bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The larval morphology and nest habits of Trypoxylon (Trypargilum) rogenhoferi Kohl 1884 (Insecta: Hymenoptera: Crabronidae)
Authors: FOX EDUARDO GONÇALVES PATERSON , SOLIS DANIEL RUSS , ROSSI MÔNICA LANZONI , FEITOSA RODRIGO MACHADO , BRESCOVIT ANTONIO DOMINGOS
Published: March 2019

The present study describes different preimaginal stages of Trypoxylon rogenhoferi examined by Scanning Electron Mi-croscopy (SEM) and compares the results with observations on closely related species. Some notes on the nesting habitsof this species, including their spider prey, nest parasites, and development time are provided. In short, T. rogenhoferiproved quite similar to the previous report on T. albitarse although SEM images are rarely presented in such descriptions.In fact the present study emphasized the importance of SEM images to describe fine morphological details that can beuseful characters for taxonomic and phylogenetic studies. Images of some earlier development stages (first and second larval instar and egg) are presented for the first time, and compared with the few available data from other hymenopterans.O presente estudo apresenta a descrição de diversos estágios do desenvolvimento da vespa caçadora Trypoxylonrogenhoferi por meio de microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV). Os resultados obtidos são comparados com achadoscom outras espécies próximas. Também são fornecidas informações a cerca da biologia da espécie no local de estudo,como presas e parasitóides observados e tempo de desenvolvimento. A larva madura desta espécie se demonstrou bastantesimilar ao pouco que foi descrito com T. albitarse, apesar de que raramente imagens de MEV são apresentadas nestasdescrições. O presente estudo demonstra a importância de imagens de ultraestrutura que podem revelar detalhes úteis paraa diagnose de espécies e estudos filogenéticos. Pela primeira vez se descrevem estádios imaturos mais jovens de vespas deste grupo, que foram comparados com dados de outros grupos de himenópteros.
Socotracris kleukersi n. gen. n. sp., a new troglobitic cricket from Socotra (Yemen) (Orthoptera: Grylloidea, Phalangopsidae)
Authors: Desutter-Grandcolas Laure , Felix Rob P. W. H.
Published: March 2019

The cricket Socotracris kleukersi n. gen., n. sp., collected in a cave at Wadi Zerik, Diksam Plateau, Socotra, Yemen is described. The genus and species are characterized by male and female genitalia and external morphology.
The genus Ctenosciara Tuomikoski (Diptera, Sciaridae) in New Caledonia, with the description of eight new species
Authors: VILKAMAA PEKKA , HIPPA HEIKKI , MOHRIG WERNER
Published: March 2019

The genus Ctenosciara Tuomikoski, 1960, includes the following species in New Caledonia, all newly described: Cteno-sciara cracens sp. n., C. crinita sp. n., C. depilis sp. n., C. depressa sp. n., C. exilis sp. n., C. inflata sp. n., C. lobigerasp. n. and C. obesa sp. n. Some of the species show for the genus previously unknown characters. A key to the New Caledonian species of Ctenosciara is provided.
Phrixosoma concavifrons – a sexually dimorphic Phrixosomatini (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) from the Udzungwa mountains in Tanzania
Authors: JORDAL BJARTE H.
Published: March 2019

A new species of Phrixosoma from Tanzania is described and illustrated. This is a unique species for the genus in havinga strongly concave female frons. Several characters are described for the first time for this genus, including male andfemale genitalia, mouthparts, thoracic sutures, and several overlooked features of the mesoand metatibiae and sternal processes.
The discovery of the rare genus Xyeloblacus van Achterberg, 1997 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae, Blacinae) in China, with description of a new species
Authors: HUANGFU WEI-GUO , CHAI HONG-FEI , CHEN XUE-XIN
Published: March 2019

The Blacinae Foerster, 1862 is a cosmopolitan subfamily of Braconidae (Hymenoptera), with five tribes and 14 genera (van Achterberg 1976, 1988). The genus Xyeloblacus van Achterberg, 1997 is the only member of the tribe Xyeloblacini van Achterberg with two known species in the world (van Achterberg and Altenhofer, 1997; Yu et al., 2005). van Achterberg and Altenhofer (1997) mentioned four important characters for Xyeloblacus as follows: the straight ventral margin of the clypeus, the crenulate anterior subalar depression, the curved vein 1-1A of fore wing, and the presence of vein 2A of hind wing. The members of this genus are parasitoids of Xyela spp. (Xyeloidea: Xyelidae) (van Achterberg and Altenhofer, 1997).
The genus Phygasia Chevrolat (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae: Alticini) in Taiwan
Authors: LEE CHI-FENG
Published: March 2019

The Taiwanese species of Phygasia are reviewed. Phygasia diluta Chûjô, 1963 is recognized as a valid species and is removedfrom synonymy with P. ornata Baly, 1876. It is a senior subjective synonym of P. taiwanensis Ge et al., 2010. The widely dis-tributed P. ornata Baly, 1876 is not found on the island of Taiwan but occurs on the Kinmen Island. A new species, P. chengi, parapatric with P. diluta, is described. A key to the Taiwanese species of Phygasia is provided.
On some shallow-water Tanaidomorpha (Crustacea: Peracarida: Tanaidacea) of Chilean fjords, with description of a new species of Zeuxoides Sieg, 1980
Authors: ESQUETE PATRICIA , BAMBER ROGER , ALDEA CRISTIAN
Published: March 2019

