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Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) is an age-related macular degeneration (AMD) subtype and is seen particularly in Asians. Previous studies have suggested disparity in response to intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents between PCV and typical AMD, and thus, the preferred treatment for PCV has remained unclear. Recent research has provided novel insights into the pathogenesis of PCV, and imaging studies based on OCT suggest that PCV belongs to a spectrum of conditions characterized by pachychoroid, in which disturbance in the choroidal circulation seems to be central to its pathogenesis. Advances in imaging, including enhanced depth imaging, swept-source OCT, en face OCT, and OCT angiography, have facilitated the diagnosis of PCV. Importantly, 2 large, multicenter randomized clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of anti-VEGF monotherapy and combination with photodynamic therapy (PDT) recently reported initial first-year outcomes, providing level I evidence to guide clinicians in choosing the most appropriate therapy for PCV. In this review, we summarize the latest updates in the epidemiologic features, pathogenesis, and advances in imaging and treatment trials, with a focus on the most recent key clinical trials. Finally, we propose current management guidelines and recommendations to help clinicians manage patients with PCV. Remaining gaps in current understanding of PCV, such as significance of polyp closure, high recurrence rate, and heterogeneity within PCV, are highlighted where further research is needed.

PURPOSE To investigate changes in disease activity after a large subretinal hemorrhage in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy. METHODS Fifty-two polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy eyes with large subretinal hemorrhage (at initial presentation [n = 33, Group 1] or developed during follow-up [n = 19, Group 2]) were enrolled. Thirty polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy eyes without subretinal hemorrhage were enrolled as controls. All subretinal hemorrhages were treated with pneumatic displacement. Other active lesions were treated with intravitreal ranibizumab on an as-needed basis. Injection-free period, 1-year injection numbers, and polyp presence on indocyanine green angiography were analyzed. RESULTS The injection frequency significantly diminished after hemorrhage (1.2 ± 1.8 in Group 1 and 1.1 ± 2.1 in Group 2) compared with control eyes (3.9 ± 3.0) in both groups (both P < 0.001) and the prehemorrhage period (4.7 ± 1.4) in Group 2 (P < 0.001). The median injection-free period after hemorrhage was 12.0 months in both groups. At least one polypoidal lesion disappeared after hemorrhage in 7 of 10 eyes (70%) with comparable indocyanine green angiography. CONCLUSION The activity of a polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy lesion diminished after a large subretinal hemorrhage, which was associated with rupture of major polyps.

Objective To evaluate the incidence and associated risk factors of massive subretinal hemorrhage (SRH) in patients with retinal angiomatous proliferation (RAP). Methods A total of 187 eyes of 135 treatment-naive patients diagnosed with RAP were evaluated retrospectively. Clinical records including the time between the initial visit, last anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment, last stable examination, and the date of massive SRH were reviewed. Imaging findings including indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) were analyzed. Results Massive SRH developed in 18 eyes (9.6%) a median of 20 months after the initial presentation. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that the incidence (2.8, 5.8, 13.1, and 21.0% after 1,2,5 and 10 years, respectively) continuously increased. Among 14 eyes with discernable vascular anastomosis on baseline ICGA, 13 (92.8%) showed retinal arteriole involvement. On spectral-domain OCT imaging of the last visit prior to the massive SRH, a layered lamellar tissue complex was noted under the retinal pigment epithelium in 9 of 13 eyes, which was significantly associated with massive SRH[hazard ratio(HR),5.883;P = .010]. The average time between the last stable examination/last injection and the massive SRH was 2 and 5 months, respectively. The patients were treated with anti-VEGF, gas and recombinant tissue plasminogen activator injection; however, all except one eye had visual acuity worse than 20/1000 at the final visit. Conclusions Massive SRH can occur in RAP in the course of anti-VEGF treatment, resulting in severe vision loss. A proactive dosing regimen may be more appropriate for these RAP eyes.

Introduction We assessed the prognostic significance of obesity in relation to sex in patients with nonmetastatic clear-cell renal-cell carcinoma (nm-cRCC) in a large multicenter setting in Korea. Patients and Methods A total of 2097 patients with nm-cRCC who underwent surgery with curative intent were enrolled from 6 institutions in Korea between April 2000 and February 2014. Obesity was determined by body mass index (BMI) before surgery. BMI was used as a continuous variable and was categorized as normal (≥ 18.5 to 2 , normal BMI) and overweight or obese (≥ 25 kg/m 2 , high BMI). The relationships between BMI, sex, recurrence-free survival (RFS), and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were evaluated. Results Male patients had a greater high BMI ratio than female patients ( P = .030). In men, the 5-year RFS and CSS rates in the high BMI group were greater than those in the normal BMI group ( P = .003 and .006, respectively). Multivariate analyses revealed that in men, a high BMI was associated with greater RFS or CSS rates (hazard ratio: RFS, 0.901, P = .001; CSS, 0.822, P P = .531 and .323, respectively), and high BMI was not associated with RFS or CSS ( P = .250 and .180, respectively). Conclusion In patients with nm-cRCC, obesity was a favorable prognosticator in male but not female patients. Therefore, the association between obesity and nm-cRCC prognosis might differ by sex.

