bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LINEAR DECAYING WEIGHTS FOR TIME SERIES SMOOTHING: AN ANALYSIS
Authors: BALLINI R. , YAGER R. R.
Published: March 2014

In this paper, we investigate the use of weighted averaging aggregation operators as techniques for time series smoothing. We analyze the moving average, exponential smoothing methods, and a new class of smoothing operators based on linearly decaying weights from the perspective of ordered weights averaging to estimate a constant model. We examine two important features associated with the smoothing processes: the average age of the data and the expected variance, both defined in terms of the associated weights. We show that there exists a fundamental conflict between keeping the variance small while using the freshest data. We illustrate the flexibility of the smoothing methods with real datasets; that is, we evaluate the aggregation operators with respect to their minimal attainable variance versus average age. We also examine the efficiency of the smoothed models in time series smoothing, considering real datasets. Good smoothing generally depends upon the underlying method's ability to select appropriate weights to satisfy the criteria of both small variance and recent data.
Multireference calculations of potential energy and transition dipole moment surfaces for first and second UV absorption bands of N2O
Authors: Daud Mohammad Noh
Published: March 2014

A great deal of theoretical work has been carried out to investigate the properties of the six lowest singlet electronic states of N 2 O molecule: the ground state X 1A′; the excited states 11A′′, 21A′, 21A′′, 31A′ and 31A′′. Multireference configuration interaction (MRCI) approach has been used to compute the full-dimensional potential energy surfaces of the six lowest states employing aug-cc-pVQZ minus g orbital basis set. It was found that such of highly accurate potential yields excellent results of bond dissociation and vertical excitation energies in comparison with the experimental values. Several important symmetry and nonsymmetry related conical intersections in linear and bent geometries have been discussed. Of particular interest is the location of conical intersections between the 21A′(1Δ) and 31A′(1Π) states, and between the 11A′′(1Σ-) and 31A′′(1Π) states in linear geometry, as well as conical intersection between the X 1A′ and 21A′ states in bent geometry. The corresponding transition dipole moment surfaces have also been computed, connecting the ground electronic state to the lowest five excited states. Detailed discussion on the vector properties of the dipole transition has been presented specifically in the vicinity of the conical intersections.
CONJOINT INNOVATION: BUILDING A BRIDGE BETWEEN INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Authors: TIDD JOE
Published: March 2014

Research on innovation has focussed on management structures, processes and tools, whereas research on entrepreneurship and creativity has been more interested in individual personal traits. However, many of the most successful innovative firms and technologies were co-created, by multiple founders. Moreover, these founders typically have different but complementary capabilities, and we argue that it is this interaction of talent that is at the core of many innovative new ventures, what we refer to as Conjoint Innovation. We examine 15 case studies, historical and contemporary, to demonstrate the prevalence and utility of the concept of Conjoint Innovation. We identify three generative mechanisms in such interactions: complementary capabilities; contrasting cognitive and creative styles; and adjacent networks. Whilst multiple founders are a defining condition for Conjoint Innovation, all three generative mechanisms appear to be necessary for constructive interaction and innovation.
Three decades of underground research laboratories: what have we learned?
Authors: Delay Jacques , Bossart Paul , Ling Li Xiang , Blechschmidt Ingo , Ohlsson Mats , Vinsot Agnès , Nussbaum Christophe , Maes Norbert
Published: March 2014

This paper describes how four scientific and safety relevant issues have been addressed in special-purpose research laboratories focusing on the geological disposal of high level and long-lived radioactive waste. These are: (a) the effects of heat on the engineered barriers and the geological environment; (b) the geochemical characterization of pore-water in argillaceous rocks; (c) the diffusion and retention of radionuclides; and (d) the full-size sealing of a waste emplacement. They are illustrated by experiments conducted in five underground research laboratories (URLs), three of which are in clay formations (Mol in Belgium, Centre de Meuse–Haute-Marne in France, and Mont Terri Rock Laboratory in Switzerland) and two in granite (Aspö Hard Rock Laboratory in Sweden and Grimsel Test Site in Switzerland).