Magellanic tanaidacean faunas have been mainly studied in the Magellan Strait and Beagle Channel, the latter restricted to bot-toms deeper than 40m. As a result, the shallow rocky bottoms of the Magellanic fjords remain largely under-studied, and theirtanaidacean diversity is poorly known. In this study, tanaidacean species sampled from shallow rocky bottoms of Chilean fjordsare investigated, and morphological and taxonomic considerations included. A new species of the Tanaidae, Zeuxoides tronco-soi sp. nov. is described. The genus Leptochelia is recorded for the first time in Chile, and the distribution of Pancoloides lito-ralis is extended northwards. Specimens collected of Pancoloides litoralis and Nototanais dimorphus present morphologicaldifferences with previous descriptions, which are at present attributed to intraspecific variation derived from geographical iso-lation among populations, until sufficient material can be examined to determine what constitutes interspecific and intraspecific variation.
Taxonomic certification versus the scientific method
Authors: ROGERS D. CHRISTOPHER
Published: March 2019

Over the last 30 years or so there has been an increasing need for organism identification services. This has been the positive result of increased habitat monitoring, particularly as regards water quality. Organism diversity and community structure are used as an overall meter stick of habitat health and functionality, in a method referred to as biomonitoring. To meet the organism identification need, private and government laboratories specializing in identification work have been developed, particularly in North America, Europe and Australia. I myself have worked in this industry and was employed in either government or private laboratories over the last 18 years. These laboratories primarily identify benthic aquatic invertebrates, periphyton, phytoplankton, zooplankton and fish (both freshwater and marine).
Review of the Lake Malaŵi genus Melanochromis (Teleostei: Cichlidae) with a description of a new species
Authors: KONINGS ADRIANUS F. , STAUFFER, JR. JAY R.
Published: March 2019

The Lake Malaŵi genus Melanochromis included five species at its inception and was originally distinguished fromPseudotropheus on the basis of morphology, including the arrangement of teeth on the lower pharyngeal bone. Thediagnosis has been extended twice, first to include all elongate mbuna that possess horizontal stripes and U-shaped toothbands and later to exclude mbuna that do not exhibit a sex-related reversal in their colour pattern. Recently, the diagnosisof the genus was refined on the basis of the melanin pattern. The genus now includes only species with a basic melaninpattern, which consists of two black horizontal lateral stripes on a light background. Most adult members of the genus,thus defined, have a sex-related reversal of pigmentation pattern. Here we describe Melanochromis mpoto n. sp. from thenorthwestern part of Lake Malawi, synonymize M. parallelus Burgess & Axelrod 1976 with M. loriae Johnson 1975,redescribe M. chipokae Johnson 1975 and M. robustus Johnson 1985, and reclassify and designate a lectotype for M. brevis Trewavas, 1935.
Chaca serica, a new species of frogmouth catfish (Teleostei: Siluriformes) from southern Borneo
Authors: NG HEOK HEE , KOTTELAT MAURICE
Published: March 2019

Chaca serica, a new species of frogmouth catfish from the Kahayan, Kapuas and Mentaya river drainages in southernBorneo, is described here. It can be distinguished from congeners in having the following combination of characters: theoral margin of the lower lip lacking (vs. having) a series of rugose ridges, presence of nasal barbels, presence of papillaearound the eyes, a temporal fossa extending to the supraoccipital, 7–8 serrae on the anterior edge of the pectoral spine,four pectoral-fin rays, absence of a row of fimbriate skin flaps on the body dorsal to (and sometimes also ventral to) the lateral line, dorsal procurrent caudal-ray base 32.8–37.3% SL, and ventral procurrent caudal-ray base 16.0–19.2% SL.
Checklist of the Elmidae (Coleoptera: Byrrhoidea) of Brazil
Authors: SEGURA MELISSA OTTOBONI , VALENTE-NETO FRANCISCO , FONSECA-GESSNER ALAÍDE APARECIDA
Published: March 2019

Information on the Elmidae that occur in a country is important for the advancement of ecological knowledge and the useof these organisms in biomonitoring programs. To date, there are checklists of elmids recorded in two regions of Brazil—one for the Amazon region, listing 48 species in 14 genera, and another for the state of Rio de Janeiro, listing 13 speciesin 7 genera. Thus, there is no checklist of the Elmidae for Brazil as a whole, and only inconsistent estimates of the numberof species present. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to present a checklist of the Elmidae recorded from Brazil. We basedthis checklist on literature produced between 1882 and 2011. A total of 148 species named plus 1 unnamed species ofElmidae are cited for Brazil, distributed in 24 genera. Moreover, we include taxonomic notes, such as changes in genus, and information about bibliography and distribution.
Swedish Plectida (Nematoda). Part 1. Domorganus suecicus sp. n. from Skagerrak
Authors: HOLOVACHOV OLEKSANDR
Published: March 2019

