by Ivan M. Lang

Received: 17 August 2020;  Published: 02 November 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.hg.2004052

Several digestive tract reflexes involving the esophagus and its sphincter muscles have been identified, but to date, no comprehensive review has addressed most of these reflexes. The current review presents the known physiology of different esophageal reflexes in which either the esophagus or its sensory or motor portion of the reflex response is elaborated. The current review comprehensively examines the known and possible mechanisms underlying major esophageal reflexes, highlights the huge gaps in current knowle [...]

by Daming Zhang

Received: 21 January 2022;  Published: 07 March 2022;  doi: 10.21926/jept.2201008

In this paper, a method for operating AC microgrids in both off-grid or standalone and grid-connected modes is proposed to minimize the use of energy storage by increasing the number of PV panels and curtailing their output power. When the intensity of daylight decreases, power is imported from the main grid through an AC/DC/AC converter or solid-state transformers in parallel to compensate for the shortage. By using a three-phase transformer in Δ-Y connection with Y’s neutral connected to its local grounding syste [...]

by Inmaculada Zarzo  , Nadia San Onofre  and Jose M. Soriano

Received: 17 November 2023;  Published: 03 April 2024;  doi: 10.21926/rpn.2402005

The relationship between obesity and weight loss treatments has run parallel throughout history; however, not all diets are suitable for improving one’s health. This review aims to categorize diets according to the new classification of hazardous diets established in 2021. A search was conducted across grey, white, and black literature. The results reveal a study of 179 diets, of which 35 are effective, while the rest are hazardous to health. Looking at the geographical distribution of these diets, the USA, the UK, [...]

by Rie Sasaki  , Hiroto Ito  and Masami Okamoto

Received: 01 March 2022;  Published: 14 June 2022;  doi: 10.21926/obm.genet.2202155

In this study, we examined the effect of a combination of surface topographies (fiber alignments) and different stiffness of poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) substrates on the direct relationship between anti-cancer drug (CDDP) sensitivity for MDA-MB-231 cells and mesenchymal properties under both normal and hypoxic conditions. In addition, we studied the induction of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). The CDDP treatment under hypoxia indicated poor adhesion of MDA-MB-231 cells as well as significant repression of [...]

by Julia Caldwell  , Pamela Meredith  , Koa Whittingham  and Jenny Ziviani

Received: 07 March 2022;  Published: 20 July 2022;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2203028

Positive perceptions of pregnancy are associated with better postpartum outcomes, including stronger relationship with baby. Although better self-reported emotional availability (EA-SR) is associated with greater attachment security with infants, research has not yet explored the relationship between prenatal maternal factors and EA-SR. The aim of the study was to explore the associations between prenatal variables (adult attachment, shame, compassion) and EA-SR at 3- and 6-months postpartum. A cross-sectional surv [...]

by Brian C. Keller  , Sadia Z. Shah  and Amy Pope-Harman

Received: 24 April 2020;  Published: 15 June 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.transplant.2002113

Systemic capillary leak syndrome is a disorder characterized by recurrent, life-threatening episodes of acute capillary hyperpermeability resulting in edema and hypovolemic shock. We report a case of systemic capillary leak syndrome in a lung transplant recipient who developed recurrent episodes of volume overload, respiratory failure, and acute kidney injury in association with hypotension and hypoalbuminemia. Initiation of monthly high dose intravenous immunoglobulin prophylaxis effectively abrogated the syndrome [...]

by Krzysztof Wierzcholski

Received: 08 October 2020;  Published: 02 June 2021;  doi: 10.21926/rpm.2102023

This paper aims to highlight the result of a new progression of mathematical estimation methods of stochastic bio-hydrodynamic lubrication parameters for arbitrary, curvilinear, non-rotational, co-operating, living biological surfaces coated with phospholipid bi-layers. Movable, non-rotational, co-operating surfaces occur in various biological friction nods like the collar bone, the blade bone, the jump joint, and the wrist joint. Specifically, the author presents a synthetic and comprehensive estimation of stochas [...]

by David J. Ross  , Abbas Ardehali  , Christine Natori  and John A. Belperio

Received: 19 September 2019;  Published: 07 November 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.transplant.1904090

Introduction: TH-17 and IL-6 interactions and detrimental biologic effects have been shown in rodent models of Chronic Lung Allograft Dysfunction (CLAD). Similarly, these pathways have been found to be upregulated in human CLAD. Tocilizumab (TCZ), a humanized monoclonal antibody targets the IL-6 receptor subunit alpha and prevents binding of IL-6. We herein report our preliminary experience with adjunctive TCZ therapy for human CLAD. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our initial experience with TCZ given after o [...]

by Gerhard Litscher

Received: 14 May 2024;  Published: 15 May 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402027

Laser acupuncture, a rising complementary therapy, applies a low-intensity laser to acupuncture points, yet its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Proposed hypotheses include modulation of cellular signaling, tissue repair, and immune modulation. Laser acupuncture may stimulate energy flow, neurotransmitter release, cellular changes, immune regulation, and neuroendocrine activity. Additionally, the biophoton theory suggests an involvement of ultra-weak photon radiation from cells. Litscher et al. explore these m [...]

by Jennifer A. King  , Megan R. Holmes  , Kylie Evans  , Anna E. Bender  and Dakota King-White

Received: 28 February 2023;  Published: 07 September 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2303036

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the long-standing issues of stress and burnout in the education sector, with teachers and education staff facing unprecedented challenges including significant adjustments to teaching methods and balancing the mental health and academic needs of their students. The resulting challenges have contributed to heightened levels of stress and burnout among teachers and education staff. The impact of the pandemic on teachers and education staff has highlighted the need for greater support [...]