Fig. 4: DI induces lower limbs volume and lean mass loss, and muscles weakening. | Nature Communications

Fig. 4: DI induces lower limbs volume and lean mass loss, and muscles weakening.

From: Comprehensive assessment of physiological responses in women during the ESA dry immersion VIVALDI microgravity simulation

Fig. 4

a Calf muscles and skin CSA evolution assessed by MRI (n = 12) and calculated using the largest slices of both left and right calves. b DXA-derived legs lean and fat mass (n = 18). c Calf venous compliance assessed by air plethysmography. We performed 30, 40, 50 mmHg occlusion steps. The calf volume evolution is plotted against occlusion pressure to obtain pressure-volume relationships. The slopes of the regression lines of these relationships were used as measure of venous compliance. The left leg was tested (n = 16). d Maximal isometric torque for knee and ankle extensors and flexors during voluntary contraction before (B4) and one day after DI (R1). The left leg was tested (n = 17). Box plots indicate minimum, 25th percentile, median, 75th percentile, and maximum values. Bars represent mean ± s.e.m. a, b, d Two-tailed paired Student’s t test. c One-way RM ANOVA with post-hoc Bonferroni multiple comparisons compared with B1, Global ANOVA results: venous compliance P < 0.001. CSA cross-section area.

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