bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What Do Patients Want from Acute Migraine Treatment?
Authors: Gallagher RM
Published: December 2004

Clinical observations have shown that migraine is a progressive disorder, both within an acute attack, and within the disease itself. Rates of diagnosis for migraine have increased in the last decade, but more than half of migraineurs remain undiagnosed. Patient expectations of migraine therapies have also increased (patients require rapid and sustained pain relief with a treatment that has good tolerability), and can differ greatly from those of physicians. Management decisions should be made with these expectations in mind, to enhance patient outcomes and compliance with treatment. Improved understanding of acute migraine attack pathophysiology has led to the strategy of early treatment to modify both the progression of the current attack and, potentially, the progression of the disease itself in the individual. The triptans are effective acute migraine therapies. Each agent has its own distinct profile of efficacy and tolerability, enabling individualization of treatment.
Clinical Benefits of Early Triptan Therapy for Migraine
Authors: Láinez MJA
Published: December 2004

The introduction of the triptans brought advances in achieving complete and sustained pain resolution in migraine patients, compared with non-migraine-specific treatments. However, sustained pain-free rates for triptans recorded in many clinical trials are still relatively low. This may be due to study participants being treated late into the attack, when pain is already moderate or severe. Studies with almotriptan have shown that efficacy is enhanced when treatment is given early in a migraine attack while pain is still mild, compared with later administration when pain intensity is greater. Developments in our understanding of migraine pathophysiology provide a rationale for this phenomenon, with improved efficacy seen when abortive treatment is administered before central sensitization develops. A limited window of therapeutic opportunity exists early in an attack to improve the outcome of triptan treatment. Early intervention is recommended to avoid the significant pain and disability commonly associated with moderate or severe migraine.
Low‐Wage Single‐Mother Families in This Jobless Recovery: Can Improved Social Policies Help?
Authors: Kahne Hilda
Published: November 2004

Low‐wage single‐mother families face greater relative disadvantage in this jobless recovery than do other earning and marital groups. Stressful uncertainties are intensified for them not only by a lack of financial reserves related to low pay and having only one family earner but by the characteristics of their labor market, a growing disparity in income distribution nationally that increases their relative disadvantage, intensified job competition from more skilled unemployed workers. Incomplete education and fewer and less adequate training programs than are available for more educated workers make it more difficult to improve or diversify skills. Given the limitations of wage‐related social policies, there is a need for expanded education and training programs to increase skills and raise the earnings potential to a more family‐sustaining level.
Opposition to the Legitimacy of Hate Crime Laws: The Role of Argument Acceptance, Knowledge, Individual Differences, and Peer Influence
Authors: Dunbar Edward , Molina Andres
Published: November 2004

Hate crime laws are a highly controversial legal approach in society's response to intergroup violence. Argument acceptance, knowledge, and individual differences were examined in relationship to attitudes about these laws. These variables were also considered in terms of efforts to influence a peer's beliefs about hate crime laws. One‐hundred and sixty‐seven participants completed a measure of knowledge of human rights laws, Gough's Pr scale, the Selznick and Steinberg anti‐Semitism scale, and Cuellar's Machismo scale. Hate crime attitudes were measured on an affect rating scale and six statements reflecting arguments favoring and opposing hate crime laws. Peer influence was examined on Interpersonal Power Inventory (IPI). Results showed that while most participants endorsed positive attitudes about hate crime laws, men—and both women and men who endorsed machismo attitudes—were more likely to agree with media distortion and identity politics arguments opposing hate crime laws. The Pr and machismo scales predicted greater effort on the IPI to influence peer attitudes about hate crime laws, after controlling for demographic differences of the participants. These findings indicate that more explicitly biased individuals were more effortful in trying to change the attitudes of peers concerning the legitimacy of hate crime laws.
Social Advocacy for Equal Marriage: The Politics of “Rights” and the Psychology of “Mental Health”
Authors: Kitzinger Celia , Wilkinson Sue
Published: November 2004

Using the contemporary issue of equal access to marriage for same‐sex couples as a case study, we examine two distinctive frameworks within which social advocacy may be pursued. We argue that when we speak as psychologists, we use a discourse of mental health; when we speak as social activists, we use a discourse of human rights and justice. Although these two frameworks may converge in supporting equal access to marriage, they represent radically different ways of understanding inequality and advocating for social change. A discourse of mental health focuses on psychological damage or deficit (caused, for example, by the social exclusion of particular groups or individuals. A discourse of rights asserts universally‐applicable principles of equality, justice, freedom, and dignity. Further, the paradigmatic framework of psychology as an approach to understanding human beings in the world seems fundamentally antithetical to the conceptual framework of human rights, as a basis for social justice.
Relationship between living arrangements and the psychological well‐being of older people in Hong Kong
Authors: Ng Ka‐Man , Lee Tatia MC , Chi Iris
Published: November 2004

Objectives:  This study explored the relationship between three types of living arrangements, namely living alone, living with family, and living in a hostel, and the psychological well‐being of older people in Hong Kong. The impact of various sociodemographic factors on the choice of living arrangements of older people was also studied.

