Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
In vitro release and in vitro–in vivo correlation for silybin meglumine incorporated into hollow-type mesoporous silica nanoparticles

Background The purpose of this study was to develop a sustained drug-release model for water-soluble drugs using silica nanoparticles. Methods Hollow-type mesoporous silica nanoparticles (HMSNs) were prepared using Na2CO3 solution as the dissolution medium for the first time. The water-soluble compound, silybin meglumine, was used as the model drug. The Wagner–Nelson method was used to calculate the in vivo absorption fraction. Results The results of transmission electron microscopy and nitrogen adsorption revealed that the empty HMSNs had uniformly distributed particles of size 50–100 nm, a spherical appearance, a large specific surface area (385.89 ± 1.12 m2/g), and ultralow mean pore size (2.74 nm). The highly porous structure allowed a large drug-loading rate (58.91% ± 0.39%). In 0.08 M Na2CO3 solution, silybin meglumine-loaded HMSNs could achieve highly efficacious and long-term sustained release for 72 hours in vitro. The results of in vitro–in vivo correlation revealed that HMSNs in 0.08 M Na2CO3 solution had a correlation coefficient R2 value of 0.9931, while those of artificial gastric juice and artificial intestinal juice were only 0.9287 and 0.7689, respectively. Conclusion The findings of in vitro–in vivo correlation indicate that HMSNs together with Na2CO3 solution could achieve an excellent linear relationship between in vitro dissolution and in vivo absorption for 72 hours, leading to a promising model for sustained release of water-soluble drugs.
AQUIFER-SYSTEM COMPACTION, TUCSON BASIN AND AVRA VALLEY, ARIZONA

Ground-water declines of several feet per year since the 1940's have induced aquifer-system compaction and land subsidence of as much as 0.5 foot in the Tucson basin and 1.1 feet in Avra Valley. Although overdrafts continue in both areas, declines have slowed or recovery has started since 1979-80 in parts of these areas. Aquifer-system compaction is affected by the layering, hydraulic diffusivity, preconsolidation-stress threshold, and stress history of the aquifer system. Layering at extensometer sites can be categorized into three general groups that typify the fineand coarse-grained layering within the Fort Lowell Formation and upper Tinaja beds. Data from the first group show almost as much elastic as inelastic compaction, a layering frequency of six layers per 100 feet, and weighted-average aquitard thicknesses of 20 to 50 feet. Data from the second group show inelastic compaction, a layering frequency of two to three layers per 100 feet, and average aquitard thicknesses of less than 20 feet. Data from the third group show inelastic compaction, a layering frequency of fewer than two layers per 100 feet, and average aquitard thicknesses of more than 50 feet. A one-dimensional compaction model was applied to data from six extensometers to simulate aquifer-system compaction of less than 0.1 foot. A scheme to simulate a single bed with an equivalent thickness at an equivalent depth was used instead of simulating compaction in each bed. Values of elastic and some values of inelastic specific storage are comparable to values estimated in California. For 1979-86, simulated elastic and inelastic time constants were between 0.06 and 0.31 years and between 0.06 and 10.2 years, respectively. Parts of the aquifer system appear to be in transition from predominantly elastic to inelastic compaction. Water-level declines since 1940 at six extensometer sites are within an estimated preconsolidation-stress threshold of 50 to 150 feet. The simulations were most sensitive to reduction of the initial preconsolidation-stress threshold and least sensitive to changes in aquifer specific storage.
Bullous pemphigoid and comorbidities: a case-control study in Portuguese patients*

BACKGROUND aAlthough rare, bullous pemphigoid (BP) is the most common autoimmune blistering disease. Recent studies have shown that patients with bullous pemphigoid are more likely to have neurological and psychiatric diseases, particularly prior to the diagnosis of bullous pemphigoid. OBJECTIVE The aims were: (i) to evaluate the demographic and clinical features of bullous pemphigoid from a database of patients at a Portuguese university hospital and (ii) to compare the prevalence of comorbid conditions before the diagnosis of bullous pemphigoid with a control group. METHODS Seventy-seven patients with bullous pemphigoid were enrolled in the study. They were compared with 176 age- and gender-matched controls, which also had the same inpatient to outpatient ratio, but no history of bullous or cutaneous malignant disease. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to calculate odds ratios for specific comorbid diseases. RESULTS At least one neurologic diagnosis was present in 55.8% of BP patients compared with 20.5% controls (p<0.001). Comparing cases to controls, stroke was seen in 35.1 vs. 6.8%, OR 8.10 (3.80-17.25); dementia in 37.7 vs. 11.9%, OR 5.25 (2.71-10.16); and Parkinson's disease in 5.2 vs. 1.1%, OR 4.91 (0.88-27.44). Using multivariate analysis, all diseases except Parkinson's retained their association with BP. Patients under systemic treatment were eight times more likely to have complications than those treated with topical steroids (p< 0.017). CONCLUSIONS The results of this study substantiate the association between BP and neurological diseases. In addition, they highlight the potential complications associated with the treatment of BP.
Planning for bird conservation: a tale of two models

