bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual, premigration and postsettlement factors, and academic achievement in adolescents from refugee backgrounds: A systematic review and model
Authors: Wong Charissa W. S. , Schweitzer Robert D.
Published: November 2017

We have limited understanding of the precursors of academic achievement in resettled adolescents from refugee backgrounds. To date, no clear model has been developed to conceptualise the academic trajectories of adolescents from refugee backgrounds at postsettlement. The current review had two aims. First, to propose an integrated adaptive model to conceptualise the impact of individual, premigration, and postsettlement factors on academic achievement at postsettlement; and second, to critically examine the literature on factors that predict academic achievement in adolescents from refugee backgrounds in relation to the proposed model and highlight issues deserving future exploration. Following the protocol of a systematic literature review, 13 studies were identified for full-text review. Gender, ethnicity, English proficiency, psychological distress, premigration trauma, premigration loss, postsettlement social support, and postsettlement school connectedness, were found to predict academic achievement in adolescents from refugee backgrounds.
Capturing health literacy assessment in the electronic health record through evidence-based concept creation: A review of the literature and recommendations for action
Authors: Wetta Ruth E , Severin Roberta D , Gruhler Heidi , Lewis Nate
Published: November 2017

Health literacy is the capacity to understand and act upon health-related information and navigate the healthcare system. Published evidence demonstrates a relationship between health literacy and health status. Because of this, there are increasingly calls for a health literacy assessment to be collected and stored in the electronic health record for use by the healthcare team. This article describes the results of a literature review of health literacy assessment instruments with the goal of formulating semantically interoperable concepts that may be used to store the interpretation of the health literacy assessment in the electronic health record. The majority of health literacy instruments could be stored in the electronic health record using a three-concept solution of inadequate, marginal and adequate health literacy. This three-concept solution fully supports semantic interoperability needs across the patient care spectrum.
Assessment of computer and information literacy in ICILS 2013: Do different item types measure the same construct?
Authors: Ihme Jan Marten , Senkbeil Martin , Goldhammer Frank , Gerick Julia
Published: November 2017

The combination of different item formats is found quite often in large scale assessments, and analyses on the dimensionality often indicate multi-dimensionality of tests regarding the task format. In ICILS 2013, three different item types (information-based response tasks, simulation tasks, and authoring tasks) were used to measure computer and information literacy in order to balance technological and information-related aspects of computer and information literacy. The item types differ in the cognitive processes and the type of knowledge they measure and in the strands and aspects of the ICILS 2013 framework they address. In this article, we explored which factor models that assume item type factors or type of knowledge factors fit the data. For the factors of the best fitting models, regression analyses on SES, frequency of computer use, self-efficacy, and gender were computed to work out the different meanings and the convergent and discriminant validity of the factors. The results show that three-dimensional models with correlated factors for item type or type of knowledge fit best. Regression analyses discover substantive implications of between-item and within-item models. The effects are discussed and an outlook is given.
Restoring trust in the context of strategic change
Authors: Egeland Therese , Stensaker Inger G
Published: November 2017

The strategic change literature underscores the risk of loss of trust during change but does not address how trust can be restored once compromised. We conduct an inductive longitudinal study of an organization undergoing post-merger integration and examine how management worked to restore employee trust after a conflictual change process. We introduce the psychological contract perspective, which emphasizes relational explanations for loss of trust. We show that repairing trust can be conceptualized as a renegotiation of the psychological contract and develop a three-stage model of trust repair. In contrast to extant models of trust restoration, which emphasize diagnosis, explanation, penance, and reform, our model attends to relational dynamics that may emerge in the context of organizational change, with heightened uncertainty and ambiguity, and highlights the importance of restoring balance and renegotiating the contractual basis of the relationship.
Who prophets from big data in education? New insights and new challenges
Authors: Lynch Collin F.
Published: November 2017

Big Data can radically transform education by enabling personalized learning, deep student modeling, and true longitudinal studies that compare changes across classrooms, regions, and years. With these promises, however, come risks to individual privacy and educational validity, along with deep policy and ethical issues. Education is largely a public service targeted primarily at minors. Participation is compulsory in most advanced societies, and in many ways, it is seen as a fundamental right. Academic success is necessary for advancement, but students often have little individual say in the process. For these reasons, it poses unique policy challenges that do not arise in other domains. Big data requires deep and constant monitoring of students, classes, and instructors. Who consents to such monitoring, and how will student or instructor privacy be preserved? Data also has immense commercial value. Who owns it? And who is permitted to profit from its use? In this article, I will discuss some of these unique issues, and I will outline some potential approaches that may be taken to address them.
The combined effect of vitamin D and parathyroid hormone concentrations on glucose homeostasis in older patients with prediabetes: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Karras Spyridon N , Anagnostis Panagiotis , Antonopoulou Vasiliki , Tsekmekidou Xanthippi , Koufakis Theocharis , Goulis Dimitrios G , Zebekakis Pantelis , Kotsa Kalliopi
Published: November 2017

Background:

The combined effect of vitamin D and parathyroid hormone on glucose homeostasis has not been adequately investigated. The aim of this study was to examine the role of parathyroid hormone/vitamin D axis on glucose homeostasis in elderly persons with prediabetes.

