X-ray Densitometer Research Articles

P-632 Characterization of body composition by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) of infertile women with history of repeated implantation failure

Abstract Study question Does body composition differ between fertile and infertile patients with history of repeated implantation failure (RIF)? A pilot study. Summary answer Compared to fertile, infertile women with history of RIF show differences in tissue distribution and bone mineralization (BM). What is known already It is known that being under/overweight or obese increases the risk of RIF or miscarriage probably due to the key role that adipose tissue exerts in reproduction. Body mass index (BMI) is the most used metric to define anthropometric characteristics; however, it represents a poor indicator of body composition leading to the risk of miscalculating the percentage of fat mass (FM) and underestimating the risk of reproductive failure. This study aims to analyze body composition of infertile patients by DXA, the gold standard for FM calculation and location, providing a 3-dimensional picture of body organ densities. Study design, size, duration This observational pilot study was conducted over 11 months. Sixty-six women were recruited and underwent all assessments. Participants/materials, setting, methods Out of 66 enrolled women, 16 were RIF (according to ESHRE 2023 criteria; here defined infertile women [IW] and aged 38.88±4.62 years), and 50 were women who already had at least one live birth (here defined fertile [FW] and aged 31.74±6.36 years), with varying weight ranges and BMI. The patients underwent an assessment of body composition by DXA Primus, X-ray densitometer; software v1.2.2, Osteosys Co., Ltd. Statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS v21.0. Main results and the role of chance From FM percentage (FM%) analysis, 50% of the IW were normal-weight (NW - BMI 18.5-25, FM%<30), 31.25% were NW-obese (NWO - BMI 18.5-25, FM%≥30), and 18.75% were Obese (BMI≥25, FM%≥30). Of the FW, 48% were NW, 32% NWO, and 20% obese. Based on the Shapiro-Wilk normality test, independent samples t-test analysis or Wilcoxon’s nonparametric tests were adopted. Differences in body composition emerged between the IW and FW groups. IW showed a significant increase in right leg lean (7.38±1.03 vs 6.77±1.13, p < 0.05) and in left total tissue (28.02±5.3 vs 18.94±9.19, p < 0.0001) compared with FW. In contrast, FW showed a significant increase in left trunk tissue (22.85±8.33 vs 14.17±7.03, p < 0.0001), and in left and right trunk BM (367.6±90.47 vs 306.66±69.67, p < 0.005 and 368.35±94.49 vs 313.73±76.98, p < 0.012) versus IW. Limitations, reasons for caution Given the pilot nature of the study, its small sample size may influence the outcomes. Moreover, individual variations beyond dietary factors could contribute to the difference, including age. Additionally, our findings should be confirmed in a broader population. Wider implications of the findings The significant differences observed in IW compared to FW regarding body composition, especially concerning the tissue distribution and BM, encourage further investigations, particularly exploring possible hormonal, metabolic, and genetic correlations, to better understand the distinctive characteristics of this group. Trial registration number ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01890070.

Density profile and NIRs spectra of boron-densified wood at different compression ratios

The present study investigates the effect of pre-treatment and compression ratio (CR) on the enhancement of density in three wood species, specifically nyatoh (Palaquium spp.), pisang putih (Mezzettia spp.) and sepetir (Sindora spp.) cultivated in the North Kalimantan Province. The phenomenon occurred during those treatments was analyzed using X-ray Densitometer and Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRs). The wood was subjected to a pre-treatment process involving hot immersion within 2 and 5% of boron solutions at 80 °C for 3 hours. Subsequently, a densification process was performed using hot press machine at 30 kg/cm2 of pressure and 160 °C of temperature for 15 minutes with 20% and 40% CR from the initial thickness. The findings indicated a significant increase in density values for densified wood in comparison to untreated wood. The density values for nyatoh, pisang putih, and sepetir exhibited increases of approximately 31.73%, 36.52%, and 35.04%, respectively. The application of a higher CR leads to a more substantial enhancement in wood density, with an increase of approximately 23.08-25.53% and 30.13-47.01% at 20% and 40% of CR, respectively. The density distribution across the thickness exhibited an M-shape gradient, which convinced the surface densification occurred during the process. NIRs spectra absorbance revealed a prominent peak at wavelength 2178 nm for untreated wood, whereas no such peak was observed in the boron-densified wood. This phenomenon associated with the degradation of hemicellulose during the subsequent treatment applied.

