Table of Content

Open Access Commentary

Cluster Sets for Muscle Hypertrophy: A Short Review

Received: 25 November 2021;  Published: 09 March 2022;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2201010

Abstract

Cluster-set resistance training is focused on performance improvements of sports by increasing the repetition maximum, jump height, and efficiency in the sprint. In this commentary, we present relevant aspects to optimize the use of cluster training under the context of muscle hypertrophy. Therefore, we address intra-sets pauses, the number of repetitions per block, and strategies that benefit this methodology. During a cluster set resistance training program, not only the total number of repetitions could be highe [...]

2324 37049

Open Access Original Research

Bridging Biomedical and Person-centered Care Approaches via Namaste Care with Family Participation: An Asian Experience in Advanced Dementia Treatment

Received: 27 October 2020;  Published: 04 December 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2004140

Abstract

A locally-adapted, multisensory, psychosocial intervention called Namaste Care program was developed to improve the daily life of persons with advanced dementia (PwAD) through arranging meaningful activities and physical interactions by healthcare staff (Namaste Carers). Congruent with Asian values, the families of PwAD were invited to participate in Namaste Care sessions. The study aimed to explore the influence of Namaste Care on cognitive status and quality of life (QOL) of PwAD, and perceptions and attitudes of [...]

2322 14168

Open Access Original Research

Zinc Silicate Thin Film Composites Obtained by a Sputtering Based Approach: Structural, Dielectric and Photovoltaic Properties

Received: 19 January 2021;  Published: 02 April 2021;  doi: 10.21926/jept.2102015

Abstract

This study deals with the production of zinc silicate thin films employing a solid-state reaction at temperatures ranging from 300 °C to 560 °C, to develop new inorganic, n-type materials with seemingly incompatible properties as low work function, high mobility, and high visible transmittance. Depending on a careful reaction control, zinc silicates can preserve reagents (silicon and/or ZnO) as nanoaggregate guests, exhibiting tunable light absorption and emission properties that make them useful for differ [...]

2315 11970

Open Access Research Article

Calculation of the Forces Applied to a Superconductor in Levitation in an Inhomogeneous Magnetic Field

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

Abstract

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 [...]

2315 22238

Open Access Original Research

Evaluation of Classical Statistical Methods for Analyzing BS-Seq Data

Received: 23 May 2018;  Published: 10 December 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.genet.1804053

Abstract

DNA methylation is an epigenetic change that is not only important in normal cell development, but also plays a significant role in human health and disease. Therefore, studies of DNA methylation have been actively pursued to clarify the precise role of this modification in disease etiology and its potential as a biomarker of disease. One key issue in analyzing DNA methylation data is the detection of significant differences in methylation levels between diseased individuals and healthy controls. In recent years, m [...]

2313 10139

Open Access Original Research

Online Delivery of Emotional Freedom Techniques in the Treatment of Food Cravings and Weight Management: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Received: 14 October 2019;  Published: 17 December 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1904065

Abstract

Background: The combination of dietary restraint and physical exercise as a recommended treatment for weight loss has had limited long-term success. One factor proposed as limiting weight management techniques efficacy is the failure to target psychological processes linked with overeating. Consistent with prior research that has identified the efficacy of emotional freedom techniques (EFT) in reducing food cravings and aiding weight loss, this pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT) examined the impact of online d [...]

2312 30131

Open Access Review

Peripheral Nerve Dysfunction after Spinal Cord Injury

Received: 02 October 2020;  Published: 29 December 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2004075

Abstract

Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to an immediate loss of sensory and motor function below the level of injury mostly affecting people in the prime of life. In addition to the primary injury there is accumulating neurophysiological and histological evidence of dysfunction in the peripheral nerves, not related to direct damage from the primary injury, which exacerbates muscle wasting, and contributes to further functional loss and poor recovery. Among the potential contributing factors are systemic inflammation, and mo [...]

2311 15681

Open Access Opinion

A Potential Role of Coenzyme Q10 Deficiency in Severe SARS-CoV2 Infection

Received: 01 August 2020;  Published: 26 October 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2004042

Abstract

There is a dramatic need for extensive research into the predictors of severe infection with SARS-CoV2 and therapeutic options for infected people. People who suffer from severe illness and higher mortality display a pattern of having specific co-morbidities (diabetes, obesity, hypertension) and are of higher age. Recent research has described methods of viral entry via receptors (ACE2, TMPRSS2) and the hyper-inflammatory state often associated with severe illness (increase in interleukins, increase in TNF-alpha). [...]

