Composition Parameters Research Articles

Chemical composition and physical parameters of particles as factors of variability of the sorption properties of protein powder preparations

Chemical composition and physical parameters of particles as factors of variability of the sorption properties of protein powder preparations

Studies on the Production of a Ground Silicate Composite Based on a Mineral Slag Binder with the Disposal of Industrial Waste

This article discusses the current problem of industrial waste disposal and its use in the production of building materials, which corresponds to the global concept of sustainable development. Attention is mainly paid to the development of a gruntosilicate composite (concrete) based on a mineral slag binder using drilling sludge from the mining industry, ashes from thermal power plants and electrothermophosphoric slag. Physico-chemical studies of man-made raw materials have been carried out, including analysis of chemical and mineralogical composition, granulometric characteristics, radiation safety and other parameters. It has been established that drilling mud, thermal power plant ash and electrothermophosphoric slag meet the requirements for use in building materials and belong to non-hazardous waste. The optimal ratios of the components in the composition of gruntosilicate concrete have been experimentally determined. The highest compressive strength (3.0–3.5 MPa) is achieved with a drilling mud content of 15–23% and a mineral slag binder of 10–20%. It is shown that the introduction of these wastes improves the structure of the material, reduces shrinkage deformations and ensures compliance with the requirements of road surfaces of the II–III classes. The use of industrial waste in construction will reduce the cost of raw materials by approximately 10–30%, reduce the environmental burden and solve the problem of waste disposal. The results of the study demonstrate the prospects of creating a waste-processing industry capable of processing up to 40% of industrial waste into building materials.

Effect of Chemical Composition and Annealing Parameters for Advanced Packaging Steel Applications

Packaging steels are widely used across a broad range of industries, from food and beverage to chemical products, for the protection, transportation and storage of goods. In this study, the effects of chemical composition and annealing parameters on the phase transformation behavior, microstructure, and mechanical properties of packaging steels were investigated. Two steel samples, Steel A and Steel B, with different chemical compositions (designed according to ASTM A623-22 standard limitations), were prepared using a vacuum induction melting (VIM) furnace. Within the scope of simulation studies, hot rolling, cold rolling, and annealing process simulators were utilized. Before the annealing simulations, the Gleeble 3500 thermal simulation device and JMatPro software were used to determine the process conditions. A light optical microscope (LOM) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used for microstructural characterization studies. Mechanical properties were characterized with tensile tests. Steel A and Steel B samples with different alloying elements and cooling rates were compared to evaluate their suitability for advanced packaging applications. The results of this analysis show that the addition of Nb and Mn to Steel B enhances bainite formation, refines grain size, and improves mechanical properties compared to Steel A.

Features of technological factors of well construction based on the example of oil and gas fields

Purpose. Comprehensive study of geological and technological factors of drilling, flushing during drilling, stabilization of wellbore walls, as well as opening of productive horizons in difficult mining and technical development conditions at different stages of hydrocarbon deposits. Methodology. When carrying out the research, basic methods of mathematical and physical modeling, bench experimentation, as well as methods for processing the results of laboratory and industrial research in the EXCEL and MATNCAD environment were used. Measurements of the parameters of compositions of special process liquids were carried out using appropriate control and measuring equipment and materials. Findings. Laboratory and production data on the analysis of well bottom deepening indicators and the use of special agents in wells ‒ flushing fluids, cementing systems in tandem with buffer fluids are proposed for consideration. These agents make it possible to rationalize the drilling process, as well as prevent the active development of deterioration in the filtration properties of reservoir rocks and create a reliable transport channel for hydrocarbons. Originality. Based on the study of the results of research into well construction processes, the following important circumstance has been proven. The solution to the problem of improving the quality of field development, in this case hydrocarbon fields, lies in the use of integrated approaches to the organization of downhole circulation processes of special technological fluids. Practical value. The obtained comprehensive results of laboratory and industrial research can be taken as the basis for creating modern methods for designing processes for deepening the face, as well as flushing when drilling and casing wells, the construction of which is carried out in sedimentary rocks.

