Composition Analysis Research Articles

Online Compositional Analysis of Complex Oligomers in Biomass Degradation by High-Pressure Flow-Through Reactor Coupled with High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry.

Online analysis of the composition and evolution of complex oligomeric intermediates in biomass degradation is highly desirable to elucidate the mechanism of bond cleavage and study the effect of conditions on the selective conversion of feedstocks. However, harsh reaction conditions and complicated conversion systems pose tremendous challenges for conventional, state-of-the-art analytical techniques. Herein, we introduce a continuous and rapid compositional analysis strategy coupling a high-pressure flow-through reactor with online high-resolution mass spectrometry, which enables the molecular-level characterization of most biomass-related products throughout the conversion for over 2 h. Catalytic depolymerization of one model compound was studied, and temperature-dependent data of over 50 intermediates as well as recondensation dimers and oligomers were obtained, which have rarely been reported in the literature. Thousands of products during the flow-through conversion of birch wood with molecular weights up to 1000 Da were presented, and 8 typical lignin dimers and oligomers with various interunit linkages were identified at the molecular level, demonstrating the potential to analyze more complicated systems far beyond conventional methods, especially for complex oligomers. The continuous evolutions of different components and typical products were unveiled for the first time, providing valuable insights into the investigation of the structure, composition, and decomposition mechanism of lignocellulose as well as the influence of reaction conditions. This method leads to the previously unattained ability to probe and reveal complicated chemical compositions in high-pressure reactions and can be applied to all other high-pressure heterogeneous aqueous reactions.

Outnumbered and outranked: a macrostructural snapshot of gendered inequalities in higher academia in Jordan

Purpose This article aims to illuminate the gendered organisational structure of higher education in Jordan by collecting and analysing a national-level snapshot of the current distribution of women and men in leadership positions and academic ranks across Jordanian universities to pinpoint inequalities in specific levels and fields. Design/methodology/approach Grounded in gendered organisational theory, this study presents a snapshot of the gender composition of 10 public and 14 private universities in Jordan. The snapshot, collected in September 2022 from these universities’ websites, examines counts of male and female administrative leaders as well as academic staff across all ranks for all faculties in both STEM and liberal arts fields. Findings The distribution of women and men in leadership positions in universities across Jordan is highly unequal, with men outnumbering women in the uppermost positions by nearly 10:1. This gap decreases as the rank of positions decreases, indicative of a highly gendered organisational structure, with only three to four fields approaching gender parity. Research limitations/implications This paper offers a comprehensive and detailed quantitative foundation for researchers to investigate the underlying social, cultural, legal, political and economic factors perpetuating gender inequality in academia in Jordan and in comparative studies. Practical implications This study is relevant for targeting policies for advancing sustainable development goals, specifically 5.5, which aim at women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making. Originality/value This study provides the most detailed and extensive macro-level analysis of the gender composition of universities in Jordan.

Body weight and composition endpoints in cancer cachexia clinical trials: Systematic Review 4 of the cachexia endpoints series.

Significant variation exists in the outcomes used in cancer cachexia trials, including measures of body composition, which are often selected as primary or secondary endpoints. To date, there has been no review of the most commonly selected measures or their potential sensitivity to detect changes resulting from the interventions being examined. The aim of this systematic review is to assess the frequency and diversity of body composition measures that have been used in cancer cachexia trials. MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched between January 1990 and June 2021. Eligible trials examined adults (≥18years) who had received an intervention aiming to treat or attenuate the effects of cancer cachexia for >14days. Trials were also of a prospective controlled design and included body weight or at least one anthropometric, bioelectrical or radiological endpoint pertaining to body composition, irrespective of the modality of intervention (e.g., pharmacological, nutritional, physical exercise and behavioural) or comparator. Trials with a sample size of <40 patients were excluded. Data extraction used Covidence software, and reporting followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidance. This review was prospectively registered (PROSPERO: CRD42022276710). A total of 84 clinical trials, comprising 13016 patients, were eligible for inclusion. Non-small-cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer were studied most frequently. The majority of trial interventions were pharmacological (52%) or nutritional (34%) in nature. The most frequently reported endpoints were assessments of body weight (68 trials, n=11561) followed by bioimpedance analysis (BIA)-based estimates (23 trials, n=3140). Sixteen trials (n=3052) included dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA)-based endpoints, and computed tomography (CT) body composition was included in eight trials (n=841). Discrepancies were evident when comparing the efficacy of interventions using BIA-based estimates of lean tissue mass against radiological assessment modalities. Body weight, BIA and DEXA-based endpoints have been most frequently used in cancer cachexia trials. Although the optimal endpoints cannot be determined from this review, body weight, alongside measurements from radiological body composition analysis, would seem appropriate. The choice of radiological modality is likely to be dependent on the trial setting, population and intervention in question. CT and magnetic resonance imaging, which have the ability to accurately discriminate tissue types, are likely to be more sensitive and provide greater detail. Endpoints are of particular importance when aligned with the intervention's mechanism of action and/or intended patient benefit.