Methods:  Ninety healthy Hong Kong Chinese were recruited from four multi‐service centres and one hostel. An individual interview was conducted with each participant and the General Health Questionnaire‐12 and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale‐10 were administered.

Results:  The results suggested that the psychological well‐being of older people living in hostels was better than that of older people living alone, but that the psychological well‐being of older people living with their family was not different from that of older people living alone.

Conclusion:  That the psychological well‐being of older people in different living arrangements is different may be explained by the differences in time for leisure, access to social services, as well as changes in their attitude towards co‐residence with children.
What hinders and what helps? Searching for solutions to mature aged unemployment and the residential aged care workforce crisis
Authors: Price Kay , Alde Pamela , Provis Chris , Harris Roger , Stack Sue
Published: November 2004

Objective:  This paper provides an overview of a research project that investigated strategies to address the workforce crisis currently threatening the provision of health and residential care services to Australia's rapidly ageing population. Underpinning this project's development was the need to understand why, in the face of high levels of sustained mature age unemployment (and under‐employment) and the urgent need for staff in residential and community aged care, mature aged people do not consider, or are unable to undertake, further education and training to gain the necessary skills to work in this particular area.

Methods:  This descriptive and exploratory study used a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods. Informed by a critical review of the literature, data were collected from interviews with four participants (aged 40 years or older) as they undertook specific education and training in aged care services, and from a survey of 145 randomly selected mature aged unemployed (and under‐employed) persons. The survey and specific education and training program were located in South Australia.

Results:  Findings from this study suggest that, for the mature aged unemployed person, age represents the single most significant barrier to obtaining paid employment. Evidence also exists to suggest a positive relationship between ageing and a person's willingness to undertake formal education, and/or to consider the work of caring for older people as a reasonable career option. However, the extent to which other factors such as health, time spent in unemployment (or under‐employment), type of qualification, and the psychological impact of being unemployed might have had an effect remains unclear.

Conclusion:  This study challenges us to rethink how we value ageing, mature aged unemployment, mature aged education and aged care work. The findings have implications for the future of mature aged job seekers and the provision of adequate staffing for residential and community aged care services.
Emergency department admissions, older people, functional decline, and length of stay in hospital
Authors: Conforti David A , Basic David , Rowland Jeffrey T
Published: November 2004

Objective:  Early identification of patients at risk of a prolonged admission to the hospital may allow targeted management decisions and discharge planning to begin in the emergency department. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of recent decline in function, measured in the emergency department, on length of stay (LOS) in the hospital.

Methods:  A total of 469 patients with a mean age of 79.4 years presenting to the emergency department of a tertiary hospital were comprehensively assessed by a nurse practitioner. The Modified Barthel Index (MBI) was used to measure recent decline in function (MBI‐change, the decline in MBI in the month before the emergency visit). Other measures included recent decline in instrumental activities of daily living (IADL‐change, using the Lawton IADL Scale), Folstein Mini Mental State Examination, Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Waterlow Scale, Social Support Instrument (SSI), principal medical diagnosis, living arrangement, care needs, and self‐rated health. Using multivariate survival analysis, the influence of MBI‐change on LOS was modelled in 249 randomly selected patients, and validated in the remaining 220.

Results:  In total, 327 patients (69.7%) were admitted to the hospital, for a median LOS of 10 days. In the modelling sample, variables significantly associated with LOS included MBI‐change (hazard ratio [HR] 0.92, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.85–0.98), IADL‐change (HR 1.14, 95% CI 1.02–1.28), whether known to the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) (HR 1.65, 95% CI 1.04–2.59) and Waterlow score (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.90–0.99). MBI‐change (HR 0.94, 95% CI 0.88–0.99) and Waterlow score (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.91–0.99) were also significant predictors of LOS in the validation sample.

Conclusions:  Recent decline in function predicts LOS in the hospital, is easy to measure in the emergency department, and may prove useful across the full spectrum of disease. It should be considered when formulating diagnostic and management plans, and when developing funding models.
Contact Stress Evaluation of Nonlinear Gaskets Using Dual Kriging Interpolation
Authors: Bouzid Abdel-Hakim , Champliaud Henri
Published: December 2004

The leakage behavior of bolted joint is very much dictated by the gasket contact stress. In particular, the non-uniform distribution of this stress in the radial direction caused by the flange rotational flexibility has a major influence on the leak tightness of some gasket types. The current ASME flange design rules and the new ASME proposed design rules addresses this effect by introducing the concept of gasket effective width for which the validity of the suggested values has not been verified. This paper presents a simple comprehensive analytical approach based on the dual kriging interpolation technique to predict the gasket contact stress distribution in floating type bolted joints. The kriging methodology is shown to be very efficient when nonlinear modeling such as gasket material mechanical behavior is involved. Together with the flange rotational flexibility, this technique implemented in the “SuperFlange” program is supported and validated by numerical FEA conducted on different flange sizes and gasket materials combinations.
Evidence for Involvement of at Least Six Proteins in Adaptation of
Lactobacillus sakei
to Cold Temperatures and Addition of NaCl
Authors: Marceau Anika , Zagorec Monique , Chaillou Stéphane , Méra Thérèse , Champomier-Vergès Marie-Christine
Published: December 2004