Purpose We evaluate the expression of Gli1 in human epiretinal membranes (ERM) and correlate this with clinical data. Methods We prospectively recruited patients with ERM. A total of 33 human ERM specimens were immunolabeled with anti-Gli1 antibody and the number of total cells/hyperfield (HF), Gli1(+) cells/HF, and the percentage of Gli1(+) cells/total cells were calculated. We evaluated the interrelationship of cellular properties and clinical findings, such as presence of diabetic retinopathy (DR), retinal breaks, intraocular inflammation, central foveal thickness, maximal retinal thickness, retinal contraction, lamellar holes, pseudoholes, the attenuation or absence of an inner segment/outer segment (IS/OS) junction/external limiting membrane (ELM), cystic changes, and paravascular inner retinal defects. Results Among 33 specimens, 25 specimens (75.8%) showed nuclear Gli1 expression. The mean Gli1(+) cells/total cells was 54.0 ± 36.7% (range, 0%-92.8%). There was significantly higher expression of Gli1(+) cells in ERM specimens from patients with DR (P = 0.014), and lower expression from patients with retinal breaks (P = 0.022). Epiretinal membrane specimens from patients with alteration of IS/OS junction/ELM or cystic changes on OCT showed higher percentage of Gli1(+) cells/total cells. Conclusions Gli1 expression was detected in most ERM specimens. Patients who had DR or OCT findings indicating chronic retinal insults showed higher Gli1 expression. Gli1 may have a role in the pathogenesis of ERM after chronic retinal insults.

Purpose To summarize recommendations for the use of intravitreal aflibercept with a treat-and-extend regimen to manage neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in the Asia-Pacific region. Although anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapies have improved the quality of life of patients with nAMD, a leading cause of blindness and visual impairment, the high treatment frequency recommended by current guidelines places a significant burden on patients and healthcare providers. Design Recommended guidelines from a consensus panel. Methods An expert panel formed a consensus on recommendations for use of intravitreal aflibercept as treatment of nAMD in the Asia-Pacific region. Results After 3 initial monthly doses, treatment interval could be extended by 4-week increments, to a maximum of 12 weeks, in patients with inactive disease. Conversely, in active disease, treatment intervals should be shortened, by 4 weeks, or to 4 weeks in cases of severe recurrence. Treatment could be ceased in patients with stable disease activity after 12 months of treatment at 12-week intervals, as a means to prevent over treatent and lifelong injections. Conclusions These recommendations could potentially minimize the number of treatments while maintaining efficacy and improve compliance by reducing the number of clinic visits compared with existing recommendations.

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy has revolutionized the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This review will summarize the current evidence of anti-VEGF therapy in neovascular AMD, including subtypes of retinal angiomatous proliferation and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). Importantly, 2 large multicenter randomized clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of anti-VEGF monotherapy and combination with photodynamic therapy (PDT) have recently reported initial first-year outcomes. In this review, we summarize the latest updates in the efficacy and safety of anti-VEGF monotherapy and combination with PDT in common lesion subtypes. Remaining gaps in current understanding are highlighted where further research is needed.

Background Post-micturition dribbling (PMD) is one of the most bothersome lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men. Researches on the PMD are very limited because no proper tool to evaluate PMD. This study was to assess the correlation between PMD and erectile dysfunction (ED) in middle-aged men with LUTS. Methods 658 middle-aged men with LUTS were enrolled. Patients filled in international prostate symptom score (IPSS) and Hayllm PMD questionnaire (HPMDQ) that was made by authors. Prostate size, prostate specific antigen, uroflowmetry including Qmax & post voided residual urine, IPSS, and international index for erectile function-5 (IIEF-5) were also assessed. Results Men were classified as ED (388 patients) and non-ED (270 patients) groups. HPMDQ was inversely well correlated with IIEF-5 (r=-0.384, p0.05). However, incorporation of HPMDQ into IPSS increased predictive accuracy of LUTS for ED (60.3% ⋄73.1%). Conclusions In middle-aged men with LUTS, PMD was inversely well correlated with erectile function, and its severity was related with prevalence of ED. Appendix Hallym Post-Micturition Dribbling Questionnaire (HPMDQ). “In the past month, how often have you experienced the involuntary loss of urine immediately after you finished passing urine?” 0: none, 1: one in 3 times, 2: two in 3 times, 3: always.

Poly(4-vinylpyridine) was covalently wrapped onto ZnO nanoparticles through surface initiated Reversible Addition-Fragmentation Chain Transfer (RAFT) polymerization upon grafting from protocol. The surface of ZnO nanoparticles was initially modified by the coupling reaction with silane leading to trithiocarbonate functionalized ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-RAFT). The controlled radical polymerization of 4-vinylpyridine in the presence of the ZnO-RAFT afforded PVP-g-ZnO nanocomposites. FT-IR, EDX, XRD and XPS analyses demonstrated the grafting of PVP on the surface of ZnO nanoparticles, while thermal stability of PVP-g-ZnO nanocomposites was confirmed by TGA analysis. The TEM and SEM images suggested that ZnO nanoparticles were embedded in the polymer, and the dispersibility of the nanocomposites was improved in an organic solvent dramatically.

