by Ana Luísa Tomás  and Olga Matos

Received: 21 August 2018;  Published: 13 November 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.genet.1804049

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PcP) remains a major cause of respiratory illness among immunocompromised patients. PcP is difficult to diagnose, in particular in non-HIV-infected patients, due to the lack of associated specific clinical data. Since P. jirovecii could not be cultivated for many years, microscopic visualization of cystic or trophic forms in respiratory specimens based on cytochemical or immunofluorescence staining are the standard procedure to identify this fungus. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)- [...]

by Mega Obukohwo Oyovwi  and Edarho Oghenevwede Oyovwi

Received: 08 May 2024;  Published: 29 September 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2403290

Elder abuse is a hidden epidemic, with millions of older adults experiencing physical, psychological, or financial harm each year. However, the true extent of the problem is unknown due to under-reporting and lack of reliable data. This paper aims to provide an international perspective on the hidden epidemic of elder abuse, exploring the prevalence, risk factors, and consequences of this global issue. A systematic review of the literature was conducted using multiple databases. Studies from various countries were [...]

by Kelsey Madison Dietrich  and Maria Gabriela Bidart

Received: 15 July 2021;  Published: 12 November 2021;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2104046

College students experience increased stress levels that could predispose them to develop mental and physical health conditions throughout adulthood. Yoga is an ancient mind-body practice including breath techniques, body exercises, and meditation that may be a useful strategy for enhancing college student health. Likewise, exposure to nature has been shown to have beneficial impacts on human health. This study investigates physiological and psychological responses of college students to yoga practiced in outdoor v [...]

by Gloria Gutman  , Mojgan Karbakhsh  and Heather G Stewart

Received: 03 October 2023;  Published: 04 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2304260

This study addresses knowledge gaps concerning prevalence and risk factors for elder abuse among sexual minority (SM) compared to heterosexual Canadians aged 65+. Data derive from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, a national cohort study. Outcome variables include self-reports of psychological, physical, or financial abuse in the 12 months before interview and overall. Main explanatory variables are sexual orientation and gender identity; covariates include other socio-demographic characteristics, general a [...]

by H. Hakemi  , O. Pinshow  and D. Gal-Fuss

Received: 24 June 2019;  Published: 07 August 2019;  doi: 10.21926/rpm.1903002

In the past few years, there have been many attempts to commercialize Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) for Rear Projection Screen (RPS) in electrically switchable films and glass products. This application is based on the exceptional image quality of PDLC at a wide viewing angle. However, due to the high price of conventional switchable PDLC privacy glass, the integration of RPS in PDLC failed to attract large multimedia and entertainment markets. An obvious solution to this problem is the independent develo [...]

by Mohammad Sohidul Islam  , Md.Rafiqul Islam  , Md.Kamrul Hasan  , ASM Golam Hafeez  , Md Kaium Chowdhury  , Moaz Hosen Pramanik  , Muhammad Aamir Iqbal  , Murat Erman  , Celaleddin Barutcular  , Ömer Konuşkan  , Anamika Dubey  , Ashwani Kumar  and Ayman El Sabagh

Received: 04 December 2023;  Published: 29 April 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.genet.2402232

Maize, along with rice and wheat, is a popular staple food crop worldwide, and the most widely produced cereal crop. It is a versatile crop that may be utilized as a source of raw materials for human and animal fodders. Low agricultural yield and rapid population expansion significantly threaten future food security. Maize production is hampered by biotic and abiotic causes, with abiotic factors being the most critical limitation to agricultural output worldwide. Soil salinity is a key abiotic factor that reduces a [...]

by J. Kim Penberthy  , Dinesh Chhabra  , Nina Avitabile  , J. Morgan Penberthy  , Ngan Le  , Yiqin Roger Xu  , Seara Mainor  , Natalie Schiavone  , Paul Katzenstein  , Janet E Lewis  and Leslie Hubbard

Received: 18 April 2018;  Published: 28 December 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804039

Over the past few decades, there have been minimal advances in effective new behavioral or psychotherapeutic interventions for people living with autoimmune diseases such as systematic lupus erythematosus. This is problematic due to the severe, debilitating and potentially life-threatening nature of these diseases. Mindfulness based interventions, such as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, have demonstrated effectiveness in a wide range of patient populations and we hypothesize such treatment would also benefit pa [...]

by Herinjaka Haga Ratsimbazafy  , Aurélie Laborel-Préneron  , Camille Magniont  and Philippe Evon

Received: 26 March 2021;  Published: 20 June 2021;  doi: 10.21926/rpm.2102026

The use of plant aggregates obtained from agricultural co-products mixed with mineral binders to form eco-friendly insulating building materials has been initiated for a few years to bring environmentally friendly solutions to the construction sector. Several studies on different agro-resources have already been carried out, providing various information about the properties of plant aggregates and plant-based concrete. However, the characteristics of the agricultural co-product, which allow it to qualify as a plan [...]