Comparative analysis of body fat measurement using two bioelectric impedance devices and three household scales (with the function of determining body composition) with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry

Body composition assessment is often used in clinical practice to assess and monitor nutritional status. For example, body fat mass is a predictor of metabolic diseases, and for an athlete it is a criterion of performance. "Gold standard" - the method of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry - in contrast to bioelectrical impedance analysis, is difficult to apply in everyday clinical practice. Therefore, it becomes relevant to compare the consistency of measured body fat mass using densitometry and bioimpedanceometry. The aim of the study was to perform a comparative analysis of body fat mass estimated by bioimpedanceometry (two bioelectric impedance devices and three household scales with a function of determining body composition) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Material and methods. Sixteen healthy, physically active adults aged 25 [23; 26] years, male (n=7) and female (n=9), participated in the cross-sectional study. Body composition was assessed under standard conditions in the morning, after a 12-hour fast, using densitometry (Stratos Dr X-ray densitometer) and bioimpedanceometry [bioelectric impedance devices: Medass ABC-01, Diamant AIST (with manufacturer's predictive equations); household scales with a function of determining body composition: Tanita BC-718, Picooc Mini, Scarlett SC-216]. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistica 10 package (StatSoft, USA), and included Friedman's chi-criterion, Lin's correlation concordance coefficient, Bland-Altman method, Spearman's correlation coefficient, and Wilcoxon's criterion with Bonferroni correction for multiple studies. Results. None of the bioimpedanceometry devices studied showed a relationship (Bland- Altman coefficient >0.2) or consistency (Lin's correlation concordance coefficient <0.9) when compared to densitometry, although Spearman correlation was moderate for Tanita BC-718 (r=0.603, p<0.05), Diamant AIST (r=0.641, p<0.01) and Scarlett SC-216 (r=0.609, p<0.05), and notable for Medass ABC-01 (r=0.841, p<0.01) and Picooc Mini (r=0.718, p<0.01). Conclusion. This study found that no bioelectrical impedance device has consistency with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in assessing body fat mass. Since the accuracy of body fat mass measurement is critical in body composition diagnosis, the assessment results obtained by bioimpedanceometry should be interpreted with caution.

Оценка качественных признаков древесины в селекционных программах (краткий обзор современной литературы)

The literature review concerning wood quality traits measuring in forest tree breeding programs is given. Methods of wood density measuring by Pilodin and different types of Resistograph are shortly described. Comparison study to measure Scots pine wood density by Pilodin and Resistograph revealed that Resistograph provide more precise wood density data than Pilodin. Method of measuring of wood stiffness an important wood mechanical property using acoustic velocity data is characterized. There is relationship between distortion of lumber and grain angle of wood fibers. Grain angle, i.e. spiral grain, refers to the degree of helical deviation from longitudinal arrangement of wood fibers. It can be measured with a wedge grain angle gauge hammered into a stem of a standing tree. It is shown, that microfibril angle (MFA), referring to the deviation of cellulose microfibrils in the layer of the secondary cell wall from the long axis of cell, is the main determinant of the mechanical properties of wood. There is shortly described the system of instruments with linked software (SilviScan), the main components of this system are optical cell scanner (for measurement of fiber size), X-ray densitometer (density profile and others) and X-ray diffractometer (microstructure traits). A minor negative relationship between growth and wood quality traits is noted, so the index selection is recommended under realization of tree breeding program. Some examples of genomic selection in tree breeding programs for wood quality are given.

Regional, Site, and Tree Variations of Wood Density and Growth in Thuja occidentalis L. in the Quebec Forest

Thuja occidentalis L. wood is desirabl, e for wooden structures that require wood density uniformity. Wood density is a wood quality indicator related to numerous morphological, mechanical, physiological, and ecological properties. This study aimed to investigate the regional, site, and tree-to-tree variations of T. occidentalis wood density and growth components through the analysis of X-ray densitometer data. A total of 287 trees were randomly sampled from 11 sites in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue regions in Québec, Canada. The average ring density at breast height was 356 kg m−3, with a small difference between earlywood and latewood (167 kg m−3), indicating a relatively uniform wood. Ring density and width varied significantly between the Abitibi and the Témiscamingue regions, mainly in the juvenile wood. Trees from the Abitibi region showed higher ring density than those in the Témiscamingue region. In contrast, the ring width was higher in the Témiscamingue region. Site, tree, and cambial age significantly (p &lt; 0.001) affected wood density and growth components. However, the largest variation is due to the tree-to-tree variation, accounting for about 15%–31% of the total variation. Compared to ring widths, ring density components showed a considerably smaller tree-to-tree variation and higher variation (7.1%) with cambial age than ring widths (0.6%). Ring width correlated positively and significantly (p &lt; 0.001) with average temperature and annual precipitation, while ring density correlated negatively and significantly (p &lt; 0.001) with average temperature and annual precipitation.