Biodegradable poly(l-lactide) (l-PLA) solution-grown crystals (SGC), which are the lozenge-shaped morphology of unique dimension with one side of 12 μm, were grown from dilute solution of acetonitrile. Morphological changes by alkaline degradation and mechanical deformation of PLLA SGC were investigated by atomic force microscopy. Although their enzymatic degradation did not show the change of molecular weight, alkaline hydrolysis of the crystals showed strong fragment of small molecular weights. The mechanical deformation of crystals on PET film by elongation showed the microcracks which were almost perpendicular to the elongation direction. These results indicate that alkaline hydrolysis at initial stage occurred in the chain-folding surface and the remained chains were rapidly eroded in small lozenge shape.

To evaluate the efficacy of intravitreal triamcinolone injection in diabetic macular edema unresponsive to intravitreal bevacizumab.Patients with diabetic macular edema unresponsive to at least three monthly intravitreal bevacizumabs were included. At least 2 months after the last intravitreal bevacizumab, intravitreal triamcinolone was performed after obtaining an aqueous humor sample. Multiplex cytokine array was used to assay vascular endothelial growth factor, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor-α, and transforming growth factor-β2. Best-corrected visual acuity and central subfield thickness were evaluated from Month 0 to 3.Twenty eyes were enrolled. The mean best-corrected visual acuity was 47.1 ± 18.9 letters at baseline, and significantly increased to 53.3 ± 19.7 letters at 1 month (P = 0.002) and 52.4 ± 19.1 letters at 2 months (P = 0.041). These visual gains were not sustained at 3 months (50.9 ± 18.6; P = 0.204). A decrease in central subfield thickness more than 11% of baseline occurred in 12 eyes at 1 month. Multivariate analysis showed that intraocular levels of IL-8 (β = 0.538 P = 0.006) was an independent factor for anatomic response at 1 month.Intravitreal triamcinolone has a role in patients who are unresponsive to intravitreal bevacizumab over the short-term. Elevated intraocular IL-8 levels were related to the efficacy.

To commercialize a degradable material, it is necessary to control the initial stability which is strongly depended on their life time. One approach to modify physical properties of degradable polyesters is a blend with a non-degradable polymer because a non-degradable polymer with low surface energy is enriched at surface. Biodegradable polyesters, such as poly(dl-lactide) (dl-PLA), semi-crystalline poly(l-lactide) (l-PLA) and poly(ϵ-caprolactone) (PCL) were blended with poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) as a non-degradable polymer because PVDF has a low surface energy. Their surface structure and morphology were measured by X-ray photoelectron spectrometer and atomic force microscopy, respectively. (dl-PLA/PVDF) and (PCL/PVDF) blend films showed the enrichment of PVDF at surface whereas the surface of (l-PLA/PVDF) blend film was similar with its bulk one due to different solubilities to solvent and miscibility. These results will be useful to control of the initial stability of degradable polymers.

This study was designed in order to determine the influences of haw ( Crataegus pinnatifida BUNGE) on the lipid metabolism syndrome. Sprague Dawley rats, 7 weeks old, were given four different types of diets for 5 weeks: ND group (noncholesterolemic diet), HE group (non cholesterolemic diet+haw extract), CD group (cholesterolemic diet), CH group (cholesterolemic diet+haw extract). Concentrations of LDL-cholesterol, triglyceride, phospholipid, free cholesterol, cholesteryl ester, blood glucose were remarkably higher in the CD group than the other groups. But by treatment of haw extract group with cholesterolemic diet (CH gr oup) were significantly decreased compared with CD group. Choleste ryl ester ratio was no difference between CD group and CH group. These results indicate that Crataegus pinnatifida BUNGE would be effective in lipid metabolism syndrome. Key words : Crataegus pinnatifida BUNGE, Lipid component, Blood glucose, Lipid metabolism syndrome 1. 서 론 1) 산사( Crataegus pinnatifida

The aim of this study is to evaluate whether polylactic acid (PLA) microspheres and adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells have appropriate properties as an injectable bulking agent in urologic field. Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats (2-week-old) were randomized into two groups. A total of 0.05 mL of PLA microsphere suspension and 0.05 mL of PLA microsphere suspension mixed with PKH26-labeled SVF cells were injected into bladder wall in group I and group II, respectively. At 2, 8, 16, and 24 weeks of PLA microspheres injection, the volumes of implants were measured and bladder tissues including implants were analyzed and compared grossly and histologically between groups. The distant organs were examined histologically to determine migration of PLA microspheres. At 24 weeks of implantation, 65-70% of injected volume was maintained and there was no significant difference between groups. In histological analyses, injected PLA microspheres were localized in muscular layer of bladder without infiltration into adjacent layer. From 8 to 16 weeks of injection, hybrid tissues contained collagen and actin were observed between PLA microspheres and these findings were more clear in group II. PHK26-labeled SVF cells were identified by fluorescence microscopy at all time points. There was no migration of PLA microspheres to other organs and no abnormality in weight gain and hematologic values. These results suggest the possibility of PLA microspheres as a potentially useful bulking agent in urologic field. And further investigation is needed to know synergic effect of SVF cells.

