Fluid Analysis Research Articles

К вопросу оценки качества сырья из каспийской атерины (Atherina boyeri caspia (Risso, 1810))

The purpose of this work was to establish the informative value of methods of structural analysis of biological fluids in determining the prospects of using atherina (Atherina boyeri caspia (Risso, 1810)) as a source of dietary protein in aquaculture. For the first time, solid-phase structures of atherina muscle homogenates were studied. It is known that the solid phase of biological fluids formed under conditions of wedge-shaped dehydration is a visualization of biochemical processes occurring in an organism or organ. The study of the morphological picture of a dried drop (facies) makes it possible to establish associative links between the features of the structuring of the studied liquid and its composition, as well as to determine the nature of the impact of environmental factors on a living system. The results of the study made it possible to establish the main type of homogenate facies and its morphological parameters, which indicate the consistency of biochemical processes and the presence of high-grade protein in the muscle tissue of the Caspian atherina, caught both in the spring and autumn seasons. The size and weight parameters of fish, the content of water-soluble protein in muscle tissue are characterized. For the first time, a comparative analysis of the level of water-soluble protein and solid-phase structures of muscle homogenates of Caspian atherina caught in different seasons in the coastal waters of Dagestan was carried out. Atherina is a food component for many fish living in the Caspian Sea. It was determined that in October, the content of muscle water-soluble protein in atherina tended to increase relative to March. During the feeding period, the accumulated part of the protein components turns into lipid components, which accumulate intensively, therefore, there are no significant seasonal differences in the content of water-soluble protein. It has been established that the biochemical processes occurring in muscle tissues are reflected in the solid-phase structures of biological fluids formed under conditions of wedge-shaped dehydration. The obtained results of the trend towards an increase in water-soluble muscle proteins in the body and an increase in the population in recent years indicate the importance of the use of Caspian atherina in the quality of live feed at fish farms.

Mineral and fluid transformation of hydraulically fractured shale: case study of Caney Shale in Southern Oklahoma

This study explores the geochemical reactions that can cause permeability loss in hydraulically fractured reservoirs. The experiments involved the reaction of powdered-rock samples with produced brines in batch reactor system at temperature of 95 °C and atmospheric pressure for 7-days and 30-days respectively. Results show changes in mineralogy and chemistry of rock and fluid samples respectively, therefore confirming chemical reactions between the two during the experiments. The mineralogical changes of the rock included decreases of pyrite and feldspar content, whilst carbonate and illite content showed an initial stability and increase respectively before decreasing. Results from analyses of post-reaction fluids generally corroborate the results obtained from mineralogical analyses. Integrating the results obtained from both rocks and fluids reveal a complex trend of reactions between rock and fluid samples which is summarized as follows. Dissolution of pyrite by oxygenated fluid causes transient and localized acidity which triggers the dissolution of feldspar, carbonates, and other minerals susceptible to dissolution under acidic conditions. The dissolution of minerals releases high concentrations of ions, some of which subsequently precipitate secondary minerals. On the field scale, the formation of secondary minerals in the pores and flow paths of hydrocarbons can cause significant reduction in the permeability of the reservoir, which will culminate in rapid productivity decline. This study provides an understanding of the geochemical rock–fluid reactions that impact long term permeability of shale reservoirs.

Navigating Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges in Suspected Neuromelioidosis: A Comprehensive Case-Report of a Post-natal Mother

Neuromelioidosis, a severe neurological form of melioidosis caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, presents significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This case report describes a 28-year-old post-natal woman with progressive right-sided weakness, facial palsy, and respiratory distress. MRI findings, including the tunnel sign, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis were crucial for diagnosis. Despite initial broad-spectrum antibiotics, targeted treatment with meropenem, ceftazidime, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole led to significant clinical improvement. This case highlights the importance of early recognition and appropriate management of neuromelioidosis to improve patient outcomes.

Integrated Multi-Omics Analysis of Cerebrospinal Fluid in Postoperative Delirium.