Lactobacillus sakei
is a lactic acid bacterium widely represented in the natural flora of fresh meat. The aim of this study was to analyze the differences in protein expression during environmental changes encountered during technological processes in which
L. sakei
is involved in order to gain insight into the ability of this species to grow and survive in such environments. Using two-dimensional electrophoresis, we observed significant variation of a set of 21 proteins in cells grown at 4°C or in the presence of 4% NaCl. Six proteins could be identified by determination of their N-terminal sequences, and the corresponding gene clusters were studied. Two proteins belong to carbon metabolic pathways, and four can be clustered as general stress proteins. A phenotype was observed at low temperature for five of the six mutants constructed for these genes. The survival of four mutants during stationary phase at 4°C was affected, and surprisingly, one mutant showed enhanced survival during stationary phase at low temperatures.
Metabolic Fluxes in
Corynebacterium glutamicum
during Lysine Production with Sucrose as Carbon Source
Authors: Wittmann Christoph , Kiefer Patrick , Zelder Oskar
Published: December 2004

Metabolic fluxes in the central metabolism were determined for lysine-producing
Corynebacterium glutamicum
ATCC 21526 with sucrose as a carbon source, providing an insight into molasses-based industrial production processes with this organism. For this purpose,
13
C metabolic flux analysis with parallel studies on [1-
13
C
Fru
]sucrose, [1-
13
C
Glc
]sucrose, and [
13
C
6
Fru
]sucrose was carried out.
C. glutamicum
directed 27.4% of sucrose toward extracellular lysine. The strain exhibited a relatively high flux of 55.7% (normalized to an uptake flux of hexose units of 100%) through the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP). The glucose monomer of sucrose was completely channeled into the PPP. After transient efflux, the fructose residue was mainly taken up by the fructose-specific phosphotransferase system (PTS) and entered glycolysis at the level of fructose-1,6-bisphosphate. Glucose-6-phosphate isomerase operated in the gluconeogenetic direction from fructose-6-phosphate to glucose-6-phosphate and supplied additional carbon (7.2%) from the fructose part of the substrate toward the PPP. This involved supply of fructose-6-phosphate from the fructose part of sucrose either by PTS
Man
or by fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase.
C. glutamicum
further exhibited a high tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle flux of 78.2%. Isocitrate dehydrogenase therefore significantly contributed to the total NADPH supply of 190%. The demands for lysine (110%) and anabolism (32%) were lower than the supply, resulting in an apparent NADPH excess. The high TCA cycle flux and the significant secretion of dihydroxyacetone and glycerol display interesting targets to be approached by genetic engineers for optimization of the strain investigated.
Uranyl Precipitation byPseudomonas aeruginosavia Controlled Polyphosphate Metabolism
Authors: Renninger Neil , Knopp Roger , Nitsche Heino , Clark Douglas S. , Keasling Jay D.
Published: December 2004

The polyphosphate kinase gene fromPseudomonas aeruginosawas overexpressed in its native host, resulting in the accumulation of 100 times the polyphosphate seen with control strains. Degradation of this polyphosphate was induced by carbon starvation conditions, resulting in phosphate release into the medium. The mechanism of polyphosphate degradation is not clearly understood, but it appears to be associated with glycogen degradation. Upon suspension of the cells in 1 mM uranyl nitrate, nearly all polyphosphate that had accumulated was degraded within 48 h, resulting in the removal of nearly 80% of the uranyl ion and >95% of lesser-concentrated solutions. Electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy (TRLFS) suggest that this removal was due to the precipitation of uranyl phosphate at the cell membrane. TRLFS also indicated that uranyl was initially sorbed to the cell as uranyl hydroxide and was then precipitated as uranyl phosphate as phosphate was released from the cell. Lethal doses of radiation did not halt phosphate secretion from polyphosphate-filled cells under carbon starvation conditions.
Should selecting saviour siblings be banned?
Authors: Sheldon S , Wilkinson S
Published: December 2004

By using tissue typing in conjunction with preimplantation genetic diagnosis doctors are able to pick a human embryo for implantation which, if all goes well, will become a “saviour sibling”, a brother or sister capable of donating life-saving tissue to an existing child.

This paper addresses the question of whether this form of selection should be banned and concludes that it should not. Three main prohibitionist arguments are considered and found wanting: (a) the claim that saviour siblings would be treated as commodities; (b) a slippery slope argument, which suggests that this practice will lead to the creation of so-called “designer babies”; and (c) a child welfare argument, according to which saviour siblings will be physically and/or psychologically harmed.
On the Possible Specific Role of Acupuncture Loci in Therapeutics
Authors: Debreceni László
Published: November 2004

The case history of a patient with thoracic vertebra fracture and following pain syndrome of the inferior limbs is reported. As a result of acupuncture treatment the pain was significantly reduced, but it could be reinduced by stimulation of the B1-31-33 loci during treatment. On needling the connecting locus of the related meridian of the bladder (Ki-6) the pain disappeared; otherwise stimulation of other loci showed a failure to stop the pain induced by the stimulation of B1-31-33 loci. It is remarkable that both the bladder's and the Ki-6 loci belong to the lumbal 4 spinal segment. The problem of the specific role of the acupuncutre loci also is discussed.
Chinese Alchemy: Confluence and Transformation
Authors: KAO JOHN J.
Published: November 2004

