers the integration of PEMFC and HDH for cogeneration, offering a viable path for performance enhancement and efficient waste heat utilization. The findings contribute to the strategic design and operational regulation of PEMFC-based hybrid systems for sustainable energy solutions.

Association of GDF-15 with nutritional, inflammatory and body composition parameters in locally advanced head and neck cancer (HNC) patients (PTS) during oncological treatment

Association of GDF-15 with nutritional, inflammatory and body composition parameters in locally advanced head and neck cancer (HNC) patients (PTS) during oncological treatment

The Relationship between Resting Metabolic Rate and Body Composition in People Living with Overweight and Obesity.

Background/Objectives: Resting metabolic rate (RMR) is an important contributor of energy balance and displays a well-documented relationship with sex, age, race and fat-free mass (FFM) in the existing scientific literature. However, the impact of other body composition components such as fat and liver fat on RMR remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the correlation of RMR with body composition parameters in a sample of patients with overweight and obesity. Methods: Retrospective data of patients with overweight or obesity referred for magnetic resonance imaging of liver fat during the period 2018-2023 were utilized for this study. Demographic and anthropometric data were collected, including body composition parameters (body fat, muscle mass) and RMR measured by bioelectrical impedance and indirect calorimetry, respectively. Results: The final sample included 53 patients (66% male), with a mean age of 48 years (±11.2) and a mean body mass index (ΒΜΙ) of 38.5 kg/m2 (32.7, 44.7). Simple correlation models revealed that RMR was separately correlated with gender, age, BMI, muscle mass, and liver fat (all p < 0.05) but not with fat mass. When multiple regression models were employed, only muscle mass retained its statistically significant influence on RMR, while total and hepatic fat did not significantly affect RMR after controlling for other parameters (gender, age, muscle mass). Conclusions: These findings confirm the known correlation between muscle mass and RMR while highlighting the lack of association between total and hepatic fat and RMR in individuals with overweight and obesity.

NON-DESTRUCTIVE METHOD OF IDENTIFICATION OF STEEL GRADES OF ROLLING PRODUCTS

This article presents the results of coercive force dependence study of on the chemical composition and geometric parameters for the purpose of identifying the steel grade in a non-destructive manner. The paper proposes to identify the steel grade by the coercive force, using a correlation with the carbon equivalent and the diameter of the rolled product. As a result of the work, the possibility of identifying steel grades by the carbon equivalent associated with the coercive force and the diameter of the product was established. The ranges of the carbon equivalent for steels St3, 18Mn2Si and 30CrMn2Si were determined. The results of the work established that the coercive force depends on the chemical composition and geometric parameters of the controlled product. Thus, the solutions proposed in this paper are of great practical importance for industrial enterprises for the purpose of steel products prompt identification. The obtained values ​​of the carbon equivalent derived from the proposed dependence correspond to the values ​​of the carbon equivalent calculated according to the standard GOST R 55020-2012. This method of non-destructive determination of steel grade by carbon equivalent through magnetic parameters can be applied to products made of tool and other structural steel grades. Keywords: non-destructive testing, coercive force, carbon equivalent, regression, magnetic properties.

Effect of Azolla meal-based diet on growth performance, haematological profile and proximate composition of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fry

Optimising the cost of nutrients in fish diets is crucial for aquaculture production, as feed accounts for 50% of operational expenses in intensive aquaculture. The rising demand for mustard oil cake (MOC), a commonly used feed ingredient in Indian aquaculture, has led to a significant increase in its price due to its diverse applications. Azolla (Azolla pinnata), a free-floating freshwater plant, has attracted researchers in fish feed formulation due to its rich nutrient profile. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of replacement of MOC with Azolla meal in the diet of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fry. Pelleted feed was formulated with Azolla meal replacing MOC at levels of 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40% and fed to fish. Growth performance, feed conversion ratio (FCR), haematological parameters and proximate composition in fish carcass were assessed after 90 days of experimental feeding. Simultaneously, a control feed without supplementing of Azolla meal was also prepared. Fish were fed daily with the experimental diets at 8, 6 and 4% of their body weight during the first, second and third months respectively, in the morning hours (10:00 hrs). Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to assess the effect of formulated diets on fish carcasses composition and haematological parameters. The results showed that replacing 30% of MOC with Azolla meal in the diet, led to significantly (p≤0.05) higher specific growth rate (SGR) and percentage weight gain and significantly (p≤0.05) lower feed conversion ratio (FCR) at this concentration. Fish survival rate ranged from 80.00 to 93.33% among different treatments. Further, significant (p≤0.05) differences were observed in both haematological parameters of fish and the proximate composition of fish carcass. among the different treatments. These findings suggest that MOC can be effectively replaced with 30% Azolla meal in the diet for rearing common carp fry to fingerling stage, without compromising the growth performance. Keywords: Aquaculture, Feed conversion ratio, Health status, Mustard oil cake, Principal component analysis, Specific growth rate, Survival

