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This paper proposes a modeling and analysis method for a Caputo–Fabrizio (C-F) definition-based fractional-order Boost converter with fractional-order inductive loads. The proposed method analyzes the system characteristics of a fractional-order circuit with three state variables. Firstly, this paper constructs a large signal model of a fractional-order Boost converter by taking advantage of the state space averaging method, providing accurate analytical solutions for the quiescent operating point and the ripple parameters of the circuit with three state variables. Secondly, this paper constructs a small signal model of the C-F definition-based fractional-order Boost converter by small signal linearization, providing the transfer function of the fractional-order system with three state variables. Finally, this paper conducts circuit-oriented simulation experiments where the steady-state parameters and the transfer function of the circuit are obtained, and then the effect of the order of capacitor, induced inductor, and load inductor on the quiescent operating point and ripple parameters is analyzed. The experimental results show that the simulation results are consistent with those obtained by the proposed mathematical model and that the three fractional orders in the fractional model with three state variables have a significant impact on the DC component and steady-state characteristics of the fractional-order Boost converter. In conclusion, the proposed mathematical model can more comprehensively analyze the system characteristics of the C-F definition-based fractional-order Boost converter with fractional-order inductive loads, benefiting the circuit design of Boost converters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a novel approach for modeling Boost converters using the Caputo–Fabrizio (C-F) definition-based fractional-order model to address singular characteristics in fractional-order definitions and enhance model accuracy. A small signal modeling method is proposed to improve the accuracy of circuit parameter design and to derive state-averaged models, state-space equations, and transfer functions. The influence of capacitor and inductor orders on steady-state characteristics is analyzed and the influence of fractional-order on ripple characteristics is investigated through simulation. When the fractional-order approaches 1, the output voltage increases and the inductance current decreases, with waveform jitter mitigation. Moreover, boundary conditions for continuous conduction mode operation are established based on ripple characteristics. The numerical and circuit-oriented simulations verify the correctness of the proposed model. Finally, the orders and accurate parameters of capacitors and inductors based on the C-F definition are determined and the experiments are conducted. The comparison between the experimental and simulation results demonstrates that the proposed model can accurately describe the steady-state characteristics of the practical circuit systems, which further validates the accuracy of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Caputo–Fabrizio (C–F) definition, which solves the singularity problem in the Caputo definition, has been preliminarily applied in the field of circuit system modeling. However, the complex characteristics of the C–F definition-based circuit systems are still understudied. Therefore, this paper proposes a C–F definition-based fractional-order RLC (CF-FORLC) circuit model and analyzes its basic characteristics. First, the effects of different component orders on the performance parameters including the impedance, quality factor, and bandwidth are analyzed, which gives insights into the design of CF-FORLC. Then, the analytical solutions and the frequency-domain characteristics of CF-FORLC with different capacitance and inductance orders under arbitrary input are derived. Finally, the data of actual circuits are fitted to obtain the parameters of the CF-FORLC model, and the orders of the C–F definition-based capacitors and inductors are estimated. The results of the comparative experiments show that the proposed modeling scheme can improve the consistency of the dynamic performance of the model with that of the actual circuit. In addition, the proposed CF-FORLC model shows higher accuracy and flexibility with more adjustable parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International cooperation for renewable energy under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) plays a pivotal role in the transition to low-carbon energy in BRI developing countries. However, the rise in energy, debt, food, and geopolitical crises, along with the unique internal challenges found in different BRI developing countries, introduce