The study of China's alchemical tradition can provide considerable insight into early Chinese medical theory, pharmaco-therapeutic practice and psychosomatic concepts. Chinese alchemy is a complex blending of philosophical, cosmological, physiological and natural scientific thought. This article presents a historical survey and analysis of some important aspects of Chinese alchemical research and theory.
The 14-MeV Neutron Activation Analysis of Chinese Medicines for Protein, Phosphorus, Potassium and Magnesium Contents
Authors: CHUANG L. S. , YUE K. W. , CHAN P. K. , CHIU W. Y.
Published: November 2004

Elementary form of nitrogen (protein), phosphorus, potassium and magnesium contained in sixty-six different kinds of Chinese medicines were analyzed by means of 14-MeV neutron activation technique. The % contents of these elements in Chinese medicines range from 4.1 to 38.6% (average: 12.7%) for protein, 0.1 to 10.5% (average: 1.3%) for phosphorous, 1.6 to 13.8% (average: 4.5%) for potassium and 0.1 to 2.5% (average: 0.5%) for magnesium. The procedure proves to be quite precise and potentially quite accurate, while only requiring about 20 minutes per sample. The methods of determining the elements are described.
Using Television for Health Education in Rural India
Authors: IRVING JOHN H.B.
Published: November 2004

The author relates his experiences in adapting the medium of television to the purpose of health educatin in rural Inida. Working under the auspices of the Indian Ministry of Information and UNESCO, he granted experience in the "appropriate" application of sophisicated Western technology to the needs of an under-developed area. Television is not a panacea for health education needs, but is nevertheless an important element in an overall health care strategy which must also involve the efforts of health administrators and practitioners at every of society to further public education and the cultivation of preventive measures.
Comparative Therapeutic Exercise: East and West
Authors: Zhou Da-hong
Published: November 2004

The system of Chinese traditional therapeutic exercise may be divided into two groups: (a) Dao Yin (consisting of relaxation exercise, breathing exercise and general calisthenics, influenced by Taoism), and (b) Yi Jin Jing (consisting of muscle strengthening exercises, influenced by Buddhism). This system is characterized by slow and gentle movements, mental concentration during the exercise, relatively low intensity, and association with self-massage. As a physiologically and psychologically oriented exercise system, it has been found to be beneficial in the management of psychosomatic diseases and other chronic illness. The Chinese system is compared with the Western methods of therapeutic exercise in historial, philosophical and technical dimensions. Amalgamation of the two systems is advocated and examples in this area are cited.
The Term Chhi: Its Past and Present Significance
Authors: Mahdihassan S.
Published: November 2004

As every present form is the carrier of its past, Chhi, as an idea, must also carry its past. Chhi is Cosmic Soul which, by nature, is a most subtle form of matter and, by function, Creative Energy. It created the universe including man, it preserves human life and, when properly assimilated, can prolong life. Such is its importance today. When traced to its earliest past, the inscribed character of Chhi supposed to reveal it as vapors rising upward. A critical analysis shows it to be dual-natured, a part indicating movement upward and another downward. It is the pictogram of freshly spilled blood which gives rise to vapors like miniature clouds, while the main liquid flows downward, sinking into the earth. Blood was looked upon as Blood-Soul, a magical substance, an all-becoming and all-performing power, as was Chhi at its beginning. As I-Chhi or Ek-Chhi, the One-Soul, the Cosmic-Soul, it finally became Ik-Si-R, Iksir or Elixir, an agency capable of transforming an old person into a youth and a base metal into gold. Thus, from beginning to end Chhi has remained "soul" by nature refined matter, and by function, creative energy.
Successful Autoplastic Transplantation of Severed Limbs in Peking
Authors: Kuo Hsin
Published: November 2004

This article describes the successful transplantation of a female worker's right foot to the left leg after a train accident in which her right leg and left foot were destroyed. The difficult operation lasted ten hours during which time the surgeons encountered many difficult problems including those related to the anatomy of transplanted parts of the body and to the physiology of circulation, edema, etc.
Nursing In China
Authors: Wang Rosalind
Published: November 2004

Nursing in China is described in this article in relation to training, selection of candidates and duties of these professionals.
Tung Ch'ing, A Cardiac Drug
Authors: Kao Federick F. , Kao John J.
Published: November 2004

This section introduces a new department in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine. We intend to provide information on all aspects of Chinese herbology here including translations from many sources as well as original articles.
Some Preliminary Findings on the Effect Acupuncture on Secretion and Acid-Induced Ulcers in the Rat Stomach
Authors: Dai Soter , Low Weng-djin , Ng Chun-kwong , Ogle Clive W.
Published: November 2004

A preliminary report is presented on the effect of acupuncture on the gastric secretion in rats with pyloric occlusion and on the gastric emptying in intact animals. Needling, at points comparable with those used in humans for the human for the treatment of gastric ailments, was found not to affect the gastric secretion but to reduce the incidence of rumenal ulceration in those animals receiving treatment between 30 minutes and 3 hours during a fixed observation period of 5 hours following pyloric occlusion, and to decrease the rate of gastric emptying in intact rats.
The Symbolic Context of Chinese Medicine: A Comparative Approach to the Study of Traditional and Psychiatric Forms of Care in Chinese Culture
Authors: Kleinman Arthur M.
Published: November 2004