Остеопороз у пацієнтів із хронічним панкреатитом – особливості діагностики

The purpose of the study was to determine the features of the development of osteoporotic bone changes in patients with fibrotic changes of the pancreas against the background of chronic pancreatitis. Materials and methods. 55 patients with chronic pancreatitis were examined. 30 examined were women, 25 were men. The average age of the patients was 47.3±3.5 years. To be included in the study, all patients were excluded from the presence of concomitant diseases. For female patients, preservation of menstrual function was a mandatory condition for inclusion in the study. The degree of fibrotic changes of the pancreas was established on the basis of conducting 2D shear wave elastometry with transcutaneous access by the shear wave method in the SWE mode. Determination of bone mineral density was carried out using a DEXXUM T X-ray densitometer by the method of dual-energy absorptiometry. Results and discussion. The severity of fibrotic changes in the pancreatic parenchyma also affected the prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia. Among patients with parenchyma density indicators corresponding to grade 3-4 of fibrotic changes, a decrease in bone mineral density was observed in 83% of examined patients, while among patients with grade 1-2 of such changes, osteoporosis and osteopenia were found in 34% (p = 0.003). In patients with fibrotic changes in the parenchyma of the pancreas, osteoporotic changes in the area of the lumbar vertebrae were noted in 55% of cases with reduced bone mineral density, an isolated decrease in the mineral density of the lumbar spine was diagnosed in 11 patients (28.2% of patients with a decrease in bone mineral density), 5 patients (12.8%) had a combination of a decrease in the mineral density of the spine with a decrease in the mineral density of the hip, the average T criterion of the vertebrae was -2.4±0.5, the average T criterion of the femoral neck was -2.6±0.36. In patients with fibrosis of the parenchyma of the pancreas of 1-2 stages bone mineral density decreased mainly to the level of osteopenia, with a combination of osteopenic changes in the lumbar spine and a decrease in hip mineral density. The average T criterion of vertebrae was -1.6±0.15, femoral neck -1.76±0.18 Conclusion. Patients with chronic pancreatitis are characterized by a high prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia. Patients with stages 3-4 of pancreatic fibrosis have a greater risk of developing this complication. The reduction of bone mineral density in patients with chronic pancreatitis is influenced not only by population risk factors, but also by the duration of pancreatitis. The severity of fibrotic changes in the pancreas affects the localization of changes in bone tissue

Особливості ведення остеопорозу у пацієнтів із хронічним панкреатитом

The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of zolendronic acid on bone mineral density in patients with osteoporosis and chronic pancreatitis Materials and methods. 32 patients (average age of 57.7 ± 2.8 years) with decreased bone mineral density and chronic pancreatitis took part in the study. All examined patients were in menopause with an average duration of 4.8 ± 2.5 years. The study included patients with chronic pancreatitis lasting at least 10 years and with preserved exocrine function of the pancreas according to the level of fecal pancreatic elastase. Inclusion criterion was the absence of other concomitant diseases. Bone mineral density was determined using a DEXXUM X-ray densitometer using dual-energy absorptiometrsy. Results and discussion. An isolated decrease in the mineral density of the lumbar spine was diagnosed in 28 patients. In 9 patients there was a combination of a decrease in the mineral density of the spine with a decrease in the mineral density of the femur. The average T criterion of the vertebrae was -2.19 ± 0.18. The average T criterion of the femoral neck was 6 ± 0.5. In order to preserve and restore the mineral density of bone tissue, these patients were recommended to reduce the factors contributing to the loss of bone mass, mainly by stopping the use of alcohol and smoking. The patients were recommended to exercise as much as possible under the supervision of a rehabilitator, especially exercises aimed at improving the mechanics of the spine. The patients received 5 mg of zolendronic acid intravenously as a single drip and took 1500 mg of calcium and 800 IU of vitamin D daily for a year. An isolated decrease in the mineral density of the lumbar spine was diagnosed in 18 patients, in 5 patients there was a combination of a decrease in the mineral density of the spine with a decrease in the mineral density of the femur, the average T criterion of the vertebrae was 1.2 ± 0.12 (р = 0.031), the average femoral neck was -0.8 ± 0.1 (р = 0.025). The level of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, gammaglutamyl transpeptidase, and amylase levels did not reveal any abnormalities. After the introduction of zolendronic acid, 5 patients experienced an increase in temperature to febrile indicators within 2-3 days. None of the patients showed signs of bone fractures during the observation period. Conclusion. Administration of zolendronic acid to patients with decreased bone mineral density on the background of chronic pancreatitis is safe and highly effective

Correlation between hardness and density profile of glue-laminated timber manufactured from viscoelastic-thermal compression modified Paraserianthes falcataria laminas

A fast-growing tree species, Paraserianthes falcataria, possessed low value in density. Therefore, it was subjected to a densification treatment, i.e., viscoelastic-thermal compression (VTC), to enhance its density and mechanical performance. The objective of this study was to investigate the correlation between the density profile and hardness of VTC-modified glue-laminated timber. The laminas underwent VTC, whereby five different pre-steaming durations were applied, ranging from 0-30 minutes prior to forming into glue-laminated timber panels. The panels were cut into pre-determined test pieces and subjected to density determination using an X-ray densitometer and hardness test in the tangential direction using the ball indentation method. The correlation analysis found that increasing density slightly enhanced the hardness of the tangential surface of the glue-laminated timber test pieces, whereby the Pearson’s correlation values, r were .074 (0 minutes, non-densified), .154 (0 minutes, densified), -.027 (10 minutes, densified), .088 (20 minutes, densified), and .225 (30 minutes, densified). Nevertheless, the associations were found to be statistically insignificant because the p-values were greater than 0.05, thus suggesting densification treatment did not enhance hardness.

