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Carrageenan, a polysaccharide derived from red seaweeds, is commonly used to induce inflammation in animal models for studying inflammatory diseases. Its pro-inflammatory effects involve several key mechanisms: Activation of the Immune System: Carrageenan stimulates local immune cells, particularly macrophages, leading to an increased release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Disruption of Epithelial Barrier: It causes damage to the intestinal epithelial barrier, increasing intestinal permeability and facilitating the entry of pathogens and toxins, which exacerbates inflammation. Production of Inflammatory Mediators: Carrageenan enhances the production of inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes, contributing to inflammation and pain. Modulation of Signaling Pathways: It affects important signaling pathways, including NF-κB and MAPK, which are crucial in regulating the inflammatory response. These mechanisms make carrageenan a valuable tool for studying inflammatory processes and evaluating the efficacy of anti-inflammatory treatments in animal models.

Energy supply on high mountains remains an open issue since grid connection is not feasible. In the past, diesel generators with lead–acid battery energy storage systems (ESSs) were applied in most cases. Recently, photovoltaic (PV) systems with lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery [1][2][3] ESSs have become suitable for solving this problem in a greener way [4]. In 2016, an off-grid PV system with a Li-ion battery ESS was installed in Paiyun Lodge on Mt. Jade (the highest lodge in Taiwan) [5]. After operating for more than 7 years, the aging of the whole electric power system became a critical issue for its long-term usage. In this research, a method is established for analyzing the massive energy data (over 7 million rows), such as daily operation patterns, as well as the C-rate, temperature, and accumulated energy distributions, and estimating the health of the Li-ion battery system [5]. A completed electric power improvement project dealing with power system aging is reported [5]. Based on the long-term usage experience, a simple cost analysis model comparing lead–acid and Li-ion battery systems is built, revealing that expensive Li-ion batteries can compete with cheap lead–acid batteries for long-term usage on high mountains [5]. This case study can provide engineers and researchers with a fundamental understanding of the long-term usage of off-grid PV ESSs and engineering on high mountains [5]. This image is adapted from 10.3390/batteries10060202

Nanoparticles (NPs) can be categorized into several classes based on their composition and structure. Metallic nanoparticles (e.g., gold, silver) are used in imaging, drug delivery, and antimicrobial applications. Polymeric nanoparticles are formed from biodegradable polymers like PLGA and are often employed in drug delivery systems due to their controlled release properties. Lipid-based nanoparticles, including liposomes and solid lipid nanoparticles, are widely used for encapsulating drugs and enhancing bioavailability. Inorganic nanoparticles (e.g., silica, quantum dots) are used in diagnostics and biosensing. Lastly, carbon-based nanoparticles (e.g., fullerenes, graphene) have applications in drug delivery, imaging, and electronics.

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