【Despite abundant nutritions, krill is barely used for human consumption. The objective of this study was to investigate the nutritional component and amino acid composition of krill and further utilizes it for food resource. Proximate compositions of krill meal were consisted of crude protein 58.85%, ash 13.89%, crude fat 12.45%, carbohydrate 11.01% and moisture 3.80%. The amount of total amino acid was 54.74 g%, and the major amino acids were glutamic acid (7.71 g%), aspartic acid (6.20 g%), leucine (4.72 g%), lysine (4.41 g%), arginine (6.49 g%) and alanine (3.25 g%), respectively. Total essential amino acid content was 21.87%, and the major amino acids were leucine (4.72 g%), lysine (4.41 g%) and isoleucine (2.90 g%), respectively. Content of total free amino acid in krill meal was 20224.30 mg/kg, and the major free amino acids were taurine (4501 mg/kg), arginine (3130.60 mg/kg), proline (2302.90 mg/kg), alanine (2088.10 mg/kg), glycine (1606.40 mg/kg) and lysine (1197.40 mg/kg). Especially, taurine was the most abundant of all free amino acids. Thus, these data indicate that krill seems to be abundant protein source food.】

Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) is typical of a enormous biomass of marine zooplankton that could provide good nutrition in human body. This study was conducted to identify the nutrition of krill, a live in Antarctic Ocean. The analysis result of fatty acids of krill meal was as follow. The compositions of fatty acid were saturated fatty (SFA) acid 41.41%, monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) 21.69%, polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) 36.89%, and p/s ratio was 0.89. The major fatty acids in all parts were eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 21.54%), palmitic acid (27.51%), oleic acid (13.35%) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 12.42%). Especially, EPA and DHA were occupied 33.96% of polyunsaturated fatty acid. The mineral contents of krill meal were calcium 24477.21 mg , sodium 14728.69 mg , magnesium 6973.49 mg , potassium 3981.67 mg , iron 395.33 mg and manganese 5.74 mg . The contents of major vitamin were retinol 86717.37 RE, -carotene 44.87 RE, tocopherol 2.60 mg, pantothenic acid 1.61 mg, indicating that krill meal contains large amount of retinol and -carotene.

ObjectivesPostmicturition dribble (PMD) is a very common symptom in males with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) worldwide, but there is no adequate questionnaire to assess it. Therefore, we developed a questionnaire named the Hallym Post Micturition Dribble Questionnaire (HPMDQ) to assess PMD, and the aim of this study is to validate it.MethodsA series of consecutive male patients newly diagnosed with LUTS and over 40 years of age who visited any of 5 medical institutions were included. LUTS were assessed in all patients using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and PMD was assessed using the HPMDQ.ResultsIn total, 2134 male patients aged 40 to 91 years were included in this study. Of these patients, 1088 (51.0%) reported PMD. In the PMD group, the mean values for HPMDQ-Q1, HPMDQ-Q2, HPMDQ-Q3 and HPMDQ total score were 1.39, 1.10, 1.76 and 4.25, respectively. In the non-PMD group, the mean values of these scores were 0, 0.18, 1.52 and 1.58, respectively. The difference in HPMDQ scores between the 2 groups was statistically significant. PMD was significantly associated with the voiding symptoms of LUTS, prostate size and postvoid residual but not with storage symptoms.ConclusionsThe HPMDQ, which consists of 5 questions (frequency, severity, bother, quality of life and response to treatment for PMD), was developed, and its use for assessing PMD is validated in this study. It may be a useful tool for further research and in clinical practice for PMD.

Purpose We investigated the outer retinal, RPE, and choroidal changes and the development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in fellow eyes of patients with unilateral polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy or aneurysmal type 1 neovascularization (PCV/AT1). Methods In this retrospective observational cohort study, 263 patients with unilateral PCV/AT1 were enrolled. Fundus photography, enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography, and indocyanine green angiography at baseline and follow-up were analyzed. Incidence and risk factors for the development of CNV were analyzed. Results In fellow eyes of unilateral PCV/AT1 cases, RPE and outer retinal abnormalities were observed in 222 (84%) eyes, and dilated Haller vessels (pachyvessel) were identified in the corresponding abnormality area in 157 (71%) eyes. Follow-up data were available for 233 patients. During a 27.6-month mean follow-up period, 20/233 (9%) eyes had CNV (12 PCV/AT1 and eight type 1 CNV). In 18 eyes (90%), CNV developed at the RPE or outer retinal abnormality areas accompanied by pachyvessel. A significantly higher risk for CNV was observed if RPE and outer retinal abnormalities were accompanied by pachyvessel (hazard ratio, 9.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-75.9, P = 0.037). Conclusions RPE and outer retinal abnormalities were common in fellow eyes of patients presenting with unilateral PCV/AT1. CNV developed in fellow eyes of 9% of patients, frequently in the areas with RPE and outer retinal abnormality accompanied by pachyvessel.

Although cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis is usually diagnosed in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation recipients among patients with hematologic and oncologic disease, it can also occur in acute leukemia patients who have not received hematopoietic cell transplantation. However, CMV retinitis diagnosed after completion of chemotherapy for acute leukemia has not previously been reported. A 17-year-old boy was diagnosed with CMV retinitis 3 months after completion of chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and his retinitis was assumed to be caused by a delayed immune reconstitution after chemotherapy. The patient was treated with intravenous and intravitreous ganciclovir therapy, and subsequently underwent surgery for retinal detachment.

