Composition Analysis Research Articles

Analysis of strength and body composition in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease

Analysis of strength and body composition in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease

Body composition asymmetry between dominant and non-dominant arms in experienced overhead throwing sports athletes.

Overhead throwing can cause asymmetric physical characteristics induced by certain repeated asymmetric movements. Characterizing these physical properties could provide insights for health promotion, conditioning, and training planning. The status of asymmetric body composition and physical function in overhead throwing sports athletes remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate body composition asymmetries in experienced overhead throwing sports athletes. This study included 77 college students classified into three groups, overhead throw sports, non-overhead throw sports, and non-sports experience groups, based on past and current sports activities and years of experience. A body composition analyzer was used to measure body composition variables. The asymmetry in body composition variables between limbs was evaluated using the asymmetry index. Differences between groups were compared using one-way analysis of variance and post-hoc tests. The lean muscle mass asymmetry index of the arms in the overhead throw group was significantly higher than that in the other groups. The dominant arm lean muscle mass in the overhead throw group was significantly higher than that in the other groups. However, the non-dominant arm lean muscle mass in the overhead throw group was significantly higher than that in the non-sports experience group. Overhead throwing sports results in increased muscle mass in the dominant arm and produces asymmetry in muscle mass between the arms. This asymmetry may be induced by repeated and frequent asymmetrical motions. Our findings highlight the importance of characterizing the effect of sports activities on the athletes and may provide insights for conditioning regimens for them.

Phytochemical Analysis and Determination of Phytochemical Compositions of Various Extracts from the Twigs of Some Selected Plants Used as Chewing Sticks in Nigeria

Phytochemical Analysis and Determination of Phytochemical Compositions of Various Extracts from the Twigs of Some Selected Plants Used as Chewing Sticks in Nigeria

The influence of specific weather types on stroke occurrence: an analysis of 23,000 patients from Augsburg, Germany

ABSTRACT For the first time, the relationships between large-scale weather types and local stroke events in the urban area of Augsburg, Germany are analyzed. Over 23,000 stroke cases (2006 – 2020) were standardized to account for long-term trends and seasonality. Using ERA5 reanalysis data, a composite analysis identified stroke-related atmospheric variables, while seasonal weather types were classified via the neural network algorithm of self-organizing maps. Cyclonic westerlies during the cold season, which transport warm air masses from the Atlantic Ocean to Germany, were a major risk factor for ischemic stroke, while colder easterly conditions reduced stroke incidence. In the warm season, both anticyclonic conditions and westerly/northerly air advection, leading to slightly warmer or distinctly colder temperatures, were linked to increased ischemic stroke risk. Additionally, hemorrhagic strokes in the cold season were triggered by weather conditions contrary to those associated with ischemic strokes and transitory ischemic attacks.

Compositional analysis of Swertia chirayita medicinal plant using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy and ICP-MS

Compositional analysis of Swertia chirayita medicinal plant using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy and ICP-MS

Updated Static Influential Factor Analysis for Unidirectional Carbon-Based Composites

The orientation of carbon fibers significantly affects the dynamic properties of unidirectional carbon-based composites (UCBCs), with variations under different static loads. A previous study analyzed changes in the modal parameters of UCBC structures by using the static load influential factor (SLIF). This study introduces a revised SLIF, derived from a simplified formulation that accounts for shifts in resonance frequency and the in-phase relationship between static load and modal response. The revised SLIF is theoretically linked to the modal participation factor in UCBC structures. The dynamic behavior of UCBCs was studied across six modes—four bending and two torsional—using specimens with five carbon fiber orientations, from 0 to 90 degrees. The revised SLIF showed significant effects in two robust specimens, #1 and #2, and an isotropic SUS304 specimen subjected to uniaxial pre-static load, with resonance frequency variations under 0.16%. In contrast, the original SLIF gave negligible results in the fifth mode due to a damping term, which, when multiplied by the resonance frequency, led to an undetectable indicator. Therefore, the revised SLIF more effectively captures the static load’s impact on UCBC dynamic behavior compared with the original method.