2308 15517

Open Access Technical Note

Spatio-Temporal Metocean Measurements for Offshore Wind Power

Received: 24 November 2020;  Published: 22 January 2021;  doi: 10.21926/jept.2101005

Abstract

This paper presents the case for the use of HF radar to provide wave, current and wind measurements and maps during the surveying, resource and impact assessment, construction, maintenance and performance assessment phases of an offshore fixed or floating wind farm or other marine renewable project. The data presented are from the Celtic Sea which is currently the focus of a lot of offshore wind interest. The data are from a dual radar system deployed at the Wave Hub site off the Cornwall coast since 2011, a single [...]

2307 14024

Open Access Editorial

Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (taVNS): Precise Integration Between Neuroscience and Integrative Medicine

Received: 10 September 2025;  Published: 10 October 2025;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2504043

Abstract

Transcutaneous auricular vagal nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a non-invasive method that regulates the autonomic nervous system via electrical stimulation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve. Recent literature demonstrates that taVNS can decrease systemic inflammation, attenuate emotional disorders, modulate autonomic functions, and facilitate neural plasticity. This review examines the neurophysiological mechanisms of taVNS, including stimulation paradigms (short- and intensive, prolonged), and clinical findi [...]

2302 10111

Open Access Original Research

Initial Adhesion Behavior of Osteoblast on Titanium with Sub-Micron Scale Roughness

Received: 18 September 2019;  Published: 14 January 2020;  doi: 10.21926/rpm.2001003

Abstract

The surface roughness of titanium could regulate various cellular functions such as survival and growth. In the context of cell adhesion to materials, cell spreading and cell shape are also closely linked to various cellular functions. Previously, we found that Ti substrate with a 100-nm scale surface roughness reduced cell survival. However, effects of surface roughness on cell shape were not investigated. Herein, we quantified the initial adhesion behavior of osteoblasts on a Ti substrate with ~100 nm scale surfa [...]

2302 14342

Open Access Review

Prenatal Testing – What Is It Good For? A Review and Critique

Received: 22 June 2021;  Published: 01 September 2021;  doi: 10.21926/obm.genet.2103136

Abstract

The goals of prenatal testing remain controversial and reflect competing interests of public health, patient rights, disability activists, scholars, feminist critics, commercial laboratories, judiciary/legislative trends, and medical science. This paper reviews and critiques the most common justifications of prenatal testing for fetal aneuploidy that have been put forth over the half century of its existence: reducing the medical and economic burden to society of genetic disease through selective abortion, allowing [...]

2300 18294

Open Access Research Article

The Relationship between Caregiver Stress and Behavioural Changes in Dementia

Received: 01 March 2019;  Published: 09 May 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.1902052

Abstract

Background: Clinical studies have shown that caregivers of dementia patients often experience a great deal of stress related to caregiving. This paper examines caregiver stress within the context of behaviour change in dementia using the Kingston Caregiver Stress Scale (KCSS) and the Kingston Standardized Behaviour Scale (Community Form) (KSBA(comm)). Methods: Eighty patients with moderate dementia and their caregivers participated. Each patient was cognitively assessed with the Kingston Standardized Cognitive Asse [...]

2300 13284

Open Access Original Research

Open-Label Study to Evaluate the Response to Homeopathic Treatment of Psoriasis

Received: 12 August 2022;  Published: 21 September 2022;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2203044

Abstract

Patients with psoriasis commonly opt for homeopathic treatment. However, no study has assessed the response to homeopathic treatment by using standardized disease-specific scales, and the findings are based on clinical assessments only. The objective of this study was to evaluate the response to the individualized homeopathic treatment of psoriasis with respect to changes in disease severity and quality of life based on Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and Psoriasis Disability Index (PDI) scales, respective [...]

2294 20536

Open Access Original Research

Leveraging Mindfulness to Build Resilience and Professional Quality of Life in Human Service Professionals

Received: 04 April 2018;  Published: 15 May 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802007

Abstract

Objective: Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have shown promise in cultivating resilience and are widely accepted as efficacious in the treatment of a range of psychological disorders. This paper explores the feasibility of a Mindful-Awareness and Resilience Skills Training (MARST) program to enhance mindfulness and resilience, as a means of increasing psychological well-being and alleviating burnout and compassion fatigue in human service professionals. Method: In this randomised control trial, 46 human servi [...]

