Table of Content

Open Access Short Review

Alzheimer's Disease: Parsing the Pathways Leading to the Disease Based on the Spirochete/Biofilm Hypothesis

Received: 30 December 2019;  Published: 19 February 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2001107

Abstract

A pathway which highlighted spirochetes (Borrelia burgdorferi and dental treponemes) that made biofilms which led to Alzheimer’s disease has recently been promulgated. All the Alzheimer’s disease, on which this pathway was based, had been specifically confirmed both clinically and pathologically. This current work will show putative and plausible individual pathways that were studied. First and foremost, intracellular spirochetes make biofilms and concurrently make beta amyloid; this has been shown in v [...]

1534 9255

Open Access Review

Catatonia Following Cessation of Topiramate in a Patient with Prader-Willi Syndrome: Case Report and Review of Literature

Received: 12 January 2020;  Published: 01 April 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2002054

Abstract

Case studies have associated catatonia with withdrawal from benzodiazepines and clozapine, both of which have been shown to increase GABA activity. Long-term use of GABAergic medications could result in GABAA downregulation and sudden discontinuation of the GABAergic drug could lead to a GABA hypoactive state which could predispose the patient to catatonia. The anticonvulsant topiramate, is known to increase brain GABA activity. Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a genetic imprinting disorder characterized by lack of e [...]

1534 10907

Open Access Original Research

Mesoscale Modeling of Extrusion and Solidification During Material Extrusion Additive Manufacturing

Received: 22 August 2023;  Published: 25 October 2023;  doi: 10.21926/rpm.2304033

Abstract

In this work, we apply a multiphysics approach to fused deposition modeling to simulate extrusion and solidification. Restricting the work to a single line scan, we focus on the application of polylactic acid. In addition to heat, momentum and mass transfer, the solid/liquid/vapor interface is simulated using a front-tracking, level-set method. The results focus on the evolving temperature, viscosity, and volume fraction and are cast within a set of parametric studies, to include the printing and extrusion speed, a [...]

1533 7979

Open Access Original Research

Effects of Qigong Exercises on Patients with Parkinson’s Disease: A Follow-up Study

Received: 24 September 2022;  Published: 28 January 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2301008

Abstract

Qigong, a traditional Chinese exercise routine, has been used as a treatment for Parkinson’s disease (PD) in many studies, and the results have confirmed its effectiveness in reducing the symptoms of PD. However, no study has yet investigated the long-term effects and benefits of Qigong practices in improving the symptoms of PD. The purpose of this follow-up evaluation was to investigate the long-term effects of Qigong practices in improving the symptoms of PD. In this randomized controlled trial (RCT), patie [...]

1532 17556

Open Access Original Research

Generalized Resistance Resources in the Time of COVID-19: The Role of Sense of Coherence and Resilience in the Relationship between COVID-19 Fear and Loneliness among Schoolteachers

Received: 30 April 2022;  Published: 15 August 2022;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2203130

Abstract

Fear has been the most common emotional response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and excessive fear is associated with various indices of psychological distress, particularly loneliness. Although most people have experienced pandemic-related fear and distress, certain groups who are on the front of service provision have experienced the pandemic in distinct ways, owing to its impact on the nature of their work. Schoolteachers represent one such group; therefore, it is imperative to identify resources that can safeguard a [...]

1532 9189

Open Access Case Report

Clival Paraganglioma, Case Report and Literature Review

Received: 30 May 2022;  Published: 07 July 2022;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2203128

Abstract

Paragangliomas are rare tumors that may present with cranial neuropathies when located along the skull base. Supratentorial paragangliomas are less likely to secrete catecholamines but should be worked up, nonetheless. We highlight a case of a female in her fourth decade found to have a petroclival lesion following initial presentation that included one month of tooth pain, dysphagia, diplopia, hoarseness and right hemifacial hypoesthesia. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain demonstrated a T2 hyperintense lesio [...]