VITAMIN D3 IN TREATMENT OF OSTEOPENIC SYNDROME IN CHILDREN WITH GROWTH DISORDERS

Background. The efficacy of vitamin D3 agents for impaired growth of children of different cause was studied in the research. A positive effect on bone mineralization and calcium-phosphorus metabolism was evidenced. The treatment and prophylaxis charts using this drug for osteopenic syndrome are developed for children with hypothalamic-pituitary dwarfism, subdwarfism and dwarfism of constitutional genesis. Objective. The aim of the research is to study the effect of calcimine and vitamin D3 in cases of impaired bone mineral density in children aged 6-18 years old with growth retardation of the hypothalamic-pituitary genesis, subdwarfism and dwarfism of constitutional origin. Methods. The study involved 25 children, aged 6-18 years old with growth retardation: hypothalamic-pituitary (10 children), subdwarfism (5 children) and dwarfism of constitutional origin (10 children). The control group consisted of 20 children. The structural and functional state of bone tissue was studied using a two-photon X-ray densitometer “Lunar”. In the study of calcium-phosphorus homeostasis, the level of calcium and the level of phosphorus in the blood serum were determined. Serum alkaline phosphatase levels were also studied as a marker for bone formation. Results. In the examined children, there was a significant calcium deficiency at the level of the vertebrae L1–L4. The calcium content in L1 was 72.8%, L2 – 75.7%, L3 – 81.2%, L4 – 80.1%, which significantly differed from bone density in healthy children of a similar age and body weight. It was also revealed that in children diagnosed with growth retardation of the pituitary genesis, bone rarefaction was diagnosed in 100% of cases, while with subdwarfism and dwarfism of constitutional genesis these indicators were 43% and 24%, respectively. Conclusions. A differentiated choice of vitamin D3 treatment, depending on the degree of osteopenia in children, allows adjusting the calcium metabolism and preventing osteoporosis in children with stunted growth. Vitamin D3 in the complex treatment of osteoporosis in children with growth impairment of different genesis normalizes calcium-phosphorus homeostasis, which increases bone mineral density and, therefore, reduces osteoporotic changes by stopping leaching of calcium from bones.

Оптимізація антиостеопоротичної терапії у пацієнток із фіброзом печінки

The purpose of the study: to investigate the effect of zolendronic acid on bone mineral density in patients with osteoporosis and fibrotic changes of the liver due to steatohepatitis. Materials and methods. We examined 28 female patients with a mean age of 55.3±4.7 years with decreased bone mineral density, nonalcoholic steatohepatosis and liver fibrosis. All studied patients were in menopause duration of 7.8±3.5 years. For inclusion in the study, all patients were excluded from the presence of comorbidities. The degree of liver fibrosis was determined on the basis of 2D shear wave elastometry by transcutaneous access by the method of shear wave in the SWE mode. The study included patients with liver fibrosis F1 - F3 on METAVIR. Determination of bone mineral density was performed using an X-ray densitometer DEXXUM T by dual energy absorption. Results and discussion. The initial level of liver tissue stiffness in the studied patients was 8.52±1.12 kPa, which corresponded to the stage of fibrosis F2 - F3 according to METAVIR. Isolated decrease in lumbar spine mineral density was diagnosed in 20 patients, 8 patients had a combination of decreased spinal mineral density with decreased femoral mineral density, mean T vertebral T-test was -2.25±0.2, mean femoral neck T-test was -1, 9±0.3. In order to maintain and restore bone mineral density, these patients were advised to minimize the factors that contribute to bone loss, mainly by stopping alcohol and smoking. Patients were advised to exercise as much as possible under the supervision of a rehabilitologist, especially to do exercises aimed at improving the mechanics of the spine. One year after administration of 5 mg zolendronic acid intravenously and daily intake of 1500 mg calcium and 800 IU vitamin D the level of liver tissue stiffness in the studied patients was 7.69±1.14 kPa, which corresponded to the stage of fibrosis F2 - F3 according to METAVIR and not due to a moderate decrease in indicators, there was no statistically significant difference. Isolated decrease in lumbar spine mineral density was diagnosed in 19 patients, in 9 patients there was a combination of decrease in spinal mineral density with decrease in femur mineral density, the average criterion of T vertebrae was 1.1±0.3 (p=0.032), the average criterion of T femoral neck -0.9±0.3 (p=0.029). The study of the level of alaline transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase did not reveal any abnormalities. After administration of zolendronic acid in 7 patients there was an increase in temperature to febrile levels within 2-3 days. None of the patients showed signs of bone fractures of any localization during the observation period. Conclusion. Thus, the administration of zolendronic acid to patients with decreased bone mineral density on the background of fibrous changes in liver tissue due to steatohepatitis is safe and highly effective

Визначення показників мінеральної щільності кісток у пацієнтів із фіброзними змінами паренхіми печінки