2291 16571

Open Access Technical Note

From Food to Foot: The Energy and Carbon Flows of the Human Body at Walking and Cycling

Received: 10 March 2022;  Published: 18 July 2022;  doi: 10.21926/jept.2203025

Abstract

The carbon footprint of motorized transport modes per unit length traveled encompasses the unit share of the vehicle lifetime emissions, that of the transport infrastructure, and those of the motor energy, considered both from “well to tank” and from “tank to wheel”. In the active modes of transport, i.e., walking and cycling, the counterpart of motor energy is human energy, which is associated with two kinds of carbon flows: the carbon footprint of food intake, – which we call the Food to Body component – and the [...]

2291 15649

Open Access Editorial

Genetic Screening of Cervical Cancer

Received: 29 June 2021;  Published: 19 July 2021;  doi: 10.21926/obm.genet.2103132

Abstract

Medical genetics plays an important role in the screening and prevention of numerous diseases. Thus, it is important to develop effective screening and prevention programs and improve the assessment of the susceptibility of diseases. The development of screening and prevention programs depends on the identification of early biomarkers (including functional and behavioral) for the risk and onset of the disease, and such programs need to be designed according to internationally accepted criteria. Cervical cancer repr [...]

2290 14508

Open Access Original Research

Feasibility of a Meditation Video Game to Reduce Anxiety in College Students

Received: 27 July 2018;  Published: 07 October 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1804024

Abstract

(1) Background: Meditation is a common intervention for college students suffering from issues with anxiety. Due to this popularity, several meditation-based video games have been released which can be used to supplement or motivate meditation practice. However, these tools are not often given scrutiny in a laboratory setting before being released to the public. Our lab conducted a brief feasibility pilot study to investigate Meditation Deathmatch, an open-source meditation video game aimed at stimulating meditatio [...]

2290 32952

Open Access Research Article

Environmental Consequences in the Neighbourhood of Rapid Unplanned Urbanisation in Bangalore City

Received: 24 July 2023;  Published: 01 December 2023;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2304052

Abstract

The knowledge of landscape dynamics aids in evolving strategies for the prudent management of natural resources to sustain ecosystem services. The availability of spatiotemporal remote sensing data with advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms has aided in assessing the ecological status in urban environments, markedly revealing complex patterns and interactions. The current communication presents landscape dynamics in the Bengaluru Urban district from 1973 to 2022 using a s [...]

2289 23953

Open Access Original Research

Effect of ZSM-5 Particle Size and Framework Silica-to-Alumina Ratio on Hexane Aromatization

Received: 13 August 2022;  Published: 17 October 2022;  doi: 10.21926/cr.2204035

Abstract

Parent ZSM-5 and Ga-modified ZSM-5 catalysts with different Si/Al ratios and particle sizes were prepared. The physicochemical properties of the prepared catalysts were investigated by performing X-ray powder diffraction analysis, BET surface area analysis, and NH3-TPD analysis. The performance of the aromatization reaction of the prepared catalysts was evaluated with 1-hexane as a model compound. The zeolite catalysts with a low SiO2/Al2O3 ratio possessed better activity than those with a high SiO2/Al2O3 ratio. Ga [...]

2289 15102

Open Access Original Research

States of Consciousness, the qEEG, and Noetic Snapshots of the Brain/Mind Interface: A Case Study of Hypnosis and Sidhi Meditation

Received: 20 January 2020;  Published: 13 April 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2002019

Abstract

Noetic analysis is a methodology to quantify the mind during hypnosis, meditation, or other stimulus conditions/states of consciousness in a reliable and valid manner. The methodology uses retrospective phenomenological assessment (RPA) to comprehensively assess subjective experience. By having the participant complete a first person, self-report questionnaire, the Phenomenology of Consciousness Inventory (PCI), in reference to a short stimulus condition, the researcher can generate a “snapshot” of the mind, and it [...]

