bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tape Stripped Stratum Corneum Samples Prove to be Suitable for Comprehensive Proteomic Investigation of Actinic Keratosis
Authors: Azimi Ali , Ali Marina , Kaufman Kimberley L. , Mann Graham J. , Fernandez‐Penas Pablo
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Actinic keratoses (AK) are premalignant tumors that can be clinically difficult to differentiate from skin cancer. An easy, quick, and reliable noninvasive alternative to biopsy is needed to definitively confirm the clinical diagnoses. This study evaluates Tape Stripping (TS) of stratum corneum (SC) for noninvasive biomarker analysis of AK.

Method

Lesional and nonlesional human SC samples are obtained by application of stripping tapes on the skin of five AK patients. Following sample preparation, protein digests are analyzed by LC–MS/MS. Bioinformatics analyses are performed using Funrich, Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA), and Oncomine bioinformatics and analytical tools.

Results

Of the total 613 unique proteins identified, 477 overlap with proteins identified in the proteomic analysis of formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) AK samples. Additionally, 32 proteins are significantly increased and four proteins decreased in AK samples compared to the normal skin (p < 0.05). In line with proteomic analysis of FFPE samples, IPA and Funrich analysis show that differentially abundant proteins in the TS AK samples are implicated in PI3K/AKT and EGF signaling pathways. These findings are confirmed at the transcript level.

Conclusion

Tape stripped AK sample is suitable for biomarker analysis. The application of this technique further could revolutionize management of keratinocytic skin tumors by reducing the need for traditional invasive biopsy.
Development of a rapid methodology for biological efficacy assessment in banana plantations: application to reduced dosages of contact fungicide for Black Leaf Streak Disease (BLSD) control
Authors: Bakache Adel , Douzals Jean‐Paul , Bonicelli Bernard , Cotteux Eric , de Lapeyre de Bellaire Luc , Sinfort Carole
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

Black sigatoka is the main disease of banana crop production and is controlled by using either systemic or contact fungicides through spray applications. Biological efficacy is typically assessed on a whole cropping cycle with a natural infestation and periodic spray applications. Developing a faster methodology for assessment of the biological efficacy of a contact fungicide offers promising perspectives for testing current and new fungicides or application techniques.

RESULTS

The methodology is based on the time of occurrence of the first BLSD symptoms. An artificial infestation protocol was optimized by multiplying the infestation spots and by covering the infested plants. Biological efficacy tests were based on a single spray application after infestation combining three mancozeb dose reductions and two nozzle types. Results demonstrated that a 50% reduction in the mancozeb rated dosage gave significant efficacy independently of the nozzle type, with a reduction of the number of lesions of up to 55% compared with control plants.

CONCLUSIONS

The described method provides rapid and significant infestation. Further comparison of spray settings and fungicide doses was possible. This methodology will be tested at the plantation scale over a longer period covering the whole crop cycle. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Flexible Metal/Oxide/Metal Transparent Electrodes Made of Thermally Evaporated MoO3/Ag/MoO3 for Thin Film Heaters
Authors: Park Jin‐Yeong , Kim Han‐Ki
Published: September 2018

The authors report on thermally‐evaporated MoO3/Ag/MoO3 multilayer films as a flexible and transparent electrode for high performance flexible thin film heaters (TFHs). Using thermal evaporation, the authors obtain highly flexible MoO3/Ag/MoO3 multilayer films on colorless polyimide substrate without plasma damage. To optimize the thickness of the Ag interlayer, the authors investigate the electrical, optical, morphological, and mechanical properties of MoO3/Ag/MoO3 multilayers as a function of Ag interlayer thickness. Based on a figure of merit value, the authors obtain an optimal MoO3/Ag/MoO3 electrode with a low sheet resistance of 3.17 Ohm/square, a high optical transmittance of 77.85%, and critical bending radius of 1 mm, which are acceptable for fabrication of TFHs. The flexible TFHs (25 × 25 mm2) fabricated on a thermally evaporated MoO3/Ag/MoO3 electrode shows a high saturation temperature of 118 °C even at a low input power of 2.5 W (input voltage 2.5 V) due to very low sheet resistance. Successful operation of the flexible TFHs indicate that the thermally‐evaporated MoO3/Ag/MoO3 film is a promising alternative transparent electrode to substitute sputtered Sn‐doped In2O3 (ITO) films for highly transparent and flexible TFHs.
Computational chemistry in drug lead discovery and design
Authors: Cavasotto Claudio N. , Aucar María Gabriela , Adler Natalia S.
Published: September 2018

The main contributions of our group during the last 15 years developing and using biomolecular simulation tools in drug lead discovery and design, in close collaboration with experimental researchers, are presented. Special emphasis has been given to methodological improvements in the following areas: (1) target homology modeling incorporating knowledge about known ligands to accurately characterize the binding site; (2) designing alternative strategies to account for protein flexibility in high‐throughput docking; (3) development of stochastic‐ and normal‐mode‐based methods to de novo design structurally diverse protein conformers; (4) development and validation of quantum mechanical semi‐empirical linear‐scaling calculations to correctly estimate ligand binding free energy. Several successful cases of computer‐aided drug discovery are also presented, especially our recent work on viral targets.
Metastatic pulmonary malignant melanoma showing a ring‐shaped and halo signs
Authors: Masuda Toshihiro , Shirai Toshihiro , Saigusa Mika , Asada Kazuhiro , Muro Hiroyuki
Published: September 2018