Methods:

Patients with prediabetes ( n = 144) and healthy age-matched controls ( n = 81) were included in this cross-sectional study. Study parameters included anthropometric characteristics, morning fasting glucose (fasting plasma glucose), insulin (fasting plasma insulin), parathyroid hormone, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance and homeostasis model assessment of β-cell function. Both groups were stratified into subgroups according to vitamin D status and tertiles of parathyroid hormone.

Results:

Both groups were comparable in terms of body mass index, 25-hydroxyvitamin D and parathyroid hormone status. In the prediabetes group, fasting plasma glucose differed significantly across parathyroid hormone tertiles, increasing from the first to the third tertile ( p = 0.011). There were higher fasting plasma glucose values in participants with vitamin D deficiency/parathyroid hormone third tertile compared to all other groups ( p = 0.031, 0.027 and 0.039, respectively).

Conclusion:

Parathyroid hormone status is associated with impaired glucose homeostasis; hypovitaminosis D combined with high parathyroid hormone concentrations are associated with glycaemic dysregulation in elderly patients with prediabetes.
Diabetes based on 2-h plasma glucose among those classified as having prediabetes based on fasting plasma glucose or A1c
Authors: Menke Andy , Rust Keith F , Cowie Catherine C
Published: November 2017

Objective:

Determine the prevalence of diabetes using 2-h plasma glucose among people who otherwise would be categorized as having prediabetes based on A1c and fasting glucose, and to determine whether those people were more likely to have cardiometabolic risk factors.

Methods:

Among 3644 adults with prediabetes based on A1c and fasting glucose in the 2005–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a cross-sectional survey of the US general population, we estimated the percentage who would be categorized as having diabetes based on having a 2-h plasma glucose ⩾200 mg/dL. We calculated odds ratios of cardiometabolic risk factors associated with having 2-h plasma glucose ⩾200 mg/dL.

Results:

A total of 6.9% would be categorized as having diabetes based on 2-h plasma glucose. The adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) associated with having 2-h plasma glucose ⩾200 mg/dL were significant for total hypertension (2.06, 1.35–3.14), high triglycerides (1.64, 1.10–2.44), low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (1.55, 1.01–2.39), albuminuria (2.05, 1.33–3.14) and elevated alanine aminotransferase (1.78, 1.09–2.91), but not for other cardiometabolic risk factors.

Conclusion:

A total of 6.9% of people categorized as having prediabetes based on A1c and fasting glucose would be categorized as having diabetes based on 2-h plasma glucose. They were more likely to have hypertension, high triglycerides, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, albuminuria and elevated alanine aminotransferase.
Rethinking the Normal Vote, the Personal Vote, and the Impact of Legislative Professionalism in U.S. State Legislative Elections
Authors: Carsey Thomas M. , Winburn Jonathan , Berry William D.
Published: November 2017

Legislators might rely on their partisan base for electoral support—what scholars call their normal vote—or they may cultivate support among nonpartisans through casework or constituency service—what scholars call a personal vote. Previous research frequently argues that legislators face a tradeoff between pursuing the normal vote and a personal vote as traditionally defined, often focusing on resources used by incumbents to build their personal vote. In contrast, we argue that securing the support of partisans and nonpartisans alike should be evaluated based on how a legislator performs in office, and that the so-called normal and personal vote need not be viewed as in conflict. We evaluate our claims using data from state legislative elections following redistricting, focusing on legislative professionalism to measure the resources available to incumbents that they might use to cultivate a personal note.
Streptococcus pneumoniae burden and nasopharyngeal inflammation during acute otitis media
Authors: Morris Matthew C , Pichichero Michael E
Published: November 2017

Streptococcus pneumoniae (Spn) is a common respiratory pathogen and a frequent cause of acute otitis media (AOM) in children. The first step in bacterial pathogenesis of AOM is the establishment of asymptomatic colonization in the nasopharynx. We studied Spn bacterial burden in conjunction with neutrophil recruitment and inflammatory gene transcription and cytokine secretion in samples of nasal wash collected from normal and otitis-prone children during health, viral upper respiratory infection without middle ear involvement (URI) and AOM. We found no significant associations between otitis-prone status and any of the measured parameters. However, Spn bacterial burden was significantly correlated with neutrophil recruitment, transcription of IL-8, TNF-α and SOD2, and secretion of TNF-α. We also found that transcription of IL-8 and TNF-α mRNA by neutrophils was significantly correlated with the secretion of these cytokines into the nasopharynx. We conclude that Spn bacterial burden in the NP is a major determinant of neutrophil recruitment to the NP and activity during URI and AOM, and that neutrophils are contributors to the secretion of IL-8 and TNF-α in the NP when the Spn burden is high.
Validation of American Joint Committee on Cancer eighth staging system among prostate cancer patients treated with radical prostatectomy
Authors: Abdel-Rahman Omar
Published: November 2017

Background

The objective in this paper was to validate the prognostic performance of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) 7th and 8th systems among prostate cancer patients treated with radical prostatectomy.