Preoperative risk biomarkers for delirium may aid in identifying high-risk patients and developing intervention therapies, which would minimize the health and economic burden of postoperative delirium. Previous studies have typically used single omics approaches to identify such biomarkers. Preoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the Healthier Postoperative Recovery study of adults ≥ 63 years old undergoing elective major orthopedic surgery was used in a matched pair delirium case-no delirium control design. We performed metabolomics and lipidomics, which were combined with our previously reported proteomics results on the same samples. Differential expression, clustering, classification, and systems biology analyses were applied to individual and combined omics datasets. Probabilistic graph models were used to identify an integrated multi-omics interaction network, which included clusters of heterogeneous omics interactions among lipids, metabolites, and proteins. The combined multi-omics signature of 25 molecules attained an AUC of 0.96 [95% CI: 0.85-1.00], showing improvement over individual omics-based classification. We conclude that multi-omics integration of preoperative CSF identifies potential risk markers for delirium and generates new insights into the complex pathways associated with delirium. With future validation, this hypotheses-generating study may serve to build robust biomarkers for delirium and improve our understanding of its pathophysiology.

Methicillin-Sensible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) Pericardial Effusion Causing Cardiac Tamponade: A case report

Background: Methicillin-Sensible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) as the pathogen of the pericardial space is an uncommon case that can be fatal if untreated. The underlying disease accompany with infection that lead to cardiac tamponade can increase mortality rate of the patient. Case description: We present a 29 years old male patient with severe dispnea who was found to have cardiac tamponade secondary to a purulent pericardial effusion. He was also had end stage renal disease with regular hemodialysis. The diagnosis was suggested by clinical context, imaging, pericardial fluid analysis and was confirmed by culture. MSSA were isolated from 2 times pericardial fluid, peripheral blood and double lumen catheter exit site swab that were growth in blood agar only. Identification and susceptibility to antibiotics was assessed by Vitek2 Compact automated system (BioMerieux), represent sensitive to penicillin, cephalosporin, quinolone, aminoglycoside except macrolides. Administration of cefazolin intravenous for 5 days and also pericardial drainage result in a full recovery for the patient. Discussion: Purulent pericardial effusion is a rare condition that carries a high mortality rate as it can rapidly progress into cardiac tamponade. In developing countries, Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the most frequent cause of acute pericarditis followed by Haemophilus, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. Prior to the advent of antibiotics, Staphylococcus aureus takes role as the predominant pathogen, this event was common as the result of hematogenous seeding such as catheter related hemodialysis in this patient. Conclusion: Prompt diagnosis of purulent pericardial effusion also initiation of appropriate antibiotic and pericardial drainage treatment are the mainstays of successful management of this rare but potentially lethal case.

Magnetic-temperature coupling analysis of a multi-drum dual-coil magnetorheological fluid brake

The coupling analysis of the magnetic field and temperature field of a multi-drum dual-coil magnetorheological (MR) brake is presented in this article. Firstly, the structure of the multi-drum dual-coil MR brake is introduced, and a prototype is manufactured. Thermal analysis of the designed brake is carried out, and a torque correction factor is proposed in order to reduce the error between simulation and experimental results. Then, a coupling analysis model of the magnetic field and temperature is established to study the temperature analysis of the brake under steady-state and transient condition. Simulation results show that the allowable slip power in steady state is 23.68 W. The highest temperature occurs in the fluid gap, and the lowest temperature occurs at the shaft. Under the transient state, the brake can work for about 1200 s under 75.08 W slip power. Furthermore, the temperature characteristics of MR brake under the normal braking, emergency braking, and intermittent braking have been studied. An experimental platform is built to study the torque and temperature characteristics. Results show that the simulated temperature is in good agreement with the experiments, indicating that the proposed magnetic-temperature coupling model can accurately simulate the temperature characteristics of the MR brake.

Pancreatic pseudocyst: The past, the present, and the future.