A new species of Domorganus, D. suecicus sp. n., is described from bottom sediments collected in Skagerrak off the westcoast of Sweden. It is characterised by its long body (1.3–1.6 mm), lateral field originating immediately posterior toamphid, excretory pore located at the level of basal pharyngeal bulb, absence of advulval sensilla, straight spicules andabsence of gubernaculum. The new species has a unique set of characters (position of excretory pore and absence of thegubernaculum) separating it from all other known species of the genus. It shows some resemblance to the previouslydescribed species D. acutus and D. subtilis in body size and most measurements, but can be easily separated from both bythe relatively longer tail, shorter spicules, position of the anterior end of the lateral field near amphid, position of theexcretory pore anterior to pharyngo-intestinal junction, and absence of gubernaculum. A tabular compendium of species of the genus Domorganus is also given.
Esophyllas, a new genus of erigonine spiders from southern California (Araneae: Linyphiidae: Erigoninae)
Authors: PRENTICE THOMAS R. , REDAK RICHARD A.
Published: March 2019

We erect a new genus, Esophyllas n. gen., to place two litter dwelling species of erigonine spiders from southern Califor-nia the type species, E. vetteri n. sp. and E. synankylis n. sp. A detailed genus diagnosis is presented as well as compre-hensive morphological descriptions, artist illustrations, and SEM images for each species. We also provide data on habitataffinities, phenology, and distribution, including a distribution map figure. For tentative phylogenetic placement both spe-cies were scored for the characters in the data matrix of Miller & Hormiga (2004) and subsequently entered into the ex-panded matrix of Frick et al. (2010). The analysis places Esophyllas n. gen. within the “distal erigonines” as sister toScirites Bishop and Crosby in a polytomy with Tapinocyba Simon 1884 and Abacoproeces (L. Koch). Data from morpho-logical comparisons with taxa not included in the expanded matrix do not strongly support these relationships but insteadsuggest that Esophyllas n. gen. is more closely related to Phlattothrata parva (Kulczyn’ski 1926). However, in light ofthe extent of character divergence from the above genera we contend that the true sister group to Esophyllas n. gen. either has not yet been described or is among the vast number of phylogenetically untested taxa.
Description of the advertisement call of Rhinella mirandaribeiroi (Gallardo, 1965) (Anura: Bufonidae)
Authors: DE MORAIS ALESSANDRO RIBEIRO , BASTOS ROGÉRIO PEREIRA , ANNUNZIATA BRUNO BARCELLOS , DE CARVALHO KOKUBUM MARCELO NOGUEIRA , MACIEL NATAN MEDEIROS
Published: March 2019

Currently, the Rhinella granulosa species group is composed by 13 species of toads (R. azarai (Gallardo); R. bergi (Céspedez); R. bernardoi Sanabria et al.; R. centralis (Narvaes & Rodrigues); R. dorbignyi (Duméril & Bibron); R. fernandezae (Gallardo); R. granulosa (Spix); R. humboldti (Gallardo); R. major (Müller & Helmich); R. nattereri (Bokermann); R. merianae Gallardo; R. mirandaribeiroi (Gallardo); R. pygmaea (Myers & Carvalho) that are distributed in South America and Panama (Narvaes & Rodrigues 2009; Sanabria et al. 2010). The advertisement calls have so far been described for the following species in the R. granulosa group R. azarai, R. bergi, R. centralis, R. dorbignyi, R. fernandezae, R. granulosa, R. major, R. merianae (São-Pedro et al. 2011; Guerra et al. 2011). Herein, we describe the advertisement call of R. mirandaribeiroi from Cerrado Biome, Central Brazil.
New generic synomyms in the Chloropidae (Diptera, Acalyptratae), with additional taxonomic notes
Authors: NARTSHUK EMILIA P. , VON TSCHIRNHAUS MICHAEL
Published: March 2019

Myrmemorpha Dufour, 1833 and M. brachyptera Dufour, 1833 are considered as synonyms of Elachiptera Macquart, 1835 andE. brevipennis (Meigen, 1830), respectively (Oscinellinae). Pachychoeta Bezzi, 1895, Melanochaeta Bezzi, 1906 and Pachy-chaetina Hendel, 1907 are considered as synonyms of Oscinella Becker, 1909 as the type-species of these genera, Pachychoetaaterrima Bezzi, 1895 (= Oscinis capreolus Haliday, 1838), is transferred to the genus Oscinella Becker, 1909. LasiochaetaCorti, 1909 (type-species Elachiptera pubescens Thalhammer, 1898) is resurrected from synonymy with Melanochaeta Bezzi,1906. Currently an application is with the ICZN (case 3576) to conserve Oscinella Becker, 1909 by reversed precedence of both Melanochaeta Bezzi, 1906 and Pachychaetina Hendel, 1907. Wing reduction in Chloropidae is also discussed.
A review of Megachile (Chelostomoda) Michener (Megachilidae: Megachilini) known from China with the description of a new species
Authors: NIU ZE-QING , WU YAN-RU , ZHU CHAO-DONG
Published: March 2019

The Chinese species of Megachile (Chelostomoda) Michener, 1962, are treated in this paper. Megachile (C.) guangxiensesp. nov. is described and illustrated. A checklist of the known Chinese species, distribution records, and an updated iden-tification key are provided. The type specimens of M. guangxiense are deposited in the Insect Collection of the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (IZCAS, Beijing).
Interannual Variability of the North Pacific Mixed Layer Associated with the Spring Tibetan Plateau Thermal Forcing
Authors: Sun Ruizao , Duan Anmin , Chen Lilan , Li Yanjie , Xie Zhiang , Zhao Yu
Published: March 2019