The purpose of the study was to determine the features of the development of osteoporotic changes in bones in patients with liver fibrosis against the background of non-alcoholic steatohepatosis. Materials and methods. 79 patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatosis and liver fibrosis were examined. 38 surveyed persons were women, 41 were men. The average age of the patients was 42.5±5.8 years. All patients were excluded from comorbidities for inclusion in the study. For female patients, it was imperative to maintain menstrual function. The degree of liver fibrosis was established based on 2D shear wave elastometry in SWE mode. The patients included to study have liver fibrosis F1 - F3 according to METAVIR. Determination of bone mineral density was performed using a DEXXUM T X-ray densitometer by dual energy absorptiometry. Results and discussion. In patients with fibrotic changes in the liver, a decrease in bone mineral density was found in 49.3%. Osteopenia and osteoporosis in women occurred in 47.4%, which was significantly more frequent than among men – 26.8%, p = 0.014. There was a significant relationship between the duration of the presence of steatohepatosis and the incidence of osteoporosis and osteopenia: among patients with a duration of steatohepatosis of less than 7 years, a decrease in bone mineral density was noted in 62.5% of cases, and with a duration of more than 7 years – already in 89.3% of patients (χ2 = 5.5; p = 0.011). Among patients with liver fibrosis F3 METAVIR, a decrease in bone mineral density was observed in 85.7%. Among patients with liver fibrosis F1-2 METAVIR, osteoporosis and osteopenia were found in 46% (p = 0.0008). In patients with METAVIR F3 fibrosis, osteoporotic changes were observed in 85.2% of cases. An isolated decrease in the mineral density of the lumbar spine was diagnosed in 12 (30.7% of patients with a decrease in bone mineral density). In 9 patients (23%), there was a combination of a decrease in mineral density of the spine with a decrease in mineral density of the hip, the mean T score of the vertebrae was -2.5±0.2, the mean T score of the femoral neck was 2.1±0.3. In patients with F1-F2 fibrosis METAVIR, bone mineral density decreased mainly to the level of osteopenia, isolated osteopenia of the lumbar spine was diagnosed in 18 (46%) patients, there was no decrease in hip mineral density in this group of patients, the mean criterion of T vertebrae was 1.5±0.15. Conclusion. Patients with steatohepatosis and hepatic fibrosis are characterized by a high prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia. The risk of developing this complication is higher in patients with fibrosis stages F3 METAVIR; the decrease in bone mineral density in patients with steatohepatosis and liver fibrosis is influenced not only by population risk factors, but also by the duration of the presence of steatohepatosis; the severity of liver fibrosis METAVIR affects the localization of changes in the bone tissue. In patients with degrees of fibrosis F1 - F2, trabecular bone tissue is affected, and in patients with degrees of fibrosis F3, trabecular and cortical bone tissue is equally affected

Mechanical properties of secondary quality beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) and oak (Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl.) obtained from thinning, and their relationship to structural parameters

• Key message This paper investigates the juvenility limit and structure–property relationship in secondary quality beech ( Fagus sylvatica L.) and oak ( Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl.). The juvenile wood occupies a very small area near the pith. The stabilization of the different parameters varies over time. Adding the microfibril angle (MFA) and the grain angle to the MOE prediction model significantly improves the quality of the model, despite little variation in both parameters. • Context Using secondary qualities and small logs of hardwoods such as beech and oak for engineered wood products is an increasingly important issue due to the technological challenges of processing smaller logs and denser woods. Secondary quality hardwoods are expected to have less variation in mechanical properties compared to softwoods with high juvenile wood content. • Aims The first objective of this study was to investigate the radial variation in wood properties of suppressed growth beech and oak trees obtained from thinning operations. The second objective was to develop a model to predict the mechanical properties of these hardwood species based on their structural parameters. • Methods The microfibril angle, ring wood density, and ring width from the pith to the bark were determined using an X-ray densitometer. The modulus of elasticity and modulus of rupture were evaluated on the small clear specimen using a three-point bending test. The wood density, grain angle, and microfibril angle of this small clear specimen were also measured. • Results The results show that the juvenile wood in oak has a wider ring and higher microfibril angle, whereas it has wider latewood and higher microfibril angle in beech. For both species, the juvenile wood occupies a very small area, less than 5 cm from the pith. The mechanical properties of oak and beech wood from suppressed growth trees are comparable to properties reported in the literature for dominant trees. The modulus of elasticity of oak was best predicted using wood density, grain angle, and microfibril angle. The modulus of rupture of oak is better predicted with wood density and grain angle, whereas it is best predicted with wood density alone for beech. • Conclusion Juvenile wood found in the suppressed growth trees of both hardwoods can be used in place of mature wood. It is important to take structural parameters into account when predicting the mechanical properties of hardwood species.