This paper highlights how the various types of experiments are related and how their results have been applied to foster progress. The most complex experiments have revealed artefacts and technical or methodological difficulties associated with interactions among multiple phenomena, the occurrence or intensity of which cannot be analysed by simple models. In turn, these difficulties have prompted experiments targeted at elementary phenomena, thereby encouraging the development of new investigation protocols and monitoring tools.

More than 30 years of investigations in special-purpose URLs show the benefits of
in-situ
experimental programmes in the context of radioactive waste management. The laboratories have opened up avenues for research and advanced knowledge and technology. Thanks to a large component of international cooperation, they have made it possible to mobilize the financial and human resources required for this type of research. They have, above all, shared thoughts and promoted interdisciplinary studies around the same subject. They make common strategies possible at international level.
Sweating response to passive stretch of the calf muscle during activation of forearm muscle metaboreceptors in heated humans
Authors: Amano Tatsuro , Ichinose Masashi , Nishiyasu Takeshi , Inoue Yoshimitsu , Koga Shunsaku , Miwa Mikio , Kondo Narihiko
Published: March 2014

Activation of muscle metaboreceptors and mechanoreceptors has been shown to independently influence the sweating response, while their integrative control effects remain unclear. We examined the sweating response when the two muscle receptors are concurrently activated in different limbs, as well as the blood pressure response. In total, 27 young males performed passive calf muscle stretches (muscle mechanoreceptor activation) for 30 s in a semisupine position with and without postisometric handgrip exercise muscle ischemia (PEMI, muscle metaboreceptor activation) at exercise intensities of 35 and 50% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) under hot conditions (ambient temperature, 35°C, relative humidity, 50%). Passive calf muscle stretching alone increased the mean sweating rate significantly on the forehead, chest, and thigh (SRmean) and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), but not the heart rate (HR), from prestretching levels by 0.04 ± 0.01 mg·cm2·min−1, 4.0 ± 1.3 mmHg ( P < 0.05), and −1.0 ± 0.5 beats/min ( P > 0.05), respectively. The SRmean and MAP during PEMI were significantly higher than those at rest. The passive calf muscle stretch during PEMI increased MAP significantly by 3.4 ± 1.0 and 2.0 ± 0.7 mmHg for 35 and 50% of MVC, respectively ( P < 0.05), but not that of SRmean or HR at either exercise intensity. These results suggest that sweating and blood pressure responses to concurrent activation of the two muscle receptors in different limbs differ and that the influence of calf muscle mechanoreceptor activation alone on the sweating response disappears during forearm muscle metaboreceptor activation.
Decoupling the actions of the eyes from the hand alters beta and gamma synchrony within SPL
Authors: Sayegh Patricia F. , Hawkins Kara M. , Neagu Bogdan , Crawford J. Douglas , Hoffman Kari L. , Sergio Lauren E.
Published: March 2014

Eye-hand coordination is crucial for our ability to interact with the world around us. However, much of the visually guided reaches that we perform require a spatial decoupling between gaze direction and hand orientation. These complex decoupled reaching movements are in contrast to more standard eye and hand reaching movements in which the eyes and the hand are coupled. The superior parietal lobule (SPL) receives converging eye and hand signals; however, what is yet to be understood is how the activity within this region is modulated during decoupled eye and hand reaches. To address this, we recorded local field potentials within SPL from two rhesus macaques during coupled vs. decoupled eye and hand movements. Overall we observed a distinct separation in synchrony within the lower 10- to 20-Hz beta range from that in the higher 30- to 40-Hz gamma range. Specifically, within the early planning phase, beta synchrony dominated; however, the onset of this sustained beta oscillation occurred later during eye-hand decoupled vs. coupled reaches. As the task progressed, there was a switch to low-frequency and gamma-dominated responses, specifically for decoupled reaches. More importantly, we observed local field potential activity to be a stronger task (coupled vs. decoupled) and state (planning vs. execution) predictor than that of single units alone. Our results provide further insight into the computations of SPL for visuomotor transformations and highlight the necessity of accounting for the decoupled eye-hand nature of a motor task when interpreting movement control research data.
Odor- and state-dependent olfactory tubercle local field potential dynamics in awake rats
Authors: Carlson Kaitlin S. , Dillione Maggie R. , Wesson Daniel W.
Published: March 2014

