A boundary-integral representation for biphasic mixture theory, with application to the post-capillary glycocalyx.

We describe a new boundary-integral representation for biphasic mixture theory, which allows us to efficiently solve certain elastohydrodynamic-mobility problems using boundary element methods. We apply this formulation to model the motion of a rigid particle through a microtube which has non-uniform wall shape, is filled with a viscous Newtonian fluid, and is lined with a thin poroelastic layer. This is relevant to scenarios such as the transport of small rigid cells (such as neutrophils) through microvessels that are lined with an endothelial glycocalyx layer (EGL). In this context, we examine the impact of geometry upon some recently reported phenomena, including the creation of viscous eddies, fluid flux into the EGL, as well as the role of the EGL in transmitting mechanical signals to the underlying endothelial cells.

[Clinical observation on verrucous gastritis with combined therapy of traditional Chinese and Western medicine].

Controlled study of verrucous gastritis treated with combined therapy of TCM-WM was compared with that of WM only. The result showed that the total effective rate and the cured rate of former were 97.83% and 84.78%, while that of latter were 77.14% and 22.86% respectively. The TCM-WM revealed better results than WM alone. Follow-up was done after six months, the recurrence rates of the two groups were 9.10% (2/22) and 43.75% (7/16) respectively, the difference was significant (P < 0.05). There was no side effect in combined therapy and the therapy was convenient for use.

How breast cancer patients choose a treatment method.

This paper discusses two treatment options for early stage breast cancer--modified radical mastectomy and lumpectomy plus radiation therapy--and examines the reasons why women choose one method of treatment over the other. In examining how women make their treatment decision, the paper reviews the literature regarding how psychological, emotional and psychosocial factors play a role in determining a method of treatment. It also discusses coping methods during breast cancer treatment, why women choose to undergo breast reconstruction and to whom they look for information when making health decisions.