2289 17845

Open Access Review

Scope of Nanomaterials in Treating Neurological Disorders

Received: 08 November 2023;  Published: 11 January 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2401208

Abstract

In the last decade, development in nanotechnology has been used intensively. By studying nanotechnology and nanomaterials, we can generate excellent responses in healthcare related to neurological disorders. It also includes easy diagnosis of diseases in their early stages, delivery of genes, and many more. Neurological disorders are one of the most sensitive topics. Therefore, nanomaterials promise to treat neurological disorders as they are highly efficient. Nanomaterials will significantly expand our knowledge o [...]

2288 11747

Open Access Original Research

Observational Study on Auriculotherapy in the Treatment of Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: Preliminary Data

Received: 26 September 2018;  Published: 28 April 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1902028

Abstract

Introduction: Pain in musculoskeletal disorders is a common problem that involves high social and individual costs. Systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials show that a number of treatments usually applied in this field are not effective. On the other hand, there is clinical evidence of the effectiveness of physical exercise, acupuncture, and auriculotherapy. Side effects of current medication limit their use. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of auriculotherapy on the pain of patients suffering from ch [...]

2287 17129

Open Access Communication

Auricular Interventions in Neurology: the Vascular Autonomic Signal Challenge

Received: 09 May 2018;  Published: 25 June 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802012

Abstract

The Auricular approach to diagnostics and therapeutics has gained momentum over the last 15 years. Battlefield Acupuncture has taken on a life of its own and has been adopted into NATO and even been introduced into neonatal intensive care. It is time to take on the challenge of Auricular Medicine - the application of the neurophysiological phenomenon referred to as the Vascular Autonomic Signal or VAS to identify active ear sites in Auricular interventions. It is time to utilize the VAS in therapeutics, recognizing [...]

2286 13193

Open Access Research Article

Evaluating a 3-Week Model for Reducing Symptoms of Stress in Traumatised Youth Using the Trauma Tapping Technique (TTT) for Self-help: A Pilot Trial

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

Abstract

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 [...]

2285 22725

Open Access Review

Craniopharyngiomas: An Appropriate Surgical Treatment based on Topographical and Pathological Concepts

Received: 11 September 2018;  Published: 15 October 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.1804012

Abstract

The optimal treatment of craniopharyngiomas (CPs) represents a neurosurgical challenge, the major reason being their close relationship with the hypothalamus and the third ventricle (3V) boundaries. Nevertheless, CPs are generally defined as “suprasellar” lesions, an inexplicit and frequently defective term. Despite being heterogeneous lesions, CPs are actually characterized by repeating pathological patterns which depend on their point of origin along the pituitary-hypothalamic axis. Surgical plan in tailoring the [...]

2285 20183

Open Access Review

Computational Modelling of Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson's Disease: A Critical Review

Received: 23 November 2020;  Published: 14 May 2021;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2102095

Abstract

We review the use of numerical and computational models to explore deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s disease (DBS PD). It is a review for the modeler and those interested in PD DBS modelling methods and their value. The main model categories of active fiber, mean field, driving force, and volume of tissue activated are described as well as many modelling techniques. We give the basic requirements for a DBS PD model and current theories of DBS mechanism of action, PD etiology, and movement selection. The emphas [...]

2285 14402

Open Access Research Article

Persistent Organic Pollutants in Urban Soils of Central London, England, UK: Measurement and Spatial Modelling of Black Carbon (BC), Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH) and Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB)

Received: 05 March 2021;  Published: 28 May 2021;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2102012

Abstract

Total organic carbon (TOC), black carbon (BC), total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) were determined in 73 surface (0-2 cm) and subsurface (5-20 cm) soil samples taken from a 142 km2 area in Central London, UK. Soils were assessed to provide a baseline chemistry for site owners, developers, occupiers and regulators involved in understanding the potential risk to human health and the environment. TOC range was 1.75-11.85 % (mean 5.82 %), BC 3.7 [...]

2283 15409

Open Access Review

Trauma in Schools: A Review of the Impact of Childhood Trauma and Assessment of a Potential Intervention

Received: 02 March 2023;  Published: 24 May 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2402030

Abstract

According to the National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH), nearly 30 million children in the United States have experienced one or more types of significant childhood trauma. In the average public school, this statistic translates to as many as half of the students in a given teacher’s classroom. Children exposed to the toxic stress of trauma often experience negative consequences that affect their academic, psychological, socioemotional, and behavioral health. To aid educators in addressing this reality, trauma [...]