The olfactory tubercle (OT), a trilaminar structure located in the basal forebrain of mammals, is thought to play an important role in olfaction. While evidence has accumulated regarding the contributions of the OT to odor information processing, studies exploring the role of the OT in olfaction in awake animals remain unavailable. In the present study, we begin to address this void through multiday recordings of local field potential (LFP) activity within the OT of awake, freely exploring Long-Evans rats. We observed spontaneous OT LFP activity consisting of theta- (2–12 Hz), beta- (15–35 Hz) and gamma- (40–80 Hz) band activity, characteristic of previous reports of LFPs in other principle olfactory structures. Beta- and gamma-band powers were enhanced upon odor presentation. Simultaneous recordings of OT and upstream olfactory bulb (OB) LFPs revealed odor-evoked LFP power at statistically similar levels in both structures. Strong spectral coherence was observed between the OT and OB during both spontaneous and odor-evoked states. Furthermore, the OB theta rhythm more strongly cohered with the respiratory rhythm, and respiratory-coupled theta cycles in the OT occurred following theta cycles in the OB. Finally, we found that the animal's internal state modulated LFP activity in the OT. Together, these data provide initial insights into the network activity of the OT in the awake rat, including spontaneous rhythmicity, odor-evoked modulation, connectivity with upstream sensory input, and state-dependent modulation.
A Multicenter Randomized Trial of the Effects of Exercise Dose and Type on Psychosocial Distress in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy
Authors: Courneya Kerry S. , McKenzie Donald C. , Gelmon Karen , Mackey John R. , Reid Robert D. , Yasui Yutaka , Friedenreich Christine M. , Forbes Cynthia C. , Trinh Linda , Jespersen Diana , Cook Diane , Proulx Carolyn , Wooding Evyanne , Dolan Lianne B. , Segal Roanne J.
Published: March 2014

Background: Exercise may improve psychosocial distress in patients with cancer; however, few studies have examined the effects of different types or doses of exercise, or whether exercise effects are related to baseline depression levels.

Methods: In a multicenter trial in Canada, we randomized 301 patients with breast cancer initiating chemotherapy to thrice weekly, supervised exercise consisting of either a standard dose of 25 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise (STAN; n = 96), a higher dose of 50 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise (HIGH; n = 101), or a combined dose of 50 to 60 minutes of aerobic and resistance exercise (COMB; n = 104). The primary endpoint was depression assessed by the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression scale at baseline, twice during chemotherapy, and postchemotherapy. Secondary endpoints were anxiety, perceived stress, and self-esteem.

Results: Repeated measures ANOVA indicated that neither HIGH [mean difference = −0.9; 95% confidence interval (CI), +0.0 to −1.8; P = 0.061] nor COMB (mean difference = −0.4; 95% CI, +0.5 to −1.3; P = 0.36) was superior to STAN for managing depressive symptoms. In a planned subgroup analysis, there was a significant interaction with baseline depression levels (Pinteraction = 0.027) indicating that COMB and HIGH were effective for managing depressive symptoms in patients with clinical levels of depressive symptoms at baseline.

Conclusions: Compared with a standard volume of aerobic exercise, higher volumes of exercise did not help manage depressive symptoms in unselected patients with breast cancer receiving chemotherapy, but they were effective in patients with clinical levels of depressive symptoms at baseline.

