71 results on '"Cummings, Sean"'
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2. Ireland And The Unified Patent Court
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Cummings, Sean
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Ireland -- Contracts ,Intellectual property law -- Contracts ,Contract agreement ,Business, international ,Unified Patent Court -- Powers and duties -- Contracts - Abstract
Despite being an enthusiastic participant in the European Union, Ireland has sat on the sidelines of the EU's Unified Patent Court ('UPC') project so far. But not for much longer [...]
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- 2024
3. In the Deepest Ocean Reaches, a Potent Pollutant Comes to Rest
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Cummings, Sean, primary
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- 2022
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4. During a baby oak's first summer drought, a little leaf munching may help it survive.
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Cummings, Sean
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LEAF area ,FIELD research ,BOTANY ,GEOLOGICAL surveys ,RESEARCH personnel ,DROUGHTS - Abstract
The article discusses how browsing animals like deer may actually help California oak seedlings survive drought by allowing them to conserve water through leaf loss. While this finding is based on greenhouse experiments and not yet verified in the wild, it challenges traditional beliefs about the effects of drought and herbivory on seedlings. The study's authors suggest that controlled browsing could potentially benefit oak populations facing challenges from climate change and intensified grazing. However, further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of this strategy in natural settings. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
5. Famed flipping ship gets second shot at research.
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Cummings, Sean
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OCEANOGRAPHIC buoys , *SHIPS - Abstract
The article discusses the purchase and revitalization of the Floating Instrument Platform (FLIP), a unique ocean research vessel originally used by the U.S. Navy. Topics discussed include FLIP's role in ocean research, its renovation plans by DEEP, a British company focused on developing ocean habitats for research and exploration, and the platform's future potential for scientific exploration, including the use of renewable energy and autonomous vehicles.
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- 2024
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6. Mysterious sea urchin plague is spreading rapidly.
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Cummings, Sean
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SEA urchins , *HABITATS , *MARINE animals , *BALLAST water , *MARINE biologists , *STARFISHES - Abstract
The article discusses the rapid spread of a sea urchin plague, originating from a single-celled pathogen discovered in the Caribbean Sea, now affecting urchin species in the Gulf of Aqaba and potentially threatening marine ecosystems globally, as reported in Current Biology by Omri Bronstein.
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- 2024
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7. This ancient fish has stumped scientists for centuries.
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Cummings, Sean
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FOSSIL fishes , *FINS (Anatomy) , *EXTINCT animals , *RESEARCH personnel , *NATURAL history museums - Abstract
The article discusses the mysterious Pegasus volans, an ancient fish that has puzzled scientists for centuries. The fish's unique ribbonlike body has made it difficult to determine its place on the tree of life. Researchers have ruled out previous ideas and have found similarities to the larvae of modern cusk eels and other fishes in the group Teleostei. However, more information is needed to confirm any relationship. The fish will be given a new genus name in honor of a late musician. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
8. Quantity or Quality: Are Self-Healing Polymers and Elastomers Always Tougher with More Hydrogen Bonds?
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Cummings, Sean C., primary, Dodo, Obed J., additional, Hull, Alexander C., additional, Zhang, Borui, additional, Myers, Camryn P., additional, Sparks, Jessica L., additional, and Konkolewicz, Dominik, additional
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- 2020
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9. Special report: bridging the service gap
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Cummings, Sean and Farrell, Michael
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Technicians -- Supply and demand ,Boating industry -- Recruiting ,Business ,Sport, sporting goods and toys industry - Abstract
Manufacturers of marine products are finding solutions to the shortage of competent marine technicians in the boating industry. This shortage is attributed to the small profit margins from marine services, disparity in warranty percentage and low wages. Manufacturers such as Mercury Marine and Yamaha Motor Corp have began programs designed to promote marine technician careers to high school students. However, students are discouraged to enter the industry due to low wages and lack of manufacturer support.
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- 1997
10. Your future might be waiting at the mall: will mall stores change the way we sell boats?
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Cummings, Sean
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Boats and boating -- Marketing ,Shopping centers -- Economic aspects ,Business ,Sport, sporting goods and toys industry - Abstract
A growing number of boat dealerships are located in shopping malls as an outgrowth of mall boat shows and the trend toward targeting non-boaters. Dealers are banking on the volume of foot traffic in malls in generating sales and leads. Mall boat stores are one of the promotional tools that dealers can use to perk up lackluster sales by exposing boats to the public. These stores can also used to change the common perception that boats are unaffordable. However, there are a number of obstacles to opening mall boat stores, including the need for skilled sales personnel, limited space,high rents and appropriateness to the mall's surroundings.
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- 1997
11. Dual-dynamic interpenetrated networks tuned through macromolecular architecture
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Zhang, Borui, primary, Ke, Jun, additional, Vakil, Jafer R., additional, Cummings, Sean C., additional, Digby, Zachary A., additional, Sparks, Jessica L., additional, Ye, Zhijiang, additional, Zanjani, Mehdi B., additional, and Konkolewicz, Dominik, additional
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- 2019
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12. How jellyfish survive pressures that would crush you into oblivion.
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Cummings, Sean
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JELLYFISHES ,CLIMATE change adaptation ,CTENOPHORA - Abstract
A recent study published in Science has revealed that deep-sea comb jellies rely on extreme pressures to maintain their delicate shape. The researchers found that the cell membranes of these jellies, which are made largely of lipids, require high pressures to function properly. The study suggests that the jellies' membranes contain a lipid type called PPE, which allows them to form stable membranes under extreme pressures. This adaptation has evolved at least three separate times in the group of jellyfish studied. However, the study also highlights that the need for this "Goldilocks zone" could limit the jellies' ability to adapt to climate change, potentially impacting marine ecosystems. The research on the jellies' membranes could also provide insights into our own lipid structures and their role in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
13. Early ants' antennae may have let them 'talk' using pheromones.
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Cummings, Sean
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ANTENNAS (Electronics) ,ANTS ,FOSSIL insects ,PHEROMONES ,INSECT societies - Abstract
Researchers have discovered ancient ants preserved in amber that have the same microscopic structures on their antennae as modern ants, which are used to detect pheromones. This finding suggests that early ants may have communicated using chemical cues, similar to how modern ants do. While not all experts are convinced, this evidence could help scientists determine if the ability to communicate with pheromones played a role in the success of ants. The study used laser microscopy to observe the sensory hairs on the ancient ants' antennae, revealing similarities to modern ants. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
14. Possible U.S. TikTok ban has science communicators on edge.
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Cummings, Sean
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SOCIAL media , *SCIENTIFIC literacy , *FREEDOM of speech - Abstract
The article focuses on the pivotal role of TikTok for science communicators like Brooke Fitzwater, enabling them to share marine biology knowledge effectively. Topics discussed include concerns over potential U.S. TikTok ban due to national security worries, its impact on science communication, and the platform's unmatched ability to reach diverse audiences despite its faults.
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- 2024
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15. Mysterious sea urchin plague is spreading through the world's oceans.