Key Message

Classically, metastatic tumours are solid, multiple, well‐circumscribed, and rarely cavitary. This rare case of metastatic pulmonary malignant melanoma showed a ring‐shaped ground‐glass opacity and then the halo sign, depending on the disease progression.
A Synthesis of Quantitative Research on Reading Programs for Secondary Students
Authors: Baye Ariane , Inns Amanda , Lake Cynthia , Slavin Robert E.
Published: September 2018

Recent initiatives in the United States and United Kingdom have added greatly to the amount and quality of research on the effectiveness of secondary reading programs, especially programs for struggling readers. In this review of the experimental research on secondary reading programs, the authors focused on 69 studies that used random assignment (n = 62) or high‐quality quasi‐experiments (n = 7) to evaluate outcomes of 51 programs on widely accepted measures of reading. Categories of programs using one‐to‐one and small‐group tutoring, cooperative learning, whole‐school approaches including organizational reforms such as teacher teams, and writing‐focused approaches showed positive outcomes. Individual approaches in a few other categories also showed positive impacts. Categories in which these individual programs appear include programs emphasizing social studies/science, structured strategies, and personalized and group/personalization rotation approaches for struggling readers. Programs that provide a daily extra period of reading and those utilizing technology were no more effective, on average, than programs that did not provide these resources. The findings suggest that secondary readers benefit more from socially and cognitively engaging instruction than from additional reading periods or technology.
Support services can boost student voter participation
Authors: Wozniak Joey
Published: September 2018

Young people are becoming new voters at faster rates than they have in the last three decades, due in part to the large shift that many institutions of higher education have made in the last few years.
Going Beyond Traditional Applications? The Potential of Hydrogels
Authors: Zhang Zhong‐Xing , Young David James , Li Zibiao , Loh Xian Jun
Published: September 2018

Herein are summarized recent trends in the use of hydrogels in robotics, electronics, actuators, and sensors. Two major gaps that limit the application of hydrogels in these fields are discussed, including hydrogels' inherent mechanical weaknesses and poor durability. Possible solutions to these problems include the introduction of self‐healing and the integration of biology inspired reinforcement mechanisms into synthetic systems. Enhancing hydrogels' water retention and interface bonding with other types of solid materials (such as glass, ceramics, metals, and elastomers) are also discussed. Addressing these latter issues is critical to the integration of hydrogels with other components in soft devices. It is argued that rapid, self‐healing, and mechanically strong biomimetic hydrogels will be an important material for the future. Realizing this goal will lead to new kinds of soft materials, new families of hydrogel‐based devices, and exciting new applications.
A new species of Mauremys (Testudines, Geoemydidae) from the late Miocene – Pliocene of Central Macedonia (northern Greece) with exceptionally wide vertebral scutes
Authors: Vlachos Evangelos , Sterli Juliana , Vasileiadou Katerina , Syrides George
Published: September 2018

Our knowledge of Neogene chelonian diversity in northern Greece is increased with the present description of a new species of Mauremys (Testudines, Geoemydidae) from the late Miocene to Pliocene of three localities in central Macedonia (Gefira‐2, Nea Silata, Allatini). This new species, Mauremys aristotelica sp. nov., is characterized by the presence of exceptionally wide vertebral scutes, a trait that is quite rare within Mauremys but has evolved independently in other pan‐testudinoid non‐testudinids. Total evidence phylogenetic analysis confirms the placement of the new species within Mauremys and reveals that its closest relative is Mauremys campanii from the late Miocene of Italy. It is also likely, under parsimony, that all geoemydids with similarly wide vertebral scutes from the Neogene of Eurasia form a clade nested within Mauremys. Our results also shed light on the evolution of geoemydids in the eastern Mediterranean during late Miocene to Pliocene times.
Cord Blood-Derived Stem Cells Suppress Fibrosis and May Prevent Malignant Progression in Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa
Authors: Liao Yanling , Ivanova Larisa , Zhu Hongwen , Plumer Trevor , Hamby Carl , Mehta Brinda , Gevertz Annie , Christiano Angela M. , McGrath John A. , Cairo Mitchell S.
Published: September 2018

