Correlation Analysis between Ocular Surface Parameters with Subjective Symptom Severity in Dry Eye Disease

Purpose@#To evaluate the clinical symptoms of patients with dry eyes, based on the ocular surface disease index (OSDI) and analyze the relationship between OSDI and various ocular surface parameters. @*Methods@#This was a retrospective study that included 45 eyes of 45 dry eye patients who visited the Seoul Nune Eye Hospital from August 2017 to December 2017. The patients were assessed by non-invasive keratography for the first break-up time, lipid layer thickness (LLT), tear osmolarity, tear matrix metalloproteinase-9 immunoassay as well as with the conventional Schirmer I test and fluorescein break-up time. The patient’s symptoms were evaluated by the OSDI questionnaires and correlations were analyzed based on the parameters described above. @*Results@#There were significant negative correlations between OSDI and non-invasive keratography for the first break-up time (p = 0.038, r = -0.330), and LLT (p = 0.005, r = -0.426). However, there were no significant correlations between OSDI and fluorescein break-up time, Schirmer I score, and tear osmolarity (p = 0.173, 0.575, and 0.844 respectively). OSDI was not significantly different between matrix metalloproteinase-9 positive and negative groups (p = 0.768). @*Conclusions@#Non-invasive examinations such as non-invasive keratograph break-up time and interferometry of LLT can be efficient tools for evaluating dry eye symptoms.

Study on the Relationship between the Nutrient Intake and Level of Depressive Symptoms: Using the Data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2016

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between the nutrient intake and level of depressive symptoms. A total of 5,761 subjects with depression were selected for the main data analysis from a Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, KNHANES (2016), and were divided into low depressed and high depressed groups. The data were analyzed by descriptive analysis, χ2-test, logistic regression, and t-test using SPSS 24.0 statistics. The results revealed significant differences in the prevalence of depression according to sex (P < 0.001), age (P < 0.001), income (P < 0.001), and education (P < 0.001). Regarding the health behavior, higher stress levels (P < 0.001) and smoking habit (P < 0.001) appeared to be strongly associated with high levels of depression. On the other hand, the possibility of experiencing depressive symptoms was lower when the number of walking days per week was more than 3 days (P < 0.05), when the number of working days per week was more than 5 days (P < 0.01), and the rate of aerobic physical activity was higher. Based on the ‘Dietary Reference Intakes for Koreans 2015’, the subjects in the low depression group showed better intake of energy and 22 nutrients than the high depression group.

Clinical Characteristics and Prognosis of Fuchs Dystrophy According to COL8A2 Gene Mutation Status

PURPOSE: To compare the clinical characteristics and prognosis of Fuchs dystrophy patients according to COL8A2 gene mutation status. METHODS: Eighty-one patients (162 eyes) initially diagnosed with Fuchs dystrophy from 1996 to 2015 were divided into two groups according to COL8A2 gene mutation status. Retrospective analysis was performed comparing gender, age at diagnosis, presence of family history, diabetes mellitus, symptoms of blurred vision in the morning, changes in central corneal thickness and endothelial cell density with time, need for corneal transplantation, and pre-operative corneal status in the two groups. RESULTS: Of the 81 patients, 12 were shown to harbor a COL8A2 gene mutation. Individuals with mutation were significantly associated with presence of family history, diabetes mellitus, and blurred vision in the morning (p = 0.021, p = 0.024, p = 0.044, respectively). They also had significantly thicker central cornea and lower endothelial cell density at the time of diagnosis (p = 0.020, p = 0.005, respectively). The differences in central corneal thickness and endothelial cell density between the two eyes in one patient were significantly smaller in patients with gene mutation (p = 0.043, p = 0.022, respectively). Over a 5-year follow-up period, 60.0% of eyes in patients with gene mutation and 19.2% of eyes in patients without gene mutation underwent corneal transplantation, a significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.014). CONCLUSIONS: By testing for COL8A2 gene mutation, early binocular disease progression and the possible need for corneal transplantation in the future can be predicted among patients diagnosed with Fuchs dystrophy.