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Cummings, Sean
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SEA urchins ,OCEAN ,HABITATS ,MARINE animals ,BALLAST water ,INTRODUCED species - Abstract
A mysterious sea urchin plague is rapidly spreading through the world's oceans, alarming marine scientists. The plague, caused by a single-celled pathogen called a scuticociliate, has been killing sea urchins in the Caribbean, the Gulf of Aqaba, the Mediterranean, and the Red Sea. The consequences of this widespread die-off could be dire for marine ecosystems, as sea urchins play a crucial role in maintaining the health of coral reefs. The pathogen is spreading at an astonishing speed, potentially reaching Australia and the Great Barrier Reef. Scientists are unsure of how the pathogen travels, but one possibility is that it hitches rides on ship traffic. Slowing the spread of the pathogen may involve testing ballast water as a containment strategy. In the meantime, some scientists are calling for the quarantine of sea urchins in captivity to reintroduce them to affected habitats once the disease is gone. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
16. These caterpillars may anticipate wasp attacks using electric fields.
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Cummings, Sean
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CATERPILLARS ,WASPS ,ELECTRIC charge ,STATIC electricity ,ELECTRIC noise - Abstract
A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that some caterpillars may be able to detect predatory wasps using electric fields. This could be the first known instance of land-dwelling animals using electric senses to protect themselves from predators. The researchers found that when exposed to an artificial wasp electric field, caterpillars remained in defense mode for longer periods of time. However, it is unclear how important the ability to detect electric fields is for protection, as caterpillars may also be sensitive to sound and air currents. The study raises questions about how human activity may be affecting animals' sensory worlds. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
17. In medieval England, leprosy bounced between humans and squirrels.
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Cummings, Sean
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HANSEN'S disease ,SQUIRRELS ,TAMIASCIURUS ,HUMAN beings ,BACTERIAL genomes - Published
- 2024
18. Striking Amazonian butterfly is result of ancient hybrid event.
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Cummings, Sean
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BUTTERFLIES ,SPECIES diversity - Abstract
A recent study published in Nature reveals that the Amazonian butterfly species, Heliconius elevatus, is the result of an ancient hybridization event between two other butterfly species. This finding challenges the notion that matings between different species are typically evolutionary dead ends. The researchers found that H. elevatus shares 99% of its genome with one species and only 1% with another, but it is that 1% of genetic ancestry that gives H. elevatus its distinct traits, such as wing pattern and sex pheromones. This study highlights the potential for hybridization to increase species diversity within ecosystems and provides insights into the complex pathways of evolution. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
19. Satellite signals can measure a forest's moisture—and its ability to survive.
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Cummings, Sean
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MOISTURE ,MEASUREMENT - Abstract
A new study published in Geophysical Research Letters has found that satellite signals can be used to measure a forest's moisture content. By measuring how much GPS satellite signals weaken as they pass through a forest canopy, researchers were able to estimate the canopy's water content. This technique could provide a simple and affordable way to track a forest's water content, which is important for understanding how well forests will adapt to climate change. The method uses two GPS receivers and has been found to match direct measurements of trees' water content. However, high temperatures can sometimes give false readings. The GNSS receivers used in this method are less expensive than other instruments used to measure water content in the field and can be left unattended once installed. Scientists hope to adopt this method more widely to reinforce previous satellite-based studies on plant water stress, crop yields, and more. This research could provide valuable data for understanding how forests will fare under climate change, as water stress is projected to become more frequent in a warming world. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
20. Taxonomic revision of the semi-aquatic skink Parvoscincus leucospilos (Reptilia: Squamata: Scincidae), with description of three new species
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Siler, Cameron D., Linkem, Charles W., Cobb, Kerry, Watters, Jessa L., Cummings, Sean T., Diesmos, Arvin C., and Brown, Rafe M.
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Reptilia ,Squamata ,Animalia ,Biodiversity ,Scincidae ,Chordata ,Taxonomy - Abstract
Siler, Cameron D., Linkem, Charles W., Cobb, Kerry, Watters, Jessa L., Cummings, Sean T., Diesmos, Arvin C., Brown, Rafe M. (2014): Taxonomic revision of the semi-aquatic skink Parvoscincus leucospilos (Reptilia: Squamata: Scincidae), with description of three new species. Zootaxa 3847 (3): 388-412, DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.3847.3.4
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- 2014
21. Parvoscincus tikbalangi Siler, Linkem, Cobb, Watters, Cummings, Diesmos & Brown, 2014, sp. nov
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Siler, Cameron D., Linkem, Charles W., Cobb, Kerry, Watters, Jessa L., Cummings, Sean T., Diesmos, Arvin C., and Brown, Rafe M.
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Reptilia ,Squamata ,Animalia ,Biodiversity ,Scincidae ,Chordata ,Parvoscincus ,Parvoscincus tikbalangi ,Taxonomy - Abstract
Parvoscincus tikbalangi sp. nov. (Figs. 3–5) Parvoscincus leucospilos: Linkem, Diesmos, Brown, 2011 (part); Linkem & Brown, 2013 (part); Brown et al. 2013 b. Holotype. PNM 9795 (ACD Field No. 1989, formerly KU 327785), adult male, collected on 15 February 2005, in Sitio Apaya, Barangay Dibuluan, Municipality of San Mariano, Isabela Province, Luzon Island, Philippines (N: 17.029 °; E: 122.1928 °; WGS- 84; 600 m in elevation), by ACD. Paratypes. KU 320522, 327786 collected on 5 February 2005 in Sitio Apaya, Barangay Dibuluan, Municipality of San Mariano, Isabela Province (same coordinates), by ACD. KU 327787 – 96 collected on 24–26 April 2005 in Barangay Del Pilar, Municipality of San Mariano, Isabela Province (N: 122.104 °, E: 16.8592 °), by ACD. Diagnosis. Parvoscincus tikbalangi can be distinguished from congeners by the following combination of characters: (1) body size medium (SVL 41.5–54.7 mm); (2) Toe-IV lamellae 14–16; (3) supralabials seven; (4) infralabials seven; (5) midbody scale rows 28–32; (6) paravertebral scale rows 58–63; (7) prefrontals separated from first supraocular; (8) frontoparietals fused; (9) head pigmentation moderately mottled; (10) upper arm pigmentation present, patchy; (11) subcaudal pigmentation absent; (12) dorsal white spots faint; (13) dorsal white bands 9–12; (14) lateral body coloration present, tan; (15) tail dorsolaterally compressed; and (16) semi-aquatic (Tables 2, 3). Comparisons. Characters distinguishing Parvoscincus tikbalangi from all species of Parvoscincus are summarized in Tables 2 and 3. Parvoscincus tikbalangi most closely resembles P. duwendorum, P. leucospilos, and P. manananggalae, but differs from P. duwendorum by having seven infralabials (vs. eight); from P. duwendorum and P. manananggalae by having Toe-IV lamellae 13–16 (vs. 12 [P. duwendorum], 17 [P. manananggalae]); from P. duwendorum by having a greater number of midbody scale rows (28–32 vs. 26) and fewer dorsal white bands (9–12 vs. 15); from P. leucospilos and P. manananggalae by having a tendency towards fewer midbody scale rows (28–32 vs. 30–34 [P. leucospilos], 32–33 [P. manananggalae]), fewer paravertebral scale rows (58–63 vs. 61–67 [P. leucospilos], 61–69 [P. manananggalae]), faint dorsal white spots (vs. large and well-defined), and by the presence of tan lateral coloration (vs. presence and bright reddish-orange [P. leucospilos], absence [P. manananggalae]); from P. leucospilos by having seven supralabials (vs. six or seven), moderate head pigmentation mottling (vs. heavy), the presence (vs. absence) of dark pigmentation on the upper arm surface; and from P. manananggalae by the absence (vs. presence) of dark subcaudal pigmentation. Description of holotype. Details of the head scalation are shown in Figure 4. An adult male Parvoscincus, SVL 53.5 mm, with clawed, pentadactyl limbs. Head distinct from neck, characterized by enlarged jaw adductor musculature in temporal region. Snout rounded in dorsal aspect, rounded in lateral aspect; rostral wide forming a nearly straight margin with nasals and frontonasal; frontonasal wider than long, in contact with nasals, rostral, anterior loreal, and prefrontal scales; prefrontals in broad medial contact, in contact with anterior and posterior loreals, frontal, frontonasal, and