Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Environmental Acquisition of Gut Symbiotic Bacteria in the Saw-Toothed Stinkbug, Megymenum gracilicorne (Hemiptera: Pentatomoidea: Dinidoridae)

Many plant-sucking stinkbugs possess a specialized symbiotic organ with numerous crypts in a posterior region of the midgut. In stinkbugs of the superfamily Pentatomoidea, specific γ-proteobacteria are hosted in the crypt cavities, which are vertically transmitted through host generations and essential for normal growth and survival of the host insects. Here we report the discovery of an exceptional gut symbiotic association in the saw-toothed stinkbug, Megymenum gracilicorne (Hemiptera: Pentatomoidea: Dinidoridae), in which specific γ-proteobacterial symbionts are not transmitted vertically but acquired environmentally. Histological inspection identified a very thin and long midgut symbiotic organ with two rows of tiny crypts whose cavities harbor rod-shaped bacterial cells. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of bacterial 16S rRNA gene sequences from the symbiotic organs of field-collected insects revealed that (i) M. gracilicorne is stably associated with Pantoea-allied γ-proteobacteria within the midgut crypts, (ii) the symbiotic bacteria exhibit a considerable level of diversity across host individuals and populations, (iii) the major symbiotic bacteria represent an environmental bacterial lineage that was reported to be capable of symbiosis with the stinkbug Plautia stali, and (iv) the minor symbiotic bacteria also represent several bacterial lineages that were reported as cultivable symbionts of P. stali and other stinkbugs. The symbiotic bacteria were shown to be generally cultivable. Microbial inspection of ovipositing adult females and their eggs and nymphs uncovered the absence of stable vertical transmission of the symbiotic bacteria. Rearing experiments showed that symbiont-supplemented newborn nymphs exhibit improved survival, suggesting the beneficial nature of the symbiotic association.
When hazards become disasters: coastal fishing communities in Bangladesh

ABSTRACT Using the DPSIR (Drivers, Pressures, States, Impacts, and Responses) framework as an analytical lens, this study elucidates how climate-related hazards, coupled with other drivers and pressures, create vulnerability to disasters for coastal fishing communities in Bangladesh. Primary data has been collected through fieldwork in four communities in the Southern Region, consisting of individual interviews, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. The study reveals that coastal fishing communities in Bangladesh face recurrent hazards that, coupled with other natural and anthropogenic drivers and pressures, have disastrous consequences on human well-being and the environment. Disaster impacts on coastal communities vary and differ by the capacities, situations, experiences, and capitals of households. In response to disasters’ adverse impacts, affected communities adopt various coping strategies, which produce both beneficial and harmful impacts. To include those impacts into long-term development goals of coastal communities, the study calls for the implementation of the Small-Scale Fisheries Guidelines (SSF Guidelines), which could help in the immediate relief phase, as well as the rehabilitation, reconstruction, and recovery after disasters and reduce vulnerabilities of small-scale fishers.
Connecting Sediment Retention to Distributary‐Channel Hydrodynamics and Sediment Dynamics in a Tide‐dominated Delta: The Ayeyarwady Delta, Myanmar

The largest deltas on Earth are tide‐dominated with multiple distributaries, which can experience different forcings. Yet, most observational studies of sediment dynamics in these systems focus on a single distributary. Comparison of the tidal‐to‐estuarine reaches of three representative distributaries of the Ayeyarwady Delta, Myanmar highlights the variability in sediment retention and export within a megadelta. The Ayeyarwady River has no mainstem dams, providing an opportunity to examine a relatively natural, monsoon‐dominated system. Observations were collected during high flow (September 2017) and low flow (March 2018 and 2019). The eastern Yangon distributary empties into the sheltered Gulf of Mottoma while the central Bogale and western Pathein distributaries are exposed to seasonal waves. During high flow, suspended‐sediment concentration (SSC) was consistent across all three distributaries (0.2–0.4 g/L). The upper delta retained 20%–60% of the mainstem sediment load, while the lower distributaries were tidal rivers exporting sediment. During low flow, the lower distributaries were partially mixed estuaries with little net discharge. However, SSC increased to >1 g/L in the Yangon distributary, remained constant in the Bogale distributary, and decreased in the Pathein distributary compared to high flow. This difference was driven by offshore sediment supply; fine sediment is retained near the mouth of the Yangon and advected away from the Pathein distributary. Consequently, nearshore sediment residence time in monsoon‐influenced megadeltas is controlled by coastal orientation, the timing of discharge with respect to ocean conditions, and tidal amplification. Changes to fluvial sediment delivery can cause non‐uniform coastal impacts due to these differing distributary processes.
Spatial correlation length of summer extreme heat stress over eastern China