Purpose To investigate the influence of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and combination of PDT and ranibizumab on aqueous humor levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). Design Prospective randomized clinical trial. Method We included 20 eyes with treatment-naive PCV and 20 eyes undergoing cataract surgery as controls. PCV eyes were randomized to treatment with PDT alone or to a combination of ranibizumab and PDT on the same day. During 3 months, retreatment was not performed. Aqueous humors were collected at baseline and at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after treatment in the PCV group and during cataract surgery in the control group. VEGF levels were measured using multiplex bead immunoassay. Results At baseline, VEGF levels were significantly increased in PCV eyes compared with control eyes. A significant decrease in VEGF levels was found at 1 week after PDT treatment (n = 8) and at all time points after combination treatment (n = 12). With combination treatment, VEGF levels were decreased to values below the detection limit in all eyes at 1 week and 1 month and in 7 of 12 eyes at 3 months. There was no difference in the clinical profiles among the 2 treatment groups at each time point. Conclusion Decreased levels of VEGF detected 1 week after PDT for PCV seems to reflect acute damage of vascular endothelial cells, one of the VEGF expression sites in PCV. Concomitant ranibizumab resulted in a further decrease in VEGF to negligible levels, but this result did not affect the clinical results for 3 months.

Waterborne polyurethane (WBPU) sol–gel adhesives were prepared through a prepolymer process followed by a sol–gel reaction of (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES). The terminal amine group of APTES reacted with the NCO group of the prepolymer, and the ethoxy group created Si–O–Si branching by hydrolysis and condensation reactions in water at the dispersion step. Water swelling (%), tensile strength and Young’s modulus of the synthesized WBPU sol–gel adhesives were improved by increasing APTES content. Synthesized WBPU sol–gel adhesives were used for bonding nylon fabrics. A significant improvement in adhesive strength was recorded, and the potential for good adhesive strength under water at moderately high temperature (up to 75 °C) was observed with 6.84 mol% APTES in WBPU sol–gel adhesives.

Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) is an exudative maculopathy affecting vision, with clinical features distinct from neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Currently, no evidence-based guidelines exist for its diagnosis and treatment.A panel of experts analyzed a systematic literature search on PCV together with results of the EVEREST trial, the only published randomized controlled clinical trial in PCV. At a subsequent Roundtable meeting, recommendations for the management of PCV were agreed based on this analysis and their own expert opinion.Diagnosis of PCV should be based on early-phase nodular hyperfluorescence from choroidal vasculature visualized using indocyanine green angiography. Recommended initial treatment of juxtafoveal and subfoveal PCV is either indocyanine green angiography-guided verteporfin photodynamic therapy or verteporfin photodynamic therapy plus 3 × 0.5 mg ranibizumab intravitreal injections 1 month apart. If there is incomplete regression of polyps by indocyanine green angiography, eyes should be retreated with verteporfin photodynamic therapy monotherapy or verteporfin photodynamic therapy plus ranibizumab. If there is complete regression of polyps by indocyanine green angiography, but there is leakage on fluorescein angiography and other clinical or anatomical signs of disease activity, eyes should be retreated with ranibizumab.Practical guidance on the clinical management of PCV is proposed based on expert evaluation of current evidence.

The physical properties of the acrylic pressure sensitive adhesives (PSAs) can be easily controlled by a proper functional monomer which has functional groups for crosslinking. This study was to investigate the effect of crosslinking agents, isocyanate and epoxy types, of acrylic PSAs on adhesive properties. 2-Ethylhexyl acrylate, acrylic acid (AA), and 2-hydroxy ethyl methacrylate as monomer were used. The obtained samples with different AA contents were partially crosslinked with epoxyor isocyanate-typed agent. Peel strength, balltack, holding power test and contraction percentage of the obtained PSA were evaluated. Most properties of acrylic PSAs were increased with AA content and acrylic PSAs with epoxy-typed crosslinking agent (4 crosslinking sites) which produces flexible link (ether), showed better properties than those of isocyanate-typed one (3 crosslinking sites).

To improve hydrolytic stability of polyurethane (PU) adhesives, a silane coupling agent (SCA) was added. 3-Isocyanatopropyl triethoxy silane (ITS) as a SCA has two functional groups in the main chain and it is used to improve an interfacial interaction between polymer and inorganic material or metal. In this study, PU adhesives with different amounts of ITS from 0 to 1 wt% were synthesized. Pot time, modulus, thermal stablilty, and adhesive force of the obtained samples were measured. The results showed that the adhesives with ITS showed better properties than that of pure one.