1530 9490

Open Access Review

llmenite and Biomass Composite Nanomaterials - A Review

Received: 10 April 2024;  Published: 13 June 2024;  doi: 10.21926/cr.2402006

Abstract

Ilmenite is a mineral whose crystallinity can be altered by chemical treatment, producing TiO2 and iron and titanium-based metal nanocomposites, which are applicable mainly for photocatalysis. Porous and crystalline biomass-derived carbon materials include graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, graphitic carbon nitride, catalytically graphitized sucrose and chitosan, and activated carbon. Ilmenite-based metal oxides coupled with biomass-based carbon materials are effective in environmental remediation, especially [...]

1529 9018

Open Access Review

Deep Brain Stimulation – Therapeutic Possibilities in Alzheimer's Disease

Received: 02 December 2020;  Published: 30 April 2021;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2102170

Abstract

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia worldwide, and represents a significant cause of cognitive decline, disability, and mortality. Ongoing clinical trials continue to investigate β-amyloid targeted therapy with unclear benefit, and we are currently limited to symptomatic treatment. Therefore, there is a salient need for the development of novel, potentially disease-modifying therapeutic strategies such as deep brain stimulation. This manuscript reviews Deep Brain Stimulation in Alzheimer’s Dis [...]

1529 10155

Open Access Review

Our Steps toward Subcutaneous Transplantation of Macro-Encapsulated Islets

Received: 29 May 2019;  Published: 24 July 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.transplant.1903074

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) can be cured or greatly ameliorated by adequate insulin secretion from a relatively small volume of insulin-producing cells. Cell encapsulation enables allo- and even xeno-geneic cell therapy without immunosuppression. However, recent clinical trials show that micro-encapsulated islets are not fully retrievable after transplantation. By contrast, macro-encapsulated islets can be retrieved when necessary. As to the transplantation site, subcutaneous tissue can be promising, if new [...]

1529 11258

Open Access Original Research

Prescribed Medicinal Cannabis for the Treatment of Chronic Pain Comorbid with Depression: Real World Evidence from Project Twenty21

Received: 01 March 2024;  Published: 05 June 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402032

Abstract

Chronic pain is one of the most common conditions for which people seek treatment with cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) and there is mounting real world evidence that CBMPs are safe and effective in treating pain. Many people with chronic pain also experience major depression and it is unknown whether pain patients with major depression derive equal benefit from CBMPs as those who are not depressed since comorbidities are usually an exclusion factor in RCTs. This study aimed to investigate whether patients [...]

1528 36340

Open Access Research Article

Malignancies and Pediatric Liver Transplantation: Promising Management with the mTOR-inhibitor Everolimus

Received: 07 June 2020;  Published: 25 January 2021;  doi: 10.21926/obm.transplant.2101135

Abstract

Some malignancies such as hepatoblastoma may be an indication for liver transplantation (LT) or some, for example, post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) may develop after successful LT. An immunosuppressive therapy after LT can promote the recurrence of the primary malignancy. The mammalian target-of-rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi) are immunosuppressive agents with anti-tumor properties. We examined the impact of everolimus (EVL) together with calcineurin inhibitors on allograft outcome and patient surviv [...]

1528 9800

Open Access Original Research

3D Printed Polylactic Acid (PLA) Well Plates for Enzyme Inhibition Studies: The Case of Pancreatic Lipase

Received: 31 July 2022;  Published: 08 October 2022;  doi: 10.21926/cr.2204032

Abstract

3D printed PLA has already been demonstrated for several biotechnological applications, including enzymes immobilization. The prerequisites for an efficient screening assay include using small volumes of reagents, low cost, and rapid screening of large numbers of compounds and extracts. Hence, assays based on microtiter plates are predominant. Thus, designing and fabricating scaffolds on a similar scale, which could serve as immobilization carriers, and their recruitment in inhibitors screening studies is of great [...]