This article explores a distinctly different aspect of Chinese medicine, and of health care in Chinese culture, from that receiving most attention and serious study at present in this country. It examines the symbolic structure and significance of illness and care in the Chinese context by (a) applying concepts developed in anthropology and the cross-cultural study of medicine and psychiatry; (b) examining recent studies of folk and popular forms of health care in contemporary Chinese communities; and (c) raising questions about the cognitive structure, cultural background, and bio-social significance of traditional Chinese healing beliefs and practices. An attempt is made to place this analysis in a comparative framework, so that Chinese cases can be related to health care systems in other cultural settings.
A New Approach to Chinese Traditional Medicine
Authors: Ågren Hans
Published: November 2004

Traditional medicine in China has as yet been unsatisfactorily analyzed from the point of view of the history of ideas. It has come to be viewed as a monolithic system of therapy, and overlooked has been the fact that as time passed various originally different traditions and concepts were made to fit into all-embracing systems, initmately connected with a general way of thought. Theoretical superstructure in medicine has to be delineated from simple empirical observations. Only the latter can be a meaningful object for medical interest today — the theories are better studied within other disciplines.
The Treatment of Exogenous Obesity Employing Auricular Acupuncture
Authors: Soong Y. S.
Published: November 2004

This article reports on the treatment of 21 obesity patients empolying auricular acupuncture. The auricular points used were Mouth, Shen-men, Stomach, Hunger and Spleen, and the period of treatment lasted from two to six weeks. The weight loss in these patients varied from 2 to 16 pounds. The rationale for using these points and cautions for this type of treatment were discussed.
Experimental "Auricular Electroacupuncture" in Morphine-dependent Rats: Behavioral and Biochemical Observations
Authors: Ng Lorenz K. Y. , Thoa Nguyen B. , Douthitt Thomas C. , Albert Chalom A.
Published: November 2004

The experimental paradigm reported here provides a useful animal model with which to further study the effects of regional electrostimulation and its possible relationship with electrical acupuncture. What similarities there may be between electrical acupuncture and the technique of regional electrocerebral stimulation used for production of electrosleep and electronarcosis in animals and man remain to be elucidated. Further research studies, both clinical and basic, are clearly needed to answer some of the questions relating to the safety, efficacy, and possible mechanisms by which a technique such as electrical acupuncture may exert its effects.
The Correspondence Between Some Motor Points and Acupuncture Loci
Authors: Liu Y. King , Varela Maria , Oswald Robert
Published: November 2004

A double blind study was conducted to establish the possible correspondence between some motor points and acupuncture loci. THe protocol calls for the acupuncturist marking the first group of volunteers with invisible ink at the acupuncture loci. Then the motor points in the same volunteer are found by electrodiagnosis. The error is made visible by UV illumination. In the second group, the procedure is reversed. A statistical analysis of the error yields the following classes of correspondences: (a) Excellent: 1st Dorsal Interosseus (hand) = LI-4; Abductor Pollicis Brevis = Lu-10; Abductor Minimi Digiti = SI-4; 1st Dorsal Interosseus (foot)=LI-3; Tibialis Anterior = Curious Locus; Orbicularis Oculi = GB-I; Frontalis = GB-14; Splenius Capitis = GB-20; Sternocleidomastoid = LI-18; Semi-Spinalis Capitis = BI-10. (b) Good: Opponens Pollicis = Curious Locus; Peroneus Longus = Curious Locus; Flexior Digitorum Longus = Ki-3 (Ki-6); Trapezius (upper) = GB-21; Rectus Abdominis=Ki-15; Vastus Medialis = Sp-10.
Family Planning in a Chinese-American Population
Authors: Chang Cecil
Published: November 2004

Among 26 American-born women of Chinese ancestry, 43 Chinese immigrant women who had lived in San Francisco longer than 5 years, and 199 who had immigrated within the last 5 years, fewer than 39% practiced contraception. Oral contraception was used by significantly more of the American-born than of the other two cateogories of women. Condom of foam was relied upon by sizeable percentages of each immigrant group. Eleven percent of each immigrant group, and 13.3% of the American-born women were sterilized. The only users of an intrauterine device were 3.7% of the immigrants who had lived in the United States longer than 5 years.
The Role of Chinese Medicine in New York City's Chinatown
Authors: Chan Chun-Wai , Chang Jade K.
Published: November 2004

This study reports on use patterns of traditional Chinese and Western medical resources in New York's Chinese community. Extensive data from field-work and interview are presented which provide significant new information concerning the health-care attitudes and problems of this unique community.
Acupuncture and Transcutaneous Electric Stimulation in the Treatment of Chronic Sacrolumbalgia and Ischialgia
Authors: Laitinen Jaakko
Published: November 2004

A comparison was made between 50 patients treated with acupuncture and 50 patients treated with transcutaneous electric stimulation. All patients suffered from chornic sacrolumbalgia or ischialgia of more than six months' duration. Two to 10 treatments were given at weekly sessions, the mean being 5 in both groups. Stimulation points were selected by the same principle in both groups: one point ialong the course of the nerve trunk affected, and one point at a dermatome proximal to the affected segment. The stimulation was given bilaterally.