A pancreatic pseudocyst is defined as an encapsulated fluid collection with a well-defined inflammatory wall with minimal or no necrosis. The diagnosis cannot be made prior to 4 wk after the onset of pancreatitis. The clinical presentation is often nonspecific, with abdominal pain being the most common symptom. If a diagnosis is suspected, contrast-enhanced computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging are performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the characteristics of the pseudocyst. Endoscopic ultrasound with cyst fluid analysis can be performed in cases of diagnostic uncertainty. Pseudocyst of the pancreas can lead to complications such as hemorrhage, infection, and rupture. The management of pancreatic pseudocysts depends on the presence of symptoms and the development of complications, such as biliary or gastric outlet obstruction. Management options include endoscopic or surgical drainage. The aim of this review was to summarize the current literature on pancreatic pseudocysts and discuss the evolution of the definitions, diagnosis, and management of this condition.

Clinical presentation and symptomatology of Guillain-Barré syndrome: A literature review.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening neurological disorder characterized by acute onset ascending paralysis and sensory abnormalities. This article provides a comprehensive overview of GBS, covering its epidemiology, etiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, management and treatment, prognosis, psychosocial impact, recent advances in research, public health implications, and ethical considerations. Epidemiological data reveal variations in GBS prevalence, incidence rates, and geographical distribution influenced by climate, infectious disease prevalence, and genetic susceptibility. Etiological factors include preceding infections, vaccinations, and autoimmune mechanisms, although the precise pathophysiology remains incomplete. Clinical presentation encompasses prodromal symptoms, motor deficits, sensory abnormalities, autonomic dysfunction, and variants such as Miller-Fisher Syndrome and Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis. Neurological examination findings include weakness, paralysis, sensory deficits, and reflex changes, while autonomic dysfunction manifests as cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Diagnostic evaluation relies on clinical criteria, laboratory tests (e.g., cerebrospinal fluid analysis, nerve conduction studies), and consideration of differential diagnoses. Management strategies encompass supportive care, immunomodulatory therapies (e.g., intravenous immunoglobulin, plasma exchange), and rehabilitation interventions to optimize functional outcomes and promote recovery. Prognosis varies depending on clinical features, treatment response, and complications such as respiratory failure and autonomic instability. Psychosocial impact encompasses psychological effects on patients and caregivers, highlighting the importance of coping strategies and support systems. Recent advances in research focus on emerging treatments, genetic predisposition, and biomarker discovery, offering promise for improving GBS outcomes. Public health implications include vaccination safety concerns and healthcare system considerations for GBS management. Ethical considerations encompass patient autonomy, resource allocation, and end-of-life decision-making.

Compressible fluid limit for smooth solutions to the Landau equation

Although the compressible fluid limit of the Boltzmann equation with cutoff has been extensively investigated in Caflisch [Comm. Pure Appl. Math. 33 (1980), 651–666] and Guo, Jang, and Jiang [Comm. Pure Appl. Math. 63 (2010), 337–361], obtaining analogous results in the case of the angular non-cutoff or even in the grazing limit which gives the Landau equation, still remains largely open, essentially due to the velocity diffusion effect of the collision operator such that L^{\infty} estimates are hard to obtain without using Sobolev embeddings. In this paper, we are concerned with the compressible Euler and acoustic limits of the Landau equation for Coulomb potentials in the whole space. Specifically, over any finite time interval where the full compressible Euler system admits a smooth solution around constant states, we construct a unique solution in a high-order weighted Sobolev space for the Landau equation with suitable initial data and also show the uniform estimates independent of the small Knudsen number \varepsilon>0 , yielding the O(\varepsilon) convergence of the Landau solution to the local Maxwellian whose fluid quantities are the given Euler solution. Moreover, the acoustic limit for smooth solutions to the Landau equation in an optimal scaling is also established. For the proof, by using the macro-micro decomposition around local Maxwellians, together with techniques for viscous compressible fluid and properties of Burnett functions, we design an \varepsilon -dependent energy functional to capture the dissipation in the compressible fluid limit with the feature that only the highest-order derivatives are most singular.