Socio-Demographic Influences on Adolescents' Eating Behavior: Based on the Korean Youth Risk Web-Based Survey from 2015

This study was conducted to explore socio-demographic influences on eating behaviors among adolescents in Korea. Data were obtained from the Eleventh Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey (2015 KYRBS), a nationwide representative sample of 3,532,149 middle and high school students. The data were analyzed by descriptive analysis, t-test, and logistic regression based on complex sample design using SPSS 20.0 statistics. The results showed that intake frequency of soda, fast food, and instant noodles was higher in male than female students (P<0.001). Additionally, the frequency of eating breakfast, fruits, vegetables, and milk was higher among high school students than middle school students (P<0.001). Higher levels of economic status were associated with less skipping breakfast. Adolescents with mothers that had higher levels of education were more likely to be frequent consumers of fruits, vegetables, and milk, and to eat breakfast.

Effects of Periodic Visiting Education Support on Nutrition and Hygiene Practices at Center for Childeren's Foodservice Management: Focus on Ulsan Area

The purpose of this current study was to examine the effects of nutrition and food safety management support by the Center for Children's Foodservice Management (CCFSM) in foodservice facilities for children in the Ulsan area. From December 2014 to July 2015, the status of nutrition practices and hygiene practices was assessed by dietitians using nutrition and hygiene practice checklists. The subjects of study were 48 institutional foodservice facilities for children. Some nutrition practice items showed significant increases in average scores of 'using CCFSM menus (P<0.001), revising menus (P<0.05), and reconfirm menus (P<0.01)' from pre-support to post-support. Regarding hygiene practices, some items between pre-support to post-support showed significant increases in average scores of 'having equipment for hand washing & disinfecting' (P<0.01), 'wearing disinfected clothing for kitchen hygienically' (P<0.05), 'proper sterilization' (P<0.05), 'recording the origin of ingredients' (P<0.01), 'use of different knives/cutting boards' (P<0.05), and 'an appropriate thawing process' (P<0.05) from pre-support to post-support. Based on the above results, we found that nutrition and hygiene management support by CCFSM in foodservice facilities for children had a positive influence on status of some nutrition and food safety practices.

Study on Food-Intake and Atopic Dermatitis among Adolescents: Findings from the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between demographic characteristics and atopic dermatitis, along with adolescents' body mass index. Also, this study explored the association between dietary intakes (fruits, soda, caffeinated beverages, instant food, cracker, vegetables, and milk) of adolescents and atopic dermatitis. Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey for 2014 was used for data analysis, in which a total of 3,532,149 middle and high school students participated. Data were analyzed by descriptive analysis and logistic regression based on the complex sample design using SPSS ver.20.0 statistics. The results showed that males had a higher prevalence rate of atopic dermatitis than females. The significant association between body mass index and atopic dermatitis was found (F=46.625, P<0.001). Students who have higher levels of body mass index showed a higher prevalence rate of atopic dermatitis. Finally, the findings showed that the intake of vegetable and milk had associations with atopic dermatitis (F=6.795, P<0.001). Greater vegetable intake was associated with less atopic dermatitis whereas greater milk intake was associated with more atopic dermatitis prevalence. Based on the above results, we found that demographic characteristics, body mass index, and some dietary food intakes of adolescents had influences on prevalence rate of atopic dermatitis.