first supraciliary, separated from first supraocular; frontal greatly longer than wide, in contact with two supraoculars on right, two on left, and first supraciliary, rounded anteriorly, rounded posteriorly; four enlarged supraoculars, first largest; single, large frontoparietal, in contact with supraoculars II–IV; interparietal arrowhead-shaped; parietals in narrow medial contact, in narrow contact with fourth supraocular, in moderate contact with postsupraocular, and secondary temporal; primary temporals two, ventral largest, overlapping dorsal; secondary temporals two, large, dorsal largest, ventral overlapping dorsal; tertiary temporals two, dorsal largest, ventral overlapping dorsal; auricular opening large. Nasal pierced in center by large naris, surrounded anteriorly by rostral, dorsally by frontonasal, posteriorly by anterior loreal, and ventrally by first and second supralabial; anterior loreal one, narrow, posterior loreal roughly equal in size; preoculars two; supralabials seven, fifth subocular; lower eyelid scaly and semi-transparent, nonscaled “window” absent; ear large, moderately sunk. Infralabials seven, decreasing in size posteriorly in series; mental small, forming straight suture with single, large postmental and first infralabials; enlarged chin shields in three pairs; gular scales slightly smaller than ventrals. Body elongate, cylindrical, slender, with 30 equal sized midbody scales, limbs overlapping when adpressed; paravertebral scales 62, imbricate, smooth, without striations, keels or pits. Tail elongate, dorsolaterally compressed, longer than body (TL [85.0] / SVL [53.5] 1.59); subcaudal scales equal to lateral scales for basal half of tail, enlarged for distal half of original tail. Precloacal region with series of enlarged scales between pelvic region and cloaca, more elongate than ventral scales; medial precloacal scales larger; hemipenes everted. Forelimbs smaller than hind limbs, pentadactyl; forelimb scales slightly smaller in size than body scales, imbricate and smooth, reducing slightly in size distally; lamellae becoming slightly keeled distally on each digit; relative digit length I Coloration of holotype in preservative. The background dorsal coloration is dark brown, with a mottled pattern of many different shades of brown. Two faint light brown stripes run longitudinally along the length of the body, with faint light brown spots distributed between. Rows of cream spots are distributed on the dorsolateral surface of the body. The posterior half of the tail is solid medium brown in coloration. The lateral surfaces of the body are heavily mottled dark brown and cream, with small cream spots distributed throughout. The limbs are heavily mottled dark brown and cream, with the exception of a large cream spot on the upper forelimbs, proximate to the body insertion. The ventral surface of the limbs is solid cream in color, with the exception of very faint light brown mottling present on the hands and feet. The ventral portion of the body is solid cream in color to the tip of the tail, which has a medium brown mottled pattern. The dorsal surface of the head is mottled light and medium brown. This mottled color pattern is slightly darker between the eyes. The lateral surface of the head has a slightly lighter brown mottled color pattern. There is a row of six distinct cream spots on the supralabials, which are paired with another six cream spots on the infralabials. Coloration of holotype in life (Differences from preserved specimens; Fig. 5). The cream mottled color pattern and indistinct cream spots present on the lateral surface of the head transition into pale bluish-gray mottled coloration. The lateroventral surfaces of the axilla–groin region of the body and the tail are colored pale orangecream. Within the axilla–groin region and again on the tail, the coloration transitions from more orange in coloration anteriorly to more cream posteriorly. The surface around the upper forelimbs, proximate to the body, is colored light orange-cream. Measurements and scale counts of holotype in mm. SVL 53.5; AGD 26.7; TotL 138.5; TL 85.0; HL 12.2; HW 7.2; SnFa 18.2; ED 3.1; SNL 3.8; IND 1.8; FLL 5.0; HLL 6.4; MBSR 30; PVSR 62; ToeIVlam 16; SL 7; IFL 7; SO 4. Variation. We observed the following variation in the degree of contact between head scales: prefrontals in medial contact (KU 320522, 327785–93, 327795, 327796) or separated (KU 327794). Scale pigmentation was observed to vary among the examined series: dark cloacal scale pigmentation was present (KU 320522, 327785, 327791) or absent (KU 327786 –90, 327792– 96). Distribution, ecology and natural history. Parvoscincus tikbalangi is known only from northeastern Luzon Island in the Isabela Province (Fig. 1). Samples were found in the Barangays Del Pilar and Dibuluan in the Municipality of San Mariano, in the Sierra Madre Mountain range. This semi-aquatic species of forest skink occurs in primary- and secondary-growth forests, in riparian microhabitats. At this time we are unable to appropriately evaluate this species against the IUCN criteria for classification due to the lack of available information about its distribution and natural history. We therefore classify this species Data Deficient DD (IUCN, 2010) pending future studies on this unique semi-aquatic forest skink. Etymology. The specific epithet is a patronym derivation of the name “Tikbalang,” a mythological part man, part horse mountain forest creature from Filipino folklore. Tikbalang is said to jump down from trees to dispatch its unsuspecting victims by decapitation. Suggested common name: Sierra Madres Aquatic Skink.
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- 2014
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22. Parvoscincus leucospilos Peters 1872
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Siler, Cameron D., Linkem, Charles W., Cobb, Kerry, Watters, Jessa L., Cummings, Sean T., Diesmos, Arvin C., and Brown, Rafe M.
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Reptilia ,Squamata ,Animalia ,Biodiversity ,Scincidae ,Chordata ,Parvoscincus ,Taxonomy ,Parvoscincus leucospilos - Abstract
Parvoscincus leucospilos (Peters 1872) (Figs. 3���5) Lygosoma (Hinulia) leucospilos Peters, 1872: 684. Sphenomorphus leucospilos Brown and Alcala, 1980: 172; Bauer et al., 1995; Linkem et al., 2011; McLeod et al., 2011. Parvoscincus leucospilos Linkem, Diesmos & Brown, 2011; Linkem & Brown 2013 (part) Type designation. Based on ICZN articles 74.1 and 74.7 and in accordance with recommendation 74 D we designate ZMB 7467 as the lectotype of Parvoscincus leucospilos. Specimen CAS 64232 is designated a paralectotype. Diagnosis. Parvoscincus leucospilos can be distinguished from congeners by the following combination of characters: (1) body size medium (SVL 42.6���54.4 mm); (2) Toe-IV lamellae 15���17; (3) supralabials six or seven; (4) infralabials 6���9; (5) midbody scale rows 30���34; (6) paravertebral scale rows 61���67; (7) prefrontals in medial contact; (8) prefrontals contact first supraocular; (9) frontoparietals fused; (10) head pigmentation heavily mottled; (11) upper arm pigmentation absent; (12) subcaudal pigmentation absent; (13) dorsal white spots large, welldefined; (14) dorsal white bands 9���13; (15) lateral body coloration bright reddish-orange; (16) tail dorsolaterally compressed; and (17) semi-aquatic (Tables 2, 3). Comparisons. Characters distinguishing Parvoscincus leucospilos from all species of Parvoscincus are summarized in Tables 2 and 3. Parvoscincus leucospilos most closely resembles P. duwendorum, P. manananggalae, and P. tikbalangi. However, P. leucospilos differs from these three taxa by having head pigmentation heavily mottled (vs. moderately mottled; Figs. 4, 5), and by the absence (vs. presence) of dark pigmentation on the upper arm surface. Parvoscincus leucospilos further differs from P. duwendorum and P. manananggalae by having prefrontals in medial contact (vs. separated); from P. duwendorum and P. tikbalangi by having dorsal white spots large and well-defined (vs. faint); from P. manananggalae and P. tikbalangi by the presence of bright reddish-orange lateral coloration (vs. absence of coloration [P. manananggalae], presence, reduced, tan [P. tikbalangi]); from P. duwendorum by having a greater number of Toe-IV lamellae (15���17 vs. 12), a greater number of paravertebral scale rows (61���67 vs. 60), a greater number of midbody scale rows (30���34 vs. 26), a tendency towards a greater number of longitudinal ventral scale rows (41���47 vs. 41), and fewer dorsal white bands (9���13 vs. 15); from P. manananggalae by the absence of subcaudal dark pigmentation (vs. presence); and from P. tikbalangi by having a tendency towards a greater number of paravertebral scale rows (61���67 vs. 58���63) and a tendency towards a greater number of midbody scale rows (30���34 vs. 28���32). Redescription (based on examination of paralectotype, CAS 64232, and 10 recently collected specimens, Appendix 2). Details of the head scalation of an adult male (KU 313870) are shown in Figure 4, and scientific illustrations of the dorsal and lateral views of the head of the paralectotype are shown in Figure 6. A medium sized Parvoscincus, SVL 42.6���54.4 mm, with clawed, pentadactyl limbs. Head distinct from next, with enlarged jaw adductor musculature in the temporal region. Snout pointed in dorsal aspect, rounded in lateral aspect; rostral wide