1527 9213

Open Access Original Research

Mortality Risk Factors in Patients who are in Heart Transplantation Waiting List

Received: 01 February 2019;  Published: 05 August 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.transplant.1903077

Abstract

Background: To estimate the survival of patients in the heart transplantation waiting list (HTx WL) at Almazov National Medical Research Centre (V.A. Almazov NMRC), Saint-Petersburg, Russia, from 2010 to 2017 and to define risk factors for death among these patients. Methods: It was a single-center retrospective study involving 151 patients with advanced chronic heart failure (CHF) in the HTx WL. Results: Mortality in the HTx WL for the period 2010-2017 was found to decrease. Based on the results of constructing th [...]

1526 9355

Open Access Research Article

1-Decylbenzimidazole Copper(II) Complexes: Combined Experimental and DFT PCM and TD-DFT Computational Studies

Received: 29 June 2020;  Published: 27 August 2020;  doi: 10.21926/acr.2003007

Abstract

1-Decylbenzimidazole (dbim) copper(II) complexes formed during solvent extraction were thoroughly studied, and their structures were predicted. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations of their structures and Time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT) calculations of their spectra indicated that 1-decylbenzimidazole forms both mono- and binuclear complexes with copper(II), with coordination numbers of 4 or 5. At the molar ratio of [Cu(II)]aq/[dbim]org ≥ 1 and at [Cl-]aq ≥ 0.9 mol dm-3 in the extraction media, a binuclear 1:1 [...]

1525 8044

Open Access Case Report

Using Hypnotic Techniques and Guided Imagery in Treatment of a Highly Hypnosible Woman with Slowly Progressing Chronic Organic Brain Disorder: A Case Study

Received: 25 May 2023;  Published: 20 October 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304043

Abstract

A therapeutic intervention combines guided imagery and hypnotic techniques (including self-hypnosis), direct and indirect suggestions, medical treatments, and highly improving patient condition. A variety of hypnotic intervention techniques were introduced to treat a highly hypnotizable patient suffering from an advanced organic brain disorder due to an autoimmune disease and resistant to traditional medicine, showing no improvement despite being highly motivated and cooperating with conventional measures. Progress [...]

1525 8317

Open Access Research Article

Chair Fitness Program for Improved Strength and Physical Function for Older Adults: A Pilot Comparative Effectiveness Study

Received: 05 July 2023;  Published: 12 September 2023;  doi: 10.21926/rpn.2303016

Abstract

Within the US, people are experiencing longer life expectancy, yet these extended lifespans have not necessarily translated into years living in good health. Musculoskeletal degenerative diseases are particularly prevalent amongst older adults. Research shows that regular resistance exercise carries preventive health benefits to combat these conditions. This study evaluated the impact of an innovative hand-held device (OYO) on the physical function of older adults compared to a traditional chair fitness program (CF [...]

1525 15503

Open Access Short Review

The Role of Vitamin D for Children with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Received: 23 January 2022;  Published: 19 April 2022;  doi: 10.21926/rpn.2202013

Abstract

Children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have a high prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency secondary to factors such as malabsorption and decreased intake. In recent years the benefits of optimal vitamin D status have been highlighted for their potential to improve the disease course and long-term outcomes in this population. Clinical benefits have been seen to bone health, the immune system, and gut health, with further improvements to disease and treatment outcomes. Recommendations for vitamin D treatment p [...]

1524 13136

Open Access Original Research

Assessment of Mineral Gain in White Spot Lesions Using CPP-ACP and CPP-ACFP in Different Clinical Protocols: A Proof of Concept Study

Received: 28 September 2021;  Published: 26 November 2021;  doi: 10.21926/rpm.2104046

Abstract

Subsurface remineralization can be promoted by the topical application of nanoparticles of casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP). To assess changes in enamel white spot lesions, an in situ proof-of-concept investigation was performed using 5 subjects (all of whom were healthy young adults) with a cross-over study design. Custom orthodontic brackets were attached to the buccal surfaces of the maxillary second premolar and first molar teeth. Each bracket had a recess that held a slab of enamel w [...]