Methods

The surveillance, epidemiology and end results (SEER) database (2006–2014) was accessed through the SEER*Stat program and AJCC 7th and 8th editions were calculated utilizing T, N and M stages, histological grade group, as well as baseline prostatic-specific antigen (PSA). Cancer-specific and overall survival analyses according to 7th and 8th editions were conducted. Moreover, multivariate analysis was conducted through a Cox proportional hazard model.

Results

A total of 72,999 patients with prostate cancer were identified in the period from 2006 to 2014. Overall survival was assessed according to AJCC 7th and 8th staging systems. The test for trend for overall survival was significant ( p < 0.0001) for both staging systems. Concordance index for AJCC 7th system was: 0.791 [standard error of the mean (SE): 0.017; 95% CI: 0.758–0.825]; while concordance index for AJCC 8th system was: 0.840 (SE: 0.015; 95% CI: 0.811–0.869). In a multivariate analysis among patients with M0 disease, lower grade group, N0 stage and pT2 stage were associated with better cancer-specific survival ( p < 0.01); while PSA level did not predict cancer-specific survival.

Conclusion

There is a clear improvement in the discriminatory ability for AJCC 8th versus AJCC 7th staging system in the postprostatectomy setting. This may be related to better integration of biological factors into the staging system.
Isokinetic Strength Deficit 6 Months After Adductor Canal Blockade for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Christensen James E. , Taylor Natalie E. , Hetzel Scott J. , Shepler John A. , Scerpella Tamara A.
Published: November 2017

Background:

Recent evidence shows a delayed return to sport in children and delayed quadriceps recovery in both adults and children who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with concomitant femoral nerve blockade (FNB) compared with those who had no blockade. We evaluated the use of adductor canal blockade (ACB), as an alternative to FNB, at the time of ACL reconstruction.

Hypothesis:

Patients who receive ACB will have greater isokinetic strength at 6 months postoperative compared with patients who receive FNB at the time of ACL reconstruction.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective record review was performed at a single academic medical center to identify all patients aged ≥16 years who had undergone ACL reconstruction with blockade between January 2010 and January 2015. Exclusion criteria included (1) non–sports medicine fellowship–trained surgeon performing the procedure, (2) continuous nerve catheter or concurrent epidural used, (3) revision ACL reconstruction or multiligament reconstruction as the index procedure, (4) previous contralateral ACL reconstruction, (5) concurrent microfracture, and (6) additional surgery within the 6-month outcome period that affected recovery. Isokinetic strength testing was performed using a computerized dynamometer, measuring total work at fast speed and peak torque at slow speed at 6 months; results were evaluated as a percentage of the nonoperative side. Multivariate regression analysis was used to evaluate the effect of block type on isokinetic strength outcome variables, controlling for age, sex, body mass index, graft type, and surgeon.

Results:

There were 230 patients receiving FNB and 30 patients receiving ACB included in the study. The multivariate regression analysis identified a greater side-to-side deficit in extension total work for the ACB group compared with the FNB group ( P = .040), after controlling for age, sex, body mass index, graft type, and surgeon.

Conclusion:

Compared with FNB, ACB for ACL reconstruction is associated with a persistent fast-activation isokinetic strength deficit at 6 months after surgery. This is the first study to compare FNB to ACB, and results are concerning for patients planning an early return to sport.
Use of Research Interfaces for Psychophysical Studies With Cochlear-Implant Users
Authors: Litovsky Ruth Y. , Goupell Matthew J. , Kan Alan , Landsberger David M.
Published: November 2017

A growing number of laboratories are using research interfaces to conduct experiments with cochlear-implant (CI) users. Because these interfaces bypass a subject’s clinical sound processor, several concerns exist regarding safety and stimulation levels. Here we suggest best-practice approaches for how to safely and ethically perform this type of research and highlight areas of limited knowledge where further research is needed to help clarify safety limits. The article is designed to provide an introductory level of technical detail about the devices and the effects of electrical stimulation on perception and neurophysiology. From this, we summarize what should be the best practices in the field, based on the literature and our experience. Findings from the review of the literature suggest that there are three main safety concerns: (a) to prevent biological or neural damage, (b) to avoid presentation of uncomfortably loud sounds, and (c) to ensure that subjects have control over stimulus presentation. Researchers must pay close attention to the software–hardware interface to ensure that the three main safety concerns are closely monitored. An important area for future research will be the determination of the amount of biological damage that can occur from electrical stimulation from a CI placed in the cochlea, not in direct contact with neural tissue. As technology used in research with CIs evolve, some of these approaches may change. However, the three main safety principles outlined here are not anticipated to undergo change with technological advances.
If You Build It, Who Will Come? A Description of User Characteristics and Experiences With the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal
Authors: Neil-Sztramko Sarah E. , Farran Rawan , Watson Susannah , Levinson Anthony J. , Lavis John N. , Iorio Alfonso , Dobbins Maureen
Published: November 2017