Comprehensive Analysis of Nutrient Composition: Evaluating Vitamins, Essential Minerals, and Trace Metals in Neem (Azadirachta indica) Stem Bark Extract

The current study sought to investigate the nutrients in an aqueous extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica) stem bark. The bioactive chemical contents of Neem stem bark were isolated, separated, and studied to determine the presence of vitamins, vital minerals, and trace metals. A fresh Neem sample was collected and the sample was ground into powdered form and prepared via extraction using various solvents (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol), and the chemical constituents were separated using the GC/MS technique. The Neem stem sample was later digested with nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide in the ratio 4:1 (acid ratio). The trace metals and important minerals in digested Neem samples were determined using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS), while Na+ and K+ were determined using a flame photometer. The results revealed that calcium is the most prevalent mineral in Neem stem bark, followed by potassium and sodium, but copper, magnesium, iron, zinc, and other minerals are present in trace amounts, while cadmium and lead are virtually missing. Furthermore, according to the results of the vitamin studies, the most abundant vitamins in Neem stem bark are vitamin B3 and vitamin C, but vitamins A, B1, B6, and B12 are present in trace amounts.

Attaining superhydrophobic and superoleophilic bronze surface by picosecond laser texturing and post-heat treatment

As a bearing material, bronze has high strength and hardness but is poor in anti-adhesion property. In this study, we propose a method to prepare a superhydrophobic and superoleophilic bronze surface by combining laser surface texturing and post-heat treatment. A picosecond laser was employed to produce pore arrays with varying spacings and depths on the bronze surface, which exhibited micro-nano hierarchical structures. A further post-heat treatment of the laser-textured sample at 150 °C in the ambient led to the formation of a superhydrophobic surface with a maximum water contact angle of 158° and with superoleophilicity. It was found that pore spacings played a significant role in forming the surface hierarchical structures, which were covered with the laser-ablated micro-nano particles. The pore depth, however, showed little influence on the surface wettability. Analysis of the surface chemical compositions by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) indicates that the C element mainly exists in the form of the C–C(H) group, which reduces the surface energy and leads to superhydrophobicity. It was also verified that the wettability transition of the bronze surface before and after heating was independent of the oxide transition. Rubbing tests were conducted to evaluate the durability of the surface hierarchical structure. Anti-icing and self-cleaning functions were demonstrated showing the potential of the developed method for preparing a superhydrophobic and superoleophilic surface.

Analysis of nutritional composition in opaque2- and crtRB1-based single- and double-biofortified super sweet corn.