multiple uncertainties to international renewable energy cooperation (IREC). Therefore, it is crucial to analyze the risks associated with IREC across different BRI countries by incorporating international cooperation theory. This study proposes an analytical framework comprising cooperation consensus–state capacity–institutional environment, which encompasses the willingness to cooperate, national capabilities, and international institutional considerations. An evaluation indicator system is constructed based on this framework. The study optimizes the indicator weights obtained from expert surveys using the analytic hierarchy process and the criteria importance through intercriteria correlation method. A quantitative assessment of IREC risks was conducted for 114 BRI countries from 2010 to 2020. The results indicate a gradual reduction in IREC risks between China and BRI countries. Regional risk assessments reveal that Southeast Asia exhibits the lowest average risk, while Africa not only records the highest average risk but also indicates substantial cooperation potential. Therefore, we recommend a comprehensive approach to risk mitigation. Such an approach would include gradually improving cooperation mechanisms, promoting both top-down and bottom-up cooperation, encouraging the involvement of multiple stakeholders, and prioritizing early-stage risk assessments and research. • A new analytical framework based on international cooperation theories. • A dynamic risk map for Belt and Road renewable energy cooperation. • The combination of AHP and CRITIC. • Tailored risk mitigation strategies for different regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Two amperometric biosensors with immobilized horseradish peroxidase (HRP) were developed for the investigation of the clozapine drug oxidation and for thiols screening based on biosensor signal inhibition. The HRP was retained either in magnetized nanoporous silica microparticles (MMPs) or in a carbon paste (CP). The latter served for the carbon paste electrode while the MMPs were attracted in close proximity of a magnetized carbon electrode. The potential use of these configurations for drug oxidation and inhibition studies was illustrated by the enzymatic oxidation of clozapine (CLZ) in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. The biosensor signal corresponded to the electro-reduction of CLZ oxidation products namely a nitrenium ion (CLZox) generated by the enzyme HRP. Several thiols reactive towards CLZox were investigated and the biosensor signal inhibition (IC50) was comparatively determined. A protective effect of the nanoporous silica and carbon paste matrices towards HRP inactivation was inferred by comparing the biosensor inhibition results with those obtained with the free enzyme in solution. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Magnetised silica-based microparticles (MMPs) (5μm) with a high density of nanopores were used for horseradish peroxidase (HRP) immobilization and amperometric biosensor development in batch conditions. The resulting biosensor was applied to study the peroxidation of clozapine (CLZ) which is a dibenzoazepine drug often used in the treatment of neurological disorders. The amperometric response corresponded to the electroreduction of CLZ-oxidized products namely a nitrenium cation and quinoneimine derivative of CLZ. Despite a relatively low amount of immobilized HRP (0.3μmol/g), clozapine quantification in the micromolar concentration range was achieved by the use of a magnetized solid paraffin carbon paste electrode for microparticles attraction. Diffusion of substrate and products of the enzyme reaction within the nanopores were identified as limiting factors in the biosensor response. This amperometric biosensor configuration has number of interesting advantages such as ease and reproducible microparticle layer renewing, low enzyme consumption, controlled surface immobilization, protective enzyme microenvironment etc. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Several clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of fluconazole as empiric antifungal therapy in cancer patients with fever and neutropenia. Our objective was to assess the frequency and resource utilization associated with treatment failure in cancer patients given empiric fluconazole antifungal therapy in routine inpatient care. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of cancer patients treated with oral or intravenous fluconazole between 7/97 and 6/01 in a tertiary care hospital. The final study cohort included cancer patients with neutropenia (an absolute neutrophil count below 500 cells/mm3) and fever (a temperature above 38°C or 100.4°F), who were receiving at least 96 hours of parenteral antibacterial therapy prior to initiating fluconazole. Patients' responses to empiric therapy were assessed by reviewing patient charts. Results: Among 103 cancer admissions with fever and neutropenia, treatment failure after initiating empiric fluconazole antifungal therapy occurred in 41% (95% confidence interval (CI) 31% - 50%) of admissions. Patients with a diagnosis of hematological malignancy had increased risk of treatment failure (OR = 4.6, 95% CI 1.5 - 14.8). When treatment failure occurred the mean adjusted increases in length of stay and total costs were 7.4 days (95% CI 3.3 - 11.5) and $18,925 (95% CI 3,289 - 34,563), respectively. Conclusion: Treatment failure occurred in more than one-third of neutropenic cancer patients on fluconazole as empiric antifungal treatment for fever in routine clinical treatment. The increase in costs when treatment failure occurs is substantial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biosensors are, by definition, sensing devices comprising a biological component (enzyme, antibody, animal or plant cell, oligonucleotide, lipid, microorganisms, etc.) intimately connected to a physical transducer (electrode, optical fiber, vibrating quartz, etc.). This dual configuration permits a quantitative study of the interaction between a drug compound and an immobilized biocomponent. Ideally, biosensors should be readily implemented and allow for low reagent and energy consumption. Enzyme‐based biosensors can be applied in the pharmaceutical industry for monitoring chemical parameters in the production process (in bioreactors). Affinity biosensors are suitable for high‐throughput screening of bioprocess‐produced antibodies and for candidate drug screening. They are suitable for selective and sensitive immunoassays in clinical laboratories and for decentralized detection of drug residues. Enzyme‐based biosensors may be used in hospitals for bedside drug testing, emergency control, in patient treatment control (anticancer therapy) etc. Current research efforts are focused on proteins, tissues, or living cells immobilized in microfabricated configurations for high‐throughput drug screening and discovery. Such devices can comprise several different microelectronic sensors and biosensors sensitive, for example, to pH, temperature, impedance, dissolved oxygen, etc. for a multiparametric monitoring. Of equal new interest are the oligonucleotide‐immobilized biosensors for interactions studies between a surface linked DNA and the target drug or for hybridisation studies. This short review summarizes several recent trends dedicated to the development and application of biosensors in the pharmaceutical arena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many electrical systems can be characterized more authentically by fractional-order dynamic systems. The Atangana–Baleanu and the Caputo–Fabrizio fractional derivatives have solved the singularity problem in Caputo derivative. This work uses Atangana–Baleanu and Caputo–Fabrizio fractional derivatives to model the fractional-order mutual inductance in the frequency domain. To use the fractional mutual inductance in circuit design, the T-model equivalent circuits are presented with different fractional derivatives. The fractional impedance matching networks based on proposed fractional mutual coupling circuits are simulated as an application. The impedance characteristics of networks with different fractional orders are analyzed. The results indicate that the proposed fractional mutual coupling circuits based on Atangana–Baleanu and Caputo–Fabrizio fractional derivatives can be applied to the complex electrical systems to increase the design degree of freedom, which provides more choices for describing the nonlinear characteristics of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To systematically explore the effects of polynuclear complexes on the removal of chromium pollutants, a new three-dimensional (3D) microporous metal-organic compound [Cd 3 (HCO 2) 2 (dpa) 4 (bpp) 3 ] n (dpa ​= ​diphenic acid, bpp ​= ​1,3-bi(4-pyridyl)propane) (1) was prepared through hydrothermal synthesis. The structure was characterized by X-ray single crystal diffraction, elemental analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results indicate that complex 1 based on Cd(II) clusters is monoclinic and consists of the C 2/ c space group. It exhibits a new 2-nodal (3,5)-connected 3D framework with a Schläfli symbol of {43}{45, 65}. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) reveals complex 1 has high thermal stability (stable until 490 ​°C). The photoluminescence shows the emission wavelength of the fluorescence is red-shifted (30 ​nm), and the intensity is significantly increased compared to the free ligand. Adsorption analysis shows that the Cd(II) compound demonstrates significant adsorption towards the dichromate anion (Cr 2 O 7 2−). Its adsorption isotherm is consistent with the Langmuir model and its adsorption kinetics follows a pseudo-second-order model. 