Needles were inserted as deep as the muscular layer and twirled at 5 min intervals. In the electric stimulation square-wave impulses of 1.0 msec duration and 5.0 Hz frequency were used. The electrodes were 0.9 cm in diameter. Each acupuncture and electric stimulation was of 20 min duration.

Pain relief was complete or moderate in the acupuncture group in 58% of the cases, and in 46% in the electric stimulation group. After 2 months 30 patients in the acupuncture group and 23 patients in the electric stimulation group still reported satisfactory relief of pain.

After 6 months 15 patients in the acupuncture group and 10 patients in the electric stimulation of group still reported satisfactory relief of pain.
Electro-acupuncture's Influence on the Closure Mechanism of the Female Urethra in Incontinence
Authors: Kubista E. , Altmann P. , Kucera H. , Rudelstorfer B.
Published: November 2004

The influence of electro-acupuncture on the sphincter of the female urethra was checked on 20 patients with stress incontinence without gross anatomic variation. This was determined by means of simultaneous cysto-urethrometry. After 30 minutes of electric stimulation through acupuncture needles which were placed into the skin of the lower legs and lower abdomen, a significant increase in the so-called "closing pressure" was found. Seventeen patients even showed positive pressure. In a control group of another group of another 20 patients who, however, did not undergo acupuncture, there were only two cases of slight increase in closing pressure. In addition, a second control group of 20 patients was given a placebo suppository in order to eliminate any psychic factor as far as possible. Significant change of the closing pressure could not be found in any of these cases. Even though the actual working mechanism of electro-acupuncture is not understood, these experiments seem to confirm the assumption of electro-acupunture's positive influence on the closing mechanism of the female urethra.
Possible Physiological Bases for Acupuncture Analgesia
Authors: Wagman Irving H. , Dong Willie K. , McMillan James A.
Published: November 2004

Neurophysiological studies of electrical responses of single cells at various levels of the nervous system to noxious and non-noxious stimulation may give clues regarding acupuncture analgesia. Many cells slow convergent properties receiving input from both low and high threshold cutaneous and peripheral nerve stimulation. Often the former may inhibit the latter. Our studies illustrate three examples fo inhibition mechanisms which may play a role in attenuation of noxiously induced impulses, especially the prolonger discharge. Discussed briefly are other suggested CNS mechanisms that may be involved in processing and attenuating noxious information, including those in brainstem and intralaminar nuclei.
Electro-Acupuncture Treatment in Psychiatry
Authors: Shuaib M. , Haq M. Fazal
Published: November 2004

In the course of treatment by Dr. H.L. Wen's technique of acupuncture for the withdrawal symptoms of various drugs, it was noted that there was a relief of neurotic symptoms, tension, restlessness and depression. Therefore, this treatment was used on neurotic patients. Forty patients ranging in age from 22 to 61 years were treated. Case reports are given on four patients. The degree of relief from neurotic symptoms was most marked in symptoms of restlessness, tension, mental and physical fatigue, loss of appetite and irritability, in that order. Obsessional symptoms showed a poor response. It is concluded that electro-acupuncture is useful in the treatment of neurotic symptoms, that it is cheaper and safer than other methods of treatment in use at this time, and that it is a useful adjunct in the treatment of psychoneurosis.
Acupuncture in Two Cases of Peripheral Nerve Paralysis
Authors: Mayer F. J.
Published: November 2004

This is a report on a case of peripheral paralysis of the right side of the larynx. The patient was a 34-year old male who became completely aphonic following a grippal infection. After 3 weeks of conventional treatment by a well-known specialist, he underwent acupuncture treatment. After 4 months the voice was again normal; however, the laryngoscopy showed a completely normal larynx only 7 months after the illness. The loci used and the reasons for their selection are discussed in detail. The second case was a 62 year-old male with facial paralysis. This patient underwent acupuncture treatment shortly after he was striken. After 6 days distinct improvement was seen; he was completely healed after 2 months. The loci and the reasons for their selection are discussed. The cases are compared.
The Neurophysiological Mechanism of Acupuncture Treatment in Psychiatric Illness
Authors: Chen Calvin H.
Published: November 2004

The author traces acupuncture and its development from antiquity to the present time. Based on knowledge and experience so far gathered, an autonomic-humoral theory is proposed to explain the possible mechanism of acupuncture in the treatment of psychiatric conditions. Essentially, the autonomic nervous system and the neurotransmitters are most likely involved. It is hoped that this proposal will stimulate further research in this area.
Traditional and Modern Medicine in Malaysia
Authors: Chen Paul C. Y.
Published: November 2004

Malaysia has a large variety of traditional medical systems that are a direct reflection of the wide ethnic diversity of its population. These can be grouped into four basic varieties, namely, traditional "native", traditional Chinese, traditional Indian and modern medicine, examples of which are described. In spite of the great inroads made by modern medicine, the traditional systems are firmly established. Patients move from one system to another or use several systems simultaneously. The integration of the traditional Malay birth attendant into the health team is described. The forces influencing the development, acceptance and integration of the medical systems is discussed.
An Historical Analysis of Chinese Drugs in the Treatment of Hormonal Diseases, Giotre and Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Miyasita Suburo
Published: November 2004