forming a nearly perpendicular margin with frontonasal, slightly rounded margin with nasals; frontonasal wider than long, in contact with nasals, rostral, anterior loreal, and prefrontal scales; prefrontals in broad medial contact, in contact with anterior and posterior loreals, frontal, frontonasal, and first supraocular, and in some specimens, in point contact with first supraciliary; frontal greatly longer than wide, in contact with two supraoculars on right, two on left, rounded anteriorly, pointed posteriorly; four enlarged supraoculars, first largest; single, large frontoparietal, in contact with supraoculars II���IV or III and IV; interparietal arrowhead-shaped; parietals in moderate to broad medial contact, in contact with fourth supraocular, postsupraoculars, and primary and secondary temporals; primary temporals two, ventral largest, overlapping dorsal; secondary temporals two, large, dorsal largest, ventral overlapping dorsal; tertiary temporals two, dorsal largest, ventral overlapping dorsal; auricular opening large. Nasal pierced in center by large naris, surrounded anteriorly by rostral, dorsally by frontonasal, posteriorly by anterior loreal, and ventrally by first supralabial; anterior loreal one, posterior loreal roughly equal in size; preoculars two; supralabials six or seven; lower eyelid scaly, semi-transparent, nonscaled ���window��� absent; ear large, moderately sunk. Infralabials 6���9, decreasing in size posteriorly in series; mental small, forming straight suture with single, large postmental and first infralabials; enlarged chin shields in three pairs; gular scales slightly smaller than ventrals. Body elongate, cylindrical, slender, with 30���34 equal sized midbody scales, limbs overlapping when adpressed; paravertebral scales 61���67, imbricate, smooth, without striations, keels or pits. Tail elongate, dorsolaterally compressed, longer than body (TL/SVL 0.99���1.57 [1.26 �� 0.18]); subcaudal scales similar to lateral scales for basal half of tail, enlarged for distal half of original tail. Precloacal region with series of enlarged scales between pelvic region and cloaca, more elongate than ventral scales; medial precloacal scales larger. Forelimbs smaller than hind limbs, pentadactyl; forelimb scales slightly smaller in size than body scales, imbricate and smooth, reducing slightly in size closer to manus; lamellae becoming slightly keeled distally on each digit; relative digit length I Coloration in preservative (Figs. 3, 4). The dorsal background color is medium brown, with pronounced mottling of various shades of brown. Three longitudinal rows of cream spots, ringed with darker brown, start just behind the head and run the length of the body with faint light brown longitudinal stripes between. Spotting and striping fade into a solid medium brown color approximately halfway down the tail. On the lateral surface of the body, spots merge to become indistinct perpendicular cream stripes, with mottled medium brown between. This pattern fades indistinctly into the solid cream present on the ventral surface. The distinctive forelimb spot is pronounced and continues nearly to the first joint. Otherwise, the mottled pattern present on the dorsal surface of the body continues down the dorsal surface of the fore- and hind limbs. The ventral surface of the limbs is a solid cream, with the exception of very faint light brown mottling present on the hands and feet. The solid ventral cream color of the body extends to about halfway down the length of the tail, then transitions to thin medium brown perpendicular stripes. The stripes become increasingly close together as they approach the tail tip, which is a solid medium brown. The dorsal surface of the head is mottled the same as the dorsal surface of the body, with various shades of brown. Three small cream spots are arranged in a triangle on the head just posterior to the eyes. A series of distinct cream spots are visible on the labial scales, one row on the supralabial series and one on the infralabial series. A slightly lighter brown mottling occurs just below the eye and is present between the spots. The ventral surface of the head and body are solid cream in color. Coloration in life ( Differences from preserved specimens; Fig. 5). On the lateral surfaces of the body, the dark brown, mottled ground coloration is replaced with a vivid reddish-orange ground color, with randomly distributed small cream spots. The non-mottled patch on the upper forelimb proximate to the body is also a solid reddishorange color. The cream and brown mottling on the lateral surface of the head and the body anterior to the forelimb insertion is replaced by a pale blue and brown mottled pattern. Measurements and scale counts of paralectotype in mm. SVL 44.2; AGD 23.2; TotL 101.0; TL 56.8; HL 6.1; HW 5.4; SnFa 16.5; ED 2.2; SNL 3.7; IND 1.0; FLL 4.3; HLL 6.2; MBSR 31; PVSR 63; ToeIVlam 17; SL 7; IFL 7; SO 4. Distribution, ecology and natural history. Parvoscincus leucospilos is known from south-central and southeastern Luzon Island (Fig. 1). No mention of the specific locality or province on Luzon Island was given for the types (Peters, 1872). Although we are certain of our identification of P. leucospilos, we are unable to pinpoint the type locality on the basis of available specimens. Specimens are from Mt. Labo, Camarines Norte Province (KU 313870), Mt. Palali, Barangay Maddiangat, Municipality of Quezon, Nueva Vizcaya Province (KU 325806 ��� 13), Barangay Kabayunan, Municipality of Dona Remedios Trinidad, Bulucan Province (KU 329388 ��� 92) and Mt. Banahao, Municipality of Tayabas, Quezon Province (TNHC 62682). The known elevational range of this species is 200���800 meters above sea level, based on Brown et al. (2013 b). Parvoscincus leucospilos occurs in primary- and secondary-growth forest habitats in riparian microhabitats; this semi-aquatic species frequently dives into cold, rapidly running water of montane streams when disturbed. The species is primarily found active during the day and has also been found sleeping on the edge of running water in forest debris at night. Parvoscincus leucospilos can be found in sympatry with Parvoscincus abstrusus, P. arvindiesmosi, P. beyeri, P. jimmymcguirei, P. laterimaculatus, and P. st eerei. We have evaluated this species against the IUCN criteria for classification, and find that it does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable, or Near Threatened status. Parvoscincus leucospilos is quite abundant at sampled localities provided that some vegetation cover borders the streams where it has been collected and observed. We therefore classify this species as Least Concern LC (IUCN, 2010). Etymology. The specific epithet ��� leucospilos ��� apparently refers to the distinctive coloration of this species, consisiting of prominent rows of white (from the Latin adjective ��� leucos ���) spots (Latin, noun, ��� spilos ���) down the dorsal surfaces of the body., Published as part of Siler, Cameron D., Linkem, Charles W., Cobb, Kerry, Watters, Jessa L., Cummings, Sean T., Diesmos, Arvin C. & Brown, Rafe M., 2014, Taxonomic revision of the semi-aquatic skink Parvoscincus leucospilos (Reptilia: Squamata: Scincidae), with description of three new species, pp. 388-412 in Zootaxa 3847 (3) on pages 393-397, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.3847.3.4, http://zenodo.org/record/226283, {"references":["Peters, W. C. H. (1872) Uber eine neue von Hrn. Dr. A. B. Meyer auf Luzon entdeckte Art von Eidechsen (Lygosoma (Hinulia) leucospilos) und eine von demselben in Nordcelebes gefundene neue Schlangengattung (Allophis nigricaudus). Monatsberichte der Koniglich preussischen Akademie der Wissenschaften zu Berlin, 1872, 684 - 687.","Brown, W. C. & Alcala, A. C. (1980) Philippine Lizards of the Family Scincidae. Silliman University Press, Dumaguete City, Philippines, 264 pp.","Linkem, C. W., Diesmos, A. C. & Brown, R. M. (2011) Molecular systematics of the Philippine forest skinks (Squamata: Scincidae: Sphenomorphus): testing morphological hypotheses of interspecific relationships. Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, 163, 1217 - 1243. http: // dx. doi. org / 10.1111 / j. 1096 - 3642.2011.00747. x","McLeod, D. S., Siler, C. D., Diesmos, A. C., Diesmos, M. L. D., Garcia, V. S., Arkonceo, A. O., Balaquit, K. L., Uy, C. C., Villaseran, M. M., Yarra, E. C. & Brown, R. M. (2011) Amphibians and Reptiles of Luzon Island, V: the herpetofauna of Angat Dam Watershed, Bulacan Province, Luzon Island, Philippines. Asian Herpetological Research, 2011, 177 - 198. http: // dx. doi. org / 10.3724 / sp. j. 1245.2011.00177","Brown, R. M., Siler, C. D., Oliveros, C. H., Welton, L. J., Rock, A., Swab, J., Van Weerd, M., van Beijnen, J., Jose, E., Rodriguez, D., Jose, E. & Diesmos, A. C. (2013 b) The amphibians and reptiles of Luzon Island, Philippines, VIII: the herpetofauna of Cagayan and Isabela Provinces, northern Sierra Madre Mountain Range. Zookeys, 266, 1 - 120. http: // dx. doi. org / 10.3897 / zookeys. 266.3982"]}
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- 2014
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23. Parvoscincus duwendorum Siler, Linkem, Cobb, Watters, Cummings, Diesmos & Brown, 2014, sp. nov
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Siler, Cameron D., Linkem, Charles W., Cobb, Kerry, Watters, Jessa L., Cummings, Sean T., Diesmos, Arvin C., and Brown, Rafe M.