3D polynuclear Cd(II) complexes exhibit photo-fluorescent property and adsorption towards the dichromate anion. Image 1 • A new polynuclear coordination polymer [Cd 3 (HCO 2) 2 (dpa) 4 (bpp) 3 ] n has been prepared and characterized. • Cd(II) clusters with 1D+2D→3D framework and a new 2-nodal (3,5)-connected topology. • Robust microporous 1D channel for dichromate removal in an aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xylene-functionalized N-donor ligand p -BIMB (p = para position, BIMB = bis- (imidazole-1-ylmethyl)benzene) and rigid carboxylate linker trans -H 2 CHDA (CHDA = 1,4-cyclohexane(dicarboxylic)acid) were treated with Co(NO 3) 2 under solvothermal conditions to afford a new two-dimensional (2D) coordination polymer [Co(trans -H 2 CHDA) 2 (p -BIMB) 2 ·2H 2 O] n (1). Complex 1 possesses a sql network. With the porosity formed by the 2D framework, the Co(II) complex 1 demonstrates an excellent specific capacitance of 563 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1, and also good retention of capacitance (≈64% after 4000 cycles at 5 A g−1). Which make complex 1 a good candidate for electrode material in a supercapacitor application. Meanwhile, this Co(II) compound exhibits good adsorption ability for the permanganate anion. Image 1 • A new coordination polymer [Co(trans -H 2 CHDA) 2 (p -BIMB) 2.•2H 2 O] n has been prepared and characterized. • 2D network with a 4,4-sql topology. • Stable metal organic framework for permanganate recognition and removal in an aqueous solution. • Good candidate for electrode material in a supercapacitor application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although previous prevalence studies of DED were reported from some countries worldwide, national data are unavailable in China. We aimed to conduct an up-to-date national survey on the prevalence of DED in China and find out the potential risk factors including air pollutant.Methods: 23,922 eligible outpatients were recruited from ophthalmic clinics of 32 cities in China in 2013 by registration orders. The patients' demographic characteristics, history of keratorefractive surgery, diseases and medication history were collected and the daily air pollutant data in 2013. Multivariate logistic analysis was performed to identify the potential risk factors associated with DED. The association between related factors and dry eye diseases subtypes evaluated as p value and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).Results: Among 23,922 outpatients, the prevalence of DED was 61.57%, and that of the male patients was 57.64% and of the female was 65.32% (P < 0.0001). Multivariate logistic regression suggested that the possible risk factors for DED included: female, older age, history of keratorefractive surgery, presence of arthritis, thyroid diseases, and antihistamine, diuretic, duodenal ulcer drugs, diazepam. Air pollutants including O3, PM2.5, and SO2 were also identified as the risk factors.Conclusion: The prevalence of DED among ophthalmic outpatients in China was considerably high. Age, gender, history of keratorefractive surgery, diseases, medication history, and air pollutants were associated with DED prevalence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathological neovascularization is a pivotal biological process in wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), in which macrophages (Mφs) play a key role. Tip cell specialization is critical in angiogenesis; however, its interconnection with the surrounding immune environment remains unclear. Succinate is an intermediate in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and was significantly elevated in patients with wet AMD by metabolomics. Advanced experiments revealed that SUCNR1 expression in Mφ and M2 polarization was detected in abnormal vessels of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) models. Succinate-induced M2 polarization via SUCNR1, which facilitated vascular endothelial cell (EC) migration, invasion, and tubulation, thus promoting angiogenesis in pathological neovascularization. Furthermore, evidence indicated that succinate triggered the release of RBP4 from Mφs into the surroundings to regulate endothelial sprouting and pathological angiogenesis via VEGFR2, a marker of tip cell formation. In conclusion, our results suggest that succinate represents a novel class of vasculature-inducing factors that modulate Mφ polarization and the RBP4/VEGFR2 pathway to induce pathological angiogenic signaling through tip cell specialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the tolerability and safety of two sublingual tree pollen extracts approved in 2018, a non-interventional