The Effect of Dietary Vitamin D3 Level on Bone Osteometry and Mechanical Properties in Young Rats

Recent knowledge indicates that vitamin D3 not only regulates the calcium-phosphate metabolism, but also as a hormone with steroidal features, has significant remedial-homeostatic ability and has a pleiotropic function in the body. Medical observations confirm the beneficial effect of elevated levels of vitamin D3 in the prevention or alleviation of the course of many diseases of the cancer and autoimmune basis, diabetes and coronary diseases. The deficiencies of this vitamin in children, adolescents and young women are observed, causing the rickets or bone fragility. As the increasingly limited role of obtaining vitamin D3 from the sun exposure, supplementation of food sources becomes particularly important. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of the increased dietary vitamin D3 level on health status using rats as the model animals. The experiment was carried out on 36 weaned rat Wistar, half female and male, 5–6 weeks old. Animals were divided into 3 groups. All rats obtained ad libitum the same feed mixture but differed in the vitamin D3 level (0, 1000 or 5000 IU/kg). Bone length and weight, cross-section area and wall thickness were measured, cortical index was calculated. The mechanical properties were determined using the 3-point bending test performed on a universal testing machine (Zwick Z010). The supports were placed at 40% of the total bone length and the measuring head loaded bone samples with a constant speed of 10 mm/min until fracture. The bone mineral density was determined using the dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) method on a DiscoveryWHologic X-ray densitometer. We observed that, the vitamin D3 presence in feed did not significantly affect the bone geometrical traits in young rats. The vitamin D3 supplementation, regardless its level, increased the bone mineral density by 8–12% (P<0.05) and some mechanical properties were improved (P<0.05) in comparison to group without vitamin D3 supplementation. Also, the femur bone of rats supplemented with vitamin D3 characterised by the higher share force (11–14%), work needed for destruction (24–55%), ultimate strain, ultimate stress (5–7%). The bone elastic strength was the highest in group III, receiving the vitamin D3 in amount excessing the standard requirement of rats. Summerizing it can be concluded, contrary to the assumptions, we did not confirmed the significant effect of increased vitamin D3 level in feed on MBD and most of the mechanical traits. However, the maximal elastic strenght was the highest in group receiving 5000 IU/kg of vitamin D3, which reflects the highest elastic strength of midshaft cortical bone under reversible deformation and the maximum stress which a bone can withstand before fracture, but the difference was not statistically confirmed.

Диагностированные нарушения минеральной плотности костной ткани и уровней кальциотропных гормонов у детей с ювенильным гипертиреозом

The development of the skeletal system occur during childhood. Thyroid hormones play an important role in the skeleton's maturation and maintenance of the structure and mass of bones. Juvenile hyperthyroidism affects bone metabolism. This study aimed to identify abnormalities in bone mineral density and the level of calciotropic hormones in juvenile hyperthyroidism to further improve the diagnosis of complications of juvenile hyperthyroidism. Materials and methods. The study was conducted by 21 health controls and 71 children and adolescents with juvenile hyperthyroidism. Anthropometric indicators were calculated using the WHO Anthro Plus personal computer software. Thyroid status and thyroid antibodies, osteocalcin, parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase were determined using a closed-type immunochemistry analyzer Cobas e 411 Hitachi company Hoffman Le Roche (Switzerland) and its reagents. Bone mineral density was evaluated by dual-energy absorptiometry on a Stratos X-ray densitometer from Diagnostic Medical Systems, France. Results. In juvenile hypertrichosis, in comparison with the control, significantly low values of vitamin D and calcium in the blood serum were noted, the mean values of osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase were substantially higher. There was no significant difference in the levels of parathyroid hormone and phosphorus in the blood serum in the compared groups. In 45.1% of patients, a decrease in bone mass was diagnosed compared to the age norm. A reliable direct correlation of vitamin D and calcium with bone density was revealed in all X-ray densitometry parameters and a reliable inverse correlation of osteocalcin, alkaline phosphatase and bone mineral density. Osteocalcin had a stronger inverse correlation with all dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry parameters and became a better biomarker than alkaline phosphatase. Conclusions. There is a decrease in bone mineral density in children with juvenile hyperthyroidism. Changes in the level of calciotropic hormones indicate a deranged bone metabolism. Serum osteocalcin can be used as a biomarker of bone metabolism in children with juvenile hyperthyroidism. It is recommended to assess the bones' condition during the initial examination of children with juvenile hyperthyroidism. The study was carried out following the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of the participating institution. The informed consent of the parents of the children was obtained for the research. The author declares no conflicts of interest. Key words: juvenile hyperthyroidism, children, adolescents, bone mineral density; dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, osteocalcin, vitamin D.

Climate has a larger effect than stand basal area on wood density in Pinus ponderosa var. scopulorum in the southwestern USA

Stand basal area of ponderosa pine ( Pinus ponderosa var. scopulorum Engelm.) in the US Southwest has little effect on the density of the wood produced, but climatic fluctuations have a strong effect. Wood density increases during drought, particularly if the drought occurs in late winter/early spring. Future droughts, as are predicted to increase in the US Southwest, may lead to production of smaller radial increments of higher density wood in ponderosa pine. Forest restoration treatments in the US Southwest are generating large quantities of small-diameter logs. Due to negative perceptions about ponderosa pine wood quality, this material is often seen as a “waste disposal” problem rather than a high-value resource. Our objective was to understand more about variation in southwestern US ponderosa pine wood density, an important indicator of wood quality. Specifically, we investigated the effect of stand basal area on wood density, and the effect of annual and quarterly climatic variation on wood density. We collected samples from 54 trees grown at six different basal area levels from a replicated stand density experiment. Pith-to-bark strips were used in an X-ray densitometer to obtain annual density and growth measurements from 1919 to the present. Stand density had a strong effect on growth rate, but little effect on wood density. However, climatic variation did influence wood density, which increased in drought years before quickly returning to pre-drought levels. Stand basal area is not a good indicator of wood density for foresters planning to utilize material from timber harvests in the southwestern USA. Future droughts, as are predicted to increase in the region, will likely reduce wood volume production but may increase wood density in ponderosa pine.