Comparative Analysis of Chemical and Phase Compositions of Rolling Scale of Metallurgical Enterprises

Comparative Analysis of Chemical and Phase Compositions of Rolling Scale of Metallurgical Enterprises

Effect of konjac glucomannan on gut microbiota from hyperuricemia subjects in vitro: fermentation characteristics and inhibitory xanthine oxidase activity

BackgroundThe disorder of uric acid metabolism is closely associated with gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) dysregulation, but the biological mechanism is unclear, limiting the development of uric acid-lowering active polysaccharides. Konjac glucomannan (KGM) could attenuate metabolic disturbance of uric acid and modulate the gut microbiota. However, the relationship between uric acid metabolism and gut microbiota is still unknown.MethodsIn this study, The fecal samples were provided by healthy volunteers and hyperuricemia (HUA) patients. Fecal samples from healthy volunteers was regarded as the NOR group. Similarly, 10% HUA fecal suspension was named as the HUA group. Then, fecal supernatant was inoculated into a growth basal medium containing glucose or KGM, and healthy fecal samples were designated as the NOR-GLU and NOR-KGM groups, while HUA fecal samples were designated as the HUA-GLU and HUA-KGM groups. All samples were cultured in an anaerobic bag system. After fermentation for 24 h, the samples were collected for further analysis of composition of intestinal microbiota, SCFAs concentration and XOD enzyme activity.ResultsThe results showed that KGM could be utilized and degraded by the gut microbiota from HUA subjects, and it could modulate the composition and structure of their HUA gut microbiota to more closely resemble that of a healthy group. In addition, KGM showed a superior modulated effect on HUA gut microbiota by increasing Megasphaera, Faecalibacterium, Lachnoclostridium, Lachnospiraceae, Anaerostipes, and Ruminococcus levels and decreasing Butyricicoccus, Eisenbergiella, and Enterococcus levels. Furthermore, the fermentation solution of KGM showed an inhibitory effect on xanthine oxidase (XOD) enzyme activity, which might be due to metabolites such as SCFAs.ConclusionIn conclusion, the effect of KGM on hyperuricemia subjects was investigated based on the gut microbiota in vitro. In the present study. It was found that KGM could be metabolized into SCFAs by HUA gut microbiota. Furthermore, KGM could modulate the structure of HUA gut microbiota. At the genus level, KGM could decrease the relative abundances of Butyricicoccus, Eisenbergiella, and Enterococcus, while Lachnoclostridium and Lachnospiraceae in HUA gut microbiota were significantly increased by the addition of KGM. The metabolites of gut microbiota, such as SCFAs, might be responsible for the inhibition of XOD activity. Thus, KGM exhibited a superior probiotic function on the HUA gut microbiota, which is expected as a promising candidate for remodeling the HUA gut microbiota.

Induced lactation in a transgender woman: case report

BackgroundBreastfeeding offers significant health benefits, but its practice and success can vary. While research on induced lactation in cisgender women has been documented, there is limited research on lactation induction in transgender women.Case presentationA 50-year-old transgender woman undergoing hormone therapy and living with a pregnant partner sought to co-feed using induced lactation. After approval by the hospital ethics committee, a regimen of estradiol, progesterone, and domperidone was initiated, accompanied by nipple stimulation. Lactation was successfully induced and maintained, with milk composition analysis indicating high levels of protein and other key nutrients. This case, the seventh reported, highlights the complexity of lactation induction in transgender women, considering factors such as age, obesity, and insulin resistance. The nutrient profile of the milk suggests its suitability for infant feeding, despite some differences from typical human milk.ConclusionsInduced lactation is feasible in transgender women, expanding the understanding of non-puerperal lactation and its potential in diverse family structures. Further research is warranted to optimize lactation induction protocols in transgender women.