1523 12339

Open Access Research Article

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of Wood Flour and Pellets for Manufacturing Wood-Plastic Composites (WPCs)

Received: 07 December 2021;  Published: 09 February 2022;  doi: 10.21926/rpm.2201003

Abstract

This study is expanding the previous studies that were focused on the material properties and transportation costs of the two alternative feedstocks for manufacturing wood-plastic composites (WPCs): wood flour and pellets. Besides the material properties and cost analysis, life-cycle assessment (LCA) is equally important to assess the environmental impacts of these two alternative wood feedstocks to manufacture WPCs and gain the knowledge of influences from the manufacturing and transportation processes. The main g [...]

1523 16990

Open Access Original Research

Consumer Perception, Nutritional, and Technological Properties of Bread Made with Chickpea Flour

Received: 12 December 2022;  Published: 12 April 2023;  doi: 10.21926/rpn.2302006

Abstract

Celiac disease (CD) is one of the most common intestinal diseases in humans today. The only "cure" for this disease is a strictly gluten-free diet. Bread is a highly accepted food product. But, bread is a product that owns its technological properties to the presence of gluten. Bread without gluten has different texture, palatability, and sensorial properties. Therefore, new products are needed to solve this problem. Chickpeas are an inexpensive source of protein for making gluten-free baked goods. In this study, w [...]

1523 10560

Open Access Original Research

Assessment of Water Quality in Selangor, Malaysia during the Pandemic Movement Control Order

Received: 27 October 2022;  Published: 14 December 2022;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2204050

Abstract

The COVID-19 lockdown reduced the amount of human activity in Selangor, resulting in improved water quality, less water pollution, and a restored ecosystem. The purpose of this research was to investigate water quality before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as changes in water pollution. After acquiring all of the data from third-party sources, this study analyzed the data using a methodical and statistical approach to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in Selangor. The purpose of the data anal [...]

1522 25499

Open Access Review

Zinc in Liver Fibrosis

Received: 15 March 2019;  Published: 13 June 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.hg.1902023

Abstract

Acute and in particular chronic liver disease of viral, alcoholic and non-alcoholic genesis is a large, often unnoticed health hazard around the world. It can lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the course of decades. Liver fibrosis, conversion of functional parenchyma to connective tissue (scar tissue) as a consequence of chronic liver damage, is a connecting pathogenic process in all chronic liver diseases. Zinc is an essential micronutrient in human health, playing a fundamental role in cellu [...]

1522 8927

Open Access Review

Management of Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy

Received: 31 May 2017;  Published: 28 September 2017;  doi: 10.21926/obm.transplant.1703005

Abstract

Cardiac allograft vasculopathy is one of the leading causes of death following the first 5 years after orthotopic heart transplantation along with late graft failure, likely secondary to undiagnosed CAV. Currently there is no single medical treatment available for this condition except modification of risk factors and immunosuppression. Retrasplantation remains the hope for this entity with some limitations.

1522 9851

Open Access Original Research

Implementation of a Dynamic Thermal and Illuminance Control System in Responsive Façades: Shading Study

Received: 30 May 2022;  Published: 29 September 2022;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2203038

Abstract

This study evaluates three shading configurations designed and tested in a preliminary stage of responsive shading device development. The strategy is based on trigonometric relationships focused on solar angles at any given moment. The configurations are thus related to the ratio of the window area shaded by a responsive brise-soleil that provides 0%, 50%, or 100% shading of the indoor space, based on the daylight needs and the indoor thermal control realized. Shading simulations were performed for Pomona, Califor [...]

1520 8638

Open Access Opinion

The Role of Agriculture in the Australian Government’s Emission Reduction Fund

Received: 21 July 2022;  Published: 10 October 2022;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2204039

Abstract

Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture in 2020 were 67.8 million (M) tonnes (t) of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2-e), amounting to 12.9% of total emissions. Erupted methane (CH4) from ruminant animals comprised 42% of agricultural emissions. By 2030, the Australian Government aims to reduce total emissions by 43% from the 2005 level. The primary policy instrument for achieving this reduction is the Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF) in which there are two main pathways for agriculture – emiss [...]