A microstructural thermo‐elastoplastic analysis of the mushy zone during laser beam welding

AbstractAs a modern method of contact free fusion, laser beam welding has gained importance in recent years. This is due to both the possibiliy of a high advance speed of the laser and low thermal distortion of the components compared to other welding processes, see Dal and Fabbro. These beneficial process properties follow from a focused laser, which thus results in a precise energy input. In addition, laser beam welding processes can be automated which makes the process attractive for a wide range of applications, cf. Dilthey. Nevertheless, various influences, like the temperature gradient, the chemical composition or process parameters, may have an effect on the occurrence of so‐called solidification cracks. Solidification cracks arise during solidification and occur in the area of the mushy zone, which is located behind the melt pool. The material behavior in the mushy zone is governed by a dendritic morphology. Due to this, liquid phase inclusions may occur in some parts of the mushy zone, see Hills et al.. When these trapped areas solidify, no further liquid phase can follow and a negative pressure is created. The resulting stresses can then lead to solidification cracks. In further studies, the geometry of the dendritic morphology will be generated on the basis of previous phase field simulations. These describe the dendrite growth controlled by the chemical concentration. The resulting geometry will then be simulated using the possibilities of a thermo‐elastoplastic material model, which will enable temperature‐driven imitation of growth. This contribution addresses the evolving state of the dendritic microstructure in a simplified manner. Therefore, for the first study, a simplified morphology is used, that is, no secondary arms and an elliptical geometry of the dendrites is assumed. Thermal as well as elastoplastic effects are already taken into account, in order to represent the inherent stress and strain states in the microstructure. These may be related to critical states leading to failure in the future.

State and Possibilities of Strengthening the Labor Potential of Russia (Based on the All-Russian Population Census 2020)

Introduction. The most complete information on the size and composition of the population is provided by continuous population censuses, which collect information necessary for the analysis of quantitative and qualitative changes in the composition of the population and the labor force. The purpose of the study is to identify changes in the numerical composition, age structure, and qualitative parameters of the labor potential of the Russian population in the period between the All-Russian population censuses of 2010 and 2020, and to outline ways to strengthen it. Materials and Methods. The study was based on the results of the All-Russian Population Censuses of 2010 and 2020, current accounting data and forecast calculations of Rosstat, publications of scientists engaged in research in the field of economic demography. The analysis of changes in the demographic development of the Russian Federation in the intercensal period was carried out using the methods of dynamic and structural analysis, and the generalization of the results of published scientific research was made on the basis of critical analysis. Quantitative parameters of the labor potential were estimated on the basis of indicators of the population of working age, employed in the economy, unemployed citizens and potential labor force. Results. The main changes in the number and composition of the Russian population by age and education that occurred during the inter-census period have been established. The quantitative and qualitative parameters of the labor force are determined. The outstripping growth of the level of education of unemployed citizens and potential labor force in comparison with those employed in the economy has been revealed, which, with a high degree of depreciation of the active part of fixed assets and a large part of workplaces with harmful and dangerous working conditions, suggests the archaic nature of the Russian economy and the general discrepancy between its requests and the level of education of the population. Calculations have shown that due to the involvement of potential labor in public production, it will not be possible to solve the problem of labor shortage. Discussion and Conclusion. In order to provide the Russian economy with the necessary labor force, it is suggested to consider the following options for increasing the working time fund: temporary increase in the retirement age for women, temporary decrease in the number of holidays, temporary decrease in the duration of paid leave, temporary increase in the length of the working week. The results of the research can be useful for scientists and representatives of public authorities dealing with demographic development, strategic planning, regional development, migration regulation, as well as for specialists in the field of personnel training.