- Subjects
Reptilia ,Squamata ,Animalia ,Biodiversity ,Scincidae ,Chordata ,Parvoscincus ,Parvoscincus duwendorum ,Taxonomy - Abstract
Parvoscincus duwendorum sp. nov. (Figs. 3–5) Parvoscincus leucospilos Linkem, Diesmos, Brown, 2011 (part); Linkem & Brown, 2013 (part); Brown et al. 2012. Holotype. PNM 9793 (RMB Field No. 14261, formerly KU 329929), subadult, collected on 18 June 2011, on Mt. Pao, Barangay Adams, Municipality of Adams, Ilocos Norte Province, Luzon Island, Philippines (N: 18.438 °, E: 120.878 °; WGS- 84; 750 m in elevation), by RMB. Diagnosis. Parvoscincus duwendorum can be distinguished from congeners by the following combination of characters: (1) adult body size presumed medium (subadult SVL 33.5 mm); (2) Toe-IV lamellae 12; (3) supralabials seven; (4) infralabials eight; (5) midbody scale rows 26; (6) paravertebral scale rows 60; (7) prefrontals separated; (8) prefrontals contact first supraocular; (9) frontoparietals fused; (10) head pigmentation moderately mottled; (11) upper arm pigmentation present, patchy; (12) cloacal scale dark pigmentation absent; (13) subcaudal pigmentation absent; (14) dorsal white spots faint; (15) dorsal white bands 15; (16) tail dorsolaterally compressed; and (17) semi-aquatic (Tables 2, 3). Comparisons. Characters distinguishing Parvoscincus duwendorum from all species of Parvoscincus are summarized in Tables 2 and 3. Parvoscincus duwendorum most closely resembles P. manananggalae, P. leucospilos, and P. tikbalangi. However, P. duwendorum differs from these three taxa by having Toe-IV lamellae 12 (vs. 17 [P. manananggalae], 15–17 [P. leucospilos], 14–16 [P. tikbalangi]), fewer midbody scale rows (26 vs. 32–33 [P. manananggalae], 30–34 [P. leucospilos], 28–32 [P. tikbalangi]), a greater number of dorsal white spot rows (15 vs. 9–13 [P. leucospilos], 9–12 [P. manananggalae, P. tikbalangi]), and the absence of precloacal scale dark pigmentation (vs. absence or presence [P. leucospilos, P. tikbalangi], presence [P. manananggalae]). Parvoscincus duwendorum further differs from P. leucospilos and P. manananggalae by having fewer paravertebral scale rows (60 vs. 61–67 [P. leucospilos], 61–69 [P. manananggalae]); from P. manananggalae and P. tikbalangi by having infralabials eight (vs. six or seven [P. manananggalae], seven [P. tikbalangi]); from P. leucospilos by having head pigmentation moderately mottled (vs. heavily mottled), and the presence of dark pigmentation on the upper arm surface (vs. absence); from P. manananggalae by having fewer longitudinal ventral scale rows (41 vs. 43–49), and the absence (vs. presence) of subcaudal dark pigmentation; from P. leucospilos and P. tikbalangi by having prefrontals separated (vs. in medial contact [P. leucospilos], separated or in medial contact [P. tikbalangi]); and from P. tikbalangi by having prefrontals and first supraoculars in contact (vs. separated). TABLE 2. Distribution of diagnostic characters (+ present; 0 absent) among species in the genus Parvoscincus. Parvoscincus palawanensis does not have prefrontal scales. (A) Brown et al. 2010, ) Linkem and Brown, 2013, (C) Brown and Alcala 1980, (D) Ferner et al. 1997. Characters included for comparison are: snout–vent length (SVL), midbody scale-row count (MBSR), paravertebral scale-row count (PVSR), Toe-IV lamellae count (ToeIVlam), supralabial count (SL), infralabial count (IFL), number of anterior loreals, contact between profrontal scales, and microhabitat preference. leucospilos duwendorum manananggalae tikbalangi (6 m 1, 5 f) (1 juv.) (3 m, 2 f) (7 m, 1 f) Paralectotype (CAS 64232) presumed male following visual inspection of external body; authors avoided creating incision on rare type specimen. Description of holotype. Details of the head scalation are shown in Figure 4. A subadult Parvoscincus, SVL 33.5 mm, with clawed, pentadactyl limbs. Head distinct from neck, characterized by enlarged jaw adductor musculature in temporal region. Snout sharply pointed in dorsal aspect, rounded in lateral aspect; rostral wide forming a nearly perpendicular margin with nasals and frontonasal; frontonasal equally wide as long, in contact with nasals, rostral, anterior loreal, and prefrontal scales; prefrontals broadly separated, in contact with anterior and posterior loreals, frontal, frontonasal, first supraciliary, and first supraocular; frontal greatly longer than wide, in contact with two supraoculars on right, two on left, rounded anteriorly, sharply rounded posteriorly; four enlarged supraoculars, first largest; single, large frontoparietals, in contact with supraoculars II–IV; interparietal arrowhead; parietals in moderate medial contact, in contact with fourth supraocular, postsupraocular, and secondary temporal; primary temporals two, ventral largest, overlapping dorsal; secondary temporals two, large, dorsal largest, ventral overlapping dorsal; tertiary temporals two, dorsal largest, ventral overlapping dorsal; auricular opening large. Nasal pierced in center by large naris, surrounded anteriorly by rostral, dorsally by frontonasal, posteriorly by anterior loreal, and ventrally by first supralabial; anterior loreal one, posterior loreal equal in size; preoculars two; supralabials seven, fifth subocular; lower eyelid scaly and semi-transparent, nonscaled “window” absent; ear large, moderately sunk. Infralabials eight, decreasing in size posteriorly in series; mental small, forming straight suture with single, large postmental and first infralabials; enlarged chin shields in three pairs; gular scales slightly smaller than ventrals. Body elongate, cylindrical, slender, with 26 equal sized midbody scales, limbs overlapping when adpressed; paravertebral scales 60, imbricate, smooth, without striations, keels or pits. Tail elongate, dorsolaterally compressed, longer than body (TL [50.0] / SVL [33.5] 1.49); subcaudal scales nondifferentiated for basal half of tail, enlarged for distal half of original tail. Precloacal region with series of enlarged scales between pelvic region and cloaca, more elongate than ventral scales; medial precloacal scales larger. FIGURE 6. Illustration of head of the examined Parvoscincus leucospilos paralectotype (CAS 64232) in dorsal and lateral views. Taxonomically diagnostic head scales are labeled as follows: C, chin shield; F, frontal; FN, frontonasal; FP, frontoparietal; IL, infralabial; IP, interparietal; L, loreal; M, mental; N, nasal; P, parietal; PF, prefrontal; PM, postmental; PO, preocular; PSO, presubocular; PoSO, postsupraoculars; R, rostral; SC, supraciliary; SL, supralabial; SO, supraocular; T 1, primary temporal; T 2, secondary temporal; and T 3, tertiary temporal. Roman numerals indicate scales in the supraocular series. Illustrations by STC and CDS. Forelimbs smaller than hind limbs, pentadactyl; forelimb scales slightly smaller in size than body scales, imbricate and smooth, reducing slightly in size closer to manus; lamellae becoming slightly keeled distally on each digit; relative digit length with lamellae V Coloration of holotype in preservative. The dorsal background color is medium brown, with tan mottling throughout. Two parallel light brown stripes run longitudinally down the body, starting at the base of the head and merging to one just past the start of the tail. Between these two stripes is a paravertebral row of darker brown spots. The venter color is a solid cream, without mottling. Along the lateral surface of the body, the dorsal and ventral color patterns merges in a scalloped pattern. There is a distinct cream spot on the forelimbs, just proximate to the body. The dorsal fore- and hind limbs possess