1519 8377

Open Access Review

Newborn Screening in Gaucher Disease: A Bright and Complicated Future

Received: 20 July 2022;  Published: 26 September 2022;  doi: 10.21926/obm.genet.2203165

Abstract

Gaucher disease (GD) is one of the most common lysosomal storage disorders resulting from biallelic mutations in the GBA1 gene, causing a dysfunction of the lysosomal hydrolase, glucocerebrosidase (acid-β-glucosidase; E.C 3.2.1.45). Clinical manifestations are heterogenous and can include splenomegaly, anemia, and neurological impairments in the case of neuronopathic Gaucher disease types 2 and 3. Newborn screening, arguably the most important public health initiative to date, has been regularly conducted on n [...]

1519 12305

Open Access Review

The Rational Use of Diuretics in the Management of Cirrhotic Ascites in Japan

Received: 04 February 2019;  Published: 25 April 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.hg.1902018

Abstract

In cirrhosis, portal hypertension and hypoalbuminemia due to decreased albumin synthetic capacity and hormonal imbalance due to increased renin-angiotensin-aldosterone and vasopressin systems cause fluid retention and electrolyte abnormalities. Diuretics are indispensable for the control of body fluid volume in liver cirrhosis, and aldosterone antagonists and loop diuretics have been widely used until now. In Japan, tolvaptan, a vasopressin V2 receptor antagonists, became available in September 2013, expanding trea [...]

1519 15391

Open Access Original Research

Active Aging for L.I.F.E.: An Intergenerational Program for Addressing and Changing Attitudes Toward Longevity

Received: 19 July 2022;  Published: 27 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2304264

Abstract

The global population of adults 65 years of age and older will increase dramatically over the next several decades, presenting economic and social challenges requiring sustainable solutions. Aging is a process in which everyone is already involved, it is a lifelong experience not just a later life occurrence. Changing world demographics illustrate that people are living longer, among the world’s young people, survival to age 80 is expected to be commonplace. This new found “longevity dividend” needs to be maximized [...]

1517 11023

Open Access Research Article

NF-κB; the Critical Link between Immune and Metabolic Pathways: Could NF-κB be Used as a Novel Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarker for Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis?

Received: 28 January 2019;  Published: 22 May 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.hg.1902020

Abstract

(1) Background: A great number of inflammatory mediators and metabolic biomarkers have been shown to contribute to the development and progression of obesity-induced pathologies, including insulin resistance and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Many of those mediators are either targets or activators of nuclear factor-κappa B (NF-κB), which is a key transcription factor and plays a pivotal role in the homeostasis and the regulation of inflammatory signaling pathways in the liver. (2) Methods: Our study po [...]

1517 9219

Open Access Review

New and Old Therapeutic Options for Luminal Crohn's Disease - An Overview of Current Literature

Received: 25 February 2019;  Published: 12 August 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.hg.1903031

Abstract

Crohn's Disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory, relapsing and remitting condition that leads to structural damage of the bowel wall. It can be located in any part of the gastrointestinal tract with associated extra-intestinal manifestations. It varies in severity having many complications resulting in significant morbidity. In the past decade medical management of CD has evolved rapidly and with ongoing research it continues to show promising novel therapies. In this article we aim to give an overview of current li [...]

1516 7348

Open Access Research Article

NIR Spectroscopy and Aquaphotomics Approach to Identify Soil Characteristics as a Function of the Sampling Depth

Received: 24 December 2021;  Published: 15 February 2022;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2201008

Abstract

Soil is a very complex medium made of minerals, organic matter, microorganisms, air, and water. Vibrational spectroscopy techniques are exceptionally well-suited to be used with portable and hand-held devices. In this study, NIR spectroscopy was applied using portable instrumentation and the holistic Aquaphotomics approach to identify the differences in three Mediterranean soil profiles from Sardinia (Italy). The soil samples (95) collected from alluvial and loess-sampling sites in the three study areas of North Sa [...]