Enhanced Removal of Refractory Organic Compounds from Coking Wastewater Using Polyaluminum Chloride with Coagulant Aids

This study explores the enhanced removal of refractory organic compounds from coking wastewater using polyaluminum chloride (PACl) with two different basicity levels (0.5 and 2.5), in combination with coagulant aids such as cationic polyacrylamide (CPAM) and iron ions. The results demonstrated that both PACl formulations significantly outperformed commercial PACl in terms of COD and color removal, with PACl at the basicity of 2.5 achieving slightly higher efficiency than PACl at the basicity of 0.5. The improved performance was attributed to the higher content of polymeric aluminum species, enhancing charge neutralization and bridging adsorption. The addition of coagulant aids further improved the performance, with PACl at the basicity of 2.5 combined with iron ions achieving the highest COD (48.41%) and color removal (80.77%), due to sweep coagulation and complexation. Organic composition analysis using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), three-dimensional excitation–emission matrix (3D-EEM) fluorescence spectroscopy, and ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy indicated that PACl combined with iron ions was the most effective in removing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and nitrogen-, oxygen-, and sulfur-containing heterocyclic compounds. Additionally, a floc analysis showed that the flocs formed with iron ions were more compact and had better settleability compared to those formed with CPAM, further contributing to the improved coagulation efficiency. These results highlight the importance of optimizing the PACl basicity and coagulant aid selection for the enhanced removal of refractory organic compounds from coking wastewater, offering a promising strategy for advanced wastewater treatment.

Integrated Machine Learning/FT-IR Framework for Efficient Solvent Composition Analysis in Carbon Capture

Integrated Machine Learning/FT-IR Framework for Efficient Solvent Composition Analysis in Carbon Capture

Comparative Studies of Some Biochemical and Toxicological Investigations of Chromolaena odorata and Ipomoea involucrata from Lagos Suburb in Nigeria

The search for plants and plants products of medicinal potentials cannot be underestimated. Hence this study sought to investigate some parameters of medicinal importance.The phytochemical constituents, proximate and mineral composition, anti-nutrient contents, and acute toxicity of Chromolaena odorata and Ipomoea involucrata were analyzed using standard analytical methods. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of reducing sugars, flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids in both plants. Notably, Ipomoea involucrate exhibited higher saponin levels, suggesting potential unique medicinal properties. Proximate and mineral composition analysis indicated that both plants have low moisture content, which helps in preserving the active compounds by minimizing chemical degradation. Additionally, the plants were found to be rich in crude fiber, protein, and nutritionally valuable elements. Anti-nutrient assessments showed that Chromolaena odorata had the lowest cyanide (5.45mg/100 g) and phytate (0.23mg/100 g) levels, while Ipomoea involucrate had the lowest oxalate content (0.40 mg/100 g). Furthermore, no mortality was observed in tested animals following oral treatment with 2000 mg/kg body weight, indicating a high margin of safety. This study highlights that both Chromolaena odorata and Ipomoea involucrate possess beneficial phytochemical and nutritional profiles. The low moisture content in these plants contributes to the stability of their active compounds, enhancing their potential medicinal value. Ipomoea involucrata stands out for its higher saponin content, which may offer distinctive therapeutic benefits. The minimal presence of anti-nutrients andless lethal effectsfurther support their safety and efficacy as medicinal plants. The findings in this study however underscore the therapeutic potential of these plants and their suitability for use in drug development and their application in therapeutic products.