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a severe skin fragility disorder caused by mutations in the Col7a1 gene. Patients with RDEB suffer from recurrent erosions in skin and mucous membranes and have a high risk for developing cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCCs). TGFβ signaling has been associated with fibrosis and malignancy in RDEB. In this study, the activation of TGFβ signaling was demonstrated in col7a1−/− mice as early as a week after birth starting in the interdigital folds of the paws, accompanied by increased deposition of collagen fibrils and elevated dermal expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and MMP-13. Furthermore, human cord blood-derived unrestricted somatic stem cells (USSCs) that we previously demonstrated to significantly improve wound healing and prolong the survival of col7a1−/− mice showed the ability to suppress TGFβ signaling and MMP-9 and MMP-13 expression meanwhile upregulating anti-fibrotic TGFβ3 and decorin. In parallel, we cocultured USSCs in a transwell with RDEB patient-derived fibroblasts, keratinocytes, and cSCC, respectively. The patient-derived cells were constitutively active for STAT, but not TGFβ signaling. Moreover, the levels of MMP-9 and MMP-13 were significantly elevated in the patient derived-keratinocytes and cSCCs. Although USSC coculture did not inhibit STAT signaling, it significantly suppressed the secretion of MMP-9 and MMP-13, and interferon (IFN)-γ from RDEB patient-derived cells. Since epithelial expression of these MMPs is a biomarker of malignant transformation and correlates with the degree of tumor invasion, these results suggest a potential role for USSCs in mitigating epithelial malignancy, in addition to their anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic functions.
Effect of processed pozzolans on residual mechanical properties and macrostructure of high‐strength concrete at elevated temperatures
Authors: Khaliq Wasim , Mujeeb Abdul
Published: September 2018

Recently, use of processed pozzolans such as rice husk ash (RHA) and bagasse ash (BA) have been identified as promising mineral admixtures to produce HSC. As fire is considered one of the severe hazards to which a structure may be exposed, there is a requirement to evaluate the performance of HSC containing pozzolanic admixtures, namely, RHA and BA at elevated temperatures. In this study, the residual mechanical properties comprising, compressive and splitting tensile strength, compressive stress–strain response, and static elastic modulus of HSC mixtures made with 10% RHA, 10% BA as cement replacement are presented. The properties were investigated at different temperatures up to 800°C, at a slow heating rate of 3°C/min. Results reveal that the residual mechanical properties of pozzolanic concretes deteriorate at elevated temperatures with significant loss above 200°C. Visual observations of the physical deterioration reveal that the cracking in specimens mostly initiates during the cooling phase and develops extensively in all concrete types at exposure temperature of above 400°C.
The impact of manager's animosity and ethnocentrism on multinational enterprise (MNE) international entry‐mode decision
Authors: Benmamoun Mamoun , Kalliny Morris , Chun Wootae , Kim Seung H.
Published: September 2018

For MNEs, entry‐mode decision is undeniably critical. While the literature has identified several determinants of foreign entry‐mode choice, few have examined the impact of manager's animosity and ethnocentrism. This article is an attempt to fill this gap by examining the independent effect of manager animosity and ethnocentrism as well as the moderating effect of cultural intelligence on entry mode. Data were collected through surveys targeting upper‐level managers in the U.S., U.K., and Germany to examine how animosity and ethnocentrism would shape their decision to enter Iran, a host market largely perceived negatively in the West. Multivariate multiple regression was used to test the hypothesized effects and to capture the multidimensional aspect of entry modes. We found that, in general, manager's animosity and ethnocentrism do negatively affect the choice of an entry mode and that cultural intelligence has the potential to neutralize that negative effect.
Supply chain sustainability led by governance: A multicase propositive study in Brazil
Authors: Borella Margareth Rodrigues de Carvalho , Barcellos Paulo Fernando Pinto , Zin Roque Alberto
Published: September 2018

The aim of this paper is to verify the extent to which the supply chain configuration provides strategic sustainability to its member entities from the perspective of organizations that exercise chain governance. It was found that the effectiveness of sustainability in the supply chain is more evident downstream than upstream.
Climate change evidence and effects of climate‐change‐related diseases on children's health
Authors: Odunola Olutayo , Odunsi Oluwafemi , Daramola Oluwole
Published: September 2018

Children are usually perceived as the age group that is the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. This paper examined the effects of climate‐change‐related diseases on children's health in the Abuja Municipal Area Council, the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria. Systematic random sampling was used to select households from the 12 wards in the study area. A questionnaire focusing on perceived evidence of climate change and perceived factors contributing to the incidence of climate‐change‐related diseases was administered to 120 respondents. Hospital records of children under 13 years of age diagnosed with climate‐change‐related ailments were compiled. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Harsh weather conditions and the outbreak of tropical diseases were the most significant evidence of climate change, with both having the same households’ perceived climate change evidence agreement index (HPCCEAI) of 4.93. Increased pollution resulting from the use of domestic generators and industrial plants was the most perceived significant factor contributing to climate change with an HPCCEAI of 4.80, followed by incessant refuse burning (HPCCEAI = 4.68). Two of the most prevalent diseases were malaria (39.9%) and diarrhea (20.4%). The incidence of the diseases varied over the years. Infants (32.3%) and toddlers (24.0%), who were children less than 3 years of age, were found to be the most susceptible to climate‐change‐related diseases than other age groups. It is recommended that the government should make efforts to regulate climate change causative factors and improve the quality of health services rendered to children.
Round‐robin layer‐thickness determination: Toward reliable reference‐free X‐ray spectrometry
Authors: Sakurai Kenji , Kurokawa Akira
Published: September 2018