Through the Chinese drugs appearing in prescriptions for hormonal diseases which were recorded in standard medical collections in Chinese historical texts, we book for the Chinese conception of the empirical cures.
Mexican Medicinal Plants Used for Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Lozoya Xavier
Published: November 2004

This article reviews the state of research for a number of plants traditionally related to treatment of cardiovascular diseases. It stresses the importance of both anthropological surveys and historical studies for the proper understanding of this ancient and still very popular medicine.
The Acupunture Treatment of Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Coan Ralph M. , Wong Grace , Ku Su Liang , Chan Yick Chong , Wang Lucy , Ozer Faruk T. , Coan Patricia L.
Published: November 2004

The acupuncture treatment situation was beneficial to the majority of people with how back pain. This was shown by the use of the short-term controls and long-term controls, although the later were not intended in the study design. After acupuncture, there was a 51% pain reduction in the average pain score in the Immediate Treatment Group. This short-term controls, the Delayed Treatment Group, had no reduction whatsoever in their pain scores at the comparable followup period. Later, the Delayed Treatment Group were also treated by acupuncturists, and reported 62% less pain. When these two treatment groups were compared at 40 weeks with long-term controls (Inadequate Treatment Group), the Inadequate Treatment Group still had the same pain scores, on the average, as when they were enrolled in the study. Both treatment groups, on the average, had 30% lower pain scores. Furthermore, 58% of the treatment groups felt that they were definitely improved at 40 weeks, while only 11% of the Inadequate Treatment Group felt definitely improved at 40 weeks.
Effects of Ginsenoside Rg1 of Panax Ginseng on Mitosis in Human Blood Lymphocytes in Vitro
Authors: Tong Lan-sang , Chao Chuan-ying
Published: November 2004

The ginsenoside Rg1 extracted from the root of Panax ginseng can promote mitosis in cultured human lymphocytes activated by PHA or Con A. Its most effective concentrations are around 0.0003-0.0005 mg per ml of medium. Experiments shows that its does not arrest the cells at any particular mitotic stage. It can also enhance the DNA synthesis in the activated lymphocytes. As a result of the increased number of mitotic cells and enhanced DNA synthesis, the cell density is significantly increased in the Rg1-treated culture as compared with the control. However, in the absence of a mitogenic lectin, Rg1 cannot restart the quinescent human lymphocytes to divide in vitro; therefore it is not mitogenic to resting cells. The possible action Rg1 on activated human lymphocytes as well as its pharmacological significance are discussed.
Acupuncture and Homeostasis: Physiological, Physical (Postural) and Psychological
Authors: Plummer J.P.
Published: November 2004

When the subject of homeostasis is discussed, one automatically thinks of physiological homeostasis, in particular such things as fluid and electrolyte balance, and the maintenance of body temperature, blood pressure and blood sugar, etc. In fact, two other concepts of homeostasis exist in the literature, namely physical or postural homeostasis, and also psychological homeostasis. The former applies to the situation where the line of gravity of the body in the erect posture passes in the frontal or coronal plane directly through the center of the axis of the atlanto-occiptal, shoulder, hip, knee and ankle joints. Only a very small proportion of people attain this ideal balanced posture. Psychological homeostasis refers to emotional control of tranquility. It has been stated that the biological function of human emotion is primarily homeostatic. Repression is a homeostatic mechanism. Evidence is presented to show that a feedback type of relationship probably exists between these forms of homeostasis, and any of the body-mind type of therapies (including acupuncture and T'ai chi ch'uan) thus have a three-fold effect on man, i.e. on his physiology, his posture and his mind.
Sartan (Cancer) and Its Treatment in Unani Medicine
Authors: Aslam M. , Bano Hassina , Vohora S. B.
Published: November 2004

The knowledge of Sartan (cancer) in the Unani (Greco-Arabian) systems of medicine can be traced to ancient times (131 –200 A.D.). Like all other diseases its etiology has also been attributed to the combustion of imbalance of certain humors in the body. Unani simples–plants, animals and minerals–and formulations used for the treatment of the disease have been tabulated with recipes, methods of preparation, does (wherever available) and modes of administration. The claims have been reviewed in the light of research work conducted in India during the last three decades.
Protective Effects of Carica Papaya Linn on the Exogenous Gastric Ulcer in Rats
Authors: Chen Chieh-Fu , Chen Shu-Ming , Chow Sien-Yao , Han Paul Wei
Published: November 2004

The effects of Carica papaya Linn on exogenous ulcer and histamine-induced acid secretion were studied in rats. The latex of the unripened fruit of C. papaya was effective in protecting the exogenous ulcer. It significantly lessened the acid secretion induced by intravenous infusion of histamine in chronic gastric fistulated rats. Crystalline papain was also effective in protecting the exogenous ulcer and in decreasing the histamine-induced acid secretion in rats. The conclusion is that papain is the active principle in C. papaya that exerts the ulcer-protective effect.
Mutagenic Activity of Ho Shao Wu (Polygonum Multiflorum Thunb.)
Authors: Kam John Kai-Hong
Published: November 2004