Sweet corn has emerged as a favorite food item worldwide owing to its kernel sweetness. However, traditional sweet corn cultivars are poor in provitamin-A (proA) and essential amino acids, viz., lysine and tryptophan. So far, no sweet corn hybrid with high nutritional qualities has been commercialized elsewhere. Here, we analyzed accumulation of provitamin-A (proA), lysine, and tryptophan in a set of mutant versions of (i) crtRB1-, (ii) o2-, and (iii) crtRB1 + o2-based sweet corn inbreds and hybrids with (iv) traditional sweet corn (wild-type: O2 + CrtRB1). The crtRB1- and crtRB1 + o2-based genotypes possessed significantly higher proA (17.31ppm) over traditional sweet corn (2.83ppm), while o2- and crtRB1 + o2-based genotypes possessed significantly higher lysine (0.345%) and tryptophan (0.080%) over traditional sweet corn (lysine 0.169%, tryptophan 0.036%). Late sowing favored high kernel lysine, proA, and green cob yield among hybrids. Sweetness (17.87%) among the improved inbreds and hybrids was comparable to the original sweetcorn genotypes (17.84%). Among the four genotypic classes, crtRB1 + o2-based improved genotypes showed stronger association among traits over genotypes with o2 and crtRB1 genes alone. Significant association was observed among (i) proA and BC (r = 0.99), (ii) proA and BCX (r = 0.93), (iii) lysine and tryptophan (r = 0.99), and (iv) green cob yield with fodder yield (r = 0.73) in sweet corn hybrids. The study demonstrated that combining crtRB1 and o2 genes did not pose any negative impact on nutritional, yield, and agronomic performance. Sweet corn with crtRB1 + o2 assumes significance for alleviating malnutrition through sustainable and cost-effective approach.

Influence of antioxidants from pequi leaves on the thermal and oxidative stability of biodiesel

AbstractIn this study, the efficacy of antioxidants found in pequi leaves was examined for safeguarding pequi biodiesel (EBP) against oxidation. The results reveal notable achievements. The antioxidant activity of AFP (a pequi leaf antioxidant additive) was assessed at various concentrations, demonstrating that as the concentration of AFP increases, the inhibition percentage significantly rises, reaching a remarkable inhibition of 99.12% at 100 mg L−1, with a calculated IC50 of 25.4 mg L−1. Additionally, the analysis of the AFP composition revealed the presence of terpenes and oxygenated compounds, which are well known for their antioxidant properties. Furthermore, the research emphasized the significance of thermogravimetric analysis in evaluating the thermal stability of additives, identifying critical temperatures at which AFP begins to protect biodiesel against oxidation (247.18°C) and the point at which its effectiveness may diminish (469.19°C). The EBP met quality standards regarding acidity, water content and density, but exhibited slightly lower oxidative stability compared with established standards. The correlation between the thermal degradation of biodiesel and the induction period highlighted the efficacy of AFP in mitigating thermal degradation. Nevertheless, it also indicated that maintaining biodiesel quality requires complementary approaches to minimize degradation over time.

Effect of the Bacillus subtilis BS20 on physiological and immune parameters in mutant mice Muc2–/–

Introduction. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a common pathology that cannot be completely cured and requires lifelong therapy. One of the promising and sparing therapeutic strategies is the use of probiotics. Unlike Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which represent the basis of most classical probiotics, Bacillus spp. are spore-forming bacteria that contributes to their resistance to the acidic environment of the stomach. It has been shown that the bacteria Bacillus spp. is an effective therapeutic drug for the relief of intestinal diseases with signs of inflammation and bacterial origin. Since the main factors causing IBD are dysbiosis and inflammation, and strains of Bacillus spp. as probiotics can be potential modulators of immunity and influence the intestinal microbiome, it is necessary to search for new strains of probiotic bacteria, including representatives of Bacillus spp., which have an effect on immunity and physiological indicators in experimental models of IBD. The aim of the scientific research — to study the effect of Bacillus subtilis BS20 spores on the physiological and immune parameters of the mutant mouse line Muc2–/–. Research objectives: Investigate survival of Muc2–/– mice, weight, immune parameters (cytokines and immune cells) and amino acid composition of muscles. Materials and methods. Muc2–/– females were fed spores of Bacillus subtilis BS20 in the amount of 109 CFU for 2 months. Analysis of the amino acid composition of the femoral muscle was performed by capillary electrophoresis. The concentration of cytokines in the supernatant was measured using the Magnetic Luminex assay kit. Determination of the number of lymphocytes was performed by flow cytometry. Results. The addition of Bacillus subtilis BS20 to the diet of mice reduced mortality and body weight loss in Muc2–/– females. We found a decrease in interleukin-6 and an increase in interleukin-17 in the descending colon and an increase in B and T helper lymphocytes in the spleen. Conclusion. B. subtilis BS20 improves the general condition of Muc2–/– mutant mice, has an anti-inflammatory and immunostimulating effect, reducing the level of the cytokine interleukin-6 and increasing the percentage of B cells and T helper cells in the spleen.