Review of Antimicrobial Properties of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles

There is a growing interest in the utilization of metal oxide nanoparticles as antimicrobial agents. This review will focus on titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs), which have been demonstrated to exhibit high antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi, chemical stability, low toxicity to eukaryotic cells, and therefore high biocompatibility. Despite the extensive research conducted in this field, there is currently no consensus on how to enhance the antimicrobial efficacy of TiO2 NPs. The aim of this review is to evaluate the influence of various factors, including particle size, shape, composition, and synthesis parameters, as well as microbial type, on the antibacterial activity of TiO2 NPs against bacteria and fungi. Furthermore, the review offers a comprehensive overview of the methodologies employed in the synthesis and characterization of TiO2 NPs. The antimicrobial activity of TiO2 exhibits a weak dependence on the microorganism species. A tendency towards increased antibacterial activity is observed with decreasing TiO2 NP size. The dependence on the shape and composition is more pronounced. The most pronounced antimicrobial potential is exhibited by amorphous NPs and NPs doped with inorganic compounds. This review may be of interest to specialists in biology, medicine, chemistry, and other related fields.

Manufacturing of Sustainable Composite Materials: The Challenge of Flax Fiber and Polypropylene.

The widespread use of synthetic composite materials has raised environmental concerns due to their non-biodegradability and energy-intensive production. This paper explores the potential of natural composites, specifically flax-polypropylene, as a sustainable alternative to traditional composites for semi-structural applications. In fact, the mechanical properties of flax-polypropylene composites are similar to synthetic ones (such as those made with E-glass fibers). However, processing challenges related to fiber-matrix interaction and material degradation necessitate suited process parameters for this sustainable type of material. For this reason, this review highlights the importance of optimizing existing manufacturing processes, such as hot press molding, to better accommodate the specific characteristics of polypropylene-flax composites. By refining the parameters and techniques involved in hot press molding, researchers should overcome current limitations and fully capitalize on its potential to produce composite materials of optimal quality. Therefore, a comprehensive literature assessment was conducted to analyze the properties and processing challenges of flax-polypropylene composites. Key process parameters affecting the material's performance are identified and discussed. By optimizing process parameters for flax-polypropylene composites, it is possible to develop a sustainable and high-performance material with a reduced environmental footprint. Further research is needed to scale up production and explore different applications for this sustainable composite material.

Innovative Trends in Modified Membranes: A Mini Review of Applications and Challenges in the Food Sector.

Membrane technologies play a pivotal role in various industrial sectors, including food processing. Membranes act as barriers, selectively allowing the passage of one or other types of species. The separation processes that involve them offer advantages such as continuity, energy efficiency, compactness of devices, operational simplicity, and minimal consumption of chemical reagents. The efficiency of membrane separation depends on various factors, such as morphology, composition, and process parameters. Fouling, a significant limitation in membrane processes, leads to a decline in performance over time. Anti-fouling strategies involve adjustments to process parameters or direct modifications to the membrane, aiming to enhance efficiency. Recent research has focused on mitigating fouling, particularly in the food industry, where complex organic streams pose challenges. Membrane processes address consumer demands for natural and healthy products, contributing to new formulations with antioxidant properties. These trends align with environmental concerns, emphasizing sustainable practices. Despite numerous works on membrane modification, a research gap exists, especially with regard to the application of modified membranes in the food industry. This review aims to systematize information on modified membranes, providing insights into their practical application. This comprehensive overview covers membrane modification methods, fouling mechanisms, and distinct applications in the food sector. This study highlights the potential of modified membranes for specific tasks in the food industry and encourages further research in this promising field.

Relationship between the heterogeneity in mechanical properties, bone density and composition parameters of cortical bone to design and develop bone scaffolds and implants: Analysis of bone microstructure

Bone is heterogeneous and anisotropic because its mechanical characteristics vary by anatomic location and loading direction. Previous research established a correlation between bone density, mineral, organic content, and porosity and mechanical qualities. Medical and bioengineering researchers can learn about bone heterogeneity and anisotropy by analysing bone density and later composition parameters across the bone diaphysis in both longitudinal and transverse orientations. This research examines bone density and composition parameters in bovine femoral cortical bone from higher, middle, and lower diaphysis regions and longitudinal and transverse orientations. At three homogeneous diaphysis sites, these properties did not alter in longitudinal or transverse orientations. At the upper and lower diaphysis locations, mineral and organic content were statistically different in both longitudinal and transverse orientations, contributing to anisotropy. At the middle location, all measured parameters were not statistically different. Transverse bone density and water heterogeneity were greater, while longitudinal values were higher for the other metrics. Upper and lower sites had increased bone variability due to %water, although mineral content was more homogenous. The longitudinal and transverse organic content and apparent density heterogeneity was greater at the middle position. At the later site, bone density and mineral content were more homogenous longitudinally and transversely. Lamellar bone microstructure with canalicular/vascular network, cavities, and holes contributed to bone materials' %water content. Collagen fibres contributed to bone material's organic composition, whereas intrafibrillar and extra fibrillar minerals contributed to its mineral content.