Effect of resistance training on body composition and physical function in older females with sarcopenic obesity—a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

ObjectivesA systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to validate the effects of resistance training (RT) on body composition and physical function in older females with sarcopenic obesity (SO).DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis.Setting and participantsOlder females (≥60 years).MethodsFour electronic databases—PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library—were comprehensively searched through June 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing RT with non-exercise interventions or health education were included. Outcomes measured included key indicators such as body composition and physical function. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDRO) score, and the risk of bias was assessed utilizing the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 Tool (RoB 2). Ultimately, a meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.4.ResultsResults of our meta-analysis revealed that RT partially ameliorated body composition in patients, significantly reducing body fat percentage (BF%; WMD = −2.83, 95% CI: −4.55 to −1.12, p = 0.001). However, through comparative analysis of the control groups, we revealed that it did not significantly influence other indices such as body mass index (BMI; WMD = −0.42, 95% CI: −1.92 to 1.08, p = 0.58), total skeletal muscle mass (TSM; WMD = −0.62, 95% CI: −2.38 to 1.15, p = 0.49), or bone mineral density (BMD; WMD = 0.01, 95% CI: −0.03 to 0.05, p = 0.68). Notably, RT demonstrated substantial efficacy in enhancing physical function, as evidenced by improvements in the 10-meter walk test (10WMT; WMD = 0.22 s, 95% CI: 0.04 to 0.39, p = 0.01), Timed Up and Go test (TUG; WMD = −2.23 s, 95% CI: −2.96 to −1.49, p = 0.00001), and Timed Chair Rise test (TCR; WMD = 5.20 repetitions, 95% CI: 3.98 to 6.43, p = 0.00001).ConclusionThis meta-analysis indicates that RT exerts a significant positive influence on the physical function of older females with SO. Despite these benefits, the impact on body composition parameters, such as BF%, appears to be limited. These findings underscore the need for further investigation into the mechanisms by which RT affects body composition in this patient population.Systematic review registrationINPLASY202430061 https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2024-3-0061/.

Fruit and vegetable biowaste as a source of functional nutritional components for animal feed

The recovery of fruit and vegetable waste (FVW) from markets and processing plants should be considered a resource for functional feed ingredients since these wastes are rich in nutrients and valuable bioactive compounds. This study focused on FVW from the wholesale market in Milan, which is the largest in Italy, to evaluate the dietary fiber (DF), insoluble dietary fiber (IDF), soluble dietary fiber (SDF), total polyphenol content (TPC), and antioxidant activity (AA) of the FVW collected monthly over the course of a year. Compositional parameters were evaluated based on the month and season of collection (winter, spring, summer, and autumn). The samples collected each month were representative of the month and seasonality of harvesting and commercialization. The DF, IDF, SDF, TPC, and AA were statistically different (p < 0.05) based on the month and season, except for the TPC. Considering the seasonal pattern, the DF content was higher in the autumn and winter seasons (33.3 g/100 g dw and 30.8 g/100 g dw) than in the spring and summer seasons (19.9 g/100 g dw and 21.9 g/100 g dw). A similar trend was observed for the IDF content, which was higher in autumn and winter compared to spring and summer. The SDF content was higher in the summer (9.1 g/100 g dw) and autumn samples (8.1 g/100 g dw). The TPC was similar across the samples collected in different months (overall mean 2.4 ± 0.8 g/100 g dw), without significant differences based on the season of waste generation. The AA content was higher in the spring samples, albeit with high variability (34.4 ± 22.4 μmol TE/g dw). The overall mean solid content in the FVW samples was 10.8 ± 1.2 g/100 g. The results showed that FVW is a valuable source of functional compounds, which may improve the nutritional quality of animal feed. The major constraints in using FVW are the variability in the components from month to month, the presence of anti-nutritional components, and the water content, which compromises product stability. Future investigations are necessary for the recovery of this waste, given its potential added value as a functional feed ingredient.