This study attempts to measure the spatial correlation length (SCL) of summer extreme heat stress in any location by using a characterized scale identification method. Daily datasets of multiple meteorological variables from 2,134 observation stations over eastern China during 1961–2010 were used. Three types of heat indexes (a total of seven indexes) were applied to characterize the heat stress. The first type used a single variable, that is, daily maximum temperature (Tmax) or daily minimum temperature (Tmin), while the second used mean temperature (T) and relative humidity, and the third used T, vapour pressure, and 10‐m wind speed. A 90th percentile of the climatology of local heat stress was applied to identify hot days. The SCLs of heat stress were analysed in three regions: North China (NC), the Yangtze River Valley (YRV), and South China (SC). Results showed that the trend changes in heat stress had obvious temporal and geographical characteristics, especially in NC and YRV. Generally, the SCLs of heat stress in NC were the largest, reaching more than 440 km for Tmax, with YRV second, about 350 km, and SC the smallest, only about 185 km. This phenomenon could be found for almost all indexes. Moreover, the SCLs of the first two types of heat indexes (except Tmin) for the three regions were greater than that of the third one, particularly in NC and YRV, which was related to inconsistent changes in the variables used and the primary role of which one characterized the heat stress. The spatial distributions of high SCLs for all indexes were in line with that of the major urban agglomeration in eastern China. The SCL of heat stress for a location was related not only to the changes themselves, but also to the surroundings, involving the number and spatial distribution of hot days.
Non-Revenue Water in Malaysia: Influence of Water Distribution Pipe Types

Reducing non-revenue water (NRW) within a water distribution network may lead to significant water savings. Most existing literature tend to focus on the design and implementation aspects of NRW loss through better management of leaks, reservoir overflow, and water theft. In contrast, this paper examines the association between the various water pipe types and their respective impact on NRW loss in an emerging country. Malaysia is currently listed under emerging and developing economies category in the International Monetary Fund World Economic Outlook Database (October 2020). A correlation analysis is carried out using historical data obtained from the Malaysian water authority, covering fiscal years 2013 to 2017 (inclusive of both years). Further analysis is carried out by measuring the number of cases reported for two selected states in relation to the type of pipe materials used. Results show that there is a significant correlation between mild steel and polyethylene pipes to NRW loss. This study provides a better understanding of how water pipe types affect NRW loss, which is pertinent to developing best practices in the marketplace to manage NRW loss and protect water resources.
Highly nonlocal optical nonlinearities in atoms trapped near a waveguide

Nonlinear optical phenomena are typically local. Here, we predict the possibility of highly nonlocal optical nonlinearities for light propagating in atomic media trapped near a nano-waveguide, where long-range interactions between the atoms can be tailored. When the atoms are in an electromagnetically induced transparency configuration, the atomic interactions are translated to long-range interactions between photons and thus to highly nonlocal optical nonlinearities. We derive and analyze the governing nonlinear propagation equation, finding a roton-like excitation spectrum for light and the emergence of order in its output intensity. These predictions open the door to studies of unexplored wave dynamics and many-body physics with highly nonlocal interactions of optical fields in one dimension.
Yield and nutritive value of mechanically processed corn silage from an integrated crop-livestock system

The objective of this study was to evaluate the yield and nutritional value of silage made from corn intercropped with marandu palisadegrass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu) in an integrated crop-livestock system. The corn was harvested at different maturity stages and cutting heights and was processed or not before ensiling. The experimental design was a randomized block with four replications in a 2x2x2+1 factorial scheme. The treatments were composed of silage corn intercropped with marandu palisadegrass harvested at two cutting heights (20 or 45 cm) and two stages of maturity (1/4 of the kernel milk line or kernel physiological maturity) and subjected to two methods of processing (crushing or not crushing). A control treatment composed of conventionally grown corn silage was also included. The total dry matter yields of both crops did not differ significantly among treatments, demonstrating the viability of the intercropping system for both forage species. Although the dry matter content of the corn plants was higher at the time of ensiling, the fermentative and nutritive quality of the silages was not affected. Increasing the cutting height increased the grain content of the forage mass and also avoided harming the development of the intercropped grass. The silages from the physiological maturity treatment and from the processed treatment had the best quality.
The Covid-19 conjuncture: rearticulating the school/home/work nexus