the same mottling pattern present on the dorsal surface of the body. The ventral surfaces of the limbs are a solid cream color. The dorsal surface of the hands and feet are a mottled medium brown, with the exception of the cream-colored Finger I and Finger II on the forelimbs and Toe V on the hind limbs. The dorsal and dorsolateral surfaces of the head have a light and medium brown mottled pattern. This coloration transitions sharply into a cream and light brown mottled pattern ventrally. The labial scales are mottled light brown and cream. The ventral surface of the head is solid cream in color. Color in life —Coloration in life did not differ substantially from the preserved holotype (RMB, personal observations). Measurements and scale counts of holotype in mm. SVL 33.5; AGD 17.5; TotL 83.5; TL 50.0; HL 4.0; HW 7.7; SnFa 12.4; ED 1.5; SNL 2.7; IND 1.3; FLL 3.3; HLL 4.0; MBSR 26; PVSR 60; ToeIVlam 12; SL 7; IFL 8; SO 4. Distribution, ecology and natural history. Parvoscincus duwendorum is known from a single specimen found at 750 elevation on Mt. Pao in the Ilocos Norte Province of northwestern Luzon Island (Fig. 1). Although the species is recognized currently to occur in secondary-growth forest habitats, it is presumed the species also inhabits suitable primary forest. This species is semi-aquatic and can be found near riparian habitat. Parvoscincus duwendorum can be found in sympatry with Parvoscincus igorotorum, P. jimmymcguirei, and P. steerei. The new species was also observed on Mt. Cagua at 300–500 m (Brown et al 2013 b) but specimens eluded biologists by jumping in rapidly running montane streams. At this time we are unable to appropriately evaluate this species against the IUCN criteria for classification due to the lack of available information about its distribution and natural history. We therefore classify this species Data Deficient DD (IUCN, 2010) pending future studies on this unique semi-aquatic forest skink. Etymology. The specific epithet is a plaural derivation of the Filipino folklore term “Duwende,” which is chosen here to celebrate the country’s rich tradition of mythological forest animals and spirits. Duwendes are believed to be little fairy-like forest creatures, such as goblins, pixies, and elves, and believed to live in trees, termite mounds, and burrows in hillsides. The may bring bad or good fortune to humans and are often considered to be mischievous in nature. Suggested common name: Cordillera Aquatic Skink.
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- 2014
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24. Parvoscincus manananggalae Siler, Linkem, Cobb, Watters, Cummings, Diesmos & Brown, 2014, sp. nov
- Author
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Siler, Cameron D., Linkem, Charles W., Cobb, Kerry, Watters, Jessa L., Cummings, Sean T., Diesmos, Arvin C., and Brown, Rafe M.
- Subjects
Reptilia ,Parvoscincus manananggalae ,Squamata ,Animalia ,Biodiversity ,Scincidae ,Chordata ,Parvoscincus ,Taxonomy - Abstract
Parvoscincus manananggalae sp. nov. (Figs. 3���5) Sphenomorphus leucospilos: Linkem, Diesmos, Brown, 2011 (part); Linkem & Brown, 2013 (part); Brown et al., 2000; Siler et al., 2011 d. Holotype. PNM 9794 (RMB Field No. 10719, formerly KU 323928), adult male, collected on rocks near a rapid flowing stream during the day on 21 June 2009, in Barangay Lipimental, Municipality of San Luis, Aurora Province, Luzon Island, Philippines (N: 15.653; E: 121.507; WGS- 84; 515 m in elevation), by RMB, CDS, L. Welton. Paratypes. KU 323920 ���27, 323929��� 30 collected 21 June 2009; CMNH 5792 (from Brown et al. 2000). Diagnosis. Parvoscincus manananggalae can be distinguished from congeners by the following combination of characters: (1) body size medium (SVL 47.3���55.9 mm); (2) Toe-IV lamellae 17; (3) supralabials seven; (4) infralabials six or seven; (5) midbody scale rows 32���33; (6) paravertebral scale rows 61���69; (7) prefrontals separated; (8) prefrontals contact first supraocular; (9) frontoparietals fused; (10) head pigmentation moderately mottled; (11) upper arm pigmentation present, patchy; (12) cloacal scale dark pigmentation present; (13) subcaudal pigmentation present; (14) dorsal white spots large, well-defined; (15) dorsal white bands 9���12; (16) bright lateral body coloration absent; (17) tail dorsolaterally compressed; and (18) semi-aquatic (Tables 2, 3). Comparisons. Characters distinguishing Parvoscincus manananggalae from all species of Parvoscincus are summarized in Tables 2 and 3. Parvoscincus manananggalae most closely resembles P. duwendorum, P. leucospilos, and P. tikbalangi. However, P. manananggalae differs from these three taxa by the presence of subcaudal dark pigmentation (vs. absence). Parvoscincus manananggalae further differs from P. duwendorum and P. tikbalangi by having dorsal white spots large and well-defined (vs. faint), Toe-IV lamellae 17 (vs. 12 [P. duwendorum], 14���16 [P. tikbalangi]); from P. leucospilos and P. tikbalangi by the absence of bright lateral coloration (vs. presence and bright reddish-orange [P. leucospilos], presence, reduced, tan [P. tikbalangi]); from P. duwendorum by having a greater number of paravertebral scale rows (61���69 vs. 60), a greater number of longitudinal ventral scale rows (43���49 vs. 41), a greater number of midbody scale rows (32���33 vs. 26), dorsal white bands 9���12 (vs. 15), and the presence of cloacal scale dark pigmentation (vs. absence); from P. leucospilos by having prefrontals separated (vs. in medial contact), head pigmentation moderately mottled (vs. heavily mottled), and the presence of dark pigmentation on the upper arm surface (vs. absence); and from P. tikbalangi by having a tendency towards a greater number of midbody scale rows (32���33 vs. 28���32) and fewer paravertebral scale rows (61���69 vs. 58���63), and the presence of contact between prefrontal and first supraocular scales (vs. absence). Description of holotype. Details of the head scalation are shown in Figure 4. An adult male Parvoscincus, SVL 55.9 mm, with clawed, pentadactyl limbs; head distinct from neck, characterized by enlarged jaw adductor musculature in temporal region. Snout pointed in dorsal aspect, rounded in lateral aspect; rostral wide forming a nearly perpendicular margin with frontonasal, rounded margin with nasals; frontonasal equally wide as long, in contact with nasals, rostral, anterior loreal, and prefrontal scales; prefrontals in point medial contact, in contact with anterior and posterior loreals, frontal, frontonasal, first supraciliary, and first supraocular; frontal greatly longer than wide, in contact with two supraoculars on right, two on left, rounded anteriorly, rounded posteriorly; four enlarged supraoculars, first largest; single, large frontoparietal, in contact with supraoculars II���IV; interparietal arrowhead-shaped; parietals in narrow medial contact, in narrow contact with fourth supraocular, in moderate contact with postsupraocular, and secondary temporal; primary temporals two, ventral largest, overlapping dorsal; secondary temporals two, large, dorsal largest, ventral overlapping dorsal; tertiary temporals two, dorsal largest, ventral overlapping dorsal; auricular opening large. Nasal pierced in center by large naris, surrounded anteriorly by rostral, dorsally by frontonasal, posteriorly by anterior loreal, and ventrally by first and second supralabial; anterior loreal one, narrow, sharply curved contact with nasal, posterior loreal lower in height, 2 x width of anterior loreal; preoculars two; supralabials seven, fifth subocular; lower eyelid scaly