Stretching and folding analysis of fluid based on covariance method

Fluid in a turbulent state will be continuously stretched and folded, and the boundaries of fluid elements will grow exponentially, leading to an intense mixing process between different regions. However, most studies focus on the fluid’s stretching process, and the definition of folding still needs to be clarified. In this paper, the covariance method is extended to study the nonlinear deformation of fluid. First, particle sets are used to characterize the fluid elements, and the evolution of particle sets could reflect the deformation process of fluid. Then, the stretching and folding degrees of fluid are defined based on the statistical parameters of the particle sets. Finally, the extended covariance method is applied to the double gyre and the flow around the square cylinder, and the results show that the stretching process dominates the early stage of fluid deformation, and the fluid in high stretching regions has a higher probability of folding. Importantly, the nonlinear stretching regions with high non-affine deformation-low folding properties are identified, and the spurious folding caused by nonlinear stretching is eliminated. In summary, the extended covariance method shows great potential in the nonlinear deformation analysis of fluid, contributing to a deeper understanding of transport and mixing.

The application of bronchoscopy in the assessment of immune checkpoint inhibitor-related pneumonitis severity and recurrence

To explore the role of bronchoscopy for the assessment of checkpoint inhibitor pneumonitis (CIP), a retrospective single-center study was conducted to assess patients diagnosed with CIP at grade 2 or above and also underwent bronchoscopy between January 2020 and December 2022. Clinical data and bronchoscopic findings were recorded. The treatment data and prognosis information were collected. Twenty-one patients who underwent bronchoscopy and were diagnosed with CIP were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) analysis. Of them, T lymphocyte subsets of BALF were tested in 15 cases. Transbronchial cryobiopsy (TBCB) was performed in 8 patients, and transbronchial lung biopsy was performed in 5 patients. 3 patients developed pneumothorax after TBCB and all recovered without serious compilations.14 patients experienced grade 2 CIP, while 7 patients ≥ grade 3 CIP. Symptoms were improved in 19 (90.5%) patients after standard treatment adhering to CIP guidelines. However, 5 patients relapsed during steroid tapering. Factors related to the severity and recurrence of CIP were analyzed. Patients with previous interstitial lung disease (ILD) were more likely to develop high grade CIP than those without [83.3% (5/6) versus 15.4% (3/15), P = 0.011].The odds ratio (OR) was 32.5 (95% CI 2.284–443.145, P = 0.009). Increased BALF lymphocyte percentage was associated with high grade CIP, OR 1.095 (95% CI 1.001–1.197, P = 0.047), and higher possibility of CIP relapse, OR 1.123 (95% CI, 1.005–1.225, P = 0.040). Lymphocyte subsets were tested in 15 patients. CD4/CD8 > 1 was found in 80% (4/5) of relapsed patients and 20% (2/10) of patients without relapse (P = 0.047). The OR was 16.00 (95% CI 1.093–234.24, P = 0.043). In this retrospective study, patients with previous ILD was more likely to develop high grade CIP. Higher lymphocyte percentage in BALF was associated with high grade CIP and susceptibility to relapse during treatment of CIP. A CD4/CD8 ratio greater than 1 in lymphocyte subsets of BALF was associated with higher possibility of CIP relapse. We found that TBCB is a safe procedure in CIP patients.

Clinical effects of twin-block combined with maxillary expansion on the upper airway in adolescents with Class II malocclusion.