1515 12220

Open Access Original Research

Effect of Recycled Rubber Particles on the Deicing Salt-Scaling Durability of Concrete

Received: 27 March 2021;  Published: 09 August 2021;  doi: 10.21926/rpm.2103033

Abstract

The present study investigated the effect of reused rubber particles (RRP) on the deicer salt durability of ordinary concrete. Four mixtures were designed, a control concrete (CC) and three other rubber concretes obtained by partial substitution of natural dune sand aggregate with reused rubber particles with 0%, 3%, 6%, and 9% w/w. All studied concretes were subjected to the combined effect of freeze/thaw (56 and 120) cycles with the deicer salt solution of 3% NaCl. The results indicated that RRP improved the deic [...]

1515 8915

Open Access Original Research

Low-Velocity Impact Resistance of Glass Laminate Aluminium Reinforced Epoxy (GLARE) Composite

Received: 16 June 2022;  Published: 12 May 2023;  doi: 10.21926/rpm.2302021

Abstract

This study intends to determine the behavior of glass laminate aluminum-reinforced epoxy (GLARE) and glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) composites under a low-velocity impact test. Experimental tests and numerical simulations are considered for this investigation. All samples are made by the hand lay-up method. Moreover, specimens are produced with a 7075-T6 aluminium sheet with a 0.5 mm thickness, resin 3001, and E-glass fiber. The drop weight test performs the low-velocity impact at 6.7 J and 10 J impact energ [...]

1515 11582

Open Access Review

The Autotaxin - Lysophosphatidic Acid Axis as a Novel Therapeutic Target for Liver Fibrosis

Received: 27 March 2019;  Published: 21 June 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.hg.1902024

Abstract

Chronic liver diseases affects millions of people worldwide each year. Upon chronic liver injury, a wound healing process ensues, leading to the accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. If the injury persists, this leads to liver fibrosis with excessive scarring of the liver and loss of liver function. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), a signaling molecule has shown to be involved in various biological processes, including wound healing process. Elevated plasma levels of LPA and its catalyst autotaxin (ATX), [...]

1514 8427

Open Access Editorial

What is Geriatrics?

Received: 20 March 2018;  Published: 28 March 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.1801004

Abstract

All of us are intuitively aware, and many of us explicitly aware as well, of the meaning of geriatrics as a specialty. After all, most of us practice geriatrics or we have been intimately involved with this area and we are know the reality of geriatrics. Or do we? Geriatrics is an oddly ill-defined specialty when you look at it more carefully. Some of us practice medicine, some of us practice in the social sciences, and many of us simply do our jobs day-to-day and try to get by. What we share, however, is the heart [...]

1513 9133

Open Access Original Research

Analysis of Interpersonal Relationships of Social Network Users Using Explainable Artificial Intelligence Methods

Received: 27 April 2023;  Published: 24 August 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2303180

Abstract

The emergence of the social networking phenomenon and the sudden spread of the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) around the world have significantly affected the transformation of the system of interpersonal relations, partly shifting them towards virtual reality. Online social networks have greatly expanded the boundaries of human interpersonal interaction and initiated processes of integration of different cultures. As a result, research into the possibilities of predicting human behavior through the characteristic [...]

1513 10779

Open Access Original Research

A Neural Network Evidence of the Nexus Among Air Pollution, Economic Growth, and COVID-19 Deaths in the Hubei Area

Received: 19 February 2021;  Published: 06 May 2021;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2102008

Abstract

In this study, we used an image neural network model to assess the relationship between economic growth, pollution (PM2.5, PM10, and CO2), and deaths from COVID-19 in the Hubei area (China). Data analysis, neural network analysis, and deep learning experiments were carried out to assess the relationship among COVID-19 deaths, air pollution, and economic growth in China (Hubei province, the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic). We collected daily data at a city level from January 20 to July 31, 2020. We used main cit [...]