2282 19849

Open Access Review

Design of Heterogeneous Catalysts for the Conversion of Furfural to C5 Derivatives: A Brief Review

Received: 30 June 2022;  Published: 13 September 2022;  doi: 10.21926/cr.2203026

Abstract

Technological development made in the field of biomass application allows synthesizing several high-value products, such as furfuraldehyde. Furfural, produced through sequential hydrolysis and dehydration reactions from biomass, is considered a platform molecule and a precursor of several other chemicals and biofuels that are generated following reactions such as hydrogenation, hydrodeoxygenation, and decarboxylation. This review aims to reveal the environmental-friendly mechanisms followed for producing furfural d [...]

2279 14563

Open Access Research Article

Gluten-Free Diet for the Treatment of ADHD; Pilot Study

Received: 17 December 2018;  Published: 03 April 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.1902024

Abstract

Background: The association between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and celiac disease has already been established. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), as well as celiac disease, has been associated with neuro-psychiatric disorders. Our objective is to assess if a proportion of pediatric ADHD patients are affected by NCGS and could consequently benefit from a gluten-free diet. Methods: Pilot study of 6 ADHD patients. Personal or family history suggestive of NCGS was investigated. The Conners Cont [...]

2276 27270

Open Access Review

Ketogenic Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder: A Review of Neurobiological Evidence

Received: 06 December 2021;  Published: 17 February 2022;  doi: 10.21926/rpn.2201003

Abstract

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a debilitating illness that places a great burden on global health. A ketogenic diet, which has traditionally been used for treating refractory epileptic disorders, is being increasingly explored for its potential of alleviating other neuropsychiatric conditions. Providing an up-to-date summary on the ketogenic diet’s potential to alleviate MDD, its neurobiological basis, and preliminary clinical evidence. A structured literature survey was performed, and a narrative review was wr [...]

2275 26434

Open Access Original Research

Coral Reef Mapping Using Remote Sensing Techniques and a Supervised Classification Algorithm

Received: 28 August 2021;  Published: 04 November 2021;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2104028

Abstract

The vitality of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) is threatened by many human-made impacts. Monitoring this ecosystem makes it possible to study the general condition and the health of the GBR. However, due to the large extent of the GBR and limited accessibility in the ocean environment, mapping and monitoring this ecosystem has been always challenging task and connived. In this regard, Remote Sensing (RS) is an effective technique that provides valuable information for mapping and monitoring this ecosystem. In an atte [...]

2274 19757

Open Access Review

In vivo Hepatocyte Genome Manipulation via Intravenous Injection of Genome Editing Components

Received: 09 August 2020;  Published: 16 November 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.genet.2004119

Abstract

The liver is a major organ with a wide range of functions, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and bile production. Liver dysfunction causes liver diseases such as hepatic cirrhosis and hepatitis. To explore the pathogenesis of these liver diseases, and the therapeutic agents against them, mice have been widely used as animal models. Genetic manipulation is easy in mice via the administration of nucleic acids (NAs) in the tail-vein. In particular, hydrodynamics-based gene delivery (HGD) is a method based o [...]

2274 12491

Open Access Technical Note

Repli-FISH (Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization): Application of 3D-(Immuno)-FISH for the Study of DNA Replication Timing of Genetic Repeat Elements

Received: 22 July 2018;  Published: 25 January 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.genet.1901062

Abstract

Background: Genetic repeat elements (interspersed or tandem repeats) have diverse functions within cells and at different phases of the cell cycle. However, their investigation at a genome-wide scale is challenging due to their repetitive nature. Here, we describe a method to study the DNA replication kinetics of different repeat elements in single cells throughout the S-phase of the cell cycle. Methods: Mouse major satellite, minor satellite and telomere repeat elements as well as human LINE-1 and Alu repeats were [...]

2273 766156

Open Access Review

A Delirium Monitoring Program for Hospitalized Older Adults: An Approach to Age-Friendly Health Systems

Received: 05 May 2020;  Published: 13 July 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.2003128

Abstract

Delirium is an acute change in mental status with key features of inattention and disorganized thinking. It is particularly common in older adults, with multiple and varied causes. Delirium increases the risk of morbidity, mortality, institutionalization, and healthcare costs; however, it is often missed because it is difficult to recognize without the use of a validated screening tool. The Age-Friendly Health Systems (AFHS) initiative highlights the need for implementation of a delirium monitoring program in hospi [...]