Planning for bird conservation has become increasingly reliant on remote sensing, geographical information systems, and, especially, models used to predict the occurrence of bird species as well as their density and demographics. We address the role of such tools by contrasting two models used in bird conservation. One, the Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) productivity model, is very detailed, mechanistic, and based on an enormous body of research. The Mallard model has been extensively used with success to guide management efforts for Mallards and certain other species of ducks. The other model, the concept of Bird Conservation Areas, is simpler, less mechanistic, and less wellgrounded in research. This concept proposes that large patches of suitable habitat in a proper landscape will be adequate to maintain populations of birds. The Bird Conservation Area concept recently has been evaluated in the northern tallgrass prairie, where its fundamental assumptions have been found not to hold consistently. We argue that a more comprehensive understanding of the biology of individual species, and how they respond to habitat features, will be essential before we can use remotely sensed information and geographic information system products with confidence.
Mycobacterial receptor, Clec4d (CLECSF8, MCL), is coregulated with Mincle and upregulated on mouse myeloid cells following microbial challenge

The C‐type lectin receptor (CTLR), Clec4d (MCL, CLECSF8), is a member of the Dectin‐2 cluster of CTLRs, which also includes the related receptors Mincle and Dectin‐2. Like Mincle, Clec4d recognizes mycobacterial cord factor, trehalose dimycolate, and we recently demonstrated its key role in anti‐mycobacterial immunity in mouse and man. Here, we characterized receptor expression in naïve mice, under inflammatory conditions, and during Mycobacterium bovis BCG infection using newly generated monoclonal antibodies. In naïve mice, Clec4d was predominantly expressed on myeloid cells within the peritoneal cavity, blood, and bone marrow. Unexpectedly, basal expression of Clec4d was very low on leukocytes in the lung. However, receptor expression was significantly upregulated on pulmonary myeloid cells during M. bovis BCG infection. Moreover, Clec4d expression could be strongly induced in vitro and in vivo by various microbial stimuli, including TLR agonists, but not exogenous cytokines. Notably, we show that Clec4d requires association with the signaling adaptor FcRγ and Mincle, but not Dectin‐2, for surface expression. In addition, we provide evidence that Clec4d and Mincle, but not Dectin‐2, are interdependently coregulated during inflammation and infection. These data show that Clec4d is an inducible myeloid‐expressed CTLR in mice, whose expression is tightly linked to that of Mincle.
Effect of Gypsum on the Early Hydration of Cubic and Na-Doped Orthorhombic Tricalcium Aluminate

The tricalcium aluminate (C3A) and sulfate content in cement influence the hydration chemistry, setting time and rheology of cement paste, mortar and concrete. Here, in situ experiments are performed to better understand the effect of gypsum on the early hydration of cubic (cub-)C3A and Na-doped orthorhombic (orth-)C3A. The isothermal calorimetry data show that the solid-phase assemblage produced by the hydration of C3A is greatly modified as a function of its crystal structure type and gypsum content, the latter of which induces non-linear changes in the heat release rate. These data are consistent with the in situ X-ray diffraction results, which show that a higher gypsum content accelerates the consumption of orth-C3A and the subsequent precipitation of ettringite, which is contrary to the cub-C3A system where gypsum retarded the hydration rate. These in situ results provide new insight into the relationship between the chemistry and early-age properties of cub- and orth-C3A hydration and corroborate the reported ex situ findings of these systems.
Depth and age in the north Pacific

The concept of the oceanic lithosphere as a cooling thermal boundary layer on top of a viscous upper mantle accounts for the increase in depth with age of the ocean floor. Analyses of the exact nature of this relation provide constraints on the rheology and structure of this layer. In past studies, problems with uncertainties of age and in sediment thickness have limited the value of this relation on older ocean floor. In this study we evaluate different tectonic histories for the “quiet zones” and construct a revised isochron chart for the North Pacific. We check and modify the current sediment thickness charts using new deep-sea drilling data and revised ideas concerning reflectors in the southwestern North Pacific. Averaging the SYNBAPS digital data base into half-by-half-degree elements and correcting for sediment load, we plot basement depth versus age for the entire North Pacific. Because of the skewness in the data associated with seamounts, we present the data as contours about the mode and find that two-thirds of the observations lie within 300 m of this value. On crust between 0 and 80 Ma, the ocean floor subsides with the square root of age. On ocean floor older than 100 Ma the depths in general flatten with age with areally correlateable swells and valleys. The Hawaiian and Line Island swells correlate positively, and the Mariana Basin valley negatively, with geoid height. The flattening in the depths indicates that the thermal boundary layer has reached equilibrium conditions under older ocean floor. Further, the correlation of the swells and valleys with geoid height presents evidence for organized convection in the upper mantle beneath older lithosphere in the North Pacific.
Characterization of the Single Stranded DNA Binding Protein SsbB Encoded in the Gonoccocal Genetic Island