Impact: A phase III exercise trial targeting depressed patients with breast cancer is warranted. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(5); 857–64. ©2014 AACR.
T-Cell Chimerism Is Valuable in Predicting Early Mortality in Steroid-Resistant Acute Graft-versus-Host Disease after Myeloablative Allogeneic Cell Transplantation
Authors: Minculescu Lia , Madsen Hans Ole , Sengeløv Henrik
Published: March 2014

The main aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of early T-cell chimerism status on the incidence and clinical course of acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) in allogeneic transplant recipients after myeloablative conditioning. Of 62 patients, 38 (61%) had complete T-cell donor chimerism (DC), and 24 (39%) had mixed T-cell chimerism (MC). The incidence of early death (before day 100) with steroid-resistant aGVHD was significantly higher in patients with complete DC compared to patients with MC (6/38 vs. 0/24, p = 0.04). The time from aGVHD diagnosis to nonrelapse death was markedly different in patients with complete DC versus MC [53 days (range 12-183) vs. 238 days (range 135-550), p = 0.005]. Conditioning with Etopophos/total body irradiation (TBI) resulted in significantly more patients with MC compared to conditioning with cyclophosphamide/TBI. In conclusion, early complete T-cell DC was associated with a high incidence of early death in patients receiving high-dose steroids for the treatment of aGVHD.
Red Cell Apheresis with Automated In-Line Filtration
Authors: Matthes Gert , Ingilizov Marin , Dobao Maria Luz , Marques Susana , Callaert Martine
Published: March 2014

Background: The aim of this study was to provide data on concurrent red blood cell (RBC) and platelet (PLT) apheresis with RBC in-line leukoreduction and automated addition of saline-adenine-glucose-mannitol (SAGM) using the new version (V6.0) of Trima Accel®. Methods: In this two-center paired study, each subject completed a test and a control procedure with an interval of 9 weeks between procedures. In the test arm, single RBC and PLT units were collected on the Trima Accel V6.0 (in-line leukofiltration and automated addition of SAGM). In the control arm, they were collected on Trima Accel V5.1/V5.2 (post-collection leukoreduction, manual SAGM addition). RBC percent hemolysis, potassium concentration and adenosine triphosphate over storage, hemoglobin (Hb) yield, and residual white blood cells (WBC) were determined. Results: 34 subjects successfully completed both test and control procedures. Post-storage hemolysis was similar in both groups, and all values were less than 0.8% for both arms. Residual WBC counts in all RBC units were less than 1 × 106/unit. In-line processed RBC units (V6.0) have a significantly higher volume and more Hb/unit due to filtration recovery improvements. All procedures were well tolerated by the subjects. Conclusion: In-line filtration and automated addition of storage solution on Trima Accel V6.0 allows collection of ready-to-use RBC units that meet EU requirements.
Challenges in Determining Body Fat in Pregnant Women
Authors: Robič Tatjana , Benedik Evgen , Fidler Mis Nataša , Bratanič Borut , Rogelj Irena , Golja Petra
Published: March 2014

Background/Aims: Determining body composition in pregnant women is challenging as not all of the existing applicable methodologies can be used during pregnancy and not all of the methods have been properly standardized. The aim of this study was to compare the existing anthropometric methods for the evaluation of body composition, especially in pregnant women. Methods: One hundred forty-seven pregnant volunteers aged [average (SD)] 31 years (±4) in gestational week 32 (±3) provided information on their age and prepregnancy body mass. Their height, current mass, skinfold thicknesses, and limb circumferences were measured. The body density and fat percentage were calculated according to 17 different anthropometric equations obtained from the literature. Data were analyzed with ANOVA. Results: For the same sample of pregnant women, the body fat percentages obtained using the existing anthropometric methods varied greatly (p < 0.0001) and ranged from 16% (±5) to 38% (±4); methods developed specifically for pregnant women yielded disturbingly large differences, with body fat values ranging from 16% (±5) to 36% (±6). Conclusions: This study revealed large discrepancies among anthropometric methods for body composition assessment in pregnant women. As the results from the same sample obtained with different existing equations are wide ranging, the existing methodologies should be examined and improved before they can serve as sources of information regarding the health status of pregnant women.
Prospective Randomized Trial of Bispectral Index Monitoring of Sedation Depth during Flexible Bronchoscopy
Authors: Fruchter Oren , Tirosh Michal , Carmi Uri , Rosengarten Dror , Kramer Mordechai R.
Published: March 2014