study (NIS) was performed. This NIS was an 8-month observational study conducted at 84 sites throughout Germany. Study participants received either a sublingual liquid allergen extract of birch pollen (SBPE) or a liquid allergen extract consisting of a mixture of birch, hazel, and alder tree pollen (STPE). Data from 432 patients were analyzed for the occurrence of adverse events and patient compliance. At least one local reaction occurred in 69 (22.2%) patients, whereas systemic reactions were only observed in 27 (6.3%) patients. STPE-treated patients developed systemic reactions more frequently than SBPE-treated patients (SBPE: 9 (4.3%) vs. STPE: 18 (8.0%)). Only one patient developed a systemic grade III reaction. Severe systemic grade IV reactions were not observed. A total of 348 (98.6%) of the patients who completed all visits were satisfied or very satisfied with the sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), and 322 (71%) patients completed all visits. Both investigated products were well tolerated by the patients and demonstrated a good safety profile. AEs were observed less frequently than in the preceding clinical phase III trial, and no new safety concerns were identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial endophthalmitis (BE) is an acute eye infection and potentially irreversible blinding ocular disease. The empirical intravitreous injection of antibiotic is the primary treatment once diagnosed as BE. However, the overuse of antibiotic contributes to the drug resistance of pathogens and the retinal toxicity of antibiotic limits its application in clinic. Herein, a cationic aggregation‐induced emission luminogens named with triphenylamine thiophen pyridinium (TTPy) is reported for photodynamic treatment of BE. TTPy can selectively discriminate and kill bacteria efficiently over normal ocular cells. More importantly, TTPy shows excellent antibacterial ability in BE rat models infected by Staphylococcus aureus. Meanwhile, the bacterial killing behavior triggered by TTPy induces innate immune response at an early stage of infection, limiting subsequent robust inflammation and protecting retina from bacterial toxins and inflammation‐induced bystander damage. In addition, TTPy performs better antibacterial ability than commercially used Rose Bengal, suggesting its excellent capability of vision salvage in acute BE. This study exhibits an efficient photodynamic antibacterial treatment to BE, which induces an early intraocular immune response and saves useful vision, endowing TTPy a promising potential for clinical application of ocular infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a multifactor disease, which is primarily characterized by retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell loss. Since the retina is the most metabolically active tissue, RPE cells are exposed to consistent oxidative environment. So, oxidation-induced RPE cell death has long been considered a contributor to the onset of AMD. Here, we applied a retinal degeneration (RD) rat model induced by blue light-emitting diode (LED) and a cell model constructed by H2O2 stimulus to mimic the prooxidant environment of the retina. We detected that the expression of miR-27a was upregulated and the expression of FOXO1 was downregulated in both models. So, we furtherly investigated the role of miR-27a-FOXO1 axis in RPE in protesting against oxidants. Lentivirus-mediated RNA was injected intravitreally into rats to modulate the miR-27a-FOXO1 axis. Retinal function and histopathological changes were evaluated by electroretinography (ERG) analysis and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, respectively. Massive photoreceptor and RPE cell death were examined by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL). The damage to the retina was aggravated in the FOXO1 gene-knockdown and miR-27a-overexpression groups after exposure to LED but was alleviated in the FOXO1 gene-overexpression or miR-27a-knockdown groups. Dual luciferase assay was used to detect the binding site of miR-27a and FOXO1. Upregulated miR-27a inhibited the expression of FOXO1 by directly binding to the FOXO1 mRNA 3 ′ UTR and decreased the autophagy activity of ARPE-19 cells, resulting in the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decrease of cell viability. The results suggest that miR-27a is a negative regulator of FOXO1. Also, our data emphasize the prominent role of miR-27a/FOXO1 axis in modulating ROS accumulation and cell death in RPE cell model under oxidative stress and influencing the retinal function in the LED-induced RD rat model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study employs the Caputo–Fabrizio and Atangana–Baleanu fractional derivatives to determine the impedance and admittance model of fractional capacitor