Coherent fading suppression of distributed acoustic sensing based on time–frequency domain linkage algorithm

Abstract Due to the inherent characteristic of coherent fading phenomenon, the performance of distributed acoustic sensing system will be severely degraded, producing anomalous information and positioning errors. In order to suppress the influence of this phenomenon, the data array of demodulated results is obtained after processing the collected distributed Rayleigh scattering signals along the sensing fiber, which can be utilized to construct a two-dimension (2D) image with the time–distance domain information. Thus, this allows us to remove the abnormal information that are introduced by fading noise. Based on this principle, a morphology compositional analysis (MCA) scheme, an effective time–frequency domain linkage algorithm, is applied to the constructed 2D images to enhance the sensing accuracy. Compared with traditional methods including the 2D mean value filter (MVF) and 2D wavelet transform (WT), the proposed method makes full use of the independence of image source property and abnormity feature so that the abnormal information caused by the coherent fading can be eliminated without deteriorating the source information along the sensing fiber. Experimental results show that the anomaly rate of the time–distance domain information along the sensing fiber for the proposed method, the MVF method and the WT method can be reduced by 92.43%, 65.05% and 70.18% respectively. In addition, the isolation degree of the MCA, MVF and WT methods are 41, 16.02 and 23.35 times higher than that treated by traditional method, respectively. Also, the stability of the time-domain vibration can be improved and the spatial resolution would not be influenced by the proposed method compared with the traditional method. This scheme will promote the development of distributed acoustic sensor system with high-accuracy and high-quality without any hardware modification.

Synergistic effects of sisal/glass fiber hybridization and eggshell powder filler on the performance of eco‐friendly polymer composites

AbstractIn recent years, there has been a significant emphasis on the development of composite materials that are both high‐performing and environmentally friendly. Hybrid polymer composites that are reinforced by both sisal and glass fibers are introduced in this study. Investigation was conducted to evaluate the combined influence of hybrid reinforcements and Egg Shell Powder (ESP) on the mechanical properties of the composites. The hand layup technique was employed to create hybrid laminates by incorporating variable amounts of ESP (0–15 wt%) and employing various stacking sequences. Various mechanical testing was administered to the composites that had been prepared. The results indicated that the glass/sisal hybrid laminates exhibited superior mechanical properties in comparison to the non‐hybrid sisal laminates, which was attributed to the synergistic benefits of incorporating both sisal and glass fibers. The incorporation of Egg Shell Powder significantly improved the material's mechanical properties. The glass/sisal hybrid laminates with 15% ESP laminate demonstrated the maximum tensile strength (195.23 MPa), flexural strength (150.02 MPa), and ILSS (7.55 MPa). Scanning electron microscopy enabled a comprehensive analysis of the hybrid composites' interfacial adhesion and microstructure. This investigation verified that the ESP was effectively dispersed and had a substantial effect on the interface between the matrix and the fibers. The hybrid composites that are generated are environmentally friendly and exhibit extraordinary potential for a variety of applications, offering a sustainable and high‐performing alternative to conventional synthetic composites. These discoveries promote the utilization of bio‐based resources in the composites industry and advance the development of sustainable materials.Highlights The glass/sisal hybrid laminates with 15% ESP laminate showed highest tensile strength of 195.23 MPa Hybrid composites exhibited superior mechanical properties. ESP addition significantly improved interfacial adhesion and strength Water absorption decreased with increasing ESP content up to 15% Development of Eco‐friendly composites suitable for automotive and aerospace applications

Composition, structural, and thermal analysis of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin of reconstituted cut stems in tobacco

In order to encourage effective recycling of tobacco resources in the industry and successfully enhance the quality of reconstituted cut stems (GS30). This study investigates the thermal, structural, and material composition of GS30. It was found that compared with high-quality tobacco leaves and cut stems, the contents of important macromolecules including cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin in GS30 were 21.74 ± 1.14 %, 3.66 ± 0.56 %, and 1.69 ± 0.46 % respectively. Its content is smaller than that of blank cut stems but similar to high-quality tobacco leaves. The important macromolecular structures were further analyzed for their surface morphology and crystal structure using FTIR, XRD, SAXS, and SEM. After analyzing the thermal cracking behavior of GS30 through PY-GC-MS, it was found that GS30 has four weight loss stages and thermal cracking releases near 30 types of aroma substances, showing obvious advantages in releasing aromatic gases. This demonstrates that the structure of GS30 obtained from secondary processing of discarded tobacco leaves is loose and easy to burn and decompose, which can effectively reduce the release of cigarette tar.