Background: The clinical benefits associated with the use of the bispectral index (BIS) to monitor the depth of sedation during flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FFB) are questionable. Objectives: To evaluate the added value in terms of procedural safety and patients' awareness of monitoring sedation depth using the BIS compared to conventional clinical judgment alone in patients undergoing FFB under propofol sedation. Methods: The cohort included 81 patients undergoing diagnostic or therapeutic bronchoscopy under propofol sedation that were prospectively randomized to guide the depth of sedation by BIS monitoring (BIS group; n = 40) or conventional monitoring (control group; n = 41). Results: The mean durations of the procedure were 18 and 19 min in the BIS and control groups, respectively. No significant difference was noted in the dosage of propofol used between the BIS and control groups (168.7 vs. 167.3 mg, respectively). Average sedation-related oxygen saturation drop and transcutaneous CO2 rise were not significantly different between groups. There was also no significant difference in the percentage of patients that required either hemodynamic support (5 vs. 7.5%, respectively), oxygen supplementation by 100% O2 mask (67.5 vs. 82.5%, respectively) or Ambu face mask manual ventilation (2.5 vs. 5%, respectively) between the groups. No significant difference was noted in terms of patients' awareness during the procedure, which was assessed following recovery by a structured Brice interview. Conclusion: Using BIS to guide the depth of sedation during propofol sedation in patients undergoing FFB of relatively short duration offers no clinically significant advantages over conventional monitoring.
Hierarchical Maturation of Innate Immune Defences in Very Preterm Neonates
Authors: Sharma Ashish Arunkumar , Jen Roger , Brant Rollin , Ladd Mihoko , Huang Qing , Skoll Amanda , Senger Christof , Turvey Stuart E. , Marr Nico , Lavoie Pascal M.
Published: March 2014

Background: Preterm neonates are highly vulnerable to infection. Objectives: To investigate the developmental contribution of prematurity, chorioamnionitis and antenatal corticosteroids (ANS) on the maturation of neonatal microbial pathogen recognition responses. Methods: Using standardized protocols, we assayed multiple inflammatory cytokine responses (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-12/23p40) to three prototypic Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists, i.e. TLR4 (lipopolysaccharide), TLR5 (flagellin) and TLR7/8 (R848), and to the non-TLR retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptor agonist, in cord blood mononuclear cells from neonates born before 33 weeks of gestation and at term. Results: TLR responses develop asynchronously in preterm neonates, whereby responses to TLR7/8 were more mature and were followed by the development of TLR4 responses, which were also heterogeneous. Responses to TLR5 were weakest and most immature. Maturity in TLR responses was not influenced by sex. Overall, we detected no significant contribution of ANS and chorioamnionitis to the developmental attenuation of either TLR or RIG-I responses. Conclusions: The maturation of anti-microbial responses in neonates born early in gestation follows an asynchronous developmental hierarchy independently of an exposure to chorioamnionitis and ANS. Our data provide an immunological basis for the predominance of specific microbial infections in this age group.
Report of 14 novel microsatellites from the swimming crab Portunus trituberculatus (Miers, 1876) (Decapoda, Brachyura)
Authors: Dong Zhiguo , Wu Xugan , Li Xiaoying , Zhang Qingqi , Li Jiale , Yan Binlun
Published: March 2014

The swimming crab, Portunus trituberculatus (Miers, 1876) is one of the most common edible marine crabs in East Asia. In this study, a multiple mixed probes hybridization method was used to isolate microsatellites to improve experimental efficiency and streamline the procedure. The mix of biotinylated probes included microsatellite GA, CA and CAT motifs. Fourteen novel polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized from a wild population of P. trituberculatus. The number of alleles varied between three and nine, and the observed and expected heterozygosity at population level ranged from 0.542 to 1.000 and 0.616 to 0.851, respectively. Two loci, Ptr1 and Ptr3, significantly deviated from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (). These informative microsatellite markers could be useful for future population genetic analyses and genome mapping studies in this species.
Two new species of deep-water Caprella (Peracarida, Amphipoda, Caprellidae) from the Pacific coast of Mexico collected during the TALUD XIV cruise, with a checklist of species of Caprellidae recorded for the eastern Pacific
Authors: Hendrickx Michel E. , Ayón-Parente Manuel
Published: March 2014

