Articles

To maintain identity and epigenetic balance, a cell relies on robust transcriptional programs regulated both by transcription factors and by dynamic chromatin states. These states, which enable or restrict gene expression and genome function, are shaped by the incorporation of histone variants into nucleosomes and their post-translational modifications.

We have previously described the generation of Metal Organic Biohybrids (MOBs) as self-assembling structures that are formed by a combination of a biological component (amino acid), and a metal, such as copper. This MOBs synthesis process has now been distilled to be purely biochemical (a green chemistry process), or abiotic, not requiring the presence of cells. 

Skin repair depends on balanced inflammation, oxidative control, and growth-factor signaling. Disruption of these events delays healing and leads to chronic wounds. Nigella sativa (black seed) contains bioactive compounds such as thymoquinone with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, but its integrated effect on dermal repair remains unclear.

Purpose: To present a challenging case of tubercular uveitis in an asymptomatic patient, featuring unilateral occlusive vasculitis with a frosted branch angiitis phenotype and bilateral serpiginous-like choroiditis.
Methods: Case report with clinical photography.

Snail embryos are textbook exemplars of autonomous cellular decision-making: in their spiral cleavage nearly every early cell division is asymmetric and oriented, creating a stereotyped and elaborate early pattern of fate-restricted cells (Figure 1A) reminiscent of the preformationist ‘homunculus’ fantasy. 

Pancreatic cancer, predominantly pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), remains one of the most lethal malignancies, characterized by late diagnosis, aggressive tumor biology, and profound resistance to conventional therapies. Despite advances in surgical techniques and combination chemotherapy regimens such as FOLFIRINOX and gemcitabine-based therapies, survival outcomes remain poor, with five-year survival rates barely exceeding 10%. 

We compare the selected characteristics and physical parameters of two types of systems capable of intelligent behavior: biological brains and semiconductor computing systems. We analyze their limitations and potential for further development. We then reflect on the creative thinking and capabilities of both approaches and present a cybernetic perspective on brain function and the hypothesis of consciousness in the brain.

Background: Traumatic cardiac arrest during prolonged extrication presents significant physiologic challenges. While prehospital care traditionally relies on emergency medical services personnel, select systems deploy hospital-based teams capable of delivering advanced anesthetic and resuscitative interventions at the scene. 

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a heterogeneous, multisystem autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis in genetically predisposed individuals. It can involve multiple organ systems, but hepatic involvement is rare. 

Approximately 35 million women worldwide have silicone breast implants. Like all medical devices, breast implants are not lifelong, and all will eventually need to be removed, with or without replacement. In 2019, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated its guidance on breast implant surveillance to include HRUS screening for silent rupture. 

The evolutionary origin of mitochondria remains a challenging problem, closely linked to the emergence of eukaryotic cells, a process known as eukaryogenesis. Regardless of how primordial mitochondria truly evolved, mitochondria have traditionally been viewed as bioenergetic organelles with primary functions of ATP production and metabolic support. They are classically known as the ‘powerhouse’ of the cells. In aging biology, this view has often been paired with an emphasis on mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative imbalance and stress. 

We read with interest the article by Maes et al. examining perfectionism and other-directed interpersonal styles in women with fibromyalgia (FM) compared with women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The study addresses a clinically relevant question and is commendable for attempting to move beyond a purely symptom-centered account of FM. The reported between-group differences are notable, and the topic is timely given the growing interest in person-centered formulations of FM. 

Gastrointestinal (GI) angiodysplasia represents one of the most vexing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in clinical gastroenterology. These arteriovenous malformations, predominantly affecting the cecum, right colon, and small bowel, are the most common vascular lesions of the GI tract and account for a disproportionately large share of obscure GI bleeding, particularly in elderly patients.

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a significant health issue in the United States. Siddiqui and colleagues recently published a manuscript titled “Gender disparities in coronary artery disease: a review of factors influencing clinical outcomes,” which excellently describes the current state of affairs and outcomes of CAD between men and women.

Obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a common inherited cardiac disease occurring in approximately 1 in 500 adults worldwide, characterized by left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction, symptoms of heart failure, and increased risk of sudden cardiac death.

Background: Breast cancer remains a major global health concern, and early detection is essential for improving treatment outcomes. Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), incorporating advanced multiparametric techniques, offers detailed morphological and functional assessment that enhances lesion characterization. Evaluating the diagnostic performance of MRI in comparison with histopathology is important for understanding its clinical utility.

Background: Retinoblastoma (RB) typically presents before age five; presentation beyond this age is uncommon but documented. We describe a 9-year-old Nigerian girl who presented with a fungating orbital mass secondary to advanced unilateral RB. 

Software engineering is a science concerned with the design, development, selection, and maintenance of computer applications and systems. It is a discipline that applies engineering principles to software creation and hardware development, ensuring that applications are practical, reliable, and meet the requirements of users in various sectors.

Cirrhosis remains a major cause of liver-related mortality worldwide. The transition from compensated to decompensated disease, marked by complications such as ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, or variceal hemorrhage represents a critical shift in prognosis and survival. Clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) is the primary driver of this progression, making portal pressure reduction a central therapeutic target.

Background: Dementia caregiving in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) occurs in contexts where public care infrastructure is limited, placing the primary responsibility for daily care on family caregivers. Psychoeducational interventions have emerged as a central strategy to strengthen coping, communication skills, and emotional well-being.