Class II malocclusion, particularly class II division 1, poses a significant orthodontic challenge with implications for both aesthetics and health. This study aimed to explore the impact of twin-block (TB) combined with maxillary expansion treatment (TB-ME) on upper airway dimensions and inflammatory profiles in adolescents with skeletal Class II Division 1 malocclusion in adolescent. Ninety-two eligible patients were randomly assigned to two groups: TB-ME treatment and traditional McLaughlin Bennett Trevisi (MBT) straight-wire orthodontic treatment (Control). Cephalometric lateral X-ray scans were conducted before and after treatment to assess skeletal changes, including SNA, ANB, and SNB angles, which are essential to assess the anteroposterior relationships of the maxilla and mandible to the cranial base. We also measured the upper airway volumes and areas. Concentrations of inflammatory factors including intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), matrix metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2), and interleukin 8 (IL-8) of gingival crevicular fluid analysis (GCF) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. TB-ME treatment induced significant improvement in cephalometric parameters, including a decrease in SNA and ANB angles and an increase in SNB angle. Upper airway volumes and areas increased significantly in both groups, with TB-ME showing greater improvements. GCF analysis revealed a reduction in ICAM-1, MMP2, and IL-8 concentrations in the TB-ME group compared to the Control group. TB-ME treatment demonstrates multifaceted improvements in skeletal malocclusion, upper airway dimensions, and inflammatory profiles in adolescents with class II division 1 malocclusion, showing the promise of TB-ME in addressing the complexities associated with class II malocclusion.

Current status of endoscopic ultrasound in the diagnosis of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms.

The new Kyoto guidelines for the management of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) provide evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of IPMN. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is a diagnostic modality with a high spatial resolution that allows detailed observation and obtaining cyst fluid or tissue samples via EUS-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA). Currently, EUS is an indispensable examination method for the diagnosis of pancreatic diseases. On the other hand, there have been concerns that EUS imaging tends to be highly operator-dependent, and may lack objectivity. Previous guidelines have assigned EUS as an option for patients with worrisome features. However, recent reports indicate that the sensitivity of EUS for the diagnosis of mural nodules (MNs) is more than 90%, comparable or superior to that of contrast-enhanced computed tomography or magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography. The specific advantages of EUS in the diagnosis of IPMN are: (1) high spatial resolution imaging for the diagnosis of MNs, (2) contrast-enhanced EUS for differentiation of intra-cystic MNs from mucous clots, and (3) pathological diagnosis using EUS-FNA and differential diagnosis of a pancreatic cystic tumor by cystic fluid analysis. In order to utilize EUS in the diagnosis of IPMN, endoscopists are required to have the skills to provide sufficiently objective imaging findings.

Correction: Numerical analysis of Carreau fluid inside a horizontal passage with axial conduction and viscous dissipation: an extended Graetz problem

Correction: Numerical analysis of Carreau fluid inside a horizontal passage with axial conduction and viscous dissipation: an extended Graetz problem

A closed-loop patch based on bioinspired infection sensor for wound management

Pathogenic wound infections remain a major global health challenge. When skin tissue is wounded, some colonizing pathogenic bacteria secrete large amounts of hyaluronidase (HAase) to degrade the extracellular matrix (ECM), enabling their diffusion and proliferation. Current clinical techniques for detecting infection rely on basic visual cues or analysis of wound fluids, enabling only reactive treatment once severe signs manifest. Herein, we present the use of a closed-loop patch (CLP) for advanced wound management. The patch contains a bio-inspired sensor based on an engineered hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel that detects HAase secreted by invading pathogens. This detection triggers a quantifiable change in the capacitance of the interdigital electrode and achieving in-time detection of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) infection in a murine wound model before obvious visual signs appear. In response, the release of titanium hydride (TiH1.924) nanodots from hydrogel decomposition can eradicate pathogens under ultrasound (US) irradiation. Concurrently, the product, HA fragments further promoted cell migration and angiogenesis to significantly improve wound healing by ∼14.6-fold rates in 12 days. Overall, the CLP provides a sensory act-treat effect according to the wound status, which facilitate the closed-loop integration of monitoring and rehabilitation. This strategy may provide additional possibilities for the design of future wound management systems.