ABSTRACT The Covid-19 pandemic is intensifying existing problems of economic asymmetry, and other injustices, between and within countries and regions around the world. It is thus imperative that sociological studies of education document its socio-cultural implications in different locations and on different scales. It is equally imperative that such studies have a historical perspective that asks what pre-existing social problems have been intensified and how such intensification is happening. This paper responds to these imperatives through the deployment of conjunctural analysis and related crisis and articulation theory. We discuss the global Covid-19 conjuncture as it emerged in the first seven months of 2020 and show how it articulated with the preceding conjuncture. Subsequently, we focus on the issues associated with closing and reopening schools and show how they were intertwined with reconfigurations of the school/home/work nexus. We consider these reconfigurations in two very different locations, Australia and South Africa.
Determinants of internet use by the elderly in Spain: time dedicated to search and communications

Internet use reduces the isolation or exclusion of individuals in specific socio-economic groups and, consequently, increases the quality of life, with this being especially the case for the elderly. Knowing that the elderly are becoming particularly active in dedicating time to the Internet, we provide evidence of the time that Spanish individuals aged 65 and older dedicate to two online activities: search and communications. We estimate a SUR model with data from the STUS for 2009-2010. Our main results indicate that being male has a positive influence on the time devoted to search on the Internet. Furthermore, time devoted to both Internet activities increases with higher levels of education and at the highest level of individual health.
The SWATH-D Seismological Network in the Eastern Alps

The SWATH-D experiment involved the deployment of a dense temporary broadband seismic network in the Eastern Alps. Its primary purpose was enhanced seismic imaging of the crust and crust–mantle transition, as well as improved constraints on local event locations and focal mechanisms in a complex part of the Alpine orogen. The study region is a key area of the Alps, where European crust in the north is juxtaposed and partially interwoven with Adriatic crust in the south, and a significant jump in the Moho depth was observed by the 2002 TRANSALP north–south profile. Here, a flip in subduction polarity has been suggested to occur. This dense network encompasses 163 stations and complements the larger-scale sparser AlpArray seismic network. The nominal station spacing in SWATH-D is 15 km in a high alpine, yet densely populated and industrialized region. We present here the challenges resulting from operating a large broadband network under these conditions and summarize how we addressed them, including the way we planned, deployed, maintained, and operated the stations in the field. Finally, we present some recommendations based on our experiences.
Design and Development of an Instrument on Knowledge of Food Safety, Practices, and Risk Perception Addressed to Children and Adolescents from Low-Income Families

In the fight against foodborne diseases, expanding access to information for different groups is needed. In this aspect, it is crucial to evaluate the target audience’s particularities. This study constructed and validated an instrument containing three questionnaires to identify the level of knowledge, practices, and risk perception of food safety by low-income students between 11 and 14 years old. The following steps were used: systematic search of the databases; conducting and analyzing focus groups; questionnaires development; and questionnaires analysis. After two judges’ rounds, the final version was reached with 11 knowledge items, 11 practice items, and five risk perception items. The content validation index values were higher than 0.80. The adopted methodology considered the students’ understanding and perceptions, as well the appropriate language to be used. Besides, it allowed the development of questionnaires that directly and straightforwardly covers the rules set by the World Health Organization for foodborne disease control called Five Keys to Safer Food (keep clean; separate raw and cooked; cook thoroughly; keep food at safe temperatures; and use safe water and raw materials). Its use can result in a diagnosis for elaborating educational proposals and other actions against foodborne illness in the most vulnerable population.
Oseltamivir Improved Thrombocytopenia During Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Adults With Refractory Cardiac Failure: A Single-Center Retrospective Real-World Study

Background: Severe thrombocytopenia is a common complication of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Oseltamivir can be used to treat infection-associated thrombocytopenia. Objective: To evaluate the effect of oseltamivir on attenuating severe thrombocytopenia during ECMO. Methods: This was a single-center real-world study in critically ill patients supported with venous-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO). Patients suspected or confirmed with influenza received oseltamivir according to the Chinese guidelines. Thrombocytopenia and survival were compared between the oseltamivir-treated and untreated group. The factors associated with survival were analyzed by multivariable Cox analysis. Results: A total of 82 patients were included. All patients developed thrombocytopenia after initiating VA-ECMO. Twenty-three patients received oseltamivir (O+ group), and 59 did not use oseltamivir (O− group). During the first 8 days after VA-ECMO initiation, the platelet count in the O+ group was higher than that in the O− group (all P < 0.05). The patients in the O+ group had a higher median nadir platelet count (77,000/μl, 6,000–169,000/μl) compared with the O− group (49,000/μl, 2,000–168,000/μl; P = 0.04). A nadir platelet count of <50,000/μl was seen in 26% of the patients in the O+ group, compared with 53% in the O− group (P = 0.031). No significant difference in survival from cardiac failure was seen between the O+ and O− group (48 vs. 56%, P = 0.508). The Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score on initiation of VA-ECMO were independently associated with survival (OR = 1.12, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.02–1.22, P = 0.015). Conclusions: Oseltamivir could ameliorate VA-ECMO-related thrombocytopenia. These findings suggested the prophylactic potential of oseltamivir on severe thrombocytopenia associated with the initiation of VA-ECMO.
Disengaging elections? Political interest, number of elections, and turnout in elections to the European Parliament

