The surface properties (water sorption and repellency, adhesion) are closely related to the surface tension of polymer solids. The critical surface tension (γ c ) and surface tension (γ s ) of a polymer solid were estimated by the contact angle method by our quantitative imaging system. BPDA (3,3',4,4'-biphenyl tetracarboxylic dianhydride)-BAPP (1,3-Bis(4-aminophenoxy) propane) polyimide was successfully synthesized. The γ c values were analyzed by a Zisman plot, a Young-Dupré-Good-Girifalco plot, and a log (1+cos θ) vs log γ L plot. The γ s value of BPDA-BAPE polyimide was evaluated using the geometric mean equation and our multiple regression analysis. The calculated values of γ S d (a dispersion component), γ S p (a polar component), γ S h (a hydrogen bonding component), and γ S were 30. 79, 9.32, 0.20, and 40.31 mN·m -1 , respectively. The γ S of BPDA-BAPP polyimide containing both a methylene group and an ether group was larger than that of the polyimide containing only a methylene group.

The synthesis of a series of poly(POSS-NBE-b-MTD) copolymers was successfully accomplished, taking advantage of sequential, ring-opening, metathesis block copolymerization using RuCl 2 (=CHPh)(PCy 3 ) 2 catalyst. By using cyclopentyl-POSS-norbornene (POSS-NBE) monomer as the first block in the block copolymer, living poly(POSS-NBE) with controlled molecular weight and narrow molecular weight distribution was produced. Then, poly(POSS-NBE-b-MTD) copolymers were successfully prepared, in which sequential monomer addition of methyltetracyclododecene (MTD) to the living poly(POSS-NBE) chain ends was utilized to achieve quantitative crossover efficiency. Characterization by 1 H NMR spectroscopy and GPC confirmed the high definition and structural integrity of the poly(POSS-NBE-b-MTD) copolymers. Thermal properties and morphologies of the POSS-containing block copolymer nanocomposites were also investigated by using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS).

The activity of an immobilized enzyme in a packed bed is monitored for the change in a substrate conversion with time. But pressure drop in the packed bed with immobilized glucoamylase can serve as an indirect indicator for the changes in the conversion and activity of the immobilized enzyme. The method is simple and the change can be monitored continuously. This method can be generally applicable to systems where the viscosity of a substrate changes with its conversion.

Candidates for botulinum toxin A are generally patients with overactive bladder(OAB) whose disease is in adequatelycontrolled with behavioral therapy and oral medication. All patients must be willing and able to perform cleanintermittent catheterization(CIC). Before the decision to administer botulinum toxin A is made, the clinician shouldprovide counseling to the patient regarding the agent’s indications, proposed benefis, risks, and mode ofadministration. The patient should be aware that botulinum toxin A takes effect after approximately 1?2weeks andusually lasts for 4?10months, after which repeat injections will be necessary to maintain effect. Patient preparation mayinclude pre-treatment antibiotics and withdrawal of antiplatelet therapy or anticoagulants. Preparation of the productinvolves reconstitution in sterile saline and dilution according to the planned dose. The injections are performed using aflxible or rigid cystoscope, and the procedure takes approximately 15 min. The initial follow-up visit occurs within 7?14days, when evidence of adverse effects, including urinary retention, can be evaluated. Repeat injections can bescheduled as needed, but not sooner than 3 months. Currently, the total dose of botulinum toxin A should not exceed360 U in a 3-month period for all indications, including those outside the urinary tract (i.e.,cosmetic,ophthalmologic,etc.). Overall, botulinum toxin A is effective, generally well tolerated, safe, and is relatively simple toprovide.