Objectives: The McMaster Optimal Aging Portal (the Portal) aims to increase access to evidence-based health information. We would now like to understand who uses the Portal, why, and for what, and elicit feedback and suggestions for future initiatives. Methods: An online survey of users collected data on demographics, eHealth literacy, Internet use, information-seeking behavior, site acceptability and perceived impact on health behaviors, participant satisfaction, and suggestions for improvements using mixed methods. Results: Participants ( n = 163, age 69.8 ± 8.6 years) were predominantly female (76%), married (67%), retired (80%), and well-educated with very good/excellent health (55%). The Portal was easy to use (83%) and relevant (80%), with 68% intending to, and 48% having changed behavior after using the Portal. A number of suggestions for improvement were obtained. Discussion: A better understanding of users’ characteristics, needs, and preferences will allow us to improve content, target groups who are not engaging with the Portal, and plan future directions.
The role of peer effects and the built environment on individual travel behavior
Authors: Kim Changjoo , Parent Olivier , vom Hofe Rainer
Published: November 2017

While urban planners and transportation geographers have long emphasized the importance of social influences on individual travel behavior, many challenges remain to bridge the gap between complex conceptual frameworks and operational behavioral models. Improving the ability of models to forecast activity-travel behavior can provide greater insights into urban planning issues. This paper proposes a new model framework by evaluating how individual travel behavior is influenced by inter- and intra-household interactions. The built environment, land-use mix, and social interactions influence household member choices among different transport modes. We propose a spatial multivariate Tobit specification that allows each individual to face a set of potential destinations and transport modes and takes into consideration the travel behavior of other household members and nearby neighbors. Using the Greater Cincinnati Household Travel Survey, we analyzed more than 37,000 trips made by 1968 individuals located in Hamilton County in Cincinnati, Ohio. Results reveal that social influences and the built environment have a strong impact on the willingness to walk and to cycle.
CTLA-4: a moving target in immunotherapy
Authors: Rowshanravan Behzad , Halliday Neil , Sansom David M.
Published: November 2017

CD28 and CTLA-4 are members of a family of immunoglobulin-related receptors that are responsible for various aspects of T-cell immune regulation. The family includes CD28, CTLA-4, and ICOS as well as other proteins, including PD-1, BTLA, and TIGIT. These receptors have both stimulatory (CD28, ICOS) and inhibitory roles (CTLA-4, PD-1, BTLA, and TIGIT) in T-cell function. Increasingly, these pathways are targeted as part of immune modulatory strategies to treat cancers, referred to generically as immune checkpoint blockade, and conversely to treat autoimmunity and CTLA-4 deficiency. Here, we focus on the biology of the CD28/CTLA-4 pathway as a framework for understanding the impacts of therapeutic manipulation of this pathway.
A knock-in mouse strain facilitates dynamic tracking and enrichment of MEIS1
Authors: Xiang Ping , Wei Wei , Hofs Nicole , Clemans-Gibbon Jack , Maetzig Tobias , Lai Courteney K. , Dhillon Ishpreet , May Christopher , Ruschmann Jens , Schneider Edith , Rosten Patricia , Hu Kaiji , Kuchenbauer Florian , Hoodless Pamela A. , Humphries R. Keith
Published: November 2017

Key Points

The new mouse strain C57BL/6N-Meis1em1Bcca can track the dynamic changes of MEIS1 expression by a GFP reporter and an HA epitope tag. This tagging strategy provides a platform to study the function and regulation of Meis1 as well as other transcription factors.
Quality of life of Hurler syndrome patients after successful hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Aldenhoven Mieke , van den Broek Brigitte T. A. , Wynn Robert F. , O’Meara Anne , Veys Paul , Rovelli Attilio , Jones Simon A. , Parini Rossella , van Hasselt Peter M. , Renard Marleen , Bordon Victoria , de Koning Tom J. , Boelens Jaap Jan
Published: November 2017

Key Points

Functional health of transplanted HS patients was significantly diminished. Patients with higher enzyme levels showed favorable results. Psychosocial health appeared unaffected compared with healthy peers.
The significance of changes in platelet concentration during the early phase after severe burn injury in a Chinese mass casualty
Authors: Shou Beiming , Li Junqiang , Tang Chenqi , Tan Qian , Zheng Dongfeng , Sun Binwei , Nie Lanjun , Zhang Hongwei , Jiang Yanan , Wang Chunming , Wu Yanwen
Published: November 2017

Background

Changes in platelet concentration are common in severe burn patients. Platelets play a key role in the course of disease. This study aims to explore the significance of platelet concentration during the course of the disease in victims of a mass burn casualty.

Methods

A total of 180 patients were involved in the “8.2” Kunshan explosion accident in China. The examined data included age, gender, total burn area (% TBSA), third-degree burn area (% TBSA), and platelet concentration within the first 5 days after the burn injury. The patients were divided into two groups according to four indicators (resuscitation, acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute kidney injury, septic shock). We collected several types of data for the patients and divided the patients into a complication group and non-complication group according to the diagnostic criteria. We analyzed the platelet concentration of the two groups using t tests to determine whether significant differences were present. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

The group with successful resuscitation had higher platelet concentration than the failure group on day 3 and day 5. The patients who suffered from acute kidney injury (AKI) and septic shock had a lower platelet concentration than non-sufferers on day 3 and day 5.