Multidomain intervention for delaying aging in community-dwelling older adults (MIDA): study design and protocol

Background The exploration of interventions to delay aging is an emerging topic that promotes healthy aging. The multidomain intervention has the potential to be applied in the field of aging because it concentrates on the functional ability of older adults. There is currently no literature reporting on a multidomain intervention involving cognition, exercise and nutrition for delaying aging. Methods The Multidomain Intervention for Delaying Aging in Community-dwelling Older Adults (MIDA) is a Zelen-design randomized controlled trial with a 6-month intervention duration. The multidomain intervention comprises cognitive training, exercise training, and nutritional guidance, delivered through both group sessions and individual family interventions. A total of 248 participants aged 60 to 85 years will be randomized to the intervention group or control group and followed up for 12 months. The primary outcome is the change in epigenetic age acceleration and pace of aging following the multidomain intervention. The secondary outcomes are the changes in frailty score and intrinsic capacity Z-score. Other outcomes include physical functions, body composition, aging biomarkers, inflammatory markers, haematology and biochemistry parameters, and lifestyle factors. Conclusions This study will explore the effects of the multidomain intervention on delaying aging in community-dwelling older adults. We aim to introduce a new approach to delaying aging and offer a practical multidomain intervention strategy for healthcare institutions.

Anthropometric Parameters and Sleep Apnea: Correlations, and Treatment Implications in a Sleep Laboratory-Based Study

Abstract Background This study aimed to examine the relationship of individual anthropometric parameters with the severity of sleep apnea (SA), type of SA, positive airway pressure (PAP) titration pressures, and titration effectivity. Methods We have included previously healthy patients, who were suspected of suffering from sleep apnea and were hospitalized in the sleep laboratory. All subjects underwent overnight polysomnography, followed by PAP titration in patients with moderate-to-severe sleep apnea (AHI ≥ 15/h). Basic anthropometric examination and body composition evaluation using the InBody 720 device were performed. Results Among 40 previously healthy male subjects, we found statistically significant correlations between almost all body composition parameters and sleep apnea-related indices. No significant differences in these parameters were found between obstructive and central SA. In the obstructive SA group, the degree of obesity and multiple other obesity markers positively correlated with higher titration PAP pressures. Contrary to obstructive SA, in the central SA group, higher titration PAP pressures correlated only with body fat percentage and waist-to-hip ratio. In both groups, no significant positive correlation between residual apnea/hypopnea index during PAP titration and anthropometric measures was found. Conclusion Patients with central and obstructive SA did not differ significantly in anthropometric parameters. Despite significant correlations between almost all anthropometric parameters and sleep apnea-related indices, as well as with titration PAP pressures, our findings suggest, that obesity does not significantly contribute to the PAP titration failure represented by residual respiratory events.

Assessment of milk production and composition in Chilota sheep under two feeding systems in the Chiloé Archipelago, Chile

Considering the Chilota sheep as an important zoogenetic resource in the Chiloé Archipelago, with limited available data regarding its dairy potential, this exploratory study aimed to evaluate milk yield and milk composition under two feeding management systems. Forty multiparous Chilota ewes were blocked by body weight and randomly assigned at 60 days postpartum to two groups: CONTROL (grazing ryegrass-clover pastures) and SUPPL (grazing plus daily supplementation with 150 g DM whole corn grain and 150 g DM commercial soybean-based protein supplement). Ewes were milked once daily over a period of 30 days. Milk yield was recorded daily, and milk composition parameters (fat, protein, lactose, total solids, non-fat solids, urea) were analyzed at 70, 80, 90, and 100 days postpartum. No significant differences (P≥0.05) were observed in total milk production or in any of the milk composition parameters between the CONTROL and SUPPL groups. Under the conditions of the present study, results indicate that high-quality pasture alone sufficiently meets the nutritional requirements for milk production in Chilota sheep, rendering dietary supplementation unnecessary during periods of peak pasture availability. These findings provide valuable insights to diversify smallholder production systems in Chiloé through dairy sheep farming.

Study on co-combustion characteristic of coal and industrial solid wastes and the migration behavior of heavy metals

ABSTRACT Co-combustion with coal is a potential disposal option for industrial solid waste (ISW). This work investigated the combustion characteristics and heavy metals emission behaviors during coal and ISW co-combustion process. The moderate blending ratio (below 20%) of ISW improved the combustion characteristics of coal, while excessive blending increased the energy potential barrier. The emission of heavy metals was mainly affected by the fuel composition and combustion parameters. The emission of Cd, Pb and As was increased with the increase of combustion temperature. The highest volatilization rates of Cd, Pb and As were 71%, 56.9% and 39.7%, respectively. The blending of ISW inhibited the emission of Cd and As (minimum 61.6% and 23.2%), promoted Pb emissions (maximum 56%), and had insignificant effect on the emission of Hg and Cr. This was attributed to the interaction between some inorganic minerals in the blended fuel with heavy metals. Co-combustion of ISW weakened the environmental mobility of heavy metals and thus reduces the environmental risks. The blending ratio of ISW should be 20% considering the combustion behaviors and heavy metal transformation. These results provide guidance for the resource disposal with low heavy metal emissions of ISW through co-combustion in existing boilers.

