Topic Review
lncRNAs in NF-κB-Mediated Macrophage Inflammation
Molecular biology’s focus has transitioned from proteins to DNA, and now to RNA. Once considered merely a genetic information carrier, RNA is now recognized as both a vital element in early cellular life and a regulator in complex organisms. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are over 200 bases long but do not code for proteins, play roles in gene expression regulation and signal transduction by inducing epigenetic changes or interacting with various proteins and RNAs. These interactions exhibit a range of functions in various cell types, including macrophages. Notably, some macrophage lncRNAs influence the activation of NF-κB, a crucial transcription factor governing immune and inflammatory responses. Macrophage NF-κB is instrumental in the progression of various pathological conditions including sepsis, atherosclerosis, cancer, autoimmune disorders, and hypersensitivity.
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  • 12 Mar 2024
Topic Review
Oxidative Stress and ROS Link Diabetes and Cancer
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) accounts for one-sixth of deaths globally, whereas cancer is the second leading cause of death in the U.S. T2DM is a known risk factor for many cancers. Reactive oxygen species (ROS)-altered metabolic and signaling pathways link T2DM to cancer. These reprogrammed metabolic and signaling pathways contribute to diabetic complications, impact the redox balance (oxidative stress), and have differential roles in the early and late stages of cancer. A respiratory chain that is highly reduced (as under hyperglycemic conditions) or if reduced cofactors accumulate, ROS are greatly elevated. ROS may cause mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) that result in further ROS elevations. The amplification of ROS results in the activation of PKC, an overarching signaling pathway that activates MAPK with a subsequent regulation in several factors that result in pathophysiological manifestations of T2DM and cancer. An upregulation in PKC leads to a deregulation in NF-kß, which regulates the PKB/P13/Akt pathway and orchestrates the cell survival, growth, proliferation, and glucose metabolism manifested in cancer. It also affects Insulin Receptor Substrate (IRS-1), decreasing insulin-stimulated glucose transport and glucose uptake, disrupting subsequent cell signaling pathways contributing to the development of T2DM.
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  • 12 Mar 2024
Topic Review
Use of Immune Regulation in HNSCC
Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising new treatment modality for head and neck cancer, offering the potential for targeted and effective cancer management. Squamous cell carcinomas pose significant challenges due to their aggressive nature and limited treatment options. Conventional therapies such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy often have limited success rates and can have significant side effects. Immunotherapy harnesses the power of the immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells, and thus represents a novel approach with the potential to improve patient outcomes. In the management of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), important contributions are made by immunotherapies, including adaptive cell therapy (ACT) and immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
  • 234
  • 12 Mar 2024
Topic Review
Factors Affecting Akinete Germination and the Ranges of Tolerances
Eutrophic freshwater ecosystems are vulnerable to toxin-producing cyanobacteria growth or harmful algal blooms. Cyanobacteria belonging to the Nostocales order form akinetes that are similar to the seeds of vascular plants, which are resting cells surrounded by a thick membrane. They overwinter in sediment and germinate when conditions become favorable, eventually developing into vegetative cells and causing blooms. 
  • 203
  • 12 Mar 2024
Topic Review
Endocannabinoid System–Glia Axis
The endocannabinoid system (ECS), comprising endogenous cannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes, has emerged as a critical modulator of sleep patterns, influencing both the initiation and maintenance of sleep. Concurrently and once considered tolerant support cells, glial cells are now recognized as active contributors to neuroinflammatory processes and synaptic regulation. The intricate relationships between the ECS and glia-mediated immune responses in the context of sleep regulation present a novel avenue for understanding the broader implications of disrupted sleep on neural health. The bidirectional communication within the ECS–Glia Axis intersects with sleep regulation, creating a dynamic relationship between neuroinflammation and sleep–wake patterns. Sleep disturbances often coincide with increased neuroinflammation, and chronic activation of the ECS–Glia Axis may contribute to disrupted sleep. Conversely, alterations in sleep architecture influence the activity of the ECS–Glia Axis, suggesting a reciprocal modulation.
  • 186
  • 12 Mar 2024
Topic Review
Silicon, Organic and Perovskite Solar Cells
The journey of photovoltaic (PV) cell technology is a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. From the early days of solar energy exploration to the sophisticated systems of today, the evolution of PV cells has been marked by groundbreaking advancements in materials and manufacturing processes. The initial phase of solar cell development was characterized by the use of crystalline silicon, a material that has maintained its prominence due to its proven efficiency and durability. The progression from the initial 15% efficiency in the 1950s to the current levels nearing 28% epitomizes the significant strides that have been made in enhancing solar cell performance. This evolution is a clear indicator of how material advancements have been instrumental in propelling the solar industry forward.
  • 357
  • 12 Mar 2024
Topic Review
In-Line Inspection (ILI) Techniques for Subsea Pipelines
Offshore oil and gas resources play a crucial role in supplementing the energy needs of human society. The crisscrossing subsea pipeline network, which serves as vital infrastructure for the storage and transportation of offshore oil and gas, requires regular inspection and maintenance to ensure safe operation and prevent ecological pollution. In-line inspection (ILI) techniques have been widely used in the detection and inspection of potential hazards within the pipeline network. 
  • 125
  • 12 Mar 2024
Topic Review
Mitochondria and Carcinogenesis
Mitochondria are commonly perceived as “cellular power plants”. In addition to energy conversion, mitochondria play many other roles in cell operations. They act in calcium signaling, stress response, and stem cell regulation and also serve as general cellular signaling hubs. They regulate aging and control cell death (apoptosis). Mitochondria play a crucial role as a mediator between the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the cell nucleus, and monitoring and controlling this relationship can be important for cancer prevention and treatment. Mitochondrial defects can include aberrated metabolism (the Warburg effect) or signaling dysfunction (reactive oxygen species or reactive oxygen species (ROS) production).
  • 115
  • 12 Mar 2024
Topic Review
Mechanisms of Cognitive Impairment in Chronic Kidney Disease
A notable feature of dementia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients is the high frequency of vascular dementia, making its prevention through the management of classical risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, smoking, etc., associated with atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis. Other effective measures, including the use of renin–angiotensin system inhibitors, addressing anemia, exercise therapy, and lifestyle improvements, have been reported. The incidence and progression of cognitive impairment (CI) may also be influenced by the type of kidney replacement therapy, with reports suggesting that long-duration dialysis, low-temperature hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplantation can have a preferable effect on the preservation of cognitive function. In conclusion, patients with CKD are at a higher risk of developing CI, with brain atrophy being a contributing factor. 
  • 117
  • 12 Mar 2024
Topic Review
The Concept of Child-Centred Care in Healthcare
The position of children in healthcare reflects their changing and evolving positioning in society more broadly. The concept of child-centred care orientates children to a more central position within children’s healthcare, where the child is at the centre of thinking and practice. However, a clear definition of child-centred care and clarity around the concept is yet to be achieved.
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