2273 15936

Open Access Research Article

Wisdom and Curiosity Among Older Learners: Elucidating Themes of Well-Being from Beautiful Questions in Older Adulthood

Received: 30 October 2018;  Published: 24 December 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.geriatr.1804025

Abstract

Background: Wisdom and curiosity require greater attention in the lifelong learning literature pertaining to older adulthood. Lifelong learning can assist older adults in amalgamating wisdom and pursuing their curiosities, but how wisdom is amalgamated and how curiosity is pursued in older adulthood needs more exploration. Methods: This qualitative study investigates subthemes of wisdom amalgamation and curiosity pursuits elucidated from interviews of older adults who participated in a university-based lifelong lea [...]

2272 20275

Open Access Review

Neuroprotective Strategies in Glaucoma - Translation to Clinical Trials

Received: 16 April 2020;  Published: 15 June 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2002062

Abstract

Neuroprotection in glaucoma is any medical treatment by which decline in visual function can be slowed or prevented by supporting the health and survival of neural cells, independent of lowering of intraocular pressure (IOP). This is achieved by targeting mechanisms to inhibit or delay retinal ganglion cell death and promote cell survival pathways. Despite demonstrating promising results in preclinical trials, many neuroprotective strategies have failed to show success in subsequent clinical trials. Of the clinical [...]

2271 20782

Open Access Review

Addressing Symptom Clusters with Complementary and Integrative Health Therapies in Palliative Care Populations: A Narrative Review

Received: 02 October 2020;  Published: 22 February 2021;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2101007

Abstract

Both palliative care (PC) and integrative medicine (IM) focus on the whole person to optimize wellbeing. Integrative palliative care combines the best of both approaches in relieving the distressing symptoms of serious illness and its treatment by combining evidence informed, pharmacological and nonpharmacological modalities that are aligned with the person’s goals, values and preferences. Healing is valued, as well as symptom relief, shared decisionmaking, person empowerment, compassionate care, and nurturing of h [...]

2270 12404

Open Access Research Article

Further Understanding of Uncertainties in the Impedance Spectrum of the Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell due to Inductive Effects and Oxygen Diffusion Time Constant

Received: 31 July 2020;  Published: 24 November 2020;  doi: 10.21926/jept.2004017

Abstract

In this study, uncertainties during the assessment of the electrochemical impedance spectrum of the polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) attributed to inductive artefacts at high frequencies and inductive loops at low frequencies as well as oxygen diffusion time constant are discussed. A validated impedance model represented as an equivalent electrical circuit of a PEFC allowed the simulation of the effect of inductive artefacts, inductive loops and oxygen diffusion time constant on electrochemical impedance spectr [...]

2270 11936

Open Access Original Research

Estimating CO2 Emissions for Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Using Life Cycle Assessment: A Case Study in Rio de Janeiro City

Received: 23 September 2022;  Published: 31 January 2023;  doi: 10.21926/aeer.2301015

Abstract

The amount of greenhouse gases has been growing dramatically in recent decades, producing global warming and causing climate change that affects the entire planet. To mitigate these emissions, several nations have committed to implementing measures to reduce emissions of these gases, with carbon dioxide being the main one. The transport sector is one of the leading carbon emitters. It needs to be the object of attention from government authorities and private companies so that sustainable solutions are planned and [...]

2269 18528

Open Access Review

The Physiology of Esophageal Reflexes

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

Abstract

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 [...]

2269 8970

Open Access Original Research

Hydrocracking of Di-and Triaromatic Hydrocarbons to Monoaromatics over Mixed Bi-functional Catalysts

Received: 10 January 2022;  Published: 19 July 2022;  doi: 10.21926/cr.2203021

Abstract

In this study, we present selective hydrocracking of poly (di and tri) aromatic compounds to monoaromatics, such as benzene, toluene, and xylenes (BTX), over a mixture of Pt/Al2O3 and Y zeolites. The polyaromatic compounds feed is a combined simulated model feed, which is similar to light cycle oil (LCO) in composition. The feed is processed in a fixed bed reactor over a catalyst mixture: in the first step, selective hydrogenation of di and tri-aromatic compounds occurs in the presence of Pt/Al2O3 catalyst, followe [...]

2266 12375

Open Access Review

How Can Acupuncture Be Used in Treating Dementia?