A Machine Learning Pipeline for Predicting Pinot Noir Wine Quality from Viticulture Data: Development and Implementation.

The quality of wine depends upon the quality of the grapes, which, in turn, are affected by different viticulture aspects and the climate during the grape-growing season. Obtaining wine professionals' judgments of the intrinsic qualities of selected wine products is a time-consuming task. It is also expensive. Instead of waiting for the wine to be produced, it is better to have an idea of the quality before harvesting, so that wine growers and wine manufacturers can use high-quality grapes. The main aim of the present study was to investigate the use of machine learning aspects in predicting Pinot Noir wine quality and to develop a pipeline which represents the major steps from vineyards to wine quality indices. This study is specifically related to Pinot Noir wines based on experiments conducted in vineyards and grapes produced from those vineyards. Climate factors and other wine production factors affect the wine quality, but our emphasis was to relate viticulture parameters to grape composition and then relate the chemical composition to quality as measured by the experts. This pipeline outputs the predicted yield, values for basic parameters of grape juice composition, values for basic parameters of the wine composition, and quality. We also found that the yield could be predicted because of input data related to the characteristics of the vineyards. Finally, through the creation of a web-based application, we investigated the balance of berry yield and wine quality. Using these tools further developed, vineyard owners should be able to predict the quality of the wine they intend to produce from their vineyards before the grapes are even harvested.

A Modelling Framework for Rapid Evaluation of Speed Limitations during Extrusion of Aluminium Profiles

Hot tearing is a well-known limitation when trying to maximize the throughput rate in aluminium extrusion. In the present work an analytical modelling framework is presented which can be used to predict the maximum extrusion speed that can be applied in production without formation of this type of surface defect. The modelling framework allows almost instantaneous estimates on the resulting productivity in terms of maximum extrusion speed. This is obtained by developing an analytical model for the maximum temperature at the die exit which incorporate the effect of alloy composition and billet processing. The results are consolidated into extrusion limit diagrams, mapping the maximum allowable extrusion speed as a function of billet pre-heat temperature, alloy composition, and homogenisation heat treatment. The calculated temperatures and extrusion limit diagrams obtained from the analytical model are compared with measured temperatures and critical extrusion speeds from extrusion tests of various 6xxx series alloys for a simple rod-shaped geometry. The comparisons indicate that the presented modelling approach gives sufficiently accurate predictions for future application in optimisation of alloy composition and process parameters in extrusion of profiles.

Effectiveness of Prebiotics and Mediterranean and Plant-Based Diet on Gut Microbiota and Glycemic Control in Patients with Prediabetes or Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: A high-calorie diet results in the development of prediabetes (PD) or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This diet has been reported to cause changes in microbial composition, concentration levels of glycemic parameters, and immune cells or inflammatory cytokines. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of prebiotics, as well as Mediterranean and plant-based dietary interventions, on gut microbiota composition and glucose homeostasis in individuals with PD or T2D. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis was developed according to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines and checklist. PubMed, EBSCOhost and Google Scholar were the three databases that were used to search for electronically published studies. Data extraction was conducted and examined by the reviewers and all the eligible studies were selected. To test for the quality and biases of the included studies, the Downs and Black checklist was used, followed by the use of Review Manager 5.4. A forest plot was used for meta-analysis and sensitivity analysis. The strength of the evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. Results: Overall, eight studies met the inclusion criteria: seven focused on patients with T2D, and one focused on patients with PD. The prebiotic dietary intervention did not have a statistically significant effect on glycemic control, including fasting blood glucose (FBG) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). However, one study investigating the Mediterranean diet reported a significant effect on glycemic control. Both prebiotic and Mediterranean dietary interventions were found to beneficially influence gut microbial composition in the intervention groups compared to the placebo groups. No studies assessed the impact of a plant-based diet on microbial composition and glucose parameters. Conclusions: This review indicated that dietary intervention with a prebiotic or Mediterranean diet shows to beneficially improve the gut microbiota composition of Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Bifidobacteria in patients with PD or T2D. However, their beneficial effects on FBG and HbA1c were less clear and uncertain due to limited reports, particularly regarding the Mediterranean dietary intervention.