By using multisourced data and two sets of sensitivity runs from the coupled general circulation model CESM1.2.0, we investigated the effects of the spring [March, April, and May (MAM)] surface sensible heating over the Tibetan Plateau (SHTP) on the interannual variability of the North Pacific Ocean sea surface temperature (SST) and mixed layer. The results indicated that an above-normal MAM SHTP can generate a Rossby wave downstream and form an anomalous equivalent barotropic anticyclone over the North Pacific, inducing anticyclonic wind stress anomalies. As a result of Ekman transport and Ekman pumping, sea currents converge near 40°N, accompanied by weak downwelling motion. The mixed layer heat budget diagnosis indicates that the net heat fluxes, together with meridional advection anomalies, contributed significantly to changes in the mixed layer temperature (MLT). As a result, the SST anomalies (SSTAs) and MLT anomalies both present a horseshoelike pattern. In addition, the significant warm SSTAs show a maximum in the late spring, but the significant warm MLT anomalies centered under the sea surface (25-m depth) could be sustained until summer, acting like a signal storage for the anomalous spring SHTP. Moreover, the midlatitude ocean–atmosphere interaction provides a positive feedback on the development of the anomalous anticyclone over the North Pacific, since the SSTA pattern could strengthen the oceanic front and induce more active transient eddy activities. The eddy vorticity forcing that is dominant among the total atmospheric forcings tends to produce an equivalent barotropic atmospheric high pressure, which in turn intensifies the initial anomalous anticyclone.
Approximating Input Data to a Snowmelt Model Using Weather Research and Forecasting Model Outputs in Lieu of Meteorological Measurements
Authors: Havens Scott , Marks Danny , FitzGerald Katelyn , Masarik Matt , Flores Alejandro N. , Kormos Patrick , Hedrick Andrew
Published: March 2019

Forecasting the timing and magnitude of snowmelt and runoff is critical to managing mountain water resources. Warming temperatures are increasing the rain–snow transition elevation and are limiting the forecasting skill of statistical models relating historical snow water equivalent to streamflow. While physically based methods are available, they require accurate estimations of the spatial and temporal distribution of meteorological variables in complex terrain. Across many mountainous areas, measurements of precipitation and other meteorological variables are limited to a few reference stations and are not adequate to resolve the complex interactions between topography and atmospheric flow. In this paper, we evaluate the ability of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model to approximate the inputs required for a physics-based snow model, iSnobal, instead of using meteorological measurements, for the Boise River Basin (BRB) in Idaho, United States. An iSnobal simulation using station data from 40 locations in and around the BRB resulted in an average root-mean-square error (RMSE) of 4.5 mm compared with 12 SNOTEL measurements. Applying WRF forcings alone was associated with an RMSE of 10.5 mm, while including a simple bias correction to the WRF outputs of temperature and precipitation reduced the RMSE to 6.5 mm. The results highlight the utility of using WRF outputs as input to snowmelt models, as all required input variables are spatiotemporally complete. This will have important benefits in areas with sparse measurement networks and will aid snowmelt and runoff forecasting in mountainous basins.
Potential Predictability of Regional Precipitation and Discharge Extremes Using Synoptic-Scale Climate Information via Machine Learning: An Evaluation for the Eastern Continental United States
Authors: Knighton James , Pleiss Geoff , Carter Elizabeth , Lyon Steven , Walter M. Todd , Steinschneider Scott
Published: March 2019

Current generation general circulation models (GCMs) simulate synoptic-scale climate state variables such as geopotential heights, specific humidity, and integrated vapor transport (IVT) more reliably than mesoscale precipitation. Statistical downscaling methods that condition precipitation on GCM-based, synoptic-scale climate features have shown promise in the reproduction of local precipitation. However, current approaches to climate-state-informed downscaling impose some limitations on the skill of precipitation reproduction, including hard clustering of climate modes into a discrete set of states, utilization of numerical clustering methodologies poorly suited to nonnormal data, and a tendency to focus on relationships to a limited set of large-scale climate modes. This study presents a methodology based on emerging machine learning techniques to develop global approximators of regional precipitation and discharge extremes given a suite of synoptic-scale climate state variables. Archetypal analysis is first used to define regional modes of winter and summer extreme precipitation and discharge across the eastern contiguous United States. A 2D convolution neural network (NN) is then used to predict the co-occurrence of the archetypes using 300- and 700-hPa geopotential heights, 300- and 700-hPa specific humidity, and IVT. Results suggest that 300-hPa geopotential height, 700-hPa specific humidity, and IVT yield the most reliable predictions, although with some important differences by season and region. Finally, we demonstrate that the trained activations of NN convolutional layers can be used to infer the causal pathways between synoptic-scale climate features and regional extremes.
Examining the Predictability of the Successive MJO Events of November 2011 Using Coupled 30-Day NAVGEM and COAMPS Simulations
Authors: Komaromi William A. , Hong Xiaodong , Janiga Matthew A. , Reynolds Carolyn A. , Ridout James A. , Doyle James D.
Published: March 2019