Phenotypic Correlations among Growth and Selected Wood Properties in White Spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) †

We examined phenotypic relationships among radial growth-related, physical (i.e., related to wood density), and anatomical (i.e., related to tracheid dimensions) wood properties in white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss), in order to determine the strength and significance of their correlations. Additionally, principal component analysis (PCA) was used to establish if all of the properties must be measured and to determine the key properties that can be used as proxies for the other variables. Radial growth-related and physical properties were measured with an X-ray densitometer, while anatomical properties were measured with a Fiber Quality Analyzer. Fifteen wood properties (tracheid length (TL) and diameter (TD), earlywood tracheid length (ETL) and diameter (ETD), latewood tracheid length (LTL) and diameter (LTD), ring width (RW), ring area (RA), earlywood width (EWW), latewood width (LWW), latewood proportion (LWP), ring density (RD), intra-ring density variation, earlywood density (EWD), and latewood density (LWD)) were assessed. Relationships were evaluated at intra-ring and inter-ring levels in the juvenile wood (JW) and mature wood (MW) zones. Except for a few cases when mature tracheid diameter (TD) was involved, all intra-ring anatomical properties were highly and significantly correlated. Radial growth properties were correlated, with stronger relationships in MW compared to JW. Physical properties were often positively and significantly correlated in both JW and MW. A higher earlywood density coupled with a lower latewood density favored wood uniformity, i.e., the homogeneity of ring density within a growth ring. Managing plantations to suppress trees growth during JW formation, and enhancing radial growth when MW formation starts will favor overall wood quality. In order, RW-EWW-RA, TL-ETL-LTL, and RD-EWD-LWP are the three clusters that appeared in the three wood zones, the whole pith-to-bark radial section, the juvenile wood zone, and the mature wood zone.

Intra-Ring Wood Density and Dynamic Modulus of Elasticity Profiles for Black Spruce and Jack Pine from X-Ray Densitometry and Ultrasonic Wave Velocity Measurement

Currently, ultrasonic measurement is a widely used nondestructive approach to determine wood elastic properties, including the dynamic modulus of elasticity (DMOE). DMOE is determined based on wood density and ultrasonic wave velocity measurement. The use of wood average density to estimate DMOE introduces significant imprecision: Density varies due to intra-tree and intra-ring differences and differing silvicultural treatments. To ensure accurate DMOE assessment, we developed a prototype device to measure ultrasonic wave velocity with the same resolution as that provided by the X-ray densitometer for measuring wood density. A nondestructive method based on X-ray densitometry and the developed prototype was applied to determine radial and intra-ring wood DMOE profiles. This method provides accurate information on wood mechanical properties and their sources of variation. High-order polynomials were used to model intra-ring wood density and DMOE profiles in black spruce and jack pine wood. The transition from earlywood to latewood was defined as the inflection point. High and highly significant correlations were obtained between predicted and measured wood density and DMOE. An examination of the correlations between wood radial growth, density, and DMOE revealed close correlations between density and DMOE in rings, earlywood, and latewood

SAT-533 Men with Hypogonadism and Osteoporosis Benefit from Long-Term Testosterone Therapy (TTh) with Testosterone Undecanoate Injections (TU) Regardless of Co-Medication with Bisphosphonates: 10-Year Data from a Controlled Registry Study in a Urological Setting

Background: Testosterone and its metabolite estradiol are essential factors in bone metabolism, and hypogonadism is an established risk factor for osteoporosis. Material and Methods: In a registry study of otherwise unselected men with hypogonadism in a urological office, 102 of 805 patients (13%) had osteoporosis diagnosed and treated elsewhere. 69 received TTh with TU 1000 mg/12 weeks (T-group). 33 had opted against TTh and served as controls (CTRL). BMD was measured at least once a year by using a whole body dual-energy X-ray densitometer (Norland XR-800). 10-year data are reported. Changes over time between groups were compared by mixed effects model for repeated measures with random effect for intercept and fixed effects for time, group and their interaction, and adjusted for age, weight, waist circumference, fasting glucose, blood pressure and lipids to account for baseline differences between groups. Results: Baseline age: 54.5±8.2 (T-group), 64.9±4.1 years (CTRL). Mean (median) follow-up was 7.5±2.3 (8) years in the T-group and 8.9±1.1 (9) years in CTRL. 36 (52%) in the T-group had Klinefelter’s syndrome (KS) which, in the majority of cases, was diagnosed secondary to the diagnosis of osteoporosis. 7 patients had primary hypogonadism other than KS, 6 had a history of alcohol abuse, 4 had Crohn’s disease, and 3 had had a kidney transplant. All patients were on Vitamin D-calcium supplements. 64 patients (93%) in the T-group and 23 (70%) in CTRL were on bisphosphonates at baseline. 11 patients (16%) in the T-group and 11 (33%) in CTRL discontinued bisphosphonates due to side effects. T-scores progressively improved from -3.39±0.56 to -1.19±0.03 after 10 years (T-group) and worsened from -3.01±0.3 to -3.83±0.53 in CTRL, adjusted difference between groups: 2.45 (p<0.0001 for all). At the last measurement, 64 patients (93%) in the T-group had osteopenia; only 5 with a maximum treatment duration of 42 months still had osteoporosis. In CTRL, no patient achieved osteopenia. There were 6 fractures in CTRL but none in the T-group. Adherence to TTh was 100 per cent as all injections were administered in the doctor’s office and documented. Conclusion: Long-term TTh with TU in an unselected cohort of hypogonadal men with osteoporosis resulted in sustained improvements in T-scores with a high proportion of resolution of osteoporosis which depended on duration of TTh. In untreated controls, T-scores worsened and fractures occurred. Bisphosphonate treatment did not result in any improvement of bone density in the untreated hypogonadal controls.