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of Cordyceps militaris extract supplementation on the improvement of blood glucose, lipid compositions and hepatic functional enzyme activities in the serum of streptozotocin(STZ, 50 mg/kg BW, IP injection)-induced diabetic rats fed the experimental diets for 5 weeks. The concentrations of blood glucose and lipid compositions(total cholesterol, β-lipoprotein, free cholesterol, cholesteryl ester, triglyceride and phospholipid) and atherosclerotic index in serum were significantly lower in the DM+CM group than in the DM group, whereas the ratio of HDL-cholesterol concentration to total cholesterol in the DM+CM group were higher than in the DM group. The activities of hepatic functional enzymes(aminotransferase, LDH and ALP) in serum were lower in the Cordyceps militaris extract administration group(group DM+CM) than in the hyperglycemic DM group. The results shown above suggested that Cordyceps militaris extract supplementation effectively improves blood glucose and atherosclerosis in the serum of diabetic rats.Key words: Cordyceps militaris, Diabetes, Blood glucose, Lipid compositions, Atherosclerosis

A series of thermoresponsive sodium alginate-g-poly(vinyl caprolactam) (NaAlg-g-PNVCL) beads were prepared as drug delivery matrices of 5-flurouracil (5-FU) crosslinked by glutaraldehyde (GA) in the hydrochloric acid catalyst. Graft copolymers of sodium alginate with vinyl caprolactam were synthesized using azobisisobutyronitrile as an initiator, and characterized by Fourier infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calrimetry and X-ray diffraction for analysis of the amorphous nature drug in the beads, and by scanning electron microscopy for the spherical nature of the beads. Preparation condition of the beads was optimized by considering the percentage of encapsulation efficiency, swelling behavior of beads and their release data. Effects of variables such as GA concentration, drug/polymer ratio and catalyst concentration on the release of 5-FU were carried out at two different temperatures (25 and 37 °C) in simulated intestinal fluid for 12 h. It was observed that, drug release from the beads decreased with increasing drug/polymer (d/p) ratio, extent of crosslinking agent and catalyst concentration. The swelling degree of graft copolymer beads was found to be increased with decreasing of environmental temperature. In vitro release studies were performed at 25 and 37 °C for 12 h, and showed that thermoresponsive graft copolymer beads had higher drug release behavior at 25 °C than that at 37 °C, following Fickian diffusion transport mechanism with slight deviation.

Fibers of microbial polyesters, poly(3-hydroxy butyrate) (PHB) and poly(3-hydroxy butyrate-co-3-hydroxy valerate) (HB-co-HV) were prepared by electrospinning method. The obtained fibers were evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, and oil absorption. The formation of fibers was strongly dependent on a concentration of solution. At a low concentration, the fibers contained beads which is from aggregation of polymer due to short evaporation time. The fine fibers with 2-5 mm diameter were obtained at 20 wt% concentration. The contact angle measurement showed that the fiber had higher water contact angle than the film due to the lotus-like effect. Oil absorbency showed that the fiber had higher than the film. Specially, the HB-co-HV fiber which was spinned from 20 wt% absorbed 65% oil which is much higher than that of a normal polypropylene-based oil paper.Key words : Microbial polyester, Electrospinning, Lotus effect, Oil absorbency 1. 1) 서 론

Two triblock copolymers, polyester-b-poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS)-b-polyester, were synthesized by the ring-opening polymerization with both hydrophobic and water-repellent hydroxyl-terminated PDMS and hydrolytically degradable ester monomers. The T g s of the polyester blocks were controlled by ɛ-caprolactone/lactide mixture or lactide only. The surface composition of the triblock copolymers was measured by angle-dependent electron: X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results showed that the PDMS block with a low surface energy in the copolymers was quite segregated in the surface region; the copolymer films showed significantly higher mole fractions of PDMS (0.78–0.86) at a low takeoff angle compared with their bulk mole fractions (0.015–0.02). When the films were exposed to water at 20 °C for 70 min, the mole fractions of surface PDMS were decreased to 0.3–0.5 because of the water-repellent hydrophobicity and the chain mobility of both blocks.

Amphiphobic organic–inorganic hybrid coating materials have been prepared by sol–gel technique in two steps. In the first step, fluorinated polymethylhydrosiloxane precursor was synthesized by hydr...

Polyurethane (PU) coatings were prepared using siloxane polyol [poly(dimethyl siloxane), PDMS], polyether polyol [poly(propylene oxide glycol), PPG], and polyester polyol [poly(tetramethylene adipa...

Organic-inorganic hybrids were synthesized using polymethylhydrosiloxane, 2,2,3,4,4,4 hexafluorobutylmethacrylate and tetraethyl orthosilicate with a platinum catalyst. The resulting hybrids formed transparent thin films on glass substrate by spin coating. The functional groups, molecular structure, surface morphology and chemical composition of the hybrids were analyzed by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), 29Si MASNMR spectroscopy, high resolution scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The thermal stability, mechanical scratch resistance, static and advancing/receding dynamic contact angles were measured by thermogravimetry, the pencil hardness test and a drop shape analysis system. The prepared hybrid thin films exhibited good transparency, hydrophobicity, as well as good mechanical and anti-stain properties. Open image in new window

The surface structure of fluorinated poly(imidesiloxane)s (FSIM) with different segment lengths and contents of siloxane was investigated by ATR-FTIR and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Although fluorine and siloxane compounds have low surface energies, the surface composition of FSIM was strongly affected by their segment length. The longer segment length is, the higher surface segregation is. This indicates that the long segment has strong driving force to the surface.