Received: 02 March 2018;  Published: 23 April 2018;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1802005

Abstract

Background: Dementia erodes the quality of life of patients and their caregivers, and the growing dementia population threatens public finance in the health and social services. In addition to formal medical treatments, complementary and alternative medicine is applicable to dementia, in which acupuncture has become an option for prevention, remedy, and rehabilitation. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical method that uses needle penetration at acupoints (specific points throughout the body which will be sti [...]

2266 12874

Open Access Case Report

Effect of Physical Exercise Training on Bullying and Depression in a Classroom: A Case Report

Received: 21 June 2020;  Published: 07 January 2021;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2101002

Abstract

In a previous study conducted to assess the impact of physical exercise on the symptoms of depression and anxiety in preadolescents in the school environment, which included a subgroup of participants comprising eleven randomly selected teens (aged 9–11) and all enrolled in primary education, it was immediately observed that one participant referred to as Andy was being bullied and teased, and the teachers were completely unaware of this scenario. All the participants of the study were volunteers, and were subjecte [...]

2266 10928

Open Access Case Report

Cancer and the Display of Lymph Nodes Using Potentized Remedies (Derivates of Iodine and Carbo Animalis)

Received: 10 May 2018;  Published: 10 June 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.1902035

Abstract

(1) Background: The article provides insight into the mode of the immune system acting hierarchically when administering potentized remedies. Occasionally, this can be best seen in severe cases as available with cancer. (2) Methods: The careful anamnesis and subsequent prescription is based on Jan Scholten’s hierarchic classification of homeopathic mineral remedies. (3) Results: In such cases we find syndrome shifts of symptoms shifting from vital to less vital organs, from inside outside and from up downwards, e [...]

2265 45529

Open Access Review

Dopaminergic Activity and Exercise Behavior in Anorexia Nervosa

Received: 03 December 2019;  Published: 23 March 2020;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2001053

Abstract

Driven exercise (i.e., the tendency to exercise in excess to influence weight/shape or regulate emotion) is difficult to manage in the context of anorexia nervosa, and is associated with poorer treatment outcomes, and psychological and medical severity. Driven exercise is observed in a considerable number of those diagnosed with anorexia nervosa; however, to date, this hallmark symptom remains poorly understood. Dopamine signaling is implicated in motivating and maintaining appetitive behavior among patients with e [...]

2263 15285

Open Access Communication

A Neurotransmitter Approach to the Trolley Problem

Received: 25 February 2019;  Published: 28 June 2019;  doi: 10.21926/obm.neurobiol.1902030

Abstract

Is it ethically permissible to sacrifice the life of one human being in order to save the lives of five others? This question forms the basis of the famous thought experiment called “the trolley problem.” Surveys have found that 90 percent of people agree it is permissible when the victim to be sacrificed is described as off in the distance, whereas the opposite result occurs if the victim is described as up close. No consistent ethical principle has been identified that account for these results. In this paper we [...]

2262 16858

Open Access Original Research

Consumption of a Recommended Serving of Wheat Bran Cereals Significantly Increases Human Faecal Butyrate Levels in Healthy Volunteers and Reduces Markers of Inflammation Ex Vivo

Received: 08 October 2021;  Published: 17 December 2021;  doi: 10.21926/rpn.2104002

Abstract

Wheat bran cereals are an important source of dietary fibre. The aim of the study was to investigate if a high intake (120 g) of fibre rich breakfast cereal (which delivers the UK Government guidelines for fibre intake in one serving but is three-fold higher than the manufacturers recommended serving) has additional potential health benefits compared to the recommended serving (40 g, containing 11 g of dietary fibre). To assess this, the study determined the short chain fatty acid (SCFA) profiles in human faecal, u [...]

2260 16921

Open Access Review

Thrombotic Microangiopathy in Solid Organ Transplantation

Received: 31 January 2024;  Published: 10 April 2024;  doi: 10.21926/obm.transplant.2402211

Abstract

Thrombotic Microangiopathy (TMA) is a syndrome characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA) and thrombocytopenia. The presence of schistocytes on peripheral smear, a negative Coombs test, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, increased reticulocyte count and low haptoglobin are often the clues for MAHA. The microvascular process often targets vasculature in kidneys, brain, gastrointestinal system, heart, and skin. A timely diagnosis and treatment are often crucial to prevent severe end organ damage and death [...]

2260 13620

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