Background Most strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae carry a Gonococcal Genetic Island which encodes a type IV secretion system involved in the secretion of ssDNA. We characterize the GGI-encoded ssDNA binding protein, SsbB. Close homologs of SsbB are located within a conserved genetic cluster found in genetic islands of different proteobacteria. This cluster encodes DNA-processing enzymes such as the ParA and ParB partitioning proteins, the TopB topoisomerase, and four conserved hypothetical proteins. The SsbB homologs found in these clusters form a family separated from other ssDNA binding proteins. Methodology/Principal Findings In contrast to most other SSBs, SsbB did not complement the Escherichia coli ssb deletion mutant. Purified SsbB forms a stable tetramer. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays and fluorescence titration assays, as well as atomic force microscopy demonstrate that SsbB binds ssDNA specifically with high affinity. SsbB binds single-stranded DNA with minimal binding frames for one or two SsbB tetramers of 15 and 70 nucleotides. The binding mode was independent of increasing Mg2+ or NaCl concentrations. No role of SsbB in ssDNA secretion or DNA uptake could be identified, but SsbB strongly stimulated Topoisomerase I activity. Conclusions/Significance We propose that these novel SsbBs play an unknown role in the maintenance of genetic islands.
The STAT3 inhibitor galiellalactone inhibits the generation of MDSC‐like monocytes by prostate cancer cells and decreases immunosuppressive and tumorigenic factors

The transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is implicated in cancer drug resistance, metastasis, and immunosuppression and has been identified as a promising therapeutic target for new anticancer drugs. Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) play a major role in the suppression of antitumor immunity and STAT3 is involved in the accumulation, generation, and function of MDSCs. Thus, targeting STAT3 holds the potential of reversing immunosuppression in cancer. This study aims to investigate the effect of the small molecule STAT3 inhibitor galiellalactone on prostate cancer cell– induced generation of MDSCs from monocytes and the effect on immunosuppressive factors and inflammatory cytokines.
Hyperthyroidism–cause of depression and psychosis: a case report

Psychiatric symptoms have been reported quite frequently in certain thyroid diseases, but more frequently in association with hypothyroidism. Thyrotoxicosis can be associated with various psychiatric symptoms, such as emotional lability, anxiety, restlessness and rarely frank psychosis. Psychotic symptoms in the context of hyperthyroidism typically present as an affective psychosis. The link between psychosis and hyperthyroidism is poorly understood. Because of this association of psychiatric symptoms is important to exclude a somatic cause, when assessing a patient first. We present the case of young woman who was followed over 2 years and who initially presented to psychiatric consultation for depressive symptoms, after being diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and specific therapy instituted, but who developed psychotic symptoms.
Determination of the effects of watershed‐management on mountain streams

Two forms of watershed-management cannot be compared by applying them in adjacent water-sheds and contrasting the results. Watersheds vary so much in their hydrographic character that we can have no idea whether observed differences in flow are due to differences in topography, soil, geology, climate, or some other factor. This was, however, the method followed in the Emmental investigation in Switzerland, which was started by Dr ARNOLD ENGLER in 1900 [see 1 and 2 of “References” at end of paper], Notwithstanding the valuable and interesting experience gained,in this study of the behavior of streams, the study can never be said to have prove anything as to the effects of forests on stream-flow.
Update on pulmonary hypertension complicating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is the hemodynamic manifestation of various pathological processes that result in elevated pulmonary artery pressures (PAP). The National Institutes of Health Registry defined pulmonary arterial hypertension as the mean PAP of more than 25 mm Hg with a pulmonary capillary wedge pressure or left atrial pressure equal to or less than 15 mm Hg. This definition remains the currently accepted definition of PH that is used to define PH related to multiple clinical conditions including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The estimated US prevalence of COPD by the National Health Survey in 2002 in people aged  25 was 12.1 million. There is a lack of large population-based studies in COPD to document the correct prevalence of PH and outcome. The major cause of PH in COPD is hypoxemia leading to vascular remodeling. Echocardiogram is the initial screening tool of choice for PH. This simple noninvasive test can provide an estimate of right ventricular systolic and right atrial pressures. Right heart catheterization remains the gold standard to diagnose PH. It provides accurate measurement of mean PAP and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure. Oxygen therapy remains the cornerstone therapeutic for hypoxemia in COPD patients. Anecdotal reports suggest utility of PDE5-inhibitors and prostacyclin to treat COPD-related PH. Large randomized clinical trials are needed before the use of these drugs can be
Health outcomes in diabetics measured with Minnesota Community Measurement quality metrics