The present paper reports the results of a round‐robin test recently achieved in Japan for X‐ray fluorescence thickness determination of multilayered samples, such as gold/nickel/copper on a chromium coated quartz glass substrate. In the latest practical application of X‐ray fluorescence analysis, reference‐free determination, which does not rely on the use of an experimentally prepared calibration curve, is frequently employed. In addition, most of the analysis is quite often done by nonexperts, just with the aid of computer software. Therefore, it is extremely important to examine the reliability of reference‐free X‐ray fluorescence determination, compared with chemical analysis. Eleven companies participated in the present round‐robin test and provided 15 datasets in total. The participants measured common samples by using a variety of setups, including both energy‐dispersive and wavelength‐dispersive spectrometers, with different X‐ray tubes (Rh, Pd, Mo, W, and Ag) and power settings, with different filtering, etc., freely chosen and set by themselves. It has been found that X‐ray spectrometry can give stable and reliable values, without any apparent dependence on the types of the X‐ray spectrometers, experimental conditions, and software. The average of the reported mass thickness matches well with chemical analysis, and the standard deviation of the reported thickness was 4.3–6.6%. One of the most fruitful conclusions of the present round‐robin test is that the reproducibility in obtaining the layer‐thickness is good enough to help calibration and confirmation of X‐ray spectrometers currently working in any workplaces, by measuring the same samples and checking the obtained thickness.
Does Symmetry Influence the Properties of [MnIII6CrIII]3+ Single‐Molecule Magnets?
Authors: Hoeke Veronika , Stammler Anja , Bögge Hartmut , Glaser Thorsten
Published: September 2018

The triplesalen complex [MnIII6CrIII](ClO4)3 was synthesized and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, UV/Vis/NIR spectroscopy, and DC and AC magnetic susceptibilities. The molecular structure is D3 symmetric, whereas all other salts and solvates of [MnIII6CrIII]3+ are S6 symmetric. The UV/Vis/NIR spectrum of D3 symmetric [MnIII6CrIII]3+ is almost identical to that of S6 symmetric [MnIII6CrIII]3+ demonstrating that the electronic structure is not significantly perturbed by the symmetry variation. The magnetic data of D3 symmetric [MnIII6CrIII]3+ is also similar to those of S6 symmetric [MnIII6CrIII]3+ with antiferromagnetic JMn–Mn exchange coupling. This is in contrast to the ferromagnetic JMn–Mn exchange coupling in the chiral RR[MnIII6CrIII]3+ synthesized with a chiral triplesalen derivative. Due to the chirality, RR[MnIII6CrIII]3+ is also of D3 symmetry. However, its UV/Vis/NIR spectrum differs to those of D3 and S6 symmetric [MnIII6CrIII]3+. This indicates that the electronic and magnetic properties of RR[MnIII6CrIII]3+ are not different to those of [MnIII6CrIII]3+ due to the symmetry variation but due to the specific properties of the two triplesalen ligands.
The parallel culture of bullying in Polish secondary schools: A grounded theory study
Authors: Wójcik Małgorzata
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Bullying is a universal phenomenon observed in all schools worldwide, with as many as 35% of students being involved in bullying. Group context is crucial for understanding and preventing bullying, as peers are often present in bullying situations and have key roles in maintaining, preventing, or stopping it. The aims of this study were to investigate school bullying as a social phenomenon in Poland and to understand how Polish adolescents perceive, discuss, and make sense of bullying in their communities.

Methods

I carried out fieldwork at three public secondary schools in a city in southern Poland, and conducted in‐depth semi‐structured interviews with 26 students aged 16/17 (16 girls, 10 boys). I used the grounded theory approach to analyze the data, as it offered an opportunity for deeper understanding of adolescents' social context and culture, with intragroup interactions playing a central role.

Results & conclusions

The results suggest that a parallel culture of bullying at the micro level is created at these schools, which includes norms; a multi‐stage process of victim creation; and rituals confirming the victim's status, group coherence, and other students' attitudes and roles in the bullying. In terms of policy implications, the findings suggest that it could prove beneficial to plan anti‐bullying programs with adolescents themselves, as they could clarify the contexts, situations, or triggers that might lead to bullying.
Underpowered: Rolling blackouts in Africa disproportionately hurt the poor
Authors: Aidoo Kobina , Briggs Ryan C.
Published: September 2018

Electricity demand exceeds supply in many parts of Africa, and this often results in rolling blackouts. This article argues that blackouts tend to concentrate on poorer places within countries, due to both economic and political factors. This argument is tested with an analysis of electricity availability across thirty-two neighborhoods in Accra and survey data from thirty-six African countries. Across these analyses, poorer people with a grid connection experience lower electricity supply than richer people. This article concludes by discussing implications for research on electricity availability, policymakers working on energy, and the distributive politics literature.
The influence of a poroelastic till on rapid subglacial flooding and cavity formation
Authors: Hewitt Duncan R. , Chini Gregory P. , Neufeld Jerome A.
Published: September 2018