Prospects and challenges in using neuronal extracellular vesicles in biomarker research.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) hold promise as a source of disease biomarkers. The diverse molecular cargo of EVs can potentially indicate the status of their tissue of origin, even against the complex background of whole plasma. The main tools currently available for assessing biomarkers of brain health include brain imaging and analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid of patients. Given the costs and difficulties associated with these methods, isolation of EVs of neuronal origin (NEVs) from the blood is an attractive approach to identify brain-specific biomarkers. This perspective describes current key challenges in EV- and NEV-based biomarker research. These include the relative low abundance of EVs, the lack of validated isolation methods, and the difficult search for an adequate target for immunocapturing NEVs. We discuss that these challenges must be addressed before NEVs can fulfill their potential for biomarker research. HIGHLIGHTS: NEVs are promising sources of biomarkers for brain disorders. Immunocapturing NEVs from complex biofluids presents several challenges. The choice of surface target for capture will determine NEV yield. Contamination by non-EV sources is relevant for biomarkers at low concentrations.

Cerebrospinal fluid cytology: A theragnostic and prognostic tool- Experience from a tertiary cancer care centre in central India

: CSF examination is the gold standard for diagnosing leptomeningeal metastases. Malignant cells may access the subarachnoid space by hematogenous dissemination, spreading directly from parenchymal brain lesions, or spreading along the spinal cord or cranial nerves. Cytological detection of malignant cells in CSF is still a crucial decision point for systemic and intrathecal chemotherapy, and it has prognostic significance even with improvements in biochemical analysis and CNS imaging. Over the course of two years, a total of 397 patients—regardless of gender and age—were investigated. There were sixty-four cases with involvement of the central nervous system documented, comprising 42 hematologic malignancies and 22 solid tumors. Cell centrifugation (Cytospin) method were used to prepare smears and cell blocks where prepared, as feasible and indicated. : A cytological analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid showed that metastatic tumors were much more prevalent than primary central nervous system tumours. Lung tumors were the most frequent primary site in our analysis, with breast, gastrointestinal, and female genital tract malignancies following closely behind. CNS involvement has been reported in patients with Lymphoma (DLBCL) and Leukemia (most commonly ALL, but also AML and JMML) among hematological malignancies. Two cases of Retinoblastoma and one each of Medulloblastoma and an Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor were observed in the pediatric age group.: Cerebrospinal fluid cytology is a simple and useful method, used as a primary diagnostic method in the evaluation of leptomeningeal metastases. This helps in the early detection of secondary CNS lesions and allows for timely intervention, prognosis, and prediction of overall survival.

Determination of ABO blood group based on secretors or non-secretors analysis in body fluids

Criminal acts often leave traces analyzed by law enforcement, especially by the Indonesian National Police (POLRI). Sometimes, various items were found and analyzed to link the victim and the perpetrator. Blood, the most abundant body fluid, found in crime scenes, consists of cellular and liquid elements. The forensic focuses on red blood, which can be wet or dried at the crime scene. Sometimes, there was no blood or bloodstains found, but objects related to other body fluids, such as: condoms, toothbrushes, the mouth of glass cups, straws, etc, could be found. Blood group analysis could still be carried out based on secretor gene (Se) considering that 80% of the population was of the secretor group. There are two chromosomes related to blood regulation, namely: chromosomes no. 9 and 19. The former relates to the ABO blood group and the latter relates to the secretory phenotype. The basic principle of secretors was antigens found on the surface of red blood cells and all body fluids, except cerebrospinal fluid. The pattern of inheritance on chromosomes 9 and 19 is based on the probability law by Mendell. It stated that all of genotypes (homozygous dominant-recessive or heterozygous) would be passed on to their offspring.