Conclusions

The platelet concentration of burn patients can dynamically reflect the pathophysiological changes of the body. It can be used as an early objective indicator of prognosis in mass burn casualty cases.
Individual differences in schizophrenia
Authors: Rolls Edmund T. , Lu Wenlian , Wan Lin , Yan Hao , Wang Chuanyue , Yang Fude , Tan Yunlong , Li Lingjiang ,   Chinese Schizophrenia Collaboration Group, Yu Hao , Liddle Peter F. , Palaniyappan Lena , Zhang Dai , Yue Weihua , Feng Jianfeng
Published: November 2017

Background

Whether there are distinct subtypes of schizophrenia is an important issue to advance understanding and treatment of schizophrenia.

Aims

To understand and treat individuals with schizophrenia, the aim was to advance understanding of differences between individuals, whether there are discrete subtypes, and how fist-episode patients (FEP) may differ from multiple episode patients (MEP).

Method

These issues were analysed in 687 FEP and 1880 MEP with schizophrenia using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale for (PANSS) schizophrenia before and after antipsychotic medication for 6 weeks.

Results

The seven Negative Symptoms were correlated with each other and with P2 (conceptual disorganisation), G13 (disturbance of volition), and G7 (motor retardation). The main difference between individuals was in the cluster of seven negative symptoms, which had a continuous unimodal distribution. Medication decreased the PANSS scores for all the symptoms, which were similar in the FEP and MEP groups.

Conclusions

The negative symptoms are a major source of individual differences, and there are potential implications for treatment.
Antiemetic Prophylaxis as a Marker of Health Care Disparities in the National Anesthesia Clinical Outcomes Registry
Authors: Andreae Michael H. , Gabry Jonah S. , Goodrich Ben , White Robert S. , Hall Charles
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND:

US health care disparities persist despite repeated countermeasures. Research identified race, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status as factors, mediated through individual provider and/or systemic biases; little research exists in anesthesiology. We investigated antiemetic prophylaxis as a surrogate marker for anesthesia quality by individual providers because antiemetics are universally available, indicated contingent on patient characteristics (gender, age, etc), but independent of comorbidities and not yet impacted by regulatory or financial constraints. We hypothesized that socioeconomic indicators (measured as insurance status or median income in the patients’ home zip code area) are associated with the utilization of antiemetic prophylaxis (as a marker of anesthesia quality).

METHODS:

We tested our hypothesis in several subsets of electronic anesthesia records from the National Anesthesia Clinical Outcomes Registry (NACOR), fitting frequentist and novel Bayesian multilevel logistic regression models.

RESULTS:

NACOR contained 12 million cases in 2013. Six institutions reported on antiemetic prophylaxis for 441,645 anesthesia cases. Only 173,133 cases included details on insurance information. Even fewer (n = 92,683) contained complete data on procedure codes and provider identifiers. Bivariate analysis, multivariable logistic regression, and our Bayesian hierarchical model all showed a large and statistically significant association between socioeconomic markers and antiemetic prophylaxis (ondansetron and dexamethasone). For Medicaid versus commercially insured patients, the odds ratio of receiving the antiemetic ondansetron is 0.85 in our Bayesian hierarchical mixed regression model, with a 95% Bayesian credible interval of 0.81–0.89 with similar inferences in classical (frequentist) regression models.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our analyses of NACOR anesthesia records raise concerns that patients with lower socioeconomic status may receive inferior anesthesia care provided by individual anesthesiologists, as indicated by less antiemetics administered. Effects persisted after we controlled for important patient characteristics and for procedure and provider influences. Findings were robust to sensitivity analyses. Our results challenge the notion that anesthesia providers do not contribute to health care disparities.
Effect of Beam Steering on Echogenic and Nonechogenic Needle Visibility at 40°, 50°, and 60° Needle Insertion Angles
Authors: Prabhakar Christopher , Uppal Vishal , Sondekoppam Rakesh V.
Published: November 2017

Currently, there is little understanding of the role of echogenic needles and beam steering at moderate angles of needle insertion. The ultrasound images of the echogenic and nonechogenic needles inserted into pork at 40°, 50°, and 60° were scored by anesthesiologists on a scale of 0–10. The effect of different levels of beam steer was also explored. At 40°, steep beam steering improves visualization of both nonechogenic and echogenic needles to an equal, satisfactory level. At 50° and 60°, visualization of nonechogenic needles is poor, whereas visibility of an echogenic needle was adequate and may be improved with steep beam steering.
First record of the black soldier fly,Hermetia illucens, in Greece
Authors: Tsagkarakis Antonios E , Arapostathi E. I. , Strouvalis G. I.
Published: November 2017