by Iyus Yosep  , Ai Mardhiyah  , Kurniawan Kurniawan  and Indra Maulana

Received: 21 July 2024;  Published: 25 October 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2404251

Bullying is a serious problem among adolescents with broad negative impacts on psychological and social well-being. Factors that influence bullying are individual and environmental. Emotional intelligence has been identified as an essential factor influencing bullying behavior, but its relationship is not fully understood. This research aims to conduct a scoping review of the relationship between emotional intelligence and adolescent bullying behavior. A scoping review approach was used in this research. Search for [...]

by Selma A. Augusta Quist Møller  , Sohrab Sami  and Shauna L. Shapiro

Received: 04 July 2018;  Published: 06 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1901002

Background: In this study, we performed a systematic review of randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) examining the health benefits of (mindful) self-compassion-based interventions (SCBIs) and studies which explicitly combine SCBIs and mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs). Based on the compelling evidence supporting the effectiveness of MBIs, we evaluated the potential use of MBIs and SCBIs to complement one another, and whether SCBIs may serve as supplementary, or preliminary interventions for individuals not fully [...]

by Randolph James  , Amy Lawson Moore  , Dick M Carpenter II  , Terissa Michele Miller  and Christina Ledbetter

Received: 29 April 2019;  Published: 06 September 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1903054

Background: The current study examined a multifaceted anti-neuroinflammatory intervention that included physical exercise, mental exercise, grain-free/sugar-free diet, anti-inflammatory nutritional supplements, sleep optimization, and stress management within the context of a functional medicine practice for five patients with varying levels of cognitive impairment. Methods: In a prospective chart review, we examined impact measures including assessment of (1) cognitive skills, (2) brain connectivity, and (3) daily [...]

by Peta Stapleton  , Ulf Sandstrom  and Gunilla Hamne

Received: 12 September 2018;  Published: 22 December 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804036

Background: This pilot trial investigated whether a 3-week self-help model for stress reduction using the Trauma Tapping Technique (TTT) would impact traumatized youth in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on post-traumatic stress symptoms and general happiness. It also focussed on the acceptability of the program to recipients and implementation in a community with complex trauma and conflict. Methods: The study involved 77 youth who received a TTT 3-week model of intervention (self-applied). Post traumatic stre [...]

by Xinran Lv  , Ziqiang Yin  , Zhigang Yang  , Junshuai Chen  , Shen Zhang  , Shaolei Song  and Gang Yu

Received: 02 January 2024;  Published: 03 April 2024;  doi: 10.21926/rpm.2402009

Titanium diboride (TiB2) materials have garnered significant attention due to their remarkable comprehensive properties. They offer potential applications in high-temperature structural materials, cutting tools, armor, electrodes for metal smelting, and wear-resistant parts. However, due to the low self-diffusion coefficient, the TiB2 exhibits poor sinterability, excessive grain growth at elevated temperatures, and inadequate oxidation resistance, limiting its wide application. Therefore, many research works are de [...]

by Jun Gu  , Zhenya Tang  , Hui Chen  , Steven Sfamenos  and Katherine B Geiersbach

Received: 02 March 2020;  Published: 13 May 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.genet.2002109

Quantitative image analysis of the status of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) by both immunohistochemistry staining and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) is important for the treatment of breast cancer. Guidelines of the American Society for Clinical Oncology and College of American Pathologists, for HER2 FISH, have evolved over time to improve test accuracy, and efforts have been made to better address the problems with the interpretation that are encountered with borderline-positive cases. S [...]

by Floris Taminiau  and Bob van der Zwaan

Received: 04 August 2022;  Published: 10 October 2022;  doi: 10.21926/jept.2204032

In the Netherlands, an important way to contribute toward achieving climate goals is the large-scale deployment of wind turbines in the North Sea. The North Sea is a unique location for offshore wind power thanks to its strong winds, shallow waters, and proximity to large energy users. Wind turbines generate electricity by extracting kinetic energy from the atmosphere. This kinetic energy is replenished at a finite rate through the mixing of atmospheric layers. The replenishment rate sets a physical limit to the am [...]

by Roghieh Nooripour  , Maryam Ghanbari Viki  , Nikzad Ghanbari  , Fardin Farmani  and Farinaz Emadi

Received: 07 April 2024;  Published: 01 July 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2403229

Learning disabilities (LDs) encompass a range of cognitive challenges that can significantly influence students' educational experiences and overall academic performance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of alpha/theta neurofeedback rehabilitation on attention and working memory in female students with learning disabilities. This study employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-tests, post-tests, and a two-month follow-up and included a control group. Convenience sampling was used to select 40 fem [...]

by Pierre Bernstein  , Yiteng Xing  and Jacques Noudem

Received: 07 July 2022;  Published: 15 September 2022;  doi: 10.21926/rpm.2203018