Rice plants treated with biochar derived from Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) optimize resource allocation towards seed production

The use of biofertilizers is becoming an economical and environmentally friendly alternative to promote sustainable agriculture. Biochar from microalgae/cyanobacteria can be applied to enhance the productivity of food crops through soil improvement, slow nutrient absorption and release, increased water uptake, and long-term mitigation of greenhouse gas sequestration. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the stimulatory effects of biochar produced from Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) biomass on the development and seed production of rice plants. Biochar was produced by slow pyrolysis at 300°C, and characterization was performed through microscopy, chemical, and structural composition analyses. Molecular and physiological analyses were performed in rice plants submitted to different biochar concentrations (0.02, 0.1, and 0.5 mg mL-1) to assess growth and productivity parameters. Morphological and physicochemical characterization revealed a heterogeneous morphology and the presence of several minerals (Na, K, P, Mg, Ca, S, Fe, and Si) in the biochar composition. Chemical modification of compounds post-pyrolysis and a highly porous structure with micropores were observed. Rice plants submitted to 0.5 mg mL-1 of biochar presented a decrease in root length, followed by an increase in root dry weight. The same concentration influenced seed production, with an increase of 44% in the number of seeds per plant, 17% in the percentage of full seeds per plant, 12% in the weight of 1,000 full seeds, 53% in the seed weight per plant, and 12% in grain area. Differential proteomic analyses in shoots and roots of rice plants submitted to 0.5 mg mL-1 of biochar for 20 days revealed a fine-tuning of resource allocation towards seed production. These results suggest that biochar derived from Arthrospira platensis biomass can stimulate rice seed production.

Qualitative analysis of rivers sand sources (silica sand, ravi river sand, indus river sand, and jhelum river sand) for metal casting: a comparative study

Abstract Recent geological investigations revealed extensive use of Silica sand in Pakistan resulting in depletion of tectonic resources. Hence, it is important to explore cost-effective and alternative sources of sand for its applications. Also, Pakistan has a river network that provides river sand as a potential substitute for Silica sand. However, it is essential to systematically study and assess the potential applicability of river sand as an alternative to Silica sand. In this context, this study examined sand samples collected from various rivers in Pakistan to investigate their suitability for metal-casting molds. For that purpose, random samples were selected from major rivers in Pakistan for characterization by utilizing chemical composition analysis, microscopy, XRD, TGA-DSC (thermogravimetric analysis), clay content analysis, grain size distribution analysis, pH measurement, green and dry compression strength testing, shear strength testing, permeability analysis, shatter index analysis, compactibility testing, and Specific gravity measurement. The chemical composition analysis revealed that all types of sands contained over 90% SiO2 content. The mechanical tests demonstrated that river sand exhibited acceptable mechanical properties, with a moisture content ranging from 4.5-5%. The pH value of all the sands exceeded 7, making them suitable for casting purposes. These investigations suggest that river sand can be effectively utilized in casting applications by implementing pre-processing techniques and incorporating additives.

Frequent Unrecognized Vertebral Fractures Associated with Increased Body Fat Mass in Children and Adolescents with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) have an increased risk of vertebral fractures (VFs). Ethnic variations may partly contribute to the fracture risk. This study aimed to demonstrate the VFs and body fat mass in Asian patients with DMD. Demographic data and DMD-related parameters of the enrolled patients were collected. Lateral thoracolumbar spine radiographs were performed for VF assessment. Genant classification was applied for VF severity grading (mild, moderate and severe). Body composition analysis using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was performed. Serum calcium, phosphate, intact parathyroid hormone and 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations were determined. There were 25 children and adolescents with DMD enrolled. Median (IQR) age was 12.9 (9.6, 19.3) years. Nine patients (36%) had VFs with a total of 31 sites of VFs (mild, N=10; moderate, N=3 and severe, N=18). These VFs had never been recognized prior to this study. Comparing with the non-VF group, the VF group received a significantly greater cumulative prednisolone equivalent dose (1,258 (948, 1,664) vs. 291 (17, 823) mg/kg, p=0.003). Body fat mass, represented by fat mass index and body fat percentage Z-scores was greater in the VF group [2.46 (2.21, 2.51) vs. 1.63 (0.36, 2.07), p=0.011 and 4.4 (3.1, 5.5) vs. 1.8 (0.6, 3.5), p=0.008, respectively]. No differences in serum calciotropic hormones and vitamin D status were demonstrated between patients with and without VFs. VFs were frequent in patients with DMD. Patients with VFs had greater cumulative glucocorticoid dose and body fat mass than those without VFs.