Machine Learning-Enabled Prediction and Mechanistic Analysis of Compressive Yield Strength–Hardness Correlation in High-Entropy Alloys

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) represent a paradigm-shifting material system offering vast compositional space for tailoring mechanical properties. The yield strength and hardness are critical performance metrics, yet their interrelationships in diverse HEAs remain incompletely understood, partly due to data limitations. This work employs an integrated machine learning framework to investigate the compressive yield strength (σy) and hardness (HV) correlation across a dataset of cast HEAs. Random forest models are successfully developed for phase structure classification (accuracy = 92%), hardness prediction (test R2 = 0.90), and yield strength prediction (test R2 = 0.91), enabling data imputation to expand the analysis dataset. Correlation analysis on the expanded dataset reveals a general positive trend between σy and HV (overall Pearson r = 0.75) but highlights a strong dependence on the predicted phase structure. The single-phase BCC alloys exhibit the strongest linear correlation between σy and HV (r = 0.88), whereas the single-phase FCC alloys show a weaker linear dependence (r = 0.59), and multiphase alloy systems display varied behavior. The specific ranges of compositional parameters (highly negative mixing enthalpy ΔH, low atomic size difference δ, high mixing entropy ΔS, and intermediate-to-high valence electron concentration VEC) are associated with a stronger σy-HV correlation, potentially linked to the formation of stable solid solutions. Furthermore, artificial neural network modeling confirms the varying complexity of the σy-HV relationship across different phases, outperforming simple models for some multiphase systems. This work provides robust predictive models for HEA properties and advances the fundamental understanding of the composition- and phase-dependent coupling between yield strength and hardness, aiding rational HEA design.

Investigation of restraint intensity influence on solidification cracking of high-strength filler materials in fillet welds via CTS testing

Abstract In addition to chemical composition, metallurgy, and welding parameters, the intensity of restraint is one of the key variables influencing solidification cracking (SC). Due to their high strength-to-density ratio, many modern lightweight steel constructions increasingly rely on high-strength steel. Given the theoretical framework of solidification cracking theory, tests tend to focus on the effects of strain rate. Externally restrained tests have provided valuable insights into solidification crack susceptibility. In practice, most welded structures are self-restrained; therefore, self-restraint tests more accurately reflect real-world applications. By varying the plate thickness in controlled thermal severity (CTS) tests conducted on S1100 QL, it was possible to adjust the intensity of restraint on fillet welds at a high level. Testing was performed using four different filler wires for gas metal arc welding (GMAW), including three solid wires and one metal-cored wire. Additionally, two sets of welding parameters were evaluated. High arc energy (U × I/welding speed) and increased welding speed were found to be more prone to solidification cracking compared to the parameter set with lower arc energy and welding speed. The results indicate a correlation between increasing restraint severity and a higher incidence of solidification cracking.

Addressing Quality, Safety, and Sustainability Challenges in Artisanal Pico Cheese Production: Proteolysis Indexes, Staphylococci, and Whey Valorization

Artisanal cheeses face unique challenges due to changes in the present approaches to food safety, health, and environmental sustainability. This work aims at tackling such challenges in Pico cheese, by addressing outdated PDO criteria, the need to tackle coagulase-positive staphylococci (CoPS) and to promote circular economy by upgrading cheese whey. Model raw- and pasteurized milk cheeses were prepared with autochthonous lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as inoculants and analyzed for their composition, proteolysis, and microbiological parameters. CoPS were isolated and the risks they pose in terms of One Health evaluated by assessing phenotypic virulence factors and antibiotic resistance patterns. To assess the potential of autochthonous LAB for controlling CoPS, a challenge test was performed. Probiotic requeijão was prepared using autochthonous LAB as inoculants for upgrading whey. This work confirmed the need to update Pico cheese specifications regarding proteolysis indexes. Biofilm production was present in all Pico cheese CoPS, but resistance was only found against penicillin and cefoxitin. Adding salt or extending maturation time up to 60 days did not afford the desired level of CoPS control. Lactococcus lactis L1C21M1, however, was able to keep CoPS populations at 3 log cfu g−1 in the challenge test. Requeijão was a suitable substrate for probiotic autochthonous Lactococcus lactis L3A21M1 and L3B1M7.

