Proximate

a.
Proximate analysis (Chem.),
an analysis which determines the proximate principles of any substance, as contrasted with an ultimate analysis.
Proximate cause

1. A cause which immediately precedes and produces the effect, as distinguished from the remote, mediate, or predisposing cause.
2. That which in ordinary natural sequence produces a specific result, no independent disturbing agencies intervening.
Proximate principle (Physiol. Chem.),
one of a class of bodies existing ready formed in animal and vegetable tissues, and separable by chemical analysis, as albumin, sugar, collagen, fat, etc.