Given the prohibitive expense of running a global coupled high-resolution model for multiweek forecasts, we explore the feasibility of running a limited-area model forced by a global model on monthly time scales. Specifically, we seek to understand the constraints of the accuracy of lateral boundary conditions (LBCs) produced by NAVGEM on the skill of limited-area COAMPS forecasts. In this study, we analyze simulations of the successive MJO events of November 2011. In the NAVGEM simulations, the effect of ocean boundary conditions are examined, including fixed sea surface temperature (SST), observed SST, and coupled SST with HYCOM. With fixed SST, the second MJO fails to develop, highlighting the importance of the ocean response in the ability to model successive MJO events. Next, we examine the dependence of the regional COAMPS skill on the global model forecast performance. It is found that even when using the inferior but computationally inexpensive uncoupled NAVGEM for LBCs, coupled COAMPS can accurately predict the successive MJO events. A well-resolved atmospheric Rossby wave that slowly propagates westward in the COAMPS domain contributes to increased predictive skill. Ocean coupling and the ability of the model to sufficiently warm the ocean during the convectively suppressed phase also appears to be critical. Last, while COAMPS exhibits a significant moist bias, the sign and magnitude of the vertical and horizontal moisture flux appear to be consistent with reanalysis, a necessary attribute of any model to be used in multiweek MJO prediction.
The Spread of Tropical Storm Tracks in Three Versions of NCEP’s Global Ensemble Model: Focus on Hurricane Edouard (2014)
Authors: Colby Frank P.
Published: March 2019

Since 2012, the National Centers for Environmental Prediction’s Global Ensemble Forecast System (GEFS) has undergone two major upgrades. Version 11 was introduced in December 2015, with a new dynamic scheme, improved physics, increased horizontal and vertical resolution, and a more accurate initialization method. Prior to implementation, retrospective model runs over four years were made, covering multiple hurricane seasons. The second major upgrade was implemented in May 2016, when the data assimilation system for the deterministic Global Forecast System (GFS) was upgraded. Because the GEFS initialization is taken from the deterministic GFS, this upgrade had a direct impact on the GEFS. Unlike the previous upgrade, the model was rerun for only a few tropical cyclones. Hurricane Edouard (2014) was the storm for which the most retrospective runs (4) were made for the new data assimilation system. In this paper, the impact of the GEFS upgrades is examined using seasonal data for the 2014–17 hurricane seasons, and detailed data from the four model runs made for Hurricane Edouard. Both upgrades reduced the spread between ensemble member tracks. The first upgrade reduced the spread but did not reduce the likelihood that the actual track would be included in the family of member tracks. The second upgrade both reduced the spread further and reduced the chance that the real storm track would be within the envelope of member tracks.
ICT and Elections in Nigeria: Rural Dynamics of Biometric Voting Technology Adoption
Authors: Iwuoha Victor Chidubem
Published: March 2019

Applications of Information and Communications Technology (ICT)-driven innovations are profound in the electoral cycle. Among them, biometric technology is currently sweeping across developing countries. It is, however, only poorly adopted among rural voters. Does the use of biometric technology in the conduct of elections reconstruct rural voters’ behaviour, amid prevailing social challenges? The links between these realities and their consequences are currently less understood, and lacking in supporting literature. I argue that the public perception of bio-metric technology, the availability of proper infrastructure, and the distance between polling stations and the dwellings of rural voters all affect the latter's level of adoption of biometric technology. These interactions combine to produce specific modalities that shape voting behaviour and general political culture. I elicit primary data from voters in Nigeria's remote villages, so as to predict the implications and consequences of glossing over the dimensions and magnitude of the biometric technology adaptation challenge by policymakers. I conclude by reflecting on how these interplays and interactions create “spatial differentials” in electoral outcomes/credibility, and proffer possible strategies for institutional intervention.
Impact of Pharmacist-Led Procalcitonin-Guided Antibiotic Therapy in Critically Ill Patients With Pneumonia
Authors: Subedi Bibidh , Louzon Patricia , Zappas Kristie , Onyia Wilfred , DeBoer Kevin
Published: March 2019

Purpose: Procalcitonin (PCT) is a peptide that is released in response to bacterial infections. The 2016 Infectious Diseases Society of America pneumonia guidelines recommend PCT monitoring to help guide antibiotic discontinuation. Utilization of PCT is well described in the literature; however, there is a paucity of literature regarding pharmacists’ involvement for using PCT in antibiotic interventions. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of pharmacist-led intervention with PCT-guided antibiotic therapy in critically ill patients with pneumonia. Methods: This was a pre-post study conducted at a 1368-bed community teaching hospital in the United States. A prospective cohort with pharmacist intervention utilizing PCT-algorithm guidance was compared with a retrospective historical cohort with standard therapy. Adult patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with pneumonia were included. The primary endpoint was duration of antibiotic therapy. Secondary endpoints included 28-day mortality, ICU and hospital length of stay, reinitiation of antibiotic therapy, and the incidence of Clostridium difficile infection. Results: From August 2016 to July 2017, 113 patients were screened in the PCT group and 123 patients in the standard therapy group. Of these, 37 patients were included in the PCT group and 37 patients in the standard therapy group. Baseline characteristics were similar between the 2 groups. The antibiotic duration of therapy was 6.3 days in the PCT group versus 9.7 days in the standard therapy group ( P < .001). There were no differences in secondary endpoints between the 2 groups. Conclusion: Clinical pharmacists’ intervention with PCT-guided antibiotic therapy led to a reduction in the duration of antibiotic therapy in critically ill patients with pneumonia without increasing complications.
‘For Girls it is an Honor …’: Women, Work, and Abortion in Communist Hungary, 1948–56
Authors: Brown Karl
Published: March 2019