Aerosol inhalation of total ginsenosides repairs acute lung injury and inhibits pulmonary fibrosis through SMAD2 signaling-mediated mechanism

BackgroundPulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a progressive lung disease caused by previous acute lung injury (ALI), but there is currently no satisfactory therapy available. Aerosol inhalation of medicine is an effective way for treating PF. Total ginsenosides (TG) shows potential for the treatment of ALI and PF, but the effects of inhaled TG remain unclear. PurposeTo determine the therapeutic effects of TG in ALI and PF, to assess the superiority of the inhaled form of TG over the routine form, and to clarify the mechanism of action of inhaled TG. MethodsUltrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with Q-Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometry (UPLC-QE-MS) was applied to determine the chemoprofile of TG. A mouse model of ALI and PF was established to evaluate the effects of inhaled TG by using bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) analysis, histopathological observation, hydroxyproline assay, and immunohistochemical analysis. Primary mouse lung fibroblasts (MLF) and human lung fibroblast cell line (HFL1) were applied to determine the in vitro effects and mechanism of TG by using cell viability assay, quantitative real time PCR (qPCR) assay, and western blot (WB) analysis. ResultsThe UPLC-QE-MS results revealed the main types of ginsenosides in TG, including Re (14.15 ± 0.42%), Rd (8.42 ± 0.49%), Rg1 (6.22 ± 0.42%), Rb3 (3.28 ± 0.01%), Rb2 (3.09 ± 0.00%), Rc (2.33 ± 0.01%), Rg2 (2.09 ± 0.04%), Rb1 (1.43 ± 0.24%), and Rf (0.13 ± 0.06%). Inhaled TG, at dosages of 10, 20, and 30 mg/kg significantly alleviated both ALI and PF in mice. Analyses of BALF and HE staining revealed that TG modulated the levels of IFN-γ, IL-1β, and TGF-β1, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, and restored the alveolar architecture of the lung tissues. Furthermore, HE and Masson's trichrome staining demonstrated that TG markedly decreased fibroblastic foci and collagen fiber deposition, evidenced by the reduction of blue-stained collagen fibers. Hydroxyproline assay and immunohistochemical analyses indicated that TG significantly decreased hydroxyproline level and down-regulated the expression of Col1a1, Col3a1, and α-sma. The inhaled administration of TG demonstrated enhanced efficacy over the oral route when comparable doses were used. Additionally, inhaled TG showed superior safety and therapeutic profiles compared to pirfenidone, as evidenced by a CCK8 assay, which confirmed that TG concentrations ranging from 20 to 120 μg/ml were non-cytotoxic. qPCR and WB analyses revealed that TG, at concentrations of 25, 50, and 100 μg/ml, significantly suppressed the phosphorylation of smad2 induced by TGF-β1 and down-regulated the expression of fibrotic genes and proteins, including α-sma, Col1a1, Col3a1, and FN1, suggesting an anti-fibrotic mechanism mediated by the smad2 signaling pathway. In vitro, TG's safety and efficacy were also found to be superior to those of pirfenidone. ConclusionsThis study demonstrates, for the first time, the therapeutic efficacy of inhaled TG in treating ALI and PF. Inhaled TG effectively inhibits inflammation and reduces collagen deposition, with a particular emphasis on its role in modulating the Smad2 signaling pathway, which is implicated in the anti-fibrotic mechanism of TG. The study also highlights the superiority of inhaled TG over the oral route and its favorable safety profile in comparison to pirfenidone, positioning it as an ideal alternative for ALI and PF therapy.

Pneumocephalus caused by Enterobacter cloacae meningoencephalitis following cerebral infarction

AbstractPneumocephalus develops due to various reasons; however, pneumocephalus caused by factors other than head trauma is rare, and a few cases of infections have been reported. We encountered a case of pneumocephalus caused by Enterobacter cloacae meningoencephalitis following cerebral infarction. Although we could not perform cerebrospinal fluid analysis and culture, E. cloacae was cultured from blood. We conducted an autopsy and confirmed meningoencephalitis in the cerebral infarction lesion. Thus, we considered that E. cloacae meningoencephalitis caused the pneumocephalus. Because bacterial meningoencephalitis is a treatable disease, we should strictly consider that meningoencephalitis due to bacteria such as E. cloacae causes pneumocephalus.