Study of Deformation and Strength Characteristics of Highly Filled Sand–Polymer Composites Based on Regenerated Thermoplastics

As the volume of polymer waste continues to grow, the development of methods for their processing and the creation of composites is an urgent task. In this work, the characteristics of sand–polymer composites based on reclaimed thermoplastics (1:3 mixture of polyolefins) are investigated. It was found that composites containing up to 75 wt% silica sand (100–300 μm) retained acceptable compressive strength (at least 25 MPa) at a strain of no more than 5%. Sand surface treatment improved the interaction between polymer and filler, increasing compressive strength by 10–15% and impact strength by 10% at 70–75 wt% of filler. The deformation and strength parameters of composites modified with carbon nanocomponents were investigated. The dependencies of compressive and bending strength on technological parameters of formation were obtained. The role of modifying components in appretization and reinforcement was shown. The introduction of technological lubricants improved homogeneity but reduced strength. The strengthening effect was related to the increase in the proportion of polymer interacting with the filler surface when the thickness of the polymer matrix reached the nanostate. The introduction of silica nanoparticles (up to 0.1 wt%) increased the compressive strength by 15%. However, the decrease in melt fluidity limited the degree of filling. The obtained composites are promising for application as structural materials in hull products used in limited climatic conditions.

Effect of dietary taurine along with the different lipid levels on growth, antioxidant, innate immune responses, digestive, metabolic enzyme activity and health status of pangasius (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus)

High fat diets are provided to fish in order to supply additional energy and spare protein for better growth of fish. Taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid) is an important nutrient which influences lipid utilization. Here, we investigated how taurine supplementation influences growth, digestive, metabolic enzyme activity, antioxidant, innate immune responses, and health status of pangasius fed with different levels of fat. Five experimental diets were formulated to contain 300 g/kg crude protein and varying level of crude lipid (6%, 8%, 10%, 12% and 14%) with 15 g/kg taurine and designated as T6%, T8%, T10%, T12% and T14%. Pangasius (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) fingerlings were randomly stocked in twelve 150 L FRP tanks with 20 fingerlings (5.22 ± 0.04 g) in each and fed experimental diets for 56 days. The majority of the growth, nutrient utilization, and biological parameters in pangasius showed similarity between high lipid diet and low lipid diet in the presence of taurine. The whole-body composition and blood parameters of pangasius did not show any significant difference (P > 0.05) among high lipid diet and low lipid diet. The lipase activity showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) activity in T14% group when compared with T6% group. The significantly higher (P < 0.05) carnitine palmitoyl transferase were observed in fish fed with 12% and 14% lipid diet, whereas malic enzyme activity was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in T14% group than in T6% group. The antioxidant activity (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase) and innate immune parameters (respiratory burst, lysozyme and antiprotease activity) did not show significant difference (P > 0.05) among high lipid and low lipid diet. Interleukin 1β and transferrin also did not show any significant difference (P > 0.05) among the treatments. The study showed that taurine supplementation can help to counteract the deleterious effects of high lipid diets, such as lipid accumulation and elevated serum cholesterol and TG levels in pangasius. It was also found that both high-lipid and low-lipid diets resulted in similar growth and biometric outcomes in presence of dietary taurine.Graphical

Mixtures of Algal Oil and Terrestrial Oils in Diets of Tiger Puffer (Takifugu rubripes)