Concerned with a falling birth rate in the early 1950s, the Hungarian communist regime banned abortion and encouraged motherhood. A closer inquiry into the 1953 abortion ban and the broader cultural context of crime and policing in early communist Hungary suggests that repression alone was inadequate, as an underground abortion network provided some respite for women seeking to control their reproduction. However, the regime’s pronatalist policy aligned well with the interests and biases of skilled male workers: redirecting women’s efforts from productive to reproductive labor both removed them as competitors at work and returned them to their “proper”, subordinate place. Internal Party documents and interviews with refugees and émigrés conducted before and after 1956 reveal that although women exerted some control over their reproduction throughout the entire period, they were thwarted as much by men’s resistance to working women as by the regime’s intrusive pronatalist policy.
A comparative study about the immunomodulatory effects of tramadol and metamizole in a murine model of postoperative ileus
Authors: Hong Gun-Soo , Stein Kathy , Lysson Mariola , Kalff Joerg , Wehner Sven
Published: March 2019

Postoperative ileus (POI) is a common complication after abdominal surgery characterized by motility disturbances leading to increased morbidity and mortality in surgical patients. Intestinal manipulation of the murine small bowel is an established animal model resulting in an increased postsurgical inflammation within the intestinal muscular externa and a delayed gastrointestinal transit. Some analgesics have been shown to affect inflammation. In this study, we compared the immunomodulatory effects of two different analgesics. Mice were treated with tramadol, metamizole or saline as a control in our established POI model. The postoperative inflammatory response was assessed by gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines at different time points and immunocytes extravasation into the muscularis externa. Functional motility analyses were performed by a gastrointestinal transit measurement. Metamizole application reduced the pro-inflammatory response after surgery and improved gastrointestinal motility, while tramadol showed no alteration in cytokine gene expression, influx of immunocytes and gastrointestinal transit compared with the controls. In conclusion. we suggest tramadol as analgesia in immunological studies on POI in mice as it does not affect the underlying inflammation of POI.
How childhood has changed for tweens
Authors: Fagell Phyllis L.
Published: March 2019

Although the world is changing rapidly, young people’s developmental trajectory has remained the same. Just as in the past, today’s young adolescents with still-developing prefontal cortexes are malleable, impulsive, and impressionable. But Phyllis Fagell identifies three areas where today’s tweens are different from those of the past. They are growing up in a world where digital technology permeates every aspect of their lives. They are facing increased mental health challenges, but less stigma surrounds those challenges. And they are receiving more support to work through identity issues, even as hate groups appear to be on the rise.
The economic roots of helicopter parenting
Authors: Doepke Matthias , Zilibotti Fabrizio
Published: March 2019

In this sexcerpt from their book, Love, Money, and Parenting: How Economics Explains the Way We Raise Our Kids, Matthias Doepke and Fabrizio Zilibotti discuss the phenomenon of helicopter parenting, in which parents spend more time monitoring their kids’ activities. They present empirical evidence for a rise in parental involvement and suggest that greater income inequality and the related higher stakes surrounding children’s educational success may be driving parents to be more attentive.
Developing principals’ data-driven decision-making capacity: Lessons from one urban district
Authors: Pak Katie , Desimone Laura M.
Published: March 2019

Under both No Child Left Behind and the Every Student Succeeds Act, school leaders have been mandated to employ data-driven decision-making (DDDM) to diagnose student needs, implement targeted supports, and design school improvements. However, district administrators tasked with developing principals’ DDDM capacity face a tough road. The authors present four lessons for doing so based on lessons learned from one urban district’s year-long data dashboard intervention for their 200+ principals.
On Leadership: To improve the curriculum, engage the whole system
Authors: Starr Joshua P.
Published: March 2019

Education policy wonks are shifting their attention from standards and accountability to curriculum. Joshua Starr warns that curriculum reform cannot be handed down from above. When reforming their curricula, school and district leaders must take into account the existing curriculum, school governance, resource allocation, tracking and differentiation, politics and community engagement, and teachers’ roles and responsibilities.
Career Confidential: Teacher annoyed that colleagues at other schools think she has it easy
Authors: Fagell Phyllis L.
Published: March 2019

Phyllis Fagell advises a teacher whose friends believe her job teaching at a wealthy public school is easier than their jobs at schools in poor neighborhoods. A principal wants to know what to do about a teacher who complains about a colleague who recently took on a new leadership role. A teacher suspects her principal is having an affair with a teacher.
The Effects of Mixed Membership in a Deliberative Forum: The Irish Constitutional Convention of 2012–2014
Authors: Farrell David M , Suiter Jane , Harris Clodagh , Cunningham Kevin
Published: March 2019