We develop a model of the rapid propagation of water at the contact between elastic glacial ice and a poroelastic subglacial till, motivated by observations of the rapid drainage of supraglacial lakes in Greenland. By treating the ice as an elastic bending beam, the fluid dynamics of contact with the subglacial hydrological network, which is modelled as a saturated poroelastic till, can be examined in detail. The model describes the formation and dynamics of an axisymmetric subglacial cavity, and the spread of pore pressure, in response to injection of fluid. A combination of numerical simulation and asymptotic analysis is used to describe these dynamics for both a rigid and a deformable porous till, and for both laminar and turbulent fluid flow. For constant injection rates and laminar flow, the cavity is isostatic and its spread is controlled by bending of the ice and suction of pore water in the vicinity of the ice–till contact. For a deformable till, this control can be modified: generically, a flexural wave that is initially trapped in advance of the contact point relaxes over time by diffusion of pore pressure ahead of the cavity. While the dynamics are found to be relatively insensitive to the properties of the subglacial till during injection with a constant flux, significant dependence on the till properties is manifest during the subsequent spread of a constant volume. A simple hybrid turbulent–laminar model is presented to account for fast injection rates of water: in this case, self-similar turbulent propagation can initially control the spread of the cavity, but there is a transition to laminar control in the vicinity of the ice–till contact point as the flow slows. Finally, the model results are compared with recent geophysical observations of the rapid drainage of supraglacial lakes in Greenland; the comparison provides qualitative agreement and raises suggestions for future quantitative comparison.
Turbulence coherence and its impact on wind-farm power fluctuations
Authors: Tobin Nicolas , Chamorro Leonardo P.
Published: September 2018

Using a physics-based approach, we infer the impact of the coherence of atmospheric turbulence on the power fluctuations of wind farms. Application of the random-sweeping hypothesis reveals correlations characterized by advection and turbulent diffusion of coherent motions. Those contribute to local peaks and troughs in the power spectrum of the combined units at frequencies corresponding to the advection time between turbines, which diminish in magnitude at high frequencies. Experimental inspection supports the results from the random-sweeping hypothesis in predicting spectral characteristics, although the magnitude of the coherence spectrum appears to be over-predicted. This deviation is attributed to the presence of turbine wakes, and appears to be a function of the turbulence approaching the first turbine in a pair.
Terrorism and the Rise of Right-Wing Content in Israeli Books
Authors: Mitts Tamar
Published: September 2018

In the past few years the Western world has witnessed a rise in the popularity of right-wing political discourse promoting nationalistic and exclusionary world views. While in many countries such rhetoric has surfaced in mainstream politics only recently, in Israel, right-wing ideology has been popular for almost two decades. Explanations for this phenomenon focus on Israeli citizens’ attitudinal change in the face of exposure to terrorism but largely do not account for why such ideas remain popular over the long term, even after violence subsides. In this study I examine whether the long-lasting prominence of right-wing nationalistic politics in Israel is linked to the perpetuation of right-wing ideology in popular media. Analyzing the content of more than 70,000 published books, I find that content related to the political right has increased in Israeli books after periods of terrorism, a change that has become more pronounced over the years.
Care and the shadow of the fourth age: how does home care get caught up in it and how does it stay away from it?
Authors: São José José Manuel Sousa de
Published: September 2018

This article examines how care encounters at the elders’ homes are forged, and how the way these encounters are forged avoids or evokes the social imaginary of the fourth age. Data were gathered in Portugal from elders receiving home care (16 cases), their care workers (eight cases) and family carers (six cases), through participant observation and informal conversations (conducted at the elders’ homes), as well as focus groups. The collected data were analysed according to the procedures of Framework Analysis. This study found five forms of care encounters – marked by conflict, infantilisation, burden, harmony and indifference – the harmony form being the only one found to maintain the fourth age at a distance. It concludes that home care has a Janus-like nature in relation to the fourth age, and that the way home care encounters are forged depends on the conditions of the care settings and the actions of all participants in care encounters. It also concludes that it is difficult to maintain the social imaginary of the fourth age at a distance when the elders exhibit high levels of infirmity. Finally, it concludes that family carers play a crucial role in the way care encounters unfold. Implications for practice and policy include vocational training regarding the relational component of care, and information and educational programmes for family carers.
The effects of psychological meaning-centered therapies on quality of life and psychological stress: A metaanalysis
Authors: Vos Joël , Vitali Diego
Published: September 2018

Objective:

Many psychotherapists speak with clients about meaning in life. Meaning is an neutral evidence-based term for a subjective sense of purpose, values, understanding, self-worth, action-directed goals, and self-regulation. Since little is known about its effectiveness, our study aimed to determine the effects of meaning-centered therapies (MCTs) on improving quality of life and reducing psychological stress.

Method:

Independent researchers selected and scored articles in multiple languages in multiple search engines. Weighted pooled mean effects were calculated following a random-effects model. Sensitivity analyses included moderators, study and sample characteristics, risk of bias, randomization, types of MCT, control condition, and outcome instruments.