To evaluate the efficacy of switching from bevacizumab to ranibizumab in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME).Patients with DME who showed persistent fluid after at least 3 monthly bevacizumab injections were administered a single ranibizumab injection and were followed up after 1 month. Anatomic responders to ranibizumab were followed up monthly and administered ranibizumab injections on an as-needed basis for 3 months.At the 1-month follow-up, mean central subfield foveal thickness (CSFT) decreased from 422 to 346 μm (P 0.001) and mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved from 20/49 to 20/46 (P = 0.063) in 62 enrolled eyes. Thirty-nine eyes (62.9%) were classified as anatomical responders and, after repeated ranibizumab injections (mean number: 2.6), mean CSFT improved (429-317 μm, P 0.001) while BCVA was stabilized (20/52 to 20/48, P = 0.066) after 3 months, compared with baseline. The rate of patients who showed partial response to previous bevacizumab between anatomical responders and nonresponders to ranibizumab was compared. The results showed that the rate was significantly higher in the responder group than nonresponder group (76.9% vs. 43.5%, P = 0.008).Switching patients to ranibizumab may present a suitable option for the treatment of DME with persistent fluid after repeated bevacizumab injections. This treatment switch was more effective in eyes that showed partial response to previous bevacizumab therapy, compared with nonresponsive eyes.

This study investigated the surface structure of fluorocarbon end-capped l-poly(lactide)s (F-PLLA) with different fluorocarbon lengths by electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA). Fluorocarbon chains of three lengths (F(CF2)n(CH2)2, where n = 6, 8, and 10) have been synthesized as the terminal group to PLLA. Angular dependent ESCA revealed that the fluorocarbon groups are segregated at the surface. Further, the results show the surface coverage of fluorocarbon groups rapidly increases with increasing the length of fluorocarbon end groups (synergy effect). The surface composition of F-PLLAs can be controlled by changing the length of fluorocarbon.

Trichomoniasis caused by Trichomonas vaginalis is a common sexually transmitted disease. Its association with several health problems, including preterm birth, pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical cancer, and transmission of human immunodeficiency virus, emphasizes the importance of improved access to early and accurate detection of T. vaginalis. In this study, a rapid and efficient loop-mediated isothermal amplification-based method for the detection of T. vaginalis was developed and validated, using vaginal swab specimens from subjects suspected to have trichomoniasis. The LAMP assay targeting the actin gene was highly sensitive with detection limits of 1 trichomonad and 1 pg of T. vaginalis DNA per reaction, and specifically amplified the target gene only from T. vaginalis. Validation of this assay showed that it had the highest sensitivity and better agreement with PCR (used as the gold standard) compared to microscopy and multiplex PCR. This study showed that the LAMP assay, targeting the actin gene, could be used to diagnose early infections of T. vaginalis. Thus, we have provided an alternative molecular diagnostic tool and a point-of-care test that may help to prevent trichomoniasis transmission and associated complications.

Background Post voided dribbling (PVD) in men is the symptom of experiencing involuntary loss of urine immediately after a person has finished passing urine, usually after leaving the toilet which distinguished from terminal dribbling. Researches on the PVD are very limited because no proper tool to evaluate PVD. This study was to assess the correlation between PVD and erectile dysfunction (ED) in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Methods A total of 205 patients with LUTS were enrolled. Patients filled in international prostate symptom score (IPSS) and Hayllm PVD questionnaire (HPVDQ) that was made by authors. Prostate size, prostate specific antigen, uroflowmetry including Qmax & post voided residual urine, IPSS, and international index for erectile function-5 (IIEF-5) were also assessed. Results Patients were classified as ED (129 patients) and non-ED (76 patients) groups. HPVDQ was inversely well correlated with IIEF-5 (r=-0.244, P0.05). However, incorporation of HPVDQ into IPSS increased predictive accuracy of LUTS for ED (56.3% to 65.1%). Conclusions In men with LUTS, PVD was inversely well correlated with erectile function, and its severity was related with prevalence of ED.

The multi-walled carbon nanotube was introduced into the polymer matrix (PANI) to improve the electric conductivity as well as mechanical properties of the original polymer matrix. PANI/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) composites were synthesized via ex-situ and in-situ polymerization to improve their electrical property. And the DC conductivities of PANI/MWCNT according to content and diameter of MWCNT were measured by four-point probe. The highest electric conductivity of PANI/MWCNT composite is 20 S/cm when 0.3% (mass fraction) MWCNTs with 10 nm in diameter and 15 μm in length are added in composite.

The contribution of ciliary muscle to the development and progression of myopia has been addressed. A thickened ciliary muscle in myopia has been speculated as an internal equatorial growth restriction, possibly a matter of hypertrophy with potentially poor contractility, which may result in the development and progression of myopia. In this preliminary study, we evaluated the interrelationship of ciliary muscle characteristics and myopia in 31 volunteers (aged 19–35), via ultrasound biomicroscope (UBM), with eyes focused on far and near targets. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis (using stepwise variable selection) were employed to analyze the relationship between axial length/refractive error and various parameters of ciliary muscle (CM)–cross-sectional area (CMA); length from scleral (CMLs) and vitreous (CMLv) aspects; thickness at 1.0 mm (CMT1), 2.0 mm (CMT2), and 3.0 mm (CMT3) posterior to scleral spur; maximum thickness (CMTm); and apical angle. The impact on accommodation of changes (Δ) in above parameters and of centroid variations was subsequently assessed. In a univariate analysis, axial length showed positive relationship with CMLs (r = 0.454, p = 0.017) and CMT3 (r = 0.460, p = 0.018), and negative relationship with ΔCMTm (r = −0.501, p = 0.008) and Δapical angle (r = −0.400, p = 0.039). Multivariate regression analysis showed that ΔCMTm (β = −0.506, p = 0.008) was independently related with axial length. A negative correlation between CMTm and ΔCMTm was also observed (r = −0.432, p = 0.024). These results suggest that accentuated ciliary muscle thickness, suggesting muscular hypertrophy, may account for the inherent dysfunction in myopia. Further studies are necessary to confirm these preliminary observations and hypotheses.