The Constitutional Convention was established by the Irish government in 2012. It was tasked with making recommendations on a number of constitutional reform proposals. As a mini-public, its membership was a mix of 66 citizens (randomly selected) and 33 politicians (self-selected). Its recommendations were debated on the floor of the Irish parliament with three of them leading to constitutional referendums; other recommendations are in the process of being implemented. This article uses data gathered during and after the operation of the Convention to examine this real-world example of a mixed-membership mini-public. The focus is on how the inclusion of politicians may have impacted on the Convention’s mode of operation and/or its outcomes. We find little impact in terms of its operation (e.g. no evidence that politicians dominated the discussions). There is evidence of a slight liberal bias among the politician membership, but this had little effect on the outcomes.
Study of an accurate electronic power measurement technique using modified current transformer and potential transformer
Authors: Saha Sirshendu , Bera Saikat Kumar , Mandal Hiranmoy , Sadhu Pradip Kumar , Bera Satish Chandra
Published: March 2019

In high tension power measurement, potential transformer (PT) and current transformer (CT) are used in order to reduce high tension voltage and current, respectively. But both PT and CT suffer from ratio error and phase angle error, which may produce severe error in power measurement. In the present paper, modified designs of PT and CT are combined to develop an electronic power measurement circuit in order to reduce the measurement errors. The modified PT and CT have reduced phase angle error and ratio error. In the power measurement circuit, the instantaneous product of the outputs of these PT and CT is determined by using a simple light emitting diode (LED)-light dependent register (LDR) or LED-LDR-based product circuit. The operation of the proto type power measurement unit designed in the present work has been experimentally tested and the measured outputs are compared with the readings of laboratory standard wattmeter. The experimental results are reported in the paper. Very good linear characteristics are observed.
Evaluating the Accuracy of Mobile LiDAR for Mapping Airfield Infrastructure
Authors: Lin Yi Chun , Cheng Yi-Ting , Lin Yun-Jou , Flatt John Evan , Habib Ayman , Bullock Darcy
Published: March 2019

Mobile wheel-based LiDAR systems are capable of collecting a dense, accurate point cloud efficiently. Such systems provide accurate geospatial information of a scene, and thus show great potential to serve as an alternative infrastructure monitoring tool. In this study, two different surveys of runway 10/28 at Purdue University Airport (KLAF) were conducted. The surveys were performed in April and July of 2018 before and after a partial runway pavement resurfacing project. The study had two objectives: (1) evaluate the positional accuracy of derived features, and (2) evaluate LiDAR’s ability to detect changes in longitudinal/transversal profiles. The former used 10 static features in the point cloud; the latter used longitudinal and transversal profiles over a 1 mile-long runway section. For the 10 static features (runway lights), the root mean square errors (RMSE) of the coordinate differences are 0.13 ft, 0.08 ft, and 0.09 ft along the x, y, and z-directions, respectively. Considering the range and positional accuracy of the LiDAR and implemented GNSS/INS units, respectively, these RMSE values are acceptable. The derived numerical results from the longitudinal and cross-sectional profiles showed close alignment of pavement elevation where there was no construction activity and a 0.3 ft increase in elevation for the pavement section that was resurfaced. This paper provides a mechanism for evaluating the spatial accuracy of mobile LiDAR data and demonstrates its potential for mapping airfield infrastructure. As the technology improves, it is anticipated that cost-effective solutions yielding sub-centimeter accuracy will be available in next 18 months. Such availability, together with the established repeatability from this study, will stimulate more research and practical applications implementing mobile LiDAR systems.
Understanding Travel Behavior through Travel Happiness
Authors: Mantouka Eleni G. , Vlahogianni Eleni I. , Papacharalampous Alexandros E. , Heydenrijk-Ottens Léonie , Shelat Sanmay , Degeler Viktoriya , van Lint Hans
Published: March 2019

The aim of this paper is to extend past research on travel behavior analysis by investigating travelers’ emotions and perceptions of the system’s performance. Perceived travel happiness as an extension of travel satisfaction is researched in the framework of the decision-making process during traveling. Socio-demographic, cognitive, and affective data were collected from a questionnaire survey that took place in Athens (Greece), the Netherlands, and Barcelona and Salamanca (Spain). A Bayesian network was developed to investigate the interrelations between travel happiness and parameters that affect travel behavior. Findings revealed that travel mode choice directly affects the level of happiness that a person experiences during everyday trips. Moreover, travel happiness is directly associated with the traveler’s perception of the occurrence of disruptions during everyday trips and the level of tolerance he/she has toward such disruptions. Results also indicated that further research should focus on understanding how the topology and performance of each country’s system affect travel-related choices. Finally, a discussion of the most significant results is provided.
Older Chinese Americans’ Perspectives on Physical Activity: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Katigbak Carina , Maglalang Dale Dagar , Nguyen Tam , Wang Minna , Lo Cheuk-Lam
Published: March 2019

The benefits of physical activity for successful aging are well established. Few interventions however, target older Asian Americans who may have distinct needs for cultural and linguistic tailoring. The heterogeneity among Asian Americans underscores the need to elucidate specific physical activity preferences by ethnic subgroup. To better understand older Chinese Americans’ perceptions about physical activity, we conducted a community-engaged, mixed methods study with 60 participants. Through survey and focus groups, four emerging themes characterized perceptions of physical activity: (a) physical activities benefit the body and mind, (b) traditional Chinese culture influences perceptions and preferences for physical activity, (c) physical activity presents opportunities for social engagement, and (d) physical activity facilitates family harmony. Design recommendations includes encouraging mind–body approaches, incorporating culturally specific practices, highlighting opportunities for social engagement, and emphasizing the potential for improved harmony.
A Comparison of Autism-Specific Training Outcomes for Teachers and Paraeducators
Authors: Bertuccio Rebecca F. , Runion Megan C. , Culler Erica D. , Moeller Jeremy D. , Hall Cristin M.
Published: March 2019