Results:

Some 52,220 citations included 60 trials (total sampleN= 3,713), of which 26 were randomized controlled trials (N= 1,975), 15 nonrandomized controlled trials (N= 709), and 19 nonrandomized noncontrolled trials with pre/post measurements (N= 1,029). Overall analyses showed large improvements from baseline to immediate posttreatment and follow-up on quality of life (Hedges'g= 1.13,SE= 0.12;g= 0.99,SE= 0.20) and psychological stress (g= 1.21,SE= 0.10;g= 0.67,SE= 0.20). As effects varied between studies, further analyses focused only on controlled trials: MCT had large effect sizes compared to control groups, both immediate and at follow-up, on quality of life (g= 1.02,SE= 0.06;g= 1.06,SE= 0.12) and psychological stress (g= 0.94,SE= 0.07,p< 0.01;g= 0.84,SE= 0.10). Immediate effects were larger for general quality of life (g= 1.37,SE= 0.12) than for meaning in life (g= 1.18,SE= 0.08), hope and optimism (g= 0.80,SE= 0.13), self-efficacy (g= 0.89,SE= 0.14), and social well-being (g= 0.81,SE= 13). The homogeneity of these results was validated by the lack of significance of moderators and alternative ways of selecting studies. Metaregression analyses showed that increases in meaning in life predicted decreases in psychological stress (β = –0.56,p< 0.001).

Significance of results:

MCT strongly improves quality of life and reduces psychological stress. MCT should be made more widely available, particularly to individuals in transitional moments in life or with a chronic or life-threatening physical illness as they explicitly report meaning-centered concerns.
Democratic legitimacy does not require constitutional referendum. On ‘the constitution’ in theories of constituent power
Authors: Beckman Ludvig
Published: September 2018

Constitutional referendum – Popular sovereignty – Constituent power – Democratic legitimacy – Participation in referendum as exercise of constituent power – The legal status conception of the constitution – The legal functions conception of the constitution – Open question whether every provision in codified constitutions is essential to constituent power – Therefore, constitutional referendum not always mandated by democratic legitimacy
Common Foreign and Security Policy and the EU’s external action objectives: an analysis of Article 21 of the Treaty on the European Union
Authors: Lonardo Luigi
Published: September 2018

Boundaries within EU policies – Common Foreign and Security Policy – EU external relations – Management of boundaries – Institutional interpretation – External action objectives – Linking policies to objectives – Restrictive measures – Area of Freedom Security and Justice – Securitisation of migration – Energy policy – Development – Multilateral diplomacy – Global strategy
Biology, natural enemies and damage of the sugarcane whitefly (Neomaskellia andropogonis) (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae) in Iran
Authors: Askarianzadeh Alireza , Minaeimoghadam Mehrnoosh
Published: September 2018

An outbreak of the sugarcane whitefly (Neomaskellia andropogonis Corbett) recently occurred in sugarcane fields in Khuzestan Province of Iran. This pest sucks plant sap producing large amounts of honeydew. In Khuzestan Province, populations of all developmental stages increase from early August until late November. At this time, when sugarcane is at the ripening stage, nymphs suck the sap, and in cases of severe infestation, retard the growth of sugarcane plants. In this study, we investigated the biology of the pest on different cultivars of sugarcane and under different temperatures. Also, we conducted experiments to determine the damage caused by the pest in the field. Mean pre-adult developmental times were 24.09, 28.06, 27.27 and 26.64 days on CP69-1062, CP57-1062, CP48-103 and NCO-310 cultivars, respectively, and only female progeny were produced. Mean longevity of females on the four cultivars was 6, 8.49, 4.15 and 4.60 days, respectively. Adult females laid an average of 61.80, 58.80, 41.10 and 39.38 eggs on the four cultivars, respectively. Results show that the optimum temperature for development of different stages of N. andropogonis is 30±1°C during the day and 25±1°C at night, and at this temperature, egg and nymphal duration (including first, second, third instars and pupae) and adult longevity were 6.2, 17.0 and 7.6 days, respectively. Females of cultivar CP69-1062 laid an average of 50.09 eggs. Analysis of data on the quality of damage (including Brix, pol and refined sugar factors) shows that damage was inversely and significantly correlated with the number of infested leaves. Whitefly damage differed among cultivars; and, based on the quality of damage, early maturing cultivars were more susceptible to whitefly damage. We collected two parasitoid wasps from nymphs—Encarsia inaron (Walker) (Hym.: Aphelinidae) and Eretmocerus delhiensis Mani (Hym.: Aphelinidae). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to assess the biology, damage and natural enemies of N. andropogonis on sugarcane in Iran.
Field sampling strategies for coffee berry borer (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) infesting berries in coffee farms in Hawaii
Authors: Aristizábal Luis F. , Shriner Suzanne , Hollingsworth Robert , Mascarin Gabriel Moura , Chaves Bernardo , Matsumoto Traice , Arthurs Steven P.
Published: September 2018

The coffee berry borer (CBB),Hypothenemus hampeiFerrari, a recent invader to Hawaii, is impacting coffee growers by reducing yields and quality and increasing production costs. Monitoring strategies are needed to assess infestations and where control operations are warranted, and evaluate their effectiveness. To develop and validate a fixed-precision sequential sampling plan, an intensive CBB sampling programme was conducted in 17 small farms in Kona and Kau districts in the Big Island in 2016/17. At each location, 30 trees/ha were monitored at 2–4 week intervals. Results show that the CBB has an aggregated spatial distribution based on Taylor's power law parameters. According to Green's stop line formula, between 6 and 50 coffee branches per ha (sample unit) are required to estimate infestation rates of 1.5–2.5% infested green berries (suggested economic threshold) with a precision fixed at 10 to 25%. Concurrently, a modified strategy was tested on 14 farms, in which only infested green berries (not total) was counted. The standard and modified sampling methods were highly correlated (R2≥ 0.98), while the modified approach required on average only 35 min (27% less time) to complete, with an additional 24 min taken to observe the position of the CBB inside the berry. Our data also show that berry infestation rates of CBB prior to harvest were a good predictor of the total defects resulting in processed green coffee from these farms (Pearson'srcoefficient of 0.82). Our findings support improved sampling for the CBB under Hawaiian conditions using a simpler and faster monitoring strategy based on counting green infested berries.
Diversity and seasonal variation of insect pests of Jatropha in Gaborone, Botswana
Authors: Masukujane Masego , Coetzee Tidimalo , Ngwanathebe Robert Bob , Ishimoto Yudai , Akashi Kinya
Published: September 2018