Scene Deconstruction and Plot Setting of a Silent Film

This study dissects Chaplin's method of conveying a story through visuals in his 1921 silent movie, 'The Kid,' emphasizing scene analysis and plot introduction. A detailed discussion of sequences allows the research to illustrate how Chaplin makes meaning, creates a narrative, and establishes emotion solely through visual motion without words. The study uses several theoretical approaches, including film semiotics, narrative theory, and visual composition analysis. This paper examines how Chaplin employs framing, editing, mise-en-scène, and physical comedy to construct a highly symbolic and emotionally rich picture. Special emphasis should be placed on how Chaplin uses both comic and dramatic scenes hand in hand, sometimes even in the same scenes. Key sequences analyzed include the opening scene, which efficiently introduces the main character and presents the setting; the separation scene, an emotionally charged sequence of a man being left by his wife; and the dream sequence, a fantastic sequence in which Chaplin breaks the laws of practical reality to develop character psychology and depth of themes. The paper also explores how Chaplin develops visual motifs and employs repeated actions to unify the narrative and chart the character's growth. Moreover, it discusses how the film's visual analysis and symbolism respond to early twentieth-century social concerns such as poverty and the position of children. As such, this research is pertinent to exploring the silent film narrative and its legacy through analyzing Chaplin's visual strategies. 'The Kid' illustrates that this was the pinnacle of the silent film genre and how complex narrative and character development can be conveyed without using words. Moreover, this research reveals Chaplin's creative processes. It contributes to understanding the potential of visual narrative in Cinema, proving the significance of the silent film language in developing film language.

Characterization of salt brine sulfated polysaccharides: immunomodulatory activity based on gut microbiota

A sulfated polysaccharide consisting of two components with molecular weights of 439 kDa and 16 kDa was extracted from the salt brine. The structural properties, immunomodulatory activity, in vitro fermentation behaviors, and effects of SP on regulating the gut microbiota were investigated. The chemical composition and monosaccharide composition analysis showed that the neutral sugar, protein, uronic acid, and sulfated group contents of SP were 60.42 ± 0.04%, 2.90 ± 0.01%, 13.34 ± 0.01% and 10.51 ± 0.01%, respectively, containing arabinose, galactose, glucose, rhamnose, xylose, mannose, and glucuronic acid in a molar ratio of 33.24:19.18:16.64:13.25:8.31:4.11:5.27. Results from the macrophage cell model showed that SP intervention improved the proliferation activity, phagocytosis of neutral red, and production of IL-6 and TNF-α in RAW 264.7. Furthermore, in vitro fermentation of SP by gut microbiota showed that SCFA production in all treatment groups was significantly higher than that of the blank control group after 48 h of fermentation, especially butyric acid which was 1.70 folds that of the control group. Moreover, long-term fermentation (48 h) of SP improved the diversity of microbiota, decreased the F/B ratio (30.75 at 0 h vs. 1.22 at 48 h), and promoted the growth of probiotics (Parabacteroides, Bacteroidetes, Ruminococcaceae, and Phascolarctobacterium). The positive regulatory effect of SP on the gut microbiota and its metabolites is considered a potential target for its immunomodulatory activity.Graphical abstract