In May 2015, the black soldier fly Hermetia illucens (L.) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) was recorded for the first time in Greece. Its occurrence was noticed firstly in May 2015 in the island of Naxos, Cyclades. Newly hatched larvae of H. illucens feed on different decaying organic material, such as rotting fruits and vegetables, animal manure and human excreta, achieving a significant dry mass reduction. Thus, they are considered to provide remarkable ecological service on recycling. Information on its morphology, biology and distribution is given.
Adistemia watsoni: a stored product fungus beetle new record for Greece
Authors: Papadopoulou S. Ch. , Buchelos C. Th.
Published: November 2017

During an inspection survey concerning stored product insects in the mainland Greece the stored product fungus beetle Adistemia watsoni Wollaston (Coleoptera: Lathridiidae) was recorded to feed upon conidia of Penicillium developing on stored plums and corn. Information on its morphology and distribution is briefly given.
First record of Leptoglossus occidentalis (Heteroptera: Coreidae) in Greece
Authors: Petrakis P. V.
Published: November 2017

The Nearctic coreid Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann 1910 (Hemiptera: Coreidae) known as the Western Conifer Seed Bug, is recorded for the first time in Greece. This highly dispersible species is well established in Europe and was collected by the authors in various areas of continental Greece (Central Evia, Attica and North Peloponnisos), suggesting a wide distribution in this country.
Trichogramma cacoeciae as a biological control agent of the tomato pinworm Tuta absoluta in Northeastern Tunisia
Authors: Cherif Asma , Kaouthar Lebdi Grissa
Published: November 2017

Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) is considered as key pest attacking tomato in Tunisia and in many other countries around the world. In order to investigate the efficacy of Trichogramma cacoeciae (Marchal) (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) for biological control of this pest in Northeastern Tunisia, releases were performed in open field conditions. T. cacoeciae showed a good efficacy on reducing the number of T. absoluta eggs and larvae when releasing 30 adults/plant in plots covered with insect-proof netting in May 2012. The results showed that this parasitoid may be a promising agent for T. absoluta biological control in Tunisia.
Soil arthropod biodiversity in plain and hilly olive orchard agroecosystems, in Crete, Greece
Authors: Gkisakis V. D. , Kollaros D. , Kabourakis E. M.
Published: November 2017

Soil arthropod biodiversity was monitored in 24 olive orchards located in eight different sites in Messara, Crete, covering the two main agroecological zones of olive oil production, hilly and plain. Monitoring was done weekly for five weeks per season, from autumn 2011 to summer 2012, using pitfall traps. Subgroups of functional taxa were defined with respect to services of biological pest control and of nutrient cycling. Comparison of the different agroecological zones in terms of abundance and diversity of soil arthropods and functional subgroups was performed. Coleoptera (39.52%), Formicidae (27.3%), Araneae (8.77%) and Collembola (5.32%) were the most abundant taxa found in the olive orchards. Hilly orchards presented higher total arthropod diversity, but lower abundance due to family Tenebrionidae. Arthropod richness did not differ between agroecological zones. Functional arthropods were a major part of total abundance (76.7%) and presented a trend of higher catches abundance in the hilly orchards arthropods with seasonally statistically significant differences. Shannon Index of Diversity showed higher arthropod diversity in the hilly orchards, being significantly higher in spring. The less intensive olive production in hilly areas appeared to favour soil arthropod diversity.
The entomofauna on the leaves of two forest species, Fagus sylvatica and Corylus avelana, in Menoikio Mountain of Serres
Authors: Stoikou M. G. , Karanikola P. P.
Published: November 2017

The insect species composition and their abundance were investigated on the leaves of beech (Fagus sylvatica, Fagaceae) and hazel trees (Corylus avelana, Betulaceae) in the mixed forest located in Menoikio Mountain of Serres. For that purpose from April to June 2011 leaves were collected from the two forest species at weekly intervals and the insects found were reared in the laboratory under outdoor conditions and checked every day till their pupation and adult emergence. A total of 27 insect species was recorded. These insects belonged to seven orders. Fifteen Coleoptera species, 4 Hemiptera species, 3 of Lepidoptera species, 2 of Hymenoptera species and 1 species to the orders Diptera, Neuroptera, and Ephemeroptera were found. The results disclose that the number of insect species found on leaves of hazel trees was fewer than the insect species on beech trees. On hazel trees the population of Lymantria dispar (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) was much higher than in beech trees. The species of Coleoptera collected from hazel trees were Phyllobius pyri (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), Rhynchaenus populi (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and Agiotes acuminatus (Coleoptera: Elateridae). In beech trees the insect species found more frequently were Rhynchaenus fagi (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), Phyllobius pyri (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and Anobium punctatum (Coleoptera: Anobiidae). The largest population of insects was observed at the end of spring, because the life cycle of the foliage insects were synchronized with leaf- flushing of the foliage.
The mutualism of Melissotarsus ants and armoured scale insects in Africa and Magadascar: distribution, host plants and biology
Authors: Ben-Dov Y. , Fisher B.L.
Published: November 2017