and inductor. The analog implementation circuits are proposed aiming at fractional-order electric elements based on these two derivatives, which can be widely used in a variety of electrical systems using new fractional operators. Constant phase capacitor and inductor are approximated by the Oustaloup algorithm and the recursive net-grid-type analog circuit, respectively. Based on that, approximation circuits of fractional electric components under Caputo–Fabrizio and Atangana–Baleanu definitions are given. For the purpose of judging whether the implementation topology of fractional-order capacitor and inductor is accurate, taking fractional RC and RL circuit defined by Caputo, Caputo–Fabrizio and Atangana–Baleanu derivatives as examples, the comparison of numerical and circuit simulations is carried out. The correctness of the analog implementation circuits using the Caputo–Fabrizio and Atangana–Baleanu definitions is verified. Fractional-order RC charging circuit experiments based on Caputo, Caputo–Fabrizio and Atangana–Baleanu derivatives are taken as examples. Several experiments with different fractional-order and circuit parameters are carried out. The validity of the implementation methods is ulteriorly proved with experiment data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correlates of acute renal failure in patients receiving parenteral amphotericin B. Background. While parenteral amphotericin B is an effective therapy for serious fungal infections, it frequently causes acute renal failure (ARF). This study identified correlates of ARF in amphotericin B therapy and used them to develop clinical prediction rules. Methods. All 643 inpatients receiving parenteral amphotericin B therapy at one tertiary care hospital were included. Data regarding correlates were obtained both electronically and from manual chart review in a subsample of 231 patients. ARF was defined as a 50% increase in the baseline creatinine with a peak ≥2.0 mg/dL. Results. Among 643 episodes, ARF developed in 175 (27%). In the larger group, the only independent correlate of ARF was male gender (OR = 2.2, 95% CI, 1.5 to 3.3). In the subsample (N = 231), independent correlates of ARF were maximum daily amphotericin dosage, location at the time of initiation of amphotericin therapy, and concomitant use of cyclosporine. These data were used to develop two clinical prediction rules. A rule using only data available at initiation of therapy stratified patients into groups with probability of ARF ranging from 15 to 54%, while a rule including data available during therapy (maximum daily dose) stratified patients into groups with probability of ARF ranging from 4 to 80%. Conclusions. Acute renal failure occurred in a quarter of the patients. Correlates of ARF at the beginning and during the course of amphotericin therapy were identified and then combined to allow stratification according to ARF risk. These data also provide evidence for guidelines for the selection of patients for alternative therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Three new coordination polymers based on rigid tripodal TIPA ligands have been successfully prepared and characterized. • Unique feature of an interpenetrating 2D network, 2D + 2D → 3D, in two opposite spiral channels. • Good candidate for detection and removal of environmentally hazardous industrial pollutants. • Fluorophores for nitroaromatics- and Fe3+-selective sensing. Three new metal–organic complexes [Cd(TIPA)(suc) 0.5 (NO 3)·½H 2 O] n (1), [Ni(TIPA)(tda) 0.5 (H 2 O)·¼H 2 O] n (2) and [Cd(TIPA)(tda) 0.5 ·1½H 2 O] (3) were synthesized via rigid tripodal ligand tris(4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)phenyl)amine (TIPA) and three dicarboxylic acids either succinic acid (H 2 suc) or 2,5-thiophenedicarboxylic acid (H 2 tda). Crystallographic data for 1 – 3 reveal three-dimensional (3D) networks and channels in the structures. The structure of 2 is unique featuring an interpenetrating 2D network, 2D + 2D → 3D, with the two associated 2D networks existing in two opposite spiral channels. TGA plots exhibit a loss of mass corresponding to the loss of the solvated water molecules in the 100–200 °C temperature region and begin to lose additional fragments only at T > 300 °C revealing the robust nature of the 3D framework in the complexes. The metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are screened for their potential application in the detection and removal of environmentally hazardous industrial pollutants. Fluorescence emission spectra for 1 and 2 show that the two MOFs are capable of sensing nitrobenzene (NB), with the nickel complex 2 exhibiting significantly higher sensing ability. Powder XRD data measured for 1 and 2 and those of NB-treated 1 and 2 show significant differences in their patterns, providing