Purpose: This study aimed at investigating sexual behavior patterns of elderly residents of urban areas in South Korea and their correlation with lower urinary tract symptoms. Materials and Methods: From May, 2009 to October, 2009, 154 males and 299 females over 60 years old who visited senior welfare centers of Seoul were administered a questionnaire on sex life patterns and voiding symptoms. Results: Among the 154 males, 59 (38.3%) had sexual intercourse at least one time per month. The remaining 95 males (61.7%) did not have sexual intercourse, because of impotence for 52 males (52.6%), no sexual desire for 28 males (29.4%), and sex partner’s problems for 15 males (15.7%). The higher International Prostate Symptom Score was, the lower International Index of Erectile Dysfunction-5 was (p=0.035). Among 299 females, 37 (12.4%) had sexual intercourse at least one time per month. The remaining 262 females (87.6%) did not have sexual intercourse, because of no spouse for 163 females (63.2%), no sexual desire for 48 females (18.6%), the spouse’s impotence for 34 females (13.2%), and the spouse’s bad health for 10 females (3.9%). It was found that self-diagnosis of overactive bladder affects sex life negatively. Conclusions: The sexual behaviors of the elderly included varying activity. Sexual intercourse were significantly associated with lower urinary tract symptoms. Our results suggest that the counseling with the elderly about sexual health is as important as it is with non-elderly individuals.

Cross-linked dextran and polymethylmethacrylate mixture (Lipen-10) is newly developed tissue filler. The purpose of this study was to evaluate tolerability and efficacy of Lipen-10 on penile enhancement. Twenty adult males were included in this study. Lipen-10 was injected into the subcutaneous tissue of the penile shaft. The penile girth and length were measured in the flaccid state, before and 1, 3 and 6 months after the injection. The circumference increased by 3.7±1.2 cm (50.8%, P

Polynorbornene dicarboxylic anhydride (PNA)/fluorosilica hybrid coating materials with good hydrophobicity, oleophobicity, transparency, thermal stability, and hardness were synthesised using a sol–gel method. The surface structure, transparency, hydrophobicity, oleophobicity, and surface free energy of the coating could be controlled by adjusting the fluorosilane ratio. The maximum static water and oil contact angles of films were 112° and 87°, respectively. The PNA/fluorosilica hybrid films exhibited good transparency and colourlessness. The marks written using water and oil-based pens on the films could be erased with a tissue even after eight times. In addition, the hardness of the hybrid films was enhanced to 4H with increasing fluorosilane content.

In the present investigation, we evaluated the acute changes in intraocular cytokines after intravitreal injection of an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in diabetic retinopathy (DR). This analysis may contribute to the understanding of changes in intraocular cytokines after intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB), which is frequently used to reduce permeability and neovascularization in DR. This study was a prospective, open-label, controlled, randomized clinical trial. Eyes of 30 consecutive patients who were scheduled for pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for proliferative DR (PDR) were prospectively enrolled. All patients were randomly assigned to receive IVB either at 1 (group 1) or 7 (group 2) days before PPV, and aqueous humor samples were taken from the anterior chamber just prior to IVB and PPV. The levels of VEGF, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and transforming growth factor-β(2) (TGF-β(2)) in aqueous humor were evaluated at each time point-baseline and after IVB. VEGF levels were significantly decreased at day 1 (p=0.003) and the decrease sustained through day 7 (p=0.004). IL-6 increased from 23.26 ± 26.68 to 1992.88 ± 2266.87 pg/mL at day 1 (p

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of the feeding Cordyceps militaris extract on the improvement of the free fatty acid, lipid peroxide, creatinine and enzyme (creatine phosphokinase; CPK, lactate dehydrogenase; LDH, alkaline phosphatase; ALP, lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase; LCAT) activities in the sera of dietary hypercholesterolemic rats (SD strain, male) fed the experimental diets for 5 weeks. Concentrations of free fatty acid, lipid peroxide and CPK, LDH, ALP activities in sera were fairly reduced in the Cordyceps militaris extract administration group (CHE) than in the hypercholesterolemic diet group (CHD). However, no significance was found in the effect of an creatinine concentration among the groups. The LCAT activity in serum was increased in the Cordyceps militaris extract administration (CHE) than in the hypercholesterolemic diet group (CHD). From these results, Cordyceps militaris extracts were effective on the improvement of the lipid components and metabolic enzyme activities in sera of dietary hypercholesterolemic rats.