and semi-transparent, nonscaled ���window��� absent; ear large, moderately sunk. Infralabials seven, decreasing in size posteriorly in series; mental small, forming straight suture with single, large postmental and first infralabials; enlarged chin shields in three pairs; gular scales slightly smaller than ventrals. Body elongate, cylindrical, slender, with 32 equal sized midbody scales, limbs overlapping when adpressed; paravertebral scales 68, imbricate, smooth, without striations, keels or pits. Tail elongate, dorsolaterally compressed, longer than body (TL [67.0] / SVL [55.9] 1.20); subcaudal scales nondifferentiated for basal half of tail, enlarged for distal half of original tail. Precloacal region with series of enlarged scales between pelvic region and cloaca, more elongate than ventral scales; medial precloacal scales larger; left hemipene everted. Forelimbs smaller than hind limbs, pentadactyl; forelimb scales slightly smaller in size than body scales, imbricate and smooth, reducing slightly in size distally; lamellae becoming slightly keeled distally on each digit; relative digit length I Coloration of holotype in preservative. The dorsal background color is dark brown, with extensive mottling of several shades of brown. Three dorsal longitudinal rows of cream spots start posterior to the head and continue to the anteriormost portions of the tail, where the pattern becomes mottled more darkly brown. Lighter brown mottling is present in between the three dorsal rows of spots. The dorsal mottling pattern is more broken up with small cream spots on the lateral surface of the body, until eventually becoming a solid cream on the ventral side of the body. Similar small cream spots are present and sporadically distributed across the dorsal surface of both sets of limbs, continuing distal to the distinct large cream band on the forelimb, proximate to the body. The ventral surfaces of the feet are heavily mottled brown, except for Fingers I and II and Toe V. The solid cream ventral body coloration is broken up at the cloaca by four heavily pigmented enlarged precloacal scales. The ventral surface of the tail is mottled medium and dark brown, except for the area just posterior to the cloaca, which is solid cream in color. The mottled pattern on the dorsal surface of the head is a lighter brown than the dorsal surface of the body. This mottling is slightly darker around the orbits. There are two small cream spots just anterior to the eyes. There is a transition to a lighter mottled pattern on the lateral surface of the head starting just ventral to the eyes that continues to the venter. The supra- and infralabial series have four distinct tan spots, surrounded on either side by one indistinct spot. The ventral surface of the head is solid cream. Coloration of holotype in life (Differences from preserved specimens; Fig. 5). The cream mottling and indistinct cream spots present on the lateroventral surface of the head, body, and tail is replaced by light pale bluish-gray coloration. Bright lateral coloration is absent in this species. Measurements and scale counts of holotype in mm. SVL 55.9; AGD 29.3; TotL 122.9; TL 67.0; HL 12.2; HW 7.3; SnFa 18.1; ED 2.7; SNL 4.2; IND 2.1; FLL 5.5; HLL 6.6; MBSR 32; PVSR 68; ToeIVlam 17; SL 7; IFL 7; SO 4. Variation. Scale pigmentation was observed to vary among the examined series: dark cloacal scale pigmentation was present (KU 323920, 323922, 323923, 323925, 323926, 323928���30, 325810) or absent (KU 323921, 323924, 323927, 325807, 328808, 325811��� 13). Distribution, ecology and natural history. Parvoscincus manananggalae is known only from east-central Luzon Island, in Aurora Province near the Barangay of L. Pimentel in the San Luis Mountains and from Mt. Palali in Nueva Vizcaya Province (Fig. 1). This semi-aquatic species occurs in primary- and secondary-growth forest habitats, and occurs in sympatry with Parvoscincus agtorum, P. palaliensis, P. steerei, and P. tagapayo. We have evaluated this species against the IUCN criteria for classification, and find that it does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable, or Near Threatened status. Parvoscincus manananggalae has a relatively broad geographic distribution on Luzon Island and is quite abundant at all sampled localities. We therefore classify this species as Least Concern LC (IUCN, 2010). Etymology. The specific epithet is a feminine noun, formed from the name ���Manananggal,��� a female, blood sucking, vampire-like creature who flies like a bat at night to hunt humans, after separating from her lower extremities (derived from the Tagalog word Tanggal, to separate). Manananggal can be repelled by garlic and even killed by heavily salting her legs once she has left to hunt for the night. Suggested common name:Aurora Aquatic Skink., Published as part of Siler, Cameron D., Linkem, Charles W., Cobb, Kerry, Watters, Jessa L., Cummings, Sean T., Diesmos, Arvin C. & Brown, Rafe M., 2014, Taxonomic revision of the semi-aquatic skink Parvoscincus leucospilos (Reptilia: Squamata: Scincidae), with description of three new species, pp. 388-412 in Zootaxa 3847 (3) on pages 402-404, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.3847.3.4, http://zenodo.org/record/226283, {"references":["Linkem, C. W., Diesmos, A. C. & Brown, R. M. (2011) Molecular systematics of the Philippine forest skinks (Squamata: Scincidae: Sphenomorphus): testing morphological hypotheses of interspecific relationships. Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, 163, 1217 - 1243. http: // dx. doi. org / 10.1111 / j. 1096 - 3642.2011.00747. x","Brown, R. M., McGuire, J. A., Ferner, J. W., Icarangal, N. Jr. & Kennedy, R. S. (2000) Amphibians and reptiles of Luzon Island, II: preliminary report on the herpetofauna of Aurora Memorial National Park, Philippines. Hamadryad, 25, 175 - 195.","Siler, C. D., Welton, L. J., Siler, J. M., Brown, J., Bucol, A., Diesmos, A. C. & Brown, R. M. (2011 d) Amphibians and Reptiles, Luzon Island, Aurora Province and Aurora Memorial National Park, Northern Philippines, New island distribution records. Check List, 7, 182 - 195."]}
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- 2014
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25. Poltergeeks
- Author
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Cummings, Sean and Cummings, Sean
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- Friendship--Juvenile fiction, Families--Juvenile fiction, Witches--Juvenile fiction, Magic--Juvenile fiction
- Abstract
15-year-old Julie Richardson is about to learn that being the daughter of a witch isn't all it's cracked up to be. When she and her best friend and uber-geek, Marcus, witness an elderly lady jettisoned out the front door of her home, it's pretty obvious to Julie there's a supernatural connection. The house is occupied by a poltergeist and in order to reclaim it, Julie's going to have to exorcise the spirit. Of course, she'll need her mother's help and what teenager in their right mind wants that? Surely she can do this on her own - right...?But there's a whisper of menace behind increasing levels of poltergeist activity all over town. After a large-scale paranormal assault on Julie's high school, her mother falls victim to Endless Night - a dark spell that rips her mom's soul from her mortal body. Now it's a race against time to find out who is responsible or Julie won't just lose her mother's soul, she'll lose her mother's life.
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- 2012
26. 'Kangaroo Time' hops into top spot of Science 's latest 'Dance Your Ph.D.' contest.