The n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFAs) have a key role in maintaining fish growth and health. However, fish oil (FO), the main source of n-3 LC-PUFAs, is in relative shortage due to the rapid development of the aquaculture industry. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of replacing fish oil with mixtures of algal oil (AO) from Schizochytrium sp. and terrestrially sourced oils (animal oil poultry oil (PO) or vegetable oil rapeseed oil (RO)) in the diets of juvenile tiger puffer (average initial body weight 23.8 ± 1.51 g). An 8-week feeding trial was conducted using three experimental diets: a control diet containing 6% added FO (control FO-C) and two diets with 3% AO + 3% PO or RO (groups AO+PO and AO+RO, respectively), replacing FO. Each diet was fed to triplicate tanks with 25 fish in each tank. The weight gain, feed conversion ratio, body composition, and serum biochemical parameters were not significantly different among the three groups, except that the AO+PO group had a significantly lower muscle lipid content than the other two groups. The AO-added diets significantly increased the DHA content in whole fish, muscle, and liver samples but significantly reduced the EPA content. The oil mixture treatments significantly increased the contents of monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) but significantly decreased the contents of saturated fatty acids (SFAs) in the liver and whole fish samples. However, the MUFA and SFA contents in the muscle samples were not significantly different among the dietary groups. The diets with oil mixtures did not affect the hepatic histology but tended to result in the atrophy of intestinal villi. The treatment diets downregulated the hepatic gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines (il-1β and tnf-α) and the fibrosis marker gene, acta2. However, the AO+PO diet inhibited the intestinal gene expression of the tight junction protein, claudin 18. In the muscle, the treatment diets upregulated the expression of genes related to cell differentiation and apoptosis (myod, myog, myf6, myf5, bcl-2, and bax). In conclusion, Schizochytrium sp. oil in combination with terrestrial oils (poultry oil or rapeseed oil) can be an effective alternative to fish oil in the diets of tiger puffer, but the mixing strategy may be better modified in consideration of intestinal health.

Anthropometric and Body Composition Changes After Bariatric Surgery—The Effect of Sex, Age, and Type of Surgery

The rise in obesity and its associated health problems increases the need for therapeutic approaches such as bariatric surgery. Therefore, this study aims to explore the changes in the anthropometric and body composition characteristics of patients undergoing bariatric surgery. A retrospective longitudinal study was conducted in subjects ≥ 18 y who underwent bariatric surgery and attended one nutrition appointment before and after surgery. Information on their sex, age, weight, fat mass (kg and %), fat-free mass (kg and %), and skeletal muscle mass, obtained using bioelectrical impedance, and on their waist circumferences was collected. Their BMIs and skeletal muscle mass indexes were calculated. The differences in the anthropometric and body composition parameters between pre- and post-surgery were also calculated. The participants were grouped by sex, age groups (18–44 y and 45–69), and type of surgery (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and gastric sleeve). The variables are presented as n (%) and as means (SDs) or medians (interquartile ranges). Student’s t-test and the Mann–Whitney test were employed (p &lt; 0.05). The sample consisted of 57 subjects (aged 18–69 years; 75% women). Between the pre- and post-surgical periods (63 (42) days), their weight (mean: 103.0 (SD: 16.3) kg vs. 91.2 (14.2) kg, p &lt; 0.001); BMIs (37.9 (4.2) kg/m2 vs. 33.6 (4.1) kg/m2, p &lt; 0.001); waist circumferences (116.2 (12.4) cm vs. 105.7 (12.3) cm, p &lt; 0.001); % fat mass (45.5 (6.0) vs. 41.0 (8.0), p &lt; 0.001); skeletal muscle mass (32.8 (7.4) kg vs. 30.3 (6.5) kg, p &lt; 0.001); and skeletal muscle mass indexes (12.0 (1.8) kg/m2 vs. 11.1 (1.7) kg/m2, p &lt; 0.001) decreased; meanwhile, their % fat-free mass increased (54.7 (6.0) vs. 59.0 (8.0), p &lt; 0.001). Most of these changes occurred regardless of sex, age, or type of surgery. Shortly after bariatric surgery, patients show a better nutritional status and body composition.