Potentially functional lactose-free ice cream with Lacticaseibacillus casei CSL3, ginger, and honey.

To develop and characterize a functional lactose-free ice cream with added ginger and honey, evaluate the survival of Lacticaseibacillus casei CSL3 under frozen storage and the simulated gastrointestinal tract (GIT), as well as antioxidant activity and product acceptability. The survival of Lacticaseibacillus casei CSL3 was evaluated for 180 days, under frozen storage, and GIT at 60 days. At 15 days of storage, proximal composition, antioxidant activity, color, pH, acidity, fusion, density, overrun, and sensory analysis were performed. Ice cream was an effective food matrix for maintaining the viability of CSL3, with concentrations > 7 log CFU g- 1 during storage and GIT. In addition, the analysis showed overrun and prebiotic characteristics through high values of antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds, good acceptability, and purchase intention. The product has satisfactory market potential (acceptance rate of 95.19% and purchase intention rate > 96%), and it could become another means of inserting probiotics in food.

Boosting Supercapacitor Efficiency with Amorphous Biomass-Derived C@TiO2 Composites.

Carbon materials are readily available and are essential in energy storage. One of the routes used to enhance their surface area and activity is the decoration of carbons with semiconductors, such as amorphous TiO2, for application in energy storage devices. This work reports the preparation of amorphous TiO2 nanopowders, which were obtained through the anodization of titanium in ethaline media. The obtained amorphous TiO2 was used to obtain TiO2-decorated carbon (obtained through the carbonization of glycogen precursor from mussel cooking wastewater, under N2 atmosphere) composites through three different methods: electrochemical in-situ attachment of TiO2 nanopowders to the carbon matrix using ultrasounds and sonication in ethaline. Commercial TiO2 was used as the comparison material. Morphology, composition, and structure analysis were performed, followed by the electrochemical analysis in ethaline electrolyte. The in-situ attachment of amorphous TiO2 to the carbon matrix shows the most promising electrochemical performance of 956 F g-1 at 1 A g-1 for the three-electrode cell setup, with 100% and 98% capacitance retention after 1000 and 10000 cycles. On a two-electrode symmetric solid-state electrolyte cell, the gravimetric capacitance is 1251 F g-1, at 1 A g-1, with 90% and 78% capacitance retention after 1000 and 10000 cycles, respectively.

Gut microbiota, blood metabolites, and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in US Hispanics/Latinos

BackgroundLeft ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) is an important precursor of heart failure (HF), but little is known about its relationship with gut dysbiosis and microbial-related metabolites. By leveraging the multi-omics data from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL), a study with population at high burden of LVDD, we aimed to characterize gut microbiota associated with LVDD and identify metabolite signatures of gut dysbiosis and incident LVDD.ResultsWe included up to 1996 Hispanic/Latino adults (mean age: 59.4 years; 67.1% female) with comprehensive echocardiography assessments, gut microbiome, and blood metabolome data. LVDD was defined through a composite criterion involving tissue Doppler assessment and left atrial volume index measurements. Among 1996 participants, 916 (45.9%) had prevalent LVDD, and 212 out of 594 participants without LVDD at baseline developed incident LVDD over a median 4.3 years of follow-up. Using multivariable-adjusted analysis of compositions of microbiomes (ANCOM-II) method, we identified 7 out of 512 dominant gut bacterial species (prevalence > 20%) associated with prevalent LVDD (FDR-q < 0.1), with inverse associations being found for Intestinimonas_massiliensis, Clostridium_phoceensis, and Bacteroide_coprocola and positive associations for Gardnerella_vaginali, Acidaminococcus_fermentans, Pseudomonas_aeruginosa, and Necropsobacter_massiliensis. Using multivariable adjusted linear regression, 220 out of 669 circulating metabolites with detection rate > 75% were associated with the identified LVDD-related bacterial species (FDR-q < 0.1), with the majority being linked to Intestinimonas_massiliensis, Clostridium_phoceensis, and Acidaminococcus_fermentans. Furthermore, 46 of these bacteria-associated metabolites, mostly glycerophospholipids, secondary bile acids, and amino acids, were associated with prevalent LVDD (FDR-q < 0.1), 21 of which were associated with incident LVDD (relative risk ranging from 0.81 [p = 0.001, for guanidinoacetate] to 1.25 [p = 9 × 10−5, for 1-stearoyl-2-arachidonoyl-GPE (18:0/20:4)]). The inclusion of these 21 bacterial-related metabolites significantly improved the prediction of incident LVDD compared with a traditional risk factor model (the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] = 0.73 vs 0.70, p = 0.001). Metabolite-based proxy association analyses revealed the inverse associations of Intestinimonas_massilliensis and Clostridium_phoceensis and the positive association of Acidaminococcus_fermentans with incident LVDD.ConclusionIn this study of US Hispanics/Latinos, we identified multiple gut bacteria and related metabolites linked to LVDD, suggesting their potential roles in this preclinical HF entity.E59jTaJp--U2oUtePgjZu8Video