Factors Associated with Care Burden among Family Caregivers of Terminally Ill Cancer Patients / 한국호스피스완화의료학회지

PURPOSE: It is important to alleviate care burden for terminal cancer patients and their families. This study investigated the factors associated with care burden among family caregivers (FCs) of terminally ill cancer patients. METHODS: We analyzed data from 289 FCs of terminal cancer patients who were admitted to palliative care units of seven medical centers in Korea. Care burden was assessed using the Korean version of Caregiver Reaction Assessment (CRA) scale which comprises five domains. A multivariate logistic regression model with stepwise variable selection was used to identify factors associated with care burden. RESULTS: Diverse associating factors were identified in each CRA domain. Emotional factors had broad influence on care burden. FCs with emotional distress were more likely to experience changes to their daily routine (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 2.54; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.29~5.02), lack of family support (aOR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.04~4.97) and health issues (aOR, 5.44; 2.50~11.88). Family functionality clearly reflected a lack of support, and severe family dysfunction was linked to financial issues as well. FCs without religion or comorbid conditions felt more burdened. The caregiving duration and daily caregiving hours significantly predicted FCs' lifestyle changes and physical burden. FCs who were employed, had weak social support or could not visit frequently, had a low self-esteem. CONCLUSION: This study indicates that it is helpful to understand FCs' emotional status and family functions to assess their care burden. Thus, efforts are needed to lessen their financial burden through social support systems.

Leiomyoma on Nasal Dorsum

No abstract available.

Comparative Study of Hugel-tox(R) versus Botox(R) for the Treatment of Essential Blepharospasm

PURPOSE: To compare clinical efficacy and duration of Hugel-tox(R) (also known as Botulax(R)) and Botox(R) for the treatment of essential blepharospasm. METHODS: A total of 48 patients who were injected with Hugel-tox(R) (17 females, 7 males) or Botox(R) (18 females, 6 males) from February 2013 to October 2013 were enrolled in the present study. Changes in eyelid closing force and Scott grade before and after injection were analyzed. Adverse events were also evaluated. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the Hugel-tox(R) and Botox(R) groups in clinical efficacy and duration. Before and after injection, changes in Scott grade (Hugel-tox(R): -1.17 +/- 0.70, Botox(R): -1.21 +/- 0.72, p = 0.840), changes in eyelid closing force (Hugel-tox(R): -1.38 +/- 0.58, Botox(R): -1.17 +/- 0.56, p = 0.212) and duration (Hugel-tox(R): 116.08 +/- 22.12 days, Botox(R): 126.92 +/- 38.94 days, p = 0.242) were shown. No serious adverse events were found in either group. CONCLUSIONS: Hugel-tox(R) showed nearly equal efficacy and duration compared with Botox(R).

Study on Sodium Reduction: 'Healthy Restaurant for Sodium Reduction'

This study compared total sodium amounts in 'Healthy Restaurant for Sodium Reduction' menu items located in Seoul, Chungcheong, and Gyeongsang in 2011 and 2012. In addition, this study explored reduced sodium cooking methods in 'Healthy Restaurant for Sodium Reduction'. This study monitored and collected menu samples from a total of 103 restaurants participating in 'Healthy Restaurant for Sodium Reduction' in 2011 and 2012. We also surveyed restaurant employees to identify reduced sodium cooking methods in 2012. The results showed significant reductions in total amounts of sodium in menu items of restaurants located in Seoul, Chungcheong, and Gyeongsang between 2011 (310.8+/-156.8 mg/100g) and 2012 (211.6+/-110.3 mg/100g). Amounts of sodium in all seven foodgroups showed significant reductions between 2011 and 2012: 'Gook/Tang' (from 226.6+/-127.7 mg/100g to 168.5+/-74.3 mg/100g), 'Jjigae/Jeongol' (from 385.8+/-111.7 mg/100g to 257.1+/-82.53 mg/100g), 'Noodle/Dumpling' (from 263.8+/-116.9 mg/100g to 194.1+/-55.6 mg/100g), 'Gui' (from 390.3+/-120.6 mg/100g to 258.8+/-92.7 mg/100g), 'Steamed dish' (from 305.3+/-124.3 mg/100g to 175.6+/-76.6 mg/100g), 'Bob' (from 273.7+/-162.5 mg/100g to 167.1+/-93.1 mg/100g), and 'Stir-fried dish' (from 368.6+/-116.6 mg/100g to 219.0+/-72.4 mg/100g). The survey results showed that responses for 'Reducing salt amount' were 75.7%, responses for 'Using enchovy stock, shrimp, radish, or fruit soup' were 64.1%, and responses for 'Liking the taste because it is bland' were 50%. This study indicates that 'Healthy Restaurant for Sodium Reduction' nutrition policy was successful for reducing sodium contents of restaurant menu items, and also consumers were satisfied with the tastes.