Effects of DEM Resolution and Area Thresholds on Automated Fluvial Morphometry, Arroyo del Oro (Argentina)

The resolution of Digital Elevation Models (DEM) as well as the area threshold to define streams and catchments are important sources of uncertainty in automated fluvial morphometry. This study examines the applicability of three global surface models, produced with resolutions of 12.5 (ALOS), 30 and 90 m (SRTM), along with five area thresholds ranging from 0.15 to 10%. It aims at evaluating the effects of varying resolution-threshold combinations on the extraction of morphometric parameters and indices (PIm) in the Arroyo del Oro, a mountain basin located in south-western Buenos Aires (Argentina). The analysis considers the accuracy of drainage definitions, the variability of resulting PIm, and its implications for flood and water erosion assessments. Results show that the higher thresholds affect the PIm that depend on the complexity of the drainage network. Coarser resolutions impact on relief, slope and length parameters, but yield small discrepancies for the remaining PIm. For the 0.15% threshold, SRTM30 provides good fit of drainage composition parameters, and it is therefore suitable to assess the efficiency and capacity of the basin to evacuate floods. However, the use of higher resolution (ALOS12) is most suitable to assess erosion potential, due to better fit of slope-dependent PIm. Applications based on the global characteristics of middle to large-sized basins rely on a more flexible choice, as geometry parameters are unaffected by resolution and threshold.

Use of Inulin and Pumpkin Oil in the Manufacture of High-Quality Mortadella-Style Sausage from Buffalo Meat.

The growing demand for healthier meat products has driven the reformulation of processed meats to reduce saturated fat while preserving sensory and technological attributes. Buffalo meat (Bubalus bubalis), with its high protein content, low intramuscular fat, and favorable fatty acid profile, offers a promising base for healthier formulations. However, its fat content may compromise texture, juiciness, and flavor, necessitating strategies to optimize product quality. This study investigated the effects of replacing pork fat with inulin and pumpkin seed oil in a cooked buffalo meat product, focusing on compositional, oxidative, microbiological, and sensory parameters. Two plant-based ingredients were selected: inulin from chicory, used as a fat mimic due to its gel-forming ability, and pumpkin seed oil, a structural analog with antimicrobial activity. Preliminary trials identified optimal concentrations for balancing technological and functional performance. A 2% inclusion of pumpkin seed oil, exceeding its in vitro MIC (0.4-1.5%), ensured effectiveness in the food matrix. Reformulated products exhibited significantly reduced fat (p < 0.05), enhanced fiber, and a lipid profile rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (>45%), qualifying for European Union health claims. Oxidative stability improved (p < 0.01), and sensory analysis revealed enhanced aroma complexity, with nutty and roasted notes. Microbiological assessments confirmed a protective effect against spoilage bacteria. These results support the development of a nutritionally improved, microbiologically safer cooked product, such as mortadella-style sausage, while also offering strategies for broader innovation in reformulating functional meat products.

Combined Proxies for Heart Rate Variability as a Global Tool to Assess and Monitor Autonomic Dysregulation in Fibromyalgia and Disease-Related Impairments.

Heart rate variability (HRV) provides both linear and nonlinear autonomic proxies that can be informative of health status in fibromyalgia (FM), where sympatho-vagal abnormalities are common. This retrospective observational study aims to: 1. detect differences in correlation dimension (D2) between FM patients and healthy controls (HCs); 2. correlate D2 with standard HRV parameters; 3. correlate the degree of HRV changes using a global composite parameter called HRV grade, derived from three linear indices (SDNN = intervals between normal sinus beats; RMSSD = mean square of successive differences; total power), with FM clinical outcomes; 4. correlate all linear and nonlinear HRV parameters with clinical variables in patients. N = 85 patients were considered for the analysis and compared to 35 healthy subjects. According to standard diagnostic protocol, they underwent a systematic HRV protocol with a 5-min paced breathing task. Disease duration, pain intensity, mood, sleep, fatigue, and quality of life were assessed. Non-parametric tests for independent samples and pairwise correlations were performed using JMP (all p < 0.001). Mann-Whitney U found a significant difference in D2 values between FM patients and HCs (p < 0.001). In patients, D2 was associated with all HRV standard indices (all p < 0.001) and FM impairment (FIQ = -0.4567; p < 0.001). HRV grade was also associated with FM impairment (FIQ = 0.5058; p < 0.001). Combining different HRV measurements may help understand the correlates of autonomic dysregulation in FM. Specifically, clinical protocols could benefit from the inclusion and validation of D2 and HRV parameters to target FM severity and related dysautonomia.