Species of the ant genus Melissotarsus Emery are widespread in the Afrotropical region (three species, namely M. beccarii Emery, M. emeryi Forel and M. weissi Santschi) and in the Madagascar region (one species, namely M. insularis Santschi). The ants of all these species tunnel their galleries in live wood of various dicotyledonous trees, close to the bark surface. The ants maintain within these galleries populations of different species of armoured scale insects. A review is presented on the geographical distribution of mutualism, of the Melissotarsus species, the associated 10 species of armoured scale insects, and the host plants on which the mutualism takes place. The ecology of the mutualism is discussed also, together with suggestions on the benefits that the partners gain from the associations.
Preliminary survey of the scale insects fauna in Kermanshah, western Iran
Authors: Torabi M. , Vahedi H.A. , Hodgson C.J.
Published: November 2017

The Coccoidea on cultivated and non-cultivated vegetation in Kermanshah, western Iran, were investigated between 2007 and 2009. More than 63 samples from cultivated and non-cultivated plants were collected. The identified species mainly belonged to the following families: Diaspididae (12 species), Coccidae (7), Pseudococcidae (4), Margarodidae (3), Eriococcidae (2) and Ortheziidae (1). The economically important species are discussed. This project is part of an MSc on Coccoidea studies which has still some time to run and so we expect that more species will be found in future.
First record of the Ant-loving cricket Myrmecophilus ochraceus for Zakynthos (Greece) with notes on the synonymy of Myrmecophilus salomonis (Orthoptera: Myrmecophilidae)
Authors: Stalling Thomas
Published: November 2017

The first record of Myrmecophilus ochraceus Fischer, 1853 (Orthoptera: Myrmecophilidae) for Zakynthos (Greece) is given. Photographs of this species and its habitat are presented for the first time. Myrmecophilus salomonis Wasmann, 1890 is recognized as a junior synonym of Myrmecophilus ochraceus.
First record of Capparimyia savastani in Greece
Authors: Papachristos D. , Milonas P. , Papasotirioy M.
Published: November 2017

During the summer of 2008 extensive infestation was observed on edible flower buds of wild and cultivated caper plants (Capparis sp.) in Milos island. Larvae were taken from infested plants and kept in laboratory conditions at 24±1oC, 70±5% RH, and under a photoperiod of 16:8 (L:D) h until adult’s emergence. Adults were identified as the species Capparimyia savastani (Martelli) (Diptera: Tephritidae). The presence of this species is recorded for the first time in Greece. The larvae of C. savastani fed on flower buds of caper plants and it appears to be capable to cause extensive damage on cultivated and wild caper.
First record of Acanthoscelides macrophthalmus (Schaeffer) (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) in Cyprus
Authors: Vassiliou V. A. , Papadoulis G.
Published: November 2017

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Chrysomphalus aonidumas pest of citrus in Greece
Authors: Stathas G.J. , Kozär F.
Published: November 2017

The presence of the scale insect Chrysomphalus aonidum (Linnaeus) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), (the Florida red scale) is recorded in Greece and some data on its morphology are given. The coccid was found on the ornamental plant Dracaena sp. in Athens in the year 2000 and its rearing on potato tubes (Solanum tuberosum) and Cucurbita maxima is possible in the insectary. In January 2007 C. aonidum was found on heavily infested Citrus limon and Citrus sinensis, as well as on the less infested ornamental bushes Ficus benjamina and Ligustrum japonicum in outdoor conditions in the city of Kalamata (Peloponnese-southern Greece). In the past the presence of C. aonidum was recorded in Greece, but it was considered an occasional pest of citrus due to its difficulty to become acclimatized.
Αn assessment of components of crop loss due to infestation by Dacus oleae, in Corfu
Authors: Kapatos Ε.Τ. , Fletcher B.S.
Published: November 2017

An assessment of components of crop loss caused by the olive fly, Dacus oleae, was carried out in Corfu during the years 1976-1979. The results indicate that the most important component of crop loss due to D. oleae infestation is the preharvest fruit drop induced, mainly, by the third stage larva. Using three starting dates, which coincided with the main periods of infestation between July and October, estimates were made of the proportions of infested fruits induced to fall prematurely before the start of harvesting in November. The larva of D. oleae consumes only a small proportion of the fruit pulp (on average 4.48 %). The effect of infestation on the acidity of the oil is indirect and it is important only when the fruits remain for over a week on the ground before they are collected. Compensation by the tree for premature fruit drop caused by D. oleae infestation does not appear to be of any significance in assessing crop loss.
Description of Pαnonychus cαricαe new species on fig-trees in Greece (Acari: Tetranychidae)
Authors: Hatzinikolis Ε.Ν.
Published: November 2017

The female and male of Panonychus caricae, new species, are described and illustrated. This mite was found on leaves of fig-trees in regions of Central Greece.
Funicular sensilla of Dαcus oleαe: fine structural characteristics
Authors: Hallberg Ε. , Den Pers J.N.C. Yan , Haniotakis G.E.
Published: November 2017