Stable levitation of systems consisting of a magnetic source and a superconductor is actively investigated due to the promising applications of this technology. While huge efforts have been made for modeling these setups with numerical simulations, analytical models, in spite of their use being limited to devices with a high degree of symmetry, can bring precious information on certain characteristics of levitating systems. Summarizing our previous work in the field, we present the mean-field model that we have pro [...]

by Ugo Chiocchini  and Giovanni Savarese

Received: 14 May 2019;  Published: 05 September 2019;  doi: 10.21926/jept.1903003

Background: The Regione Lazio-Direzione Regionale dello Sviluppo Economico e delle Attività Produttive (RL–DRSEAP), carrying out its public functions to govern the use of mineral resources (including thermal water), planned the exploitation of the Viterbo hydrothermal system on the basis of a conceptual hydrogeological model (CHM). The CHMs of the Viterbo area and that of the neighboring Tuscany region, characterized by the same geological and hydrogeological setting, are discussed, suggesting the unreliability of [...]

by Melissa Mortensen  , Christine Lundberg  and Simon Horslen

Received: 05 December 2018;  Published: 17 July 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.transplant.1903073

Background: Infants and children undergoing liver transplant require ongoing nutritional evaluation throughout the pre and post-transplant period. The pathophysiologic causes of chronic liver disease and acute liver failure are varied, and each present different and unique nutritional challenges. Methods: A review of the literature and Seattle Children's established guidelines for nutritional management of pediatric liver transplant patients was conducted. Results: We present guidelines of care to optimize nutritio [...]

by Parisa Gazerani

Received: 27 June 2020;  Published: 08 September 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2003071

Sleep plays an important role in maintaining brain function, memory consolidation, hormonal balance, immune system function, growth, and repair. The physiological and psychological effects of disruptions in sleep highlight its importance in human health and wellness. Epigenetic roles are proposed in sleep, and circadian regulation, but only a limited number of studies have determined the mechanism that underlies the epigenetics of environmental factors interacting with the sleep, particularly the ones related to sl [...]

by R. Lalitha S. Fernando  and M.K.M. Natharka Rushan

Received: 25 December 2023;  Published: 28 May 2024;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2402013

Ensuring the sustainability of hospital waste management practices has become a burning issue. Due to the growing population coinciding with rapid urbanization and industrialization, practicing sustainable methods of medical waste management is an urgent requirement. Like other developing countries, Sri Lanka also faces various difficulties when dealing with high-risk hospital waste material, spreading diseases rapidly and making the environment unclean. Thus, moving towards sustainable hospital waste management ha [...]

by Kamal A. R. Ismail  , Fatima A. M. Lino  , Pedro A. A. Baracat  , Odenir de Almeida  , Mohamed Teggar  and Abdelghani Laouer

Received: 14 August 2024;  Published: 26 February 2025;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2501013

The recent tendencies of drastic variations of environmental conditions, inundations, severe winds, and gusts besides heavy and unexpected long-duration rains showed the world an image of what could happen if emissions and global warming are not adequately controlled. Implementing new energy solutions as fast as possible is essential to cope with climate change, one of the biggest threats to our survival. These alarming signs intensified research and development efforts to replace fossil-based activities with renew [...]

by Maggi A Budd  and Michelle E Mlinac

Received: 30 January 2025;  Published: 30 May 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2502314

Identifying and addressing ethical issues in the care of older adults can be complex and challenging in clinical settings. This article reviews specific ethical principles including autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, dignity, and justice, and explores them in the context of interprofessional geriatric care. Situations and related ethical components such as treatment in intensive care units, end-of-life care, dementia care, and aging with advancing technology are included. Case scenarios for each principle or s [...]

by Jeonghyeon Cheon  and Seunghyun Kim

Received: 21 October 2021;  Published: 25 January 2022;  doi: 10.21926/rpm.2201002

3D printing is an attractive method to fabricate microfluidic devices due to (1) its fast and simple process without specialized equipment and cleanroom environment, and (2) its capability to create complex 3D structures. Combined with Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), it can be used to develop various microfluidic devices taking advantage of both 3D printing and PDMS. In this paper, we investigated a Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D printer to fabricate 3D printing/PDMS integrated microfluidic devices. We used it to f [...]

by Salah Vaisi  , Honia Modares Gorji  and Narmin Shafei

Received: 07 January 2024;  Published: 17 May 2024;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2402012

Visual comfort affects the quality of classrooms as well as student learning. A practice-oriented approach discovers how the gap between academic research and its application in building design can be addressed. Nevertheless, the physical characteristics design of daylighting systems, including window sizes, shapes, dimensions, and materials, are considered fundamental challenges for their practicability. In this study, the physical characteristics design of daylighting systems, including window sizes, shapes, dime [...]