further support for the strong interaction between the MOF complexes and NB. The fluorescence emission observed for 1 is more effectively quenched by the presence of Fe3+ than any of 17 other metal ions investigated. Complex 3 possesses some ability to adsorb inorganic pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to assess the percent reduction in the intraocular pressure (IOP) after argon laser peripheral iridoplasty (ALPI) and systemic medical therapy in patients with acute primary angle closure (APAC). Methods. We searched a number of electronic databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, and Cochrane Library. We searched the electronic databases from the inception of the databases to August 2018. The primary outcomes included the IOP reduction (IOPR), percent reduction in IOP (IOPR%) from baseline to the endpoint and peripheral anterior synechiae (PAS). The secondary outcomes included the cup-to-disc ratio (CDR), mean endothelial count, and percent of patients requiring topical glaucoma medication. Summary weighted mean difference (WMD), odds ratio (OR), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Results. Four eligible studies including 183 eyes (92 in the ALPI group and 91 in the medical therapy group) were identified. When comparing ALPI to medical therapy, the WMDs of the IOPR% were 30.03 (95% CI: 21.33 to 38.72, p<0.00001) at 15 minutes, 27.39 (95% CI: 18.89 to 35.89, p<0.00001) at 30 minutes, 18.15 (95% CI: 10.63 to 25.68, p<0.00001) at 1 hour, and 12.91 (95% CI: 4.50 to 21.32, p=0.003) at 2 hours. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups at 24 hours and at more than 6 months after therapy. Meanwhile, no significant difference was observed in the degree of PAS, CDR, mean endothelial count, and percent of patients requiring topical glaucoma medication after treatment between the two groups. Conclusions. Both ALPI and systemic medications were effective with regard to decreasing the IOP. ALPI was more effective in lowering the IOP within the first two hours. Therefore, ALPI may be a better choice for rapidly lowering the IOP in patients with APAC within a short period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of three-dimensional coordination polymers, namely, [Cd(BIMB)(SCA)] n ( 1 ), [M(BIMB)( trans -CHDC)] n ( 2 , M = Cd 2+ ; 3 , M = Co 2+ ), where BIMB = 1,4-di(1 H -imidazol-1-yl)benzene, SCA 2− = succinate dianion, CHDC 2− = cyclohexane-1,4-dicarboxylate dianion) are synthesized hydro/solvatothermal methods. The products are characterized by elemental analysis and single–crystal X-ray diffraction data. Both the dianion and BIMB bridge different pairs of the metal ions, the three complexes are polymeric and their three-dimensional topology feature a diamond-like metal–organic framework (MOF). Owing to the length of the two bridging ligands, moderate size voids are formed in the diamondoid networks. However, the voids are filled by mutual interpenetration of four independent equivalent frameworks in a 5-fold interpenetrating architecture, and there is no sufficient void volume available for any guest molecules. The phase purity and thermal stability of the compounds are verified by powder X–ray diffraction (PXRD) and thermogravimetric (TG) data. The solid–state fluorescence spectra for the 3d 10 Cd 2+ MOF's 1 and 2 reveal significant enhancement in their emission intensities in comparison to the non-metallated BIMB. The enhanced emission is attributed to perturbation of intra-ligand emission states due to Cd 2+ coordination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crucial effect of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced vascular angiogenesis has been well known in corneal neovascularization (CNV). This research aimed to determine the underlying value and mechanism of Meg3 on CNV in vivo and in vitro. In an alkali-burned mouse model, length and area of new vessels were increased along with thinning of corneal epithelium, accompanied by the overexpression of Meg3. Notably, subconjunctival injection of shMeg3 suppressed the degree of injury in cornea, causing expression of the angiogenesis markers--VEGF-A and CD31 decreased. In VEGF-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), knockdown of Meg3 antagonized the enhancement of viability, proliferation, wound healing ability and angiogenesis by VEGF. The proteins expression of VEGF-A, CD31, SDF-1/CXCR4 as well as phosphoraylation-Smad2/3 pathways, which were related to angiogenesis, were reduced with Meg3 deficiency. Overall, knockdown of Meg3 alleviated formation of neovascularization in alkali-burned corneas and reduced VEGF-induced angiogenesis by inhibiting SDF-1/CXCR4 and Smad2/3 signaling in vitro. • Meg3 has a time-dependent relationship with corneal neovascularization(CNV). • Knockdown of