Objective Our objective was to understand the relationship between optimal diabetes control, as defined by Minnesota Community Measurement (MCM), and adverse health outcomes including emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalizations, 30-day rehospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and mortality. Patients and methods In 2009, we conducted a retrospective cohort study of empaneled Employee and Community Health patients with diabetes mellitus. We followed patients from 1 September 2009 until 30 June 2011 for hospitalization and until 5 January 2014 for mortality. Optimal control of diabetes mellitus was defined as achieving the following three measures: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol <100 mg/mL, blood pressure <140/90 mmHg, and hemoglobin A1c <8%. Using the electronic medical record, we assessed hospitalizations, ED visits, ICU stays, 30-day rehospitalizations, and mortality. The chi-square or Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to compare those with and without optimal control. We used Cox proportional hazard models to estimate the associations between optimal diabetes mellitus status and each outcome. Results We identified 5,731 empaneled patients with diabetes mellitus; 2,842 (49.6%) were in the optimal control category. After adjustment, we observed that non-optimally controlled patients had higher risks for hospitalization (hazard ratio [HR] 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00–1.23), ED visits (HR 1.15; 95% CI 1.06–1.25), and mortality (HR 1.29; 95% CI 1.09–1.53) than diabetic patients with optimal control. No differences were observed in ICU stay or 30-day rehospitalization. Conclusion Diabetic patients without optimal control had higher risks of adverse health outcomes than those with optimal control. Patients with optimal control defined by the MCM were associated with decreased morbidity and mortality.
U–Pb geochronology of Permian plutonic rocks, Longwood Range, New Zealand: implications for Median Batholith–Brook Street Terrane relations

We present U–Pb sensitive high-resolution ion microprobe (SHRIMP) zircon ages from gabbros and associated intrusive rocks of the Longwood Range, Southland. U–Pb zircon ages of 257.6 ± 2.5 Ma, 256.5 ± 1.8 Ma and 251.6 ± 2.0 Ma (2σm) have been obtained from the layered, platiniferous Hekeia Gabbro. These are 5–10 Ma older than cooling ages previously obtained by Ar–Ar dating of hornblendes. A revised U–Pb zircon age of 252.8 ± 2.7 Ma is reported for a sample of western Pourakino Trondhjemite [previously dated at 292 ± 8 Ma by multicrystal 207Pb/206Pb thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS) methods] and a dike of the trondhjemite that cuts the Hekeia Gabbro is dated at 254.8 ± 2.6 Ma. Our new zircon ages show that the Hekeia Gabbro and Pourakino Trondhjemite were intruded within the same, relatively narrow interval from 261 to 252 Ma. This age range is substantially younger than Early Permian (c. 276–288 Ma) ages inferred from fossil evidence of major Takitimu Group volcanism in the adjacent Brook Street Terrane. We make the novel suggestion that the Hekeia and Pourakino bodies, along with plutons at Bluff and Oraka Point, constitute a new Longwood Suite of the Median Batholith that is spatially and temporally distinct from allochthonous Brook Street Terrane volcanic magmatism. A U–Pb zircon age of 232.3 ± 1.5 Ma from a western Longwood Range granodiorite is the oldest Darran Suite pluton so far recognized and represents the start of a major, isotopically more evolved, pulse of the Median Batholith.
ICT4Adaptation: ICT for Climate Change Adaptation

The project involved a review of relevant literatures and current practices, as well as informal interviews and conversations, and has led to the development of a prototype framework for the characterisation of ICT projects (ICT4Adaptation) and the proactive generation of ideas for potential ICT4Adapation initiatives. This report provides an introduction to the potential roles of ICT in climate change adaptation, and outlines the current and evolving practice in ICT for adaptation. It goes on to describe the prototype framework and its systemic and generative nature.
A method for continuous measurement of radon in water of springs for earthquake prediction

A method for the continuous meausrement of radon in water, which uses a ionisation chamber, is described. The ionisation current (in the range of 10/sup -11/ A) is strictly proportional to the radon content in the water. It is supposed that there is a connection between the radon concentration in groundwater and springs and earthquakes. We therefore think that this connection might be used for earthquake prediction. A research project for that purpose had been started in Austria.
Assessment of Catchment Erosion, Sedimentation and Nutrient Export into Small Reservoirs from their Catchments in the Upper East Region of Ghana

A Thesis Submitted to the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana, in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Award of Master of Science Degree in Soil Science (Soil and Water Conservation and Management Option), 2009.