Jatropha curcas L. is a stem-succulent shrub that produces high concentrations of seed oils that are convertible into biodiesel. In this study, the incidence of four insect pests on Jatropha, Strabala rufa, Gnathamitermes tubiformans, Pempelia morosalis, and Acanthoplus discoidalis was recorded over three years in a semi-arid climate in Gaborone, Botswana. The occurrence of these insects was concentrated in the summer season from October to April, while lower numbers of all species were found in May as the temperature began to reduce towards the winter season, suggesting that insect pests of Jatropha exhibit a unique temporal pattern in this region. A considerable variation was observed among Jatropha accessions regarding the insect pest occurrence, indicating a vast difference in the susceptibility to insect pests among Jatropha accessions.
Fluid Controls on the Heterogeneous Seismic Characteristics of the Cascadia Margin
Authors: Delph Jonathan R. , Levander Alan , Niu Fenglin
Published: September 2018

The dehydration of oceanic slabs during subduction is mainly thermally controlled and is often expressed as intermediate‐depth seismicity. In warm subduction zones, shallow dehydration can also lead to the buildup of pore‐fluid pressure near the plate interface, resulting in nonvolcanic tremor. Along the Cascadia margin, tremor density and intermediate‐depth seismicity correlate but vary significantly from south to north despite little variation in the thermal structure of the Juan de Fuca Plate. Along the northern and southern Cascadia margin, intermediate‐depth seismicity likely corresponds to increased fluid flux, while increased tremor density may result from fluid infiltration into thick underthrust metasediments characterized by very slow shear wave velocities (<3.2 km/s). In central Cascadia, low intermediate‐depth seismicity and tremor density may indicate a lower fluid flux, and shear wave velocities indicate that the Siletzia terrane extends to the plate interface. These results indicate that the presence of thick underthrust sediments is associated with increased tremor occurrence.
Surface Meltwater Impounded by Seasonal Englacial Storage in West Greenland
Authors: Kendrick A. K. , Schroeder D. M. , Chu W. , Young T. J. , Christoffersen P. , Todd J. , Doyle S. H. , Box J. E. , Hubbard A. , Hubbard B. , Brennan P. V. , Nicholls K. W. , Lok L. B.
Published: September 2018

The delivery of surface meltwater through englacial drainage systems to the bed of the Greenland Ice Sheet modulates ice flow through basal lubrication. Recent studies in Southeast Greenland have identified a perennial firn aquifer; however, there are few observations quantifying the input or residence time of water within the englacial system and it remains unknown whether water can be stored within solid ice. Using hourly stationary radar measurements, we present observations of englacial and episodic subglacial water in the ablation zone of Store Glacier in West Greenland. We find significant storage of meltwater in solid ice damaged by crevasses extending down to 48 m below the ice surface during the summer, which is released or refrozen during winter. This is a significant hydrological component newly observed in the ablation zone of Greenland that could delay the delivery of meltwater to the bed, changing the ice dynamic response to surface meltwater.
Solar Eruptions, Forbush Decreases, and Geomagnetic Disturbances From Outstanding Active Region 12673
Authors: Chertok I. M. , Belov A. V. , Abunin A. A.
Published: September 2018

Based on our tool for the early diagnostics of solar eruption geoeffectiveness (EDSEG tool; Chertok et al., 2013, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11207‐012‐0127‐1; 2015, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11207‐014‐0618‐3; 2017, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11207‐017‐1081‐8), we have analyzed space weather disturbances that occurred in early September 2017. Two flares, SOL2017‐09‐04T20:33 (M5.5) and SOL2017‐09‐06T12:02 (X9.3), accompanied by Earth‐directed halo coronal mass ejections (CMEs) were found to be geoeffective. We extracted the associated extreme ultaviolet dimmings and arcades and calculated their total unsigned magnetic flux. This calculation allowed us to estimate the possible scales of the Forbush decreases (FDs) and geomagnetic storms (GMSs) in the range from moderate to strong, and they are close to the observed scales. More precisely, after the first eruption, an FD approximately equal to 2% and almost no GMS occurred because the Bz magnetic field component in front of the corresponding interplanetary CME (ICME) was northern. The stronger second eruption produced somewhat larger composite disturbances (FD ≈ 9.3% and GMS with indexes Dst ≈ −144 nT, Ap ≈ 235) than expected (FD ≈ 4.4%, Dst ≈ −135 nT, Ap ≈ 125) because the second ICME overtook the trailing part of the first ICME near Earth, and the resulting Bz component was more intense and southern. Both ICMEs arrived at Earth earlier than expected because they propagated in the high‐speed solar wind emanated from an extended coronal hole adjacent to the active region AR12673 along their entire path. Overall, the presented results provide further evidence that the EDSEG tool can be used for the earliest diagnostics of actual solar eruptions to forecast the scale of the corresponding geospace disturbances.
When Should Irrigators Invest in More Water‐Efficient Technologies as an Adaptation to Climate Change?
Authors: Malek Keyvan , Adam Jennifer , Stockle Claudio , Brady Michael , Rajagopalan Kirti
Published: September 2018