1512 10586

Open Access Editorial

Acknowlegement to Reviewers of OBM Geriatrics in 2020

Received: 04 January 2021;  Published: 06 January 2021;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2101149

Abstract

The editors of OBM Geriatrics would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2020. We greatly appreciate the contribution of expert reviewers, which is crucial to the journal's editorial process. We aim to recognize reviewer contributions through several mechanisms, of which the annual publication of reviewer names is one. Reviewers receive a voucher entitling them to a discount on their next LIDSEN publication and can download a certificate of recognition [...]

1512 6764

Open Access Review

A Review of Clinical Influencing Factors in the Selection of Cardiac Medications in the Elderly

Received: 14 January 2023;  Published: 31 May 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2302023

Abstract

Aging is a stage of the natural life cycle. It is a set of natural and coordinated growth changes all organs and body systems undergo to burnout. It is impossible to determine the exact time of old age for two reasons. First, the aging process is different for humans due to individual, hereditary factors. Second, aging has a set of physiological, psychological and, social factors. This review aimed to gather appropriate clinical information and facts for clinicians when practicing heart medications in elderly patie [...]

1512 11308

Open Access Original Research

A Mixed-Methods Pilot Study to Identify Facilitators Leading to Sustained Mindfulness Practice across the Perinatal Period

Received: 31 May 2022;  Published: 26 August 2022;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2203038

Abstract

Many women experience depression and/or anxiety during pregnancy and/or the postpartum period. Mind-Body Interventions (MBIs) have shown great efficacy in the mitigation of these symptoms; however, there is limited research spanning the postpartum period and exploring long-term sustainability of mindfulness practice. Furthermore, little is known about specific facilitators that contribute to sustainability. The primary objective of this mixed-methods study is to use the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) framework to [...]

1511 8236

Open Access Original Research

Reconstruction of Anthropogenic Land-Cover Change for Middle America, 1500 CE

Received: 07 March 2021;  Published: 24 August 2021;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2103020

Abstract

This project demonstrates how to use existing syntheses of many decades of historical social science research to produce empirically derived land-use maps in a GIS for large regions for a specific target year at a resolution appropriate to the calibration of existing anthropogenic land-cover change (ALCC) models. Disagreement among the outputs of various ALCC models results from differing estimates of population and assumptions about how much food a given population requires and the productivity per unit area of va [...]

1510 11356

Open Access Case Report

Dual Kidney Transplantation after Hypothermic Oxygenated Perfusion from Marginal Donor after Circulatory Death with Acute Kidney Injury: A Case Report

Received: 22 November 2019;  Published: 03 February 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.transplant.2001096

Abstract

Donation after circulatory death (DCD) is an increasingly used resource to alleviate chronic renal graft shortages. Organs from donors with progressively increased creatinine levels due to acute kidney injury are used, but the effects of this condition on kidney transplantation are still unclear. Ex-situ machine perfusion is emerging as a potential tool to preserve and resuscitate vulnerable grafts. We report a case of DCD kidneys discarded due to severe acute kidney injury with favorable histological Karpinski sco [...]

1510 8859

Open Access Review

Treatment Strategies for Antibody-mediated Rejection in Kidney Transplantation and Its Prevention

Received: 22 August 2020;  Published: 28 September 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.transplant.2003119

Abstract

This article reviews the current treatment strategies of antibody-mediated rejection in kidney transplantation, which is increasingly recognized as the leading immunological cause of graft failure. The pathophysiologic complexity of this condition poses significant challenges for its treatment; however, progress toward advancing our understanding of its pathogenesis and diagnosis will allow for identification of new therapeutic targets. Emphasis is also given to prevention, which is mainly based on careful assessme [...]