Prevalence and associated factors of locomotive syndrome in young Japanese adults: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe onset of locomotive syndrome (LS) precedes that of frailty. Therefore, the first step in extending healthy life expectancy is to implement measures against LS in young adults. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of LS and its associated factors in young adults for early detection and prevention of LS.MethodsThe participants of this study comprised 413 university students specializing in health sciences (192 males and 221 females) with an average age of 19.1 ± 1.2 years. All participants voluntarily participated in the study and reported no serious health problems. The presence or absence of LS was evaluated using the stand-up test, two-step test, and the 25-question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale. Additionally, musculoskeletal assessment (one-leg standing, squatting, shoulder elevation, and standing forward bend), body composition analysis (weight, body mass index, body fat mass, body fat percentage, skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), and phase angle), handgrip strength test, physical activity assessment, and nutritional assessment were conducted. Sex-stratified analyses were performed, comparing groups with and without LS. Factors associated with LS were explored using binomial logistic regression.ResultsOf the 413 young adults studied, 86 individuals (20.8%) were found to have LS. When stratified by sex, LS was observed to have a considerably higher prevalence in females (55, 24.9%) than in males (31, 16.1%). In males, the notable differences between the groups with and without LS were observed in one-leg standing and phase angle, whereas in females, differences were identified in body fat mass, body fat percentage, SMI, musculoskeletal pain, and handgrip strength. Two types of binomial logistic regression analysis revealed that the inability to perform one-leg standing was associated with LS in males, while the presence of musculoskeletal pain and a high body fat percentage were identified as factors associated with LS in females.ConclusionsOne in five young adults were found to have LS in this study, underscoring the necessity for early intervention and LS health education. Furthermore, effective management of musculoskeletal pain is also crucial.

Geomorphology of craters located at Mercury’s north pole

Geomorphology of craters located at Mercury’s north pole

Thermal, Mechanical Properties and Finite Element Analysis of Polypropylene Hybrid Composites from Nonmetallic Fractions of Waste Printed Circuit Boards (WPCBs) and Shellfish Waste

Thermal, Mechanical Properties and Finite Element Analysis of Polypropylene Hybrid Composites from Nonmetallic Fractions of Waste Printed Circuit Boards (WPCBs) and Shellfish Waste

Development and Formulation of Millet based Nutri-Bar

Whole grains like millet and rice are rich in nutrients and fiber, making them an excellent ingredient for developing a nutritious snack bar. The nutri bar was formulated using popped pearl millet and black rice flakes as primary ingredient. Three samples (F1, F2 and F3) with different composition are prepared. The proximate composition, chemical and sensory analysis was determined for all the samples. Sensory evaluation was conducted using a nine-point hedonic scale to assess the bar's taste, colour, texture, and overall acceptability. Results showed that the sample F3 has rich content of 12.8 gm of protein, 77.6 gm of carbohydrate, 366 Kcal of calories, 9.4 gm of dietary fiber were recorded per 100 grams of sample. Hence sample F3 is considered as the perfect formulation as it scored 8.5/9 in hedonic scale. Keywords: popped pearl millet, black rice flakes, sensory, nutrition, snack bar.