- Author
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Cummings, Sean
- Subjects
DANCE ,KANGAROOS ,BEHAVIOR modification ,CONTESTS ,GROUP dynamics ,CIRCADIAN rhythms - Abstract
The winning entry in Science's annual "Dance Your Ph.D." contest is a video that showcases the diversity of kangaroo behavior and celebrates the value of diversity in all species. The creator, Weliton Menário Costa, studied eastern gray kangaroos and found that they have distinct personalities that can adapt to fit the group. Costa recorded an original song and recruited dancers representing various styles to mirror the kangaroo's behavior. The video impressed the judging panel with its originality, simplicity, and accessibility in explaining kangaroo group dynamics. The contest aims to blend art and science to create a greater understanding of both disciplines. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2024
27. How ants thwarted lions on the African savanna.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Subjects
LIONS ,ELEPHANTS ,SAVANNAS ,HAWTHORNS ,AFRICAN buffalo ,AFRICAN elephant ,ANT colonies - Abstract
An invasive ant species in Kenya has disrupted the ecosystem of the African savanna, leading to a chain reaction of effects. The ants have displaced native ants that protect acacia trees, causing elephants to overgraze and denude the landscape. This has resulted in lions losing their hiding spots and being forced to switch to hunting buffalo instead of zebras. The study highlights the complexity of ecosystems and the interconnectedness of species. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2024
28. With just weeks to live, these marsupials prioritize sex over sleep.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Subjects
MARSUPIALS ,SLEEP ,BABY birds ,MORNINGNESS-Eveningness Questionnaire ,BRAIN waves - Abstract
Male antechinuses, a type of Australian marsupial, prioritize sex over sleep during their brief mating season, according to a study published in Current Biology. Researchers found that male antechinuses sacrificed an average of 3 hours of sleep per day during this period, with some males cutting their daily sleep in half. The study also found that testosterone levels rose as sleep declined, suggesting a hormonal contribution to their restless activity. While the study did not measure whether prioritizing sex over sleep leads to more offspring, researchers believe it is the most likely explanation for the behavior. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2024
29. Shark kills rise to more than 100 million per year—despite antifinning laws.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Subjects
SHARKS ,SUSTAINABLE fisheries ,BIOLOGICAL extinction - Abstract
A new study published in Science reveals that despite efforts to limit shark catch and eliminate finning, fishing-related shark deaths have continued to rise, reaching over 100 million per year in 2019. The research team compiled data from national and international fisheries around the world, resulting in a dataset of hundreds of millions of shark deaths from 2012 to 2019. The study also found that 95% of shark deaths occurred in coastal areas, rather than in the open ocean where conservation efforts have traditionally focused. The study highlights the need for increased protections for shark species and sustainable fishing practices. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2024
30. Review of morphometric measurements used in anuran species descriptions and recommendations for a standardized approach
- Author
-
WATTERS, JESSA L., primary, CUMMINGS, SEAN T., additional, FLANAGAN, RACHEL L., additional, and SILER, CAMERON D., additional
- Published
- 2016
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
31. Taxonomic revision of the semi-aquatic skink Parvoscincus leucospilos (Reptilia: Squamata: Scincidae), with description of three new species
- Author
-
SILER, CAMERON D., primary, LINKEM, CHARLES W., additional, COBB, KERRY, additional, WATTERS, JESSA L., additional, CUMMINGS, SEAN T., additional, DIESMOS, ARVIN C., additional, and BROWN, RAFE M., additional
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
32. Breath of Life.
- Author
-
CUMMINGS, SEAN
- Subjects
BREATH holding ,OBSTRUCTIVE lung diseases - Abstract
MY WIFE, CATHY, SAT WITH ME in the doctor's office. The doctor looked up from my chart, peered over his glasses and said, "Sean, from all that you've said and what the tests show, I think you have the beginnings of COPD." Cathy and I returned home from that doctor's office. PHOTO (COLOR): OPTIMIST "I have a chronic hopefulness", Sean (with wife Cathy) says. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2018
33. This Antarctic penguin sleeps 11 hours a day—a few seconds at a time.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Subjects
PENGUINS ,NAPS (Sleep) ,SLEEP ,REST periods ,RESEARCH personnel - Abstract
A recent study published in Science has found that chinstrap penguins in Antarctica engage in "microsleeps," brief periods of sleep lasting only a few seconds. These microsleeps allow the penguins to rest while remaining vigilant over their eggs and chicks during the noisy and chaotic nesting season. The researchers discovered that the penguins sleep for about 11 hours per day through these short naps, which may provide them with the benefits of longer periods of rest. The study highlights the importance of understanding how different animals adapt their sleep patterns to cope with stressful environments. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2023
34. Ancient sharks may have pioneered the ability to taste bitterness in food.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Subjects
BITTERNESS (Taste) ,SHARKS ,TASTE testing of food ,TASTE receptors ,RESEARCH personnel ,VERTEBRATES - Abstract
A new study suggests that the ability to taste bitterness may have evolved in vertebrates around 460 million years ago, before the split between sharks and bony vertebrates. Researchers found taste receptors similar to those responsible for bitterness in humans in the genomes of sharks, skates, and sawfish. These receptors were activated by bitter substances, including those that taste bitter to humans. The findings indicate that the ability to sense bitterness may have originated in a common ancestor and may have had a broader role beyond just taste. However, some experts suggest that further research is needed to confirm these findings. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2023
35. Is social media addictive? 'Digital detox' study suggests not.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Subjects
SOCIAL media ,MENTAL health - Abstract
A recent study suggests that social media may not be as addictive as previously thought. The study found that a week of reduced social media usage did not increase or decrease people's desire to go back online. While some experts remain skeptical, the study challenges the idea that social media use is truly addictive. The study also found that reducing social media usage led to a decrease in negative emotions, but also a decrease in positive emotions. Overall, the study suggests that a short-term break from social media could be a starting point for those looking to cut back, but the long-term mental health impacts remain uncertain. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2023
36. A Potent Pollutant Comes to Rest in the Deepest Ocean Reaches.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Published
- 2023
37. Microstructure and Mechanical properties of titanium alloys in biomedical application
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean, primary
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
38. BOOSTING PEROVSKITE LEDs.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Subjects
PEROVSKITE ,PHOSPHINE oxides ,LEAD ,COMPUTER monitors ,CRYSTAL glass ,INTERIOR lighting - Published
- 2023
39. Bridging the service gap.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean and Farrell, Michael
- Abstract
Scrutinizes service obtained within the United States boating industry. Need for training schools to provide more qualified technicians in management for the boating industry; Perception that quality of service given by technicians depend on wages being paid.
- Published
- 1997
40. Should men be given the cervical cancer jab?
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Abstract
The article focuses on a debate on whether anal cancer screening for gay men should be introduced in Great Britain. It argues that all men should be immunised against human papilloma viruses (HPV) and not to do so would increase the risks for HPV related diseases. It cites the effect of the current vaccination strategy on HPV infection in men who have sex with men.
- Published
- 2010
41. ASK THE DOCTOR.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Abstract
Addresses questions related to health. Information on the disease lymphogranuloma venereum; Advantages of using anal dilators to cure piles or haemorrhoids.
- Published
- 2005
42. TIME TO TEST.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Abstract
Provides information on protection against sexually transmitted infections among gays. Attendance at genito-urinary medicine clinics in 2003 according to the British Health Protection Agency; Causes of hepatitis C; Effects of untreated syphilis on health.
- Published
- 2004
43. IN THE CUT.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Abstract
Reports on the advantages and disadvantages of circumcision. Health risk posed by uncircumcised men for their female partners; Prevention of penile cancer through circumcision; Role of circumcision in HIV infection.
- Published
- 2004
44. BOTTOMS UP.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Abstract
Explains the diseases and infections that are associated with anal sex. Importance of lubrication; Use of condoms during sexual intercourse; Information on chylamdia.
- Published
- 2004
45. CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Abstract
Explains the behavior and health risks of bisexual men. Consequence of gay discrimination in young men who are attracted to the same sex; Psychological difficulties commonly encountered by bisexual men; Rates of sexually transmitted infection and other related diseases among bisexual males; Problem concerning the sexual behavior of bisexual men.
- Published
- 2004
46. BALL CONTROL.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Abstract
Discusses the increase in the prevalence of testicular cancer among men in Great Britain in 2004. Information on the testicles; Treatment for the cancer; Other testicular problems; Importance of awareness on the dangers of infection especially for sexually active men.
- Published
- 2004
47. PROSTATE PROGNOSIS.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Abstract
Provides information on the growing prostate problems of men. Function of the prostate gland; Types of prostate diseases affecting men; Symptoms of prostate cancer.
- Published
- 2004
48. SUN, SEX AND SKIN DAMAGE.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Abstract
Discusses visible skin aging caused by sun exposure. Adverse health effects of getting a tan; Suggestions in caring for the skin; Advantage of using a high sun protection factor.
- Published
- 2004
49. A BUM DEAL.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Abstract
Focuses on the increase in anal cancer among gay men. Approximate number of men in the U.S. who have sex with men that will likely to develop anal cancer; Contribution of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) to the spread of the disease; Subtypes of HPV.
- Published
- 2004
50. TESTING TIMES.
- Author
-
Cummings, Sean
- Abstract
Discusses the increased rate of syphilis infection in Great Britain. Organs that may be affected by untreated syphilis; Transmission of the sexually transmitted disease; Information on chancres; Diseases associated with syphilis.
- Published
- 2004
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