The western U.S. is expected to experience more frequent and severe droughts as a result of climate change, with potentially large impacts on agricultural production and the economy. Irrigated farmers have multiple options for minimizing the impact of drought including switching to more efficient irrigation technologies. More efficient technologies that increase the fraction of the water available to the crop root zone would allow farmers to maintain current production levels with less water. However, these systems are capital intensive. The objective of this study is to explore when (and under what climatic conditions) it makes economic sense for farmers to invest in new irrigation systems. We examine this in the Yakima River Basin in Washington State of the U.S. We use VIC‐CropSyst, a large‐scale grid‐based modeling framework that mechanistically simulates hydrologic and agricultural processes. Water supply simulated by VIC‐CropSyst drives a river system and water management model (YAK‐RW). A computational platform was developed to perform the economic analysis for each grid cell, crop type, and future climate scenario separately, which allowed us to explore whether the implementation of more efficient irrigation systems would be economically viable. Our results indicate that investing in a more efficient irrigation system improves agricultural economy of the Yakima River Basin (9% −25%). We also show that at the farm level, more significant droughts can provide economic incentives for investment up to a point. For severe climate change projections, droughts become frequent and severe enough that economic benefits of improving water use efficiency do not exceed investment costs.
Microscale Analysis of Fractured Rock Sealed With Microbially Induced CaCO3 Precipitation: Influence on Hydraulic and Mechanical Performance
Authors: Tobler Dominique J. , Minto James M. , El Mountassir Gráinne , Lunn Rebecca J. , Phoenix Vernon R.
Published: September 2018

Microbially induced CaCO3 precipitation (MICP) has shown great potential to reduce permeability in intact rocks as a means to seal fluid pathways in subsurface ground, for example, to secure waste storage repositories. However, much less is known about how to apply MICP to seal fractured rock. Furthermore, there is limited information on the hydraulic and mechanical properties of MICP filled fractures, which are essential criteria to assess seal performance. Here MICP injection strategies were tested on sandstone cores, aimed at obtaining a homogeneous porosity fill that reduced permeability by 3 orders of magnitude. The injection strategy resulting in the most homogenous calcite distribution was then applied to fractured granite cores, to yield transmissivity reduction of up to 4 orders of magnitude. Microscale analysis of these sealed granite cores using X‐ray‐computed tomography and electron microscopy showed that >67% of the fracture aperture was filled with calcite, with crystals growing from both fracture planes, and bridging the fracture aperture in several places. Shear strength tests performed on these cores showed that the peak shear strength correlated well with the percentage of the fracture area where calcite bridged the aperture. Notably, brittle failure occurred within the MICP grout, showing that the calcite crystals were strongly attached to the granite surface. If MICP fracture‐sealing strategies can be designed such that the majority of CaCO3 crystals bridge across the fracture aperture, then MICP has the potential to provide significant mechanical stability to the rock mass as well as forming a hydraulic barrier.
Balancing Flood Risk and Water Supply in California: Policy Search Integrating Short‐Term Forecast Ensembles With Conjunctive Use
Authors: Nayak Munir Ahmad , Herman Jonathan D. , Steinschneider Scott
Published: September 2018

Short‐term weather forecasts have the potential to improve reservoir operations for both flood control and water supply objectives, especially in regions currently relying on fixed seasonal flood pools to mitigate risk. The successful development of forecast‐based policies should integrate uncertainty from modern forecast products to create unambiguous rules that can be tested on out‐of‐sample periods. This study investigates the potential for such operating policies to improve water supply efficiency while maintaining flood protection, combining state‐of‐the‐art weather hindcasts with downstream conjunctive use to transfer surplus flood releases to groundwater storage. Because available weather hindcasts are relatively short (10–20 years), we propose a novel statistical framework to develop synthetic forecasts over longer periods of the historical record. Operating rules are trained with a recently developed policy search framework in which decision rules are structured as binary trees. Policies are developed for a range of scenarios with varying forecast skill and conjunctive use capacity, using Folsom Reservoir, California, as a case study. Results suggest that the combination of conjunctive use and short‐term weather forecasts can substantially improve both water supply and flood control objectives by allowing storage to remain high until forecasts trigger a release. Further, increased conjunctive use capacity reduces the importance of forecast skill, since surface storage can be moved to groundwater during the flood season without losing water supply. This analysis serves the development of forecast‐based operating policies for large, multipurpose reservoirs in California and other regions with similar flood hydroclimatology.