Forty samples of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb were tested by the Ames Salmonella/Microsome assay. The results revealed that the herb is not mutagenic.
The Influence of Several Anticancer Agents on Cell Proliferation, Differentiation and the Cell Cycle of Murine Erythroleukemia Cells
Authors: Xu Bin
Published: November 2004

The influence of homoharringtonine, hydroxycamptothecin and lycobetaine on the cell cycle progression of murine erythroleukemia cells was studied by using flow microfluorometry (FMF) technique and centrifugal elutriation to obtain specific fractions of the cell cycle. FMF histogram analysis showed that homoharringtonine could strongly arrest cells in the G1 phase of the immediate cell cycle. This effect was more pronounced and persisted longer with G1 cells than with S or G2 cells. Hydroxycamptothecin mainly delayed the progression of S cells of the subsequent cell cycle (daughter cells). Lycobetaine caused a marked accumulation of G2 cells. These 3 compounds possess a relatively specific action on cell progression through the cell cycle. Homoharringtonine and hydroxycamptothecin can inhibit the cell proliferation of murine erythroleukemia cells (MELC) at low concentrations (mg/ml) whereas lycobetaine, cantharidin and oxalysine are less potent. Among them only hydroxycamptothecin had a weak activity to induce MELC differentiation. These results may provide some basic knowledge for designing new protocols of the combination treatment of neoplastic diseases.
Screening of the Wormicidal Chinese Raw Drugs on Clonorchis Sinensis
Authors: Rhee Jae Ku , Woo Kee Jeon , Baek Byeong Kirl , Ahn Byung Jun
Published: November 2004

The wormicidal effect on Clonorchis sinensis in boiled water extracts of 223 species (vegetable origin 206, animal origin 10, mineral origin 7) of raw drugs prescribed in Oriental medicine was observed in vitro. The wormicidal substances were detected from 31 of the above-mentioned species. The wormicidal substances extracted from Platycodon grandiflorum (radix). Schizandra chinensis (fruit), Polygala tenuifolia (herb) and Aster tataricus (radix) were most effective. Those from Smilax glabra (radix), Pueraria thunbergiana (flower, radix), Polygala tenuiflolia (radix), Scutellaria baicalensis (radix), Prunus mume (fruit), Glycyrrhiza uralensis (radix), Angelica koreana (radix), Phytolacca esculenta (radix) and Cyrtomium fortunei (rhizoma) were effective. The rest of the raw drugs were less effective.
Studies on the Phenomenon of Latent Propagated Sensation Along the Channels II: Investigation on the Lines of LPSC on the Twelve Main Channels
Authors: Yu Shuzhang , Zhang Min , An Suqi , Yang Shuying , Zhang Shuyan , Zhu Zongxiang , He Qingnian
Published: November 2004

Applying an electric impulse at the Jing points and then tapping on the skin surface along the lines perpendicular to the channels, latent PSC of 12 channels was examined respectively on 200 patients at an acupuncture clinic. Of the cases examined, 68.5% were found to have positive latent PSC. No prominent differences was found among the 12 main channels. In patients with higher sensitivity of latent PSC, and in those with marked PSC as well, the traces of latent PSC can be located simply by tapping (i.e. without electric impulsation at the Jing points), and the width of the sensitive lines is about 0.5 gm. Furthermore, in cases with marked PSC, the latent sensation lines were always found to be a continuation of the marked ones. These facts indicate that the latent PSC is a common meridian phenomenon in a large number of individuals.
Endocrinological Basis of Acupuncture
Authors: Xie Qi-Wen
Published: November 2004

The widespread and lasting effect of acupuncture suggests the mediatation of humoral factor(s). Controlled clinical and experimental investigations done by Chinese researchers during the past three decades lend support to this assumption. Electrophysiological and histochemical studies denote the involvement of hypothalamus and pituitary in acupuncture. Acupuncture causes the release of some of the anterior pituitary hormones, as assessed by bio-assay methods. Observations from physiological as well as morphological approach showed that acupuncture has significant influences upon thyroid, adrenal gland and gonads. Preliminary results also indicate that pancreatic islets and parathyroid gland are affected by acupuncture. However, much remains to be investigated concerning the endocrinological basis of acupuncture.
Hypotensive Effect of Dehydroevodiamine from Evodiae Fructus
Authors: Xu Shi Bo , Huang Yi Ming , Lau Christine N.B. , Wat Carola K.H. , Kong Yun Cheung
Published: November 2004

Dehydroevodiamine isolated from Evodiae Fructus lowered blood pressure with bradycardia in anesthetised rats. At a cumulative dose of 22.5mg/kg/30min, there was a very significant decrease in blood pressure and heart rate. There was a more important decrease in diastolic pressure than systolic pressure, implying a vasodilatory effect. The hypotensive effect of dehydroevodiamine can be abolished partly by indomethacin and more completely, polyphoretin phosphate. It is suggested that the hypotensive effect of dehydroevodiamine may be mediated through prostaglandin synthesis. A similar action mechanism in dehydroevodiamine-stimulated rat uterus contraction is also discussed.