The funicular sensilla in Dacus oleae (Gmelin) (Diptera: Tephritidae) are found both on the surface and in the single olfactory pit. The surface sensilla are of three types: two are single-walled, the third is double-walled. The fine structure of these three sensillar types indicates olfactory function capabilities. The single-walled sensilla are, as a rule, innervated by two sensory cells. The long single-walled sensilla have unbranched sensory processes, whereas in the short they are branched. The double-walled sensilla usually possess three sensory cells that send unbranched sensory processes towards the tip of the hair. The olfactory pit sensilla are of two types: one type is identical to the double-walled type found on the funicular surface. The second type is poreless and found only in the olfactory pit. The poreless sensilla are innervated by three sensory cells, two of which terminate inside the cuticular hair, while the third does not enter inside the hair but terminates freely below it. The functional capabilities of this sensillar type are unknown.
Preliminary information on parasitization rates and larval survival of Metaphycus helvolus Comp. and Metaphycus lounsburyi How., parasites of Saissetia oleae Olivier, under laboratory conditions
Authors: Macropodi Μ. V.
Published: November 2017

Parasitization rates and larval mortality of M. helvolus and M. lounsburyi parasites of S. oleae were studied under laboratory conditions. Mean life duration of M. helvolus, under temperature 23±1oC and relative humidity 65-70%, was found to be 8.4 days. Only a relatively small proportion of the individuals of S. oleae was parasitized, but the greater proportion of the larvae of the parasite was successfully developed to the adult stage. Mean life duration of M. lounsburyi, under temperature 19±1oC and relative humidity 65-70%, was found to be 10.2 days. Oviposition of M. lounsburyi occurred at a much higher rate but the fact that several eggs were usually laid per S. oleae individual greatly reduced the proportion of the parasitic larvae which developed to the adult stage.
The occurrence of Encarsia perniciosi in areas of northern Greece as assessed by sex pheromone traps of its host Quadraspidiotus perniciosus
Authors: Kyparissoudas D.S.
Published: November 2017

During the 1982-1985 period the aphelinid endoparasite Encarsia perniciosi Tower was captured on synthetic pheromone traps of the San Jose scale (SJS), Quadraspidiotus perniciosus Comstock, in scale-infested insecticide treated and untreated orchards of Central and Western Macedonia (Northern Greece). It has expanded especially near the sites where it had been released, but also in areas 50-100 km from the point of release. The parasite in untreated orchards generally appeared from April to October, while in orchards treated with insecticides it was not caught after mid June. Spring flights of the parasite occurred on almost the same dates as the first captures of the male scale. Subsequent flights of E. perniciosi were not always synchronized with those of the male scale, and after the beginning of June the parasite showed a general decline throughout the remainder of each season. The pheromone of the scale insect acts as a kairomone to the parasite and it can be used in trapping systems in scale-infested orchards for the confirmation of the presence and the dis­tribution of E. perniciosi.
Effect of Combining Food and Sex Attractants on the Capture of Dacus oleae Flies
Authors: Haniotakis G.E. , Vassiliou-Waite Α.
Published: November 2017

Sex pheromonal compounds i.e. the most potent male attractants, and ammonia, one of the most potent female attractants available today for Dacus oleae (Gmelin), were combined on the same trap. This combination resulted in an overall increase of female captures as compared to those of ammonia alone, but a decrease of male captures as compared to those of pheromone alone. Deviations from this overall effect were observed during certain periods of the year and are caused by varying environmental and biological factors which influence insect response to pheromones. Explanations for these results based on recent findings concerning the pheromone system of D. oleae are presented here.
Some enzymatic activities registered in eggs and gut tissues of the olive fruit fly, Dacus oleae (Gmelin)
Authors: Stamopoulos C.
Published: November 2017

Nineteen enzymatic activities of eggs, gut tissues of larvae and adults of Dacus oleae have been determined using the API-ZYM micromethod. The enzymatic activities of eggs were much weaker than those of larval or adult guts. The activities increased progressively to the L2 and L3. The lack of feeding caused a reduction of certain activities in larvae (alkaline phosphatase, esterases, aminopeptidases) but not in adults. The addition of streptomycin to the food of adults, to obtain “aposymbiotic” individuals, did not have a clear effect on the activities of the insect’s various stages. Although the enzymes studied were not the only ones that occur in the insect’s gut tissues, it seems that there are few similarities between the enzymatic system of larvae and that of adults, most probably because of the different content of the two diets in essential nutrients such as amino acids, proteins, and lipids.
Descriptίοn of Aceria creticα new species from olive trees in Greece (Acari: Εriophyidae)
Authors: Hatzinikolis Ε. Ν.
Published: November 2017

The female of Aceria cretica, new species, is described and illustrated. This species was found and collected from an isolated group of olive trees (Olea europaea L.) in Crete, Greece. It causes subcircular, greenish patches under leaf surface, similar to those caused by Aceria oleae (Nalepa 1900).
The genus Amblyseius (Acari: Phytoseiidae) in Greece, with the Description of a New Species
Authors: Papadoulis G.TH. , Emmanouel N.G.
Published: November 2017

A nationwide survey on Phytoseiid mites in Greece revealed the occurrence of 19 species belonging to the Genus Amblyseius. A key and illustrations of all these species are given along with the synonyms, habitats and distribution data. A new species, A. makedonicus, found on Oryza saliva, is described.