Two new deep-water species of the genus Caprella are described from the central Gulf of California, Pacific coast of Mexico. Caprella calderoni new species is distinguished from the 32 previously recorded species of Caprella from the eastern Pacific by its smooth forehead and pereonites, body not particularly slender, gnathopod 2 inserted at about mid-length of the second pereonite, elongated gills and gnathopod 1, the relative length of antenna 2 articles, length of the flagellum of antenna 1, the lack of an antero-lateral projection on pereonites 2 and 3, and the length-height proportion of pereonite 1. It is close to C. striata Mayer, 1903, recorded from Alaska. Caprella striata, however, features a different number of articles in the antenna 1 flagellum, two latero-posterior spines on pereonites 6, a small dorsal tubercle on pereonites 5 and 6, and a poison spine on the propodus of gnathopod 2 (all lacking in the new species). The buccal appendages also present significant differences. Caprella mercedesae new species, belongs to a group of eastern Pacific species with a sharp spine on the forehead. It is distinguished from all these species by a combination of characters, including the general shape of the body (not robust), the insertion level of gnathopod 2, its general shape, and the relative length of its dactylus, the relative length of antennae 1 and 2, the shape and relative length of the gills, the proportionally shorter or longer pereonites, and the presence of dorsal tubercles on at least pereonites 5-7 (absent in the new species).
Regional Sub-State Diplomacy from a Comparative Perspective: Quebec, Scotland, Bavaria, Catalonia, Wallonia and Flanders
Authors: Criekemans David
Published: March 2014

Regions are nowadays generating an increasing amount of diplomatic activity, both in quantitative and qualitative terms. This article studies the emergence of regional sub-state entities as diplomatic actors, and an in-depth comparative study is made of the external relations of Quebec, Scotland, Bavaria, Catalonia, Wallonia and Flanders. The following dimensions are studied: (1) the definition of foreign policy; (2) the diplomatic instruments that are utilized; (3) the organizational structure and operation of foreign affairs; and (4) the character of the representations abroad. Based upon a comparative study of the empirical data, the article argues that boundaries between diplomacy (as generated by states) and sub-state diplomacy are visibly watering down.
Sub-State Diplomacy in Mexico
Authors: Schiavon Jorge A.
Published: March 2014

This article analyses the international relations of Mexican sub-state governments. It aims to answer four questions: 1) What explains the recent and dramatic increase in their international activities?; 2) Do these federal units have an independent foreign policy?; 3) What are their levels or degrees of sub-state diplomacy?; and 4) Which variables explain the variation in their degree of sub-state diplomacy? The first section argues that the growth in international activities is generated by the combination of two sets of variables: a) the growing interdependence and globalization of the international system; and b) the democratization, decentralization and structural reform processes in the domestic arena. The second section sustains that Mexican sub-national units do not have a foreign policy of their own. The third section shows that there is a wide variation in the states’ degree of international participation. In order to characterize this variation, a typology is constructed and the 32 Mexican federal units are classified in two moments in time (2004 and 2009) and a comparative analysis between these two periods is presented. The fourth section argues that the degree of sub-state diplomacy depends on three variables: economic (gross state product); political (juxtaposed government); and geographic (border location). Each of these variables is tested to determine its impact, providing evidence to sustain the relevance of the economic variable, arguing that juxtaposed government functions as a trigger variable for initiating or increasing external activities, and that the border is a necessary, but not sufficient, variable to explain the degree of international projection.
The External Relations of Tatarstan: In Pursuit of Sovereignty, or Playing the Sub-Nationalist Card?
Authors: Albina Elena
Published: March 2014

This article deliberates on the effects of sub-nationalism on the profile of a region in external relations. The questions under consideration in the present contribution are: (1) does nationalism make the external relations of a region conflictual vis-à-vis the federal centre?; and (2) to what extent can its alleged ill effect be counter-balanced by the well-elaborated mechanism of centre-regional coordination? This article aims to contest the assumptions of mainstream thinking in the literature on paradiplomacy, which suggests that sub-nationalism might have a negative effect and that strong institutions are indispensable for a positive outcome. Relying on an analysis of external relations in Tatarstan, a republic in the Russian Federation, this contribution illustrates the crucial role of the ‘manipulative’ form of nationalism as a key factor shaping the functional character of paradiplomacy.
Federalism and Compliance with International Agreements: Belgium and Canada Compared
Authors: Paquin Stéphane
Published: March 2014