Most students with autism engage in the general education (GE) setting for a majority of the school day. Though there are standards to identify the expectations for educating students with autism in the inclusive classroom, GE teachers and paraeducators report limited knowledge and self-efficacy in supporting students with autism, and both indicate a need for more formal training in autism. In the present study, the authors analyzed GE teachers’ and paraeducators’ levels of knowledge and self-efficacy prior to and following autism-focused in-service training. Participants attended an informational and a practical training in which knowledge, self-efficacy, and satisfaction were measured. Results for GE teachers and paraeducators followed similar patterns in that knowledge of autism increased significantly, but did not sustain over time. Levels of self-efficacy increased significantly following the practical training. GE teachers demonstrated higher levels of knowledge compared to paraeducators across time, while levels of self-efficacy converged between the two groups. Implications regarding training and professional development are discussed.
Left ventricular pseudoaneurysm associated with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Hoff L S , Pimentel C Q , Faillace B L R , Rochitte C E , Demarchi L M M F , Bonfá E , Seguro L P C
Published: March 2019

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with several cardiac manifestations but, to our knowledge, there have been no previously published reports on left ventricular (LV) pseudoaneurysm in this disease. We describe a case of a 30-year-old woman with SLE who presented with a disease flare (acute and subacute cutaneous lupus, pericarditis, fever, leukopenia) associated with heart failure syndrome. The patient was diagnosed with a large LV pseudoaneurysm and a bovine pericardium patch closure was performed. Coronary arteries were angiographically normal, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging did not exhibit detectable myocardial fibrosis or infarction. Trauma, previous cardiac surgery, Chagas disease, and antiphospholipid syndrome were excluded. Histopathology of the pericardium revealed lymphocytic arteriolitis raising the possibility of an autoimmune-mediated mechanism for this complication. The unequivocal concomitant diagnosis of lupus flare, the exclusion of other causes of pseudoaneurysm and the histopathological finding of arteriolitis in this patient reinforces the hypothesis of lupus-mediated lesion.
Self-management and adherence in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus: what are we missing?
Authors: Harry O , Crosby L E , Smith A W , Favier L , Aljaberi N , Ting T V , Huggins J L , Modi A C
Published: March 2019

Objectives

The aims of this study are (1) to characterize factors influencing self-management behaviors and quality of life in adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) and (2) to identify barriers and facilitators of treatment adherence via focus groups.

Methods

AYAs with cSLE ages 12–24 years and primary caregivers of the adolescents participated in this study. Recruitment occurred during pediatric rheumatology clinic visits at a Midwestern children's hospital or the hospital's cSLE active clinic registry. Information about disease severity was obtained from patient health records. Pain and fatigue questionnaires were administered. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data.

Results

Thirty-one AYA patients and caregivers participated in six focus groups. Ten major themes emerged from sessions; four were expressed both by the AYA and caregiver groups: knowledge deficits about cSLE, symptoms limiting daily function, specifically mood and cognition/learning, barriers and facilitators of adherence, and worry about the future. Themes unique to AYA participants included symptoms limiting daily functioning—pain/fatigue, self-care and management, impact on personal relationships, and health care provider communication/relationship. For caregiver groups unique themes included need for school advocacy, disruption of family schedule, and sense of normalcy for their adolescent.

Conclusion

AYAs with cSLE face a lifelong disease characterized by pervasive pain, fatigue, organ damage, isolation—social and/or physical—and psycho-socioeducational challenges. This study confirmed that continued psychosocial support, health information education, adherence interventions, and personalized treatment plans are necessary to increase self-management and autonomy in AYAs with cSLE.
Successful conception in a 34-year-old lupus patient following spontaneous pregnancy after autotransplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue
Authors: Chehab G , Krüssel J , Fehm T , Fischer-Betz R , Schneider M , Germeyer A , Suerdieck M B , Kreuzer V , Liebenthron J
Published: March 2019

Premature gonadal failure is a common problem in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) when gonadotoxic therapies are applied. The preservation of gonadal function and fertility is of great importance to many predominantly young SLE patients. Some fertility preservation methods are well established and well known, whereas others are considered more cautiously. In particular, the cryopreservation of ovarian tissue is a rarely chosen fertility preservation option for SLE patients of (pre)fertile age. We report the first case of successful conception and pregnancy of an SLE patient after autotransplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue. A 26-year-old SLE patient decided to undergo cryopreservation of ovarian tissue when receiving cyclophosphamide for lupus nephritis. Tissue removal, preparation, cryopreservation and quality control was performed, as described, according to current state-of-the-art techniques. After 6 years of being in remission using azathioprine and belimumab, her ovarian tissue was autotransplanted because of premature ovarian failure, diagnosed at the age of 32, and a wish to conceive. She conceived spontaneously 8 months later, having a diamniotic-dichoriotic twin pregnancy. The children were born prematurely due to preterm premature rupture of membranes in the 32nd week of gestation; mother and children are doing very well 8 months later. We regard the procedure to be an option worth consideration for our predominantly young SLE patients.