Influence of high voltage electrostatic field (HVEF) on bonding characteristics of Masson (Pinus massoniana Lamb.) veneer composites

For the first time, it was experimented with high voltage electrostatic field (HVEF) for the optimization of the bonding process of urea formaldehyde (UF) resin to wood. Varying HVEF treatment times (0–8 min) and intensities (5–20 kV) were applied. Wood surface characteristics, polymerization extent of UF, and bonding interphase of UF to wood were examined by electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy, dynamic contact angle goniometers, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray densitometer, fluorescence microscope and bonding strength measurement. The results indicated that HVEF treatments applied to wood veneer induced a decrease in contact angles and an increase in the free radicals of wood, and surface energy varied with treatment times and intensities. These varieties were because triggered free electrons, broken chemical bonds and new ions appeared on the wood surface with HVEF treatment. An aggregated performance was obviously obtained in micrographs and vertical density profiles (VPDs). It was explained that resin penetration into wood structure was significantly shallow, and resin concentration and density at bonding interphase were more enhanced than the control. This is due to the increment of surface energy and lower contact angles providing more chances for possible reactions of wood surface with the UF resin. Resin penetration depth and density varied with different treatment times and intensities. Increased cross-linking extent of UF was obtained under varied conditions of HVEF treatment. The bonding strength was measured as a function of treatment times and intensities respectively; it increased by 85% and the wood failure ratio significantly increased by 70% under HVEF treatment (20 kV, 8 min) due to the aggregation performance and more cross-linked UF resin. It was manifested that both treatment time and intensity play a significant role in HVEF treatment, and HVEF treatment has a significant influence on the characteristics of the wood surface and the bonding properties of wood composites.

Six-Week Endurance Exercise Alters Gut Metagenome That Is not Reflected in Systemic Metabolism in Over-weight Women.

Recent studies suggest that exercise alters the gut microbiome. We determined whether six-weeks endurance exercise, without changing diet, affected the gut metagenome and systemic metabolites of overweight women. Previously sedentary overweight women (n = 19) underwent a six-weeks endurance exercise intervention, but two were excluded due to antibiotic therapy. The gut microbiota composition and functions were analyzed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and metagenomics. Body composition was analyzed with DXA X-ray densitometer and serum metabolomics with NMR metabolomics. Total energy and energy-yielding nutrient intakes were analyzed from food records using Micro-Nutrica software. Serum clinical variables were determined with KONELAB instrument. Soluble Vascular Adhesion Protein 1 (VAP-1) was measured with ELISA and its' enzymatic activity as produced hydrogen peroxide. The exercise intervention was effective, as maximal power and maximum rate of oxygen consumption increased while android fat mass decreased. No changes in diet were observed. Metagenomic analysis revealed taxonomic shifts including an increase in Akkermansia and a decrease in Proteobacteria. These changes were independent of age, weight, fat % as well as energy and fiber intake. Training slightly increased Jaccard distance of genus level β-diversity. Training did not alter the enriched metagenomic pathways, which, according to Bray Curtis dissimilarity analysis, may have been due to that only half of the subjects' microbiomes responded considerably to exercise. Nevertheless, tranining decreased the abundance of several genes including those related to fructose and amino acid metabolism. These metagenomic changes, however, were not translated into major systemic metabolic changes as only two metabolites, phospholipids and cholesterol in large VLDL particles, decreased after exercise. Training also decreased the amine oxidase activity of pro-inflammatory VAP-1, whereas no changes in CRP were detected. All clinical blood variables were within normal range, yet exercise slightly increased glucose and decreased LDL and HDL. In conclusion, exercise training modified the gut microbiome without greatly affecting systemic metabolites or body composition. Based on our data and existing literature, we propose that especially Akkermansia and Proteobacteria are exercise-responsive taxa. Our results warrant the need for further studies in larger cohorts to determine whether exercise types other than endurance exercise also modify the gut metagenome.