Meg3 alleviated pathological changes and angiogenic responses in CNV. • SiMeg3 reduced VEGF-induced proliferation, migration and angiogenesis in HUVEC. • SiMeg3 inhibited expression of SDF-1/CXCR4 and Smad2/3 in VEGF-induced HUVEC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hexagonal Zn3(OH)2V2O7·2H2O nanoplates have been successfully synthesized via a facile and template-free hydrothermal method. The nanocrystals have a hexagonal shape with 650–750nm in diameter and 120–140nm in thickness. The possible mechanism of forming such hexagonal Zn3(OH)2V2O7·2H2O nanoplates may be due to its inherent anisotropic crystal structure. Magnetic hysteresis measurement indicates that the as-synthesized hexagonal Zn3(OH)2V2O7·2H2O nanoplates have weak ferromagnetic property at room temperature. Compared to the floriated-like nanostructured Zn3V2O7(OH)2(H2O)2 synthesized by a hydrothermal route, the as-prepared hexagonal Zn3(OH)2V2O7·2H2O nanoplates exhibited a significant increase in the methylene blue (MB) photodegradation rate under UV irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purposeful modulation of the optoelectronic properties was realised on the basis of a series of the large, conjugated, phosphine oxide hosts 9,9-bis-{4′-[2-(diphenylphosphinoyl)phenoxy]biphenyl-4-yl}-9 H-fluorene (DDPESPOF), 9,9-bis-{3′-(diphenylphosphinoyl)-4′-[2-(diphenylphosphinoyl)phenoxy]biphenyl-4-yl}-9 H-fluorene (DDPEPOF), 9-[4′-(9-{4′-[2-(diphenylphosphoryl)phenoxy]biphenyl-4-yl}-9 H-fluoren-9-yl)biphenyl-4-yl]-9 H-carbazole (DPESPOFPhCz) and 9-[4′-(9-{3′-(diphenylphosphoryl)-4′-[2-(diphenylphosphoryl)phenoxy]biphenyl-4-yl}-9 H-fluoren-9-yl)biphenyl-4-yl]-9 H-carbazole (DPEPOFPhCz). The last two are quaternary with fluorenyls as linking bridges, diphenylphosphine oxide (DPPO) moieties as electron acceptors and diphenylethers and carbazolyls as two different kinds of electron donors. Owing to the fine-organised molecular structures and the mixed indirect and multi-insulating linkages, all of these hosts achieve the same first triplet energy levels (T1) of 2.86 eV for exothermic energy transfer to phosphorescent dopants. The first singlet energy levels (S1) and the carrier injection/transportation ability of the hosts were accurately modulated, so that DPESPOFPhCz and DPEPOFPhCz revealed extremely similar optoelectronic properties. However, the T1 state of the former is localised on fluorenyl, whereas the carbazolyl mainly contributes to the T1 state of the latter. A lower driving voltages and much higher efficiencies of the devices based on DPESPOFPhCz indicated that the chromophore-localised T1 state can suppress the quenching effects through realising independent contributions from the different functional groups to the optoelectronic properties and the embedding and protecting effect on the T1 states by peripheral carrier transporting groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered nickel silicate nanoflowers (NSFs) with a hierarchical nanostructure have been successfully fabricated by a template-free solvothermal method. The as-prepared nanoflowers were composed of many interconnected edge-curving lamellae with a thickness of about 15 nm and had a high specific surface area (279 m2 g−1) and large pore volume (0.67 cm3 g−1). The highly dispersed small silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were immobilized on the surface of NSFs through the in situ reduction of Ag+ by Sn2+. The AgNP/NSF nanocomposites showed a high performance in the catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol. In particular, there was no visible decrease in the catalytic activity of the reused catalysts even after being recycled four times. The as-prepared AgNP/NSF nanocomposites might be an excellent catalyst owing to their availability, formability, chemical and thermal stability, and high specific surface area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic studies of the antimicrobial secondary metabolitethiomuracinA (1) were initiated to improve chemical stability andphysicochemical properties. Functional group modifications of 1included removing the C2–C7 side chain, derivatizingthe C84 epoxide region, and altering the C44 hydroxyphenylalaninemotif. The resulting derivatives simplified and stabilized the chemicalstructure and were evaluated for antibacterial activity relative to 1. The simplified structure and improved organic solubilityof the derivatives facilitated isolation yields from fermentationbroths and simplified the procedures involved for the process. Theseadvancements increased material supply for continued medicinal chemistryoptimization and culminated in the identification of 2, a structurally simplified and chemically stable analogue of 1which retained potent antibiotic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]