Imaging Features of Mucinous Breast Carcinoma

PURPOSE: To examine the imaging findings of mucinous breast carcinoma and to evaluate the difference in these findings based on the histopathologic grade. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed the imaging features according to BI-RADS in 29 patients with surgically proven mucinous carcinoma. The histopathologic grade was classified as well-differentiated, moderately-differentiated and poorly-differentiated. Based on these criteria, the differences in imaging findings were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: Mammography was available in 20 cases, which contained 17 mass lesions (85%) and 3 cases of normal findings. On ultrasonography (27 cases), mucinous carcinoma was observed as a mass with an oval shape (59.3%), a microlobulated margin (55.6%) or an inhomogeneous isoechogenicity (74.1%). On MRI (21 cases), mucinous carcinoma was commonly observed to have a lobular shape (76%), smooth margin (86%) or heterogeneous contrast-enhancement (61.9%). On the kinetic curve, there was a delayed wash-out pattern (52.3%). There were no significant differences in the imaging findings for each histopathologic grade except that a well-differentiated tumor had an abrupt interface. CONCLUSION: A well-differentiated mucinous carcinoma tended to have an abrupt interface on ultrasonography, as compared with the moderately-differentiated one. Mucinous carcinoma showed a heterogeneous enhancement and a delayed washout kinetic curve pattern on dynamic MRI.

Imaging Features of Mucinous Breast Carcinoma

PURPOSE: To examine the imaging findings of mucinous breast carcinoma and to evaluate the difference in these findings based on the histopathologic grade. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed the imaging features according to BI-RADS in 29 patients with surgically proven mucinous carcinoma. The histopathologic grade was classified as well-differentiated, moderately-differentiated and poorly-differentiated. Based on these criteria, the differences in imaging findings were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: Mammography was available in 20 cases, which contained 17 mass lesions (85%) and 3 cases of normal findings. On ultrasonography (27 cases), mucinous carcinoma was observed as a mass with an oval shape (59.3%), a microlobulated margin (55.6%) or an inhomogeneous isoechogenicity (74.1%). On MRI (21 cases), mucinous carcinoma was commonly observed to have a lobular shape (76%), smooth margin (86%) or heterogeneous contrast-enhancement (61.9%). On the kinetic curve, there was a delayed wash-out pattern (52.3%). There were no significant differences in the imaging findings for each histopathologic grade except that a well-differentiated tumor had an abrupt interface. CONCLUSION: A well-differentiated mucinous carcinoma tended to have an abrupt interface on ultrasonography, as compared with the moderately-differentiated one. Mucinous carcinoma showed a heterogeneous enhancement and a delayed washout kinetic curve pattern on dynamic MRI.

Evaluation of Small Bowel Obstruction Using Multidetector Computed Tomography (MDCT)

Small bowel obstruction is a relatively common clinical condition and its diagnosis is based on the clinical signs, the patient's history and the radiologic findings. For a patient with suspected small bowel obstruction, it is essential to determine the site, location and cause of obstruction for the appropriate management. Because of the poor accuracy of plain radiography, computed tomography (CT) now has an essential role to diagnose bowel obstruction. With the recent evolution of conventional CT into multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT), it is possible to obtain cross sectional images with high spatial resolution and different post-processes can be done, such as obtaining the volume rendering (VR), maximum intensity projection (MIP), or multiplanar reformatted (MPR) images from the volume data. In this article, we illustrate and discuss the utility of the multiplanar images of MDCT for diagnosing the sites, causes and complications of small bowel obstruction.