1510 16082

Open Access Original Research

Predictors of Mid-Term Glomerular Filtration Rate after Deceased Donor Renal Transplantation: Kidney Donor Profile Index as a Predictor of Mid-Term GFR

Received: 17 March 2021;  Published: 20 July 2021;  doi: 10.21926/obm.transplant.2103150

Abstract

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is an excellent indicator of renal function; however, it is rarely evaluated as an endpoint. We investigated donor and recipient factors for associations that might be predictive of mid-term GFR after renal transplantation. We performed a retrospective review of 828 deceased donor renal transplantations performed at Montefiore Medical Center between the years 2009-2015. Donor characteristics included KDPI, [low (<20%), medium (20-80%), high (>80%)], age, graft types [extended [...]

1510 10503

Open Access Original Research

Atrial Fibrillation, Anticoagulation, and Major Bleeding Episodes in Geriatric Patients at the Risk of Falling

Received: 22 May 2019;  Published: 26 August 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.1903071

Abstract

Background: Geriatric patients are at risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) and stroke, and the risk of oral anticoagulation (OAC) related bleeding is also presumed to be higher. Detailed knowledge about the prevalence of AF and bleeding pattern in this population is scarce. This study sought to assess the prevalence of AF, use of OAC, and the rate of major bleeding in geriatric patients who are prone to frequent falls. We expect to find a higher prevalence of AF among geriatric patients compared to elderly people of co [...]

1508 10083

Open Access Opinion

Vitamin D in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection Receiving the Direct Antiviral Agents

Received: 23 February 2020;  Published: 30 March 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.hg.2001044

1508 7008

Open Access Original Research

‘It’s Nice for My Body but I Don’t Like It’ – Experiences of Soothing Rhythm Breathing in Clients with Depression

Received: 25 August 2023;  Published: 11 October 2023;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304041

Abstract

Soothing-rhythm breathing (SRB) is a core component of compassion focused therapy (CFT). While integral to CFT, research has yet to explore personal experiences of SRB. This study aimed to explore the experiences of individuals with depression who had practiced SRB in NHS primary care services. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used to analyse data from individual semi-structured interviews. Three experiential themes were identified: ‘mind-body connection and bodily needs’, ‘a new relationship with [...]

1508 11149

Open Access Review

Sleep and Help Seeking Behaviours in Australia: A Narrative Review

Received: 22 March 2019;  Published: 27 June 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.1902029

Abstract

Inadequate sleep is a largely under recognised problem in Australia despite researchers consistently highlighting it as a key component of health and wellbeing. Over a third of Australian adults now experience some form of inadequate sleep, which is consistently linked to a range of accompanying physical and mental health concerns. In addition to the health burden on the individual, the associated financial burden incurred by the community is extremely high with inadequate sleep costing over 66.3 billion annually i [...]

1508 12140

Open Access Original Research

Comparative Assessment of Seasonal Variations in the Quality of Surface Water and Its Associated Health Hazards in Gold Mining Areas of Osun State, South-West Nigeria

Received: 30 October 2022;  Published: 23 January 2023;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2301011

Abstract

Industrial and urban development are contributing to an increase in global environmental degradation. Therefore, the release of heavy metals from mining-related operations into surface water is harmful to human health. But as anthropogenic influences on the environment grow, surface water characteristics are also alter, impacting aquatic creatures. In order to analyze the acceptability of the surface water in the gold mining area for drinking and irrigation uses, different quality water assessment methodologies wer [...]

1505 11607

Open Access Original Research

Thermo-rechargeable Batteries Fabricated Using Low-cost Materials

Received: 15 February 2022;  Published: 30 March 2022;  doi: 10.21926/jept.2201011

Abstract

We fabricated three thermo-rechargeable batteries using low-cost transition metal hexacyanoferrate and determined the thermal voltage (Vcell) and discharge capacity (Qcell) per unit weight of the total active material in the cathode and anode. The obtained values were compared with the calculated values, which were determined by analyzing the temperature and capacity coefficients of the redox potential.

1505 9300

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