Improved structure and enhanced properties of detonation sprayed W coating via hot isostatic pressing

Tungsten has garnered significant attention for its superior performance as a plasma-facing material in tokamak devices. However, its hardness and high ductile-to-brittle transition temperature present challenges for its application in plasma-facing components. To address these issues, this study employs the detonation spraying (DS) technique to prepare tungsten coatings on a TZM alloy substrate and further optimizes their properties through hot isostatic pressing (HIP) treatment. Advanced characterization techniques were utilized to conduct a detailed microstructural and compositional analysis of the coatings. The results indicated that the HIP treatment significantly reduced the porosity of the coatings, improving their density and overall quality. Additionally, HIP treatment led to a decrease in internal stress, a reduction in dislocations, and the grain growth within the coatings. The study also discussed how the HIP process improved the microstructure of the DS tungsten coatings through these mechanisms, thereby enhancing the coatings' thermodynamic properties. Mechanical property tests revealed that the coatings treated with HIP exhibited higher bonding strength and lower hardness, attributed to the increase in grain size and the reduction in dislocation density within the coatings. Thermal property tests demonstrated that the HIP-treated coatings possessed higher thermal diffusivity and specific heat capacity in the temperature range of 100 to 500 °C. Furthermore, the performance of the coatings under transient high heat flux conditions was significantly improved after the HIP treatment, showing better resistance to the thermal shock and cracking. These findings are of great importance for understanding the performance enhancement of DS tungsten coatings in nuclear fusion reactor applications via HIP, especially as candidate materials for the first wall of tokamak devices.

Effect of Step Load Based on Time under Tension in Hypoxia on the ACL Pre-Operative Rehabilitation and Hormone Levels: A Case Study

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of step load in hypoxia on the effectiveness of preoperative rehabilitation (PR) and hormone levels based on a case study. Introduction: We assessed the impact of variables such as rate of movement and time under tension (TUT) in normobaric hypoxia on the levels of growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and erythropoietin (EPO). Additionally, the impact of step load on the hypertrophy and strength of knee extensors and flexors was assessed. Methods: The work uses a case study, the research subject of which was a 23-year-old female professional handball player. The tests included an isokinetic assessment of the peak torque of knee extensors and flexors as well as body composition analysis. Results: The results showed a more than (10.81-fold) increase in GH after the microcycle with time under tension (TUT). The deficit between the lower limbs was also reduced. Conclusions: Using a hypoxic environment based on an appropriate altitude, combined with changes such as a short rest break between sets and a controlled tempo of movement with an eccentric phase, TUT may offer an alternative to the PR process, especially among athletes who care about fast RTS.

Evaluation of Change in Body Composition, including Phase Angle, in Post-Myocardial Infarction Patients Rehabilitated under the KOS-Zawał (MC-AMI) Programme