Since direct elections to the European Parliament began in 1979, variations in voting behavior in European Parliament elections from national elections have raised interesting questions about political behavior. I add to a growing literature that explores turnout in European Parliament elections by focusing on the count of national elections between European Parliament elections. Through a cross-national study of elections, I find that turnout decreases in the European Parliament contest following cycles with numerous national contests. Then, using data from the European Election Study, I argue that this is the result of frequent elections decreasing turnout particularly among already low interest voters who stay home. My findings have implications for how formal rules of multi-level elections shape political behavior more generally and voter fatigue in particular.
Quality by design (QbD) based fabrication of atazanavir loaded nanostructured lipid carriers for lymph targeting: Bioavailability enhancement using chylomicron flow block model and toxicity study

Atazanavir (ATV) is widely used as anti-HIV agent with poor aqueous solubility which requires fabrication of novel drug delivery system to enhance therapeutic activity and safety. For this purpose, the quality by design (QbD) based ATV loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) to address the challenges of bioavailability and its safety on oral administration. Herein, the main objective was to identify the influencing variables for the production of quality product. Considering this objective, quality target product profile (QTPP) was assigned and a systematic risk assessment study was performed to identify the critical material attributes (CMAs) and critical process parameter (CPP) having an influence on critical quality attributes (CQAs). Lipid concentrations, surfactant concentrations, and pressure of high-pressure homogenizer were identified as CMAs and CPP. ATV-NLCs were prepared by emulsification-high pressure homogenization method and further lyophilized to obtain solid-state NLCs. The effect of formulation variables (CMAs and CPP) on responses like particle size (Y1), polydispersity index (Y2), and zeta potential (Y3) was observed by central composite rotatable design (CCRD). The data were statistically evaluated by ANOVA for confirmation of a significant level (P<0.05). The optimal conditions of NLCs were obtained by generating design space and desirability value. The lyophilized ATV-NLCs were characterized by DSC, PXRD, and FT-IR analysis. The morphology of NLCs was revealed by TEM and FESEM. In vitro study suggested a sustained release pattern of drug (92.37±1.03 %) with a mechanism of Korsmeyer-Peppas model (r2 =0.925, and n=0.63). In vivo evaluation in Wistar rats showed significantly higher (p<0.001) plasma drug concentration of ATV-NLCs as compared to ATV-suspension using chylomicron flow block model. The relative bioavailability of ATV-NLCs was obtained to be 2.54 folds. Thus, a safe and promising drug targeting system was successfully developed to improve bioavailability and avoiding first-pass effect ensures to circumvent the acute-toxicity of liver.
Stream discharge and water quality data for East Fork Poplar Creek beginning 2012

This data note describes 15‐min discharge and in situ water quality data at two locations along East Fork Poplar Creek in east Tennessee, USA. Data records include temperature, gauge height, water surface elevation above mean sea level, and volumetric discharge. Water quality measurements include temperature, specific conductance, pH, dissolved oxygen (percent saturation and concentration), turbidity, and less extensive fDOM data at one site. The data records begin in 2012 at one site and 2015 at the second site; monitoring at both sites is ongoing (as of 2021). The goal of this data collection is to improve understanding of watershed functions, hydrologic dynamics, and material flux. The data will contribute to site conceptual and numerical models, exposure and risk evaluation, remediation selection and design, and performance monitoring. The data are publicly available and can be accessed via unique url or DOI.
Detection of the new SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.526 with the Spike E484K mutation in South America

Here, we report two sequences of the new SARS-CoV-2 variant recently detected and designed as B.1. 526. This variant carries the immune escape-associated mutation E484K and additional mutations in the S, N, NSP2, NSP3, NSP4, NSP6, NSP8, NSP12 and NSP13 genes. Viral sequences were obtained from an individual traveling from the US to Equator with a negative RT-PCR and from one of his closest contacts that became infected. These cases should be considered an alert for the potential circulation of a new variant of concern with the E484K mutation in South America