This article aims to assess the effectiveness of two systems of governance with respect to the making of international treaties: the Canadian system, where the decision-making process is more centralized and where intergovernmental mechanisms are poorly institutionalized; and the Belgian system, where sub-state actors have the role of co-decision and where intergovernmental mechanisms are highly institutionalized. The central question to be discussed is: is the fact that one gives an important role to sub-state actors in the making of a country’s treaty by means of institutionalized intergovernmental mechanisms something that negatively or positively affects the foreign policy of a state? And is this a positive- or a negative-sum game at the level of the conclusion and implementation of treaties? The article concludes that the Belgian system is more effective, largely because its sub-state actors have an important role at every step of the conclusion of a treaty.
Using Structural Equation Modeling to Assess Functional Connectivity in the Brain
Authors: Sideridis Georgios , Simos Panagiotis , Papanicolaou Andrew , Fletcher Jack
Published: March 2014

The present study assessed the impact of sample size on the power and fit of structural equation modeling applied to functional brain connectivity hypotheses. The data consisted of time-constrained minimum norm estimates of regional brain activity during performance of a reading task obtained with magnetoencephalography. Power analysis was first conducted for an autoregressive model with 5 latent variables (brain regions), each defined by 3 indicators (successive activity time bins). A series of simulations were then run by generating data from an existing pool of 51 typical readers (aged 7.5-12.5 years). Sample sizes ranged between 20 and 1,000 participants and for each sample size 1,000 replications were run. Results were evaluated using chi-square Type I errors, model convergence, mean RMSEA (root mean square error of approximation) values, confidence intervals of the RMSEA, structural path stability, and Δ-Fit index values. Results suggested that 70 to 80 participants were adequate to model relationships reflecting close to not so close fit as per MacCallum et al.’s recommendations. Sample sizes of 50 participants were associated with satisfactory fit. It is concluded that structural equation modeling is a viable methodology to model complex regional interdependencies in brain activation in pediatric populations.
Turning to Job
Authors: Godwin Gail , Scott Bar
Published: March 2014

This essay is about some people in a small parish in upstate New York. Their stories, full of wonder and wonderment, joy and sorrow, faith and faith's struggles connect them with the ancient story of Job. More importantly, they find themselves, in the tradition of Job, asking what is perhaps the only question in life that really matters: “Where is God in all this?”
Job's Oath
Authors: Janzen J. Gerald
Published: March 2014

Job's bitterness arises as raw grief and bewilderment over the calamity that has befallen him. But under the press of the argument with his friends, which increasingly frames itself within the logic of reward and punishment and employs the imagery of a trial with its accusations and protestations of innocence, he falls into moral bitterness, a sense of outrage over the injustice done to him. When he finally swears an oath of innocence, this act, as often observed, unmasks the inadequacy of the courtroom imagery; for the God before whom he swears his innocence is at the same time the God whom he takes to be his accuser. I argue that this act shows Job reaching down to a sense of God experientially prior to and deeper than his sense of God as law-giver and judge. For he swears in the name of Shadday, giver of conception, birth and nurture. In this sense he may be said to appeal, in an elemental trust deeper in him than his moral bitterness, from God as judge to God as divine parent. The divine speeches come as a vindication of his trust, renewing his appetite for life in a world presented to him as a theater of manifold generative liveliness, dangerous but utterly worthwhile. Thus his personal struggle for the last truth about God ends with his discovery of the truth he had already encountered at the very beginning of his life. Reaching that last truth—or, rather, being reached by it—he resembles a tree which, though cut down, buds and puts forth branches like a young plant at the scent of water (14:7-9).
“Is it Not the Communion of the Body of Christ?”
Authors: Broadway Mikael
Published: March 2014

Baptists, white and black, have historically devoted little attention to the