Background: Ischaemic heart disease, including myocardial infarction, is one of the main causes leading to heart failure as a consequence of ischaemic myocardial damage. In recent years, survival in the acute phase of myocardial infarction has improved significantly, but the high mortality rate within 12 months of hospital discharge (reaching up to 9.8% in Poland) remains a challenge. Therefore, the KOS-Zawał (MC-AMI) comprehensive 12-month post-MI care programme was introduced in Poland in 2017. Aim: This study aimed to assess body composition (including, but not limited to, the phase angle, visceral fat, total body fat, redistribution between intracellular and extracellular fluid in the body, and metabolic age) using a bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) in post-MI patients before and after early post-MI rehabilitation who were participating in the KOS-Zawał (MC-AMI) programme. Methods: This study involved an examination (before rehabilitation) of 94 post-myocardial infarction patients who were referred to a cardiology appointment within 7–10 days of hospital discharge, during which a clinical assessment, electrocardiogram, and biochemical blood tests (complete blood count, CRP, and serum creatinine) were performed. For various reasons (death, qualification for device implantation, non-completion of rehabilitation, failure to attend a follow-up BIA), data from 55 patients who were examined twice (before and after rehabilitation) were used for the final analysis. Measurements were taken using a high-grade Tanita MC-780 BIA body composition analyser, which measured the resistance of tissues to a low-intensity electrical impulse (not perceptible to the subject). Results: Participation in rehabilitation as part of the KOS-Zawał (MC-AMI) programme was associated with a decrease in metabolic age in patients, with a reduction in visceral fat levels and levels of adipose tissue in the lower and upper limbs. Moreover, a clinically beneficial reduction in the ratio of extracellular water to total body water was also observed. These changes were statistically significant (p &lt; 0.005). In contrast, there were no statistically significant differences in the change in phase angle values in the subjects before and after the 5-week post-infarction rehabilitation. Conclusions: Participation in early post-myocardial infarction rehabilitation as part of the KOS-Zawał (MC-AMI) programme (25 training sessions) is associated with significant improvements in body composition parameters, such as visceral adipose tissue, limb fat, and water redistribution, and, consequently, a reduction in metabolic age, despite no significant increase in phase angle values. It was hypothesised that the good baseline condition of the subjects might explain the lack of significant change in the phase angle over the short observation period. For further analysis, it would be worthwhile to increase the number of patients with baseline reduced phase angle values and monitor changes in this parameter throughout rehabilitation and the entire MC-AMI programme, because changes in the phase angle may also be influenced by other programme components such as dietary or psychological education. It is worth considering implementing a regular BIA assessment in patients in the programme as a motivating stimulus for diligent exercise and extending rehabilitation to be followed by telerehabilitation or hybrid telerehabilitation.

Varicose vein treatment reduces edema not only in the treated legs but also in the entire body.

We explored the connection between varicose vein and edema, by investigating extracellular water ratio (E/T) using bioelectrical impedance analysis. In a prospective cohort study 120 patients underwent varicose vein surgery with extracellular fluid to total body water ratio (E/T) and E/T postop divided by E/Tpreop (E/T ratio) measured using a body composition analyzer. Edema was defined as E/T ≥0.390. Seventy-nine patients received unilateral treatment, while 41 underwent bilateral. p < .05 is statistically significant. Preoperatively, patients exhibited edema (E/T) in the treated leg (0.394 ± 0.009), untreated leg (0.392 ± 0.009), trunk (0.390 ± 0.007), and whole body (0.391 ± 0.007). Postoperatively, E/T decreased across body (p < .05). The lowest E/T ratio was observed in the treated leg (0.991 ± 0.012), followed by the untreated leg (0.994 ± 0.012), the trunk (0.995 ± 0.009), and the whole body (0.994 ± 0.009). E/T ratio of bilateral group were lower than unilateral group (p < .05). Varicose vein contributes to generalized edema, and treatment alleviates edema in the treated leg and the entire body.

Nutritional value of meat from selected neotropical reptiles

This is the second part of a two-part review. The first part focused on the nutritive value of meat and meat products of selected neo-tropical mammals with the potential for domestication. The objective of this current review was to investigate the nutritional qualities and carcass traits of selected neotropical reptiles compared to domestic species, focusing on the spectacled caiman, iguana, tegu, and yellow anaconda. Carcass weight analysis revealed that the spectacled caiman and male iguana were efficient converters of live weight to edible carcass weight, with higher yields than other reptiles. Among domestic species, pigs and chickens showed higher carcass yields compared to cattle and lamb. Moisture content in reptile meat was generally higher than in domestic animals, impacting texture and juiciness. Protein content was lower in reptiles but still contributed to daily requirements, while fat content, though generally lower in reptiles, could impact flavor and tenderness. Cholesterol levels were lower in reptiles, particularly the yellow anaconda, making them potentially healthier options for those with cardiovascular concerns. Fatty acid composition analysis indicated varying levels of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, with potential cardiovascular health benefits in reptile meats. Amino acid content, though lower in reptiles compared to domestic species, provided essential building blocks for various physiological functions. Overall, the study highlighted the nutritional value and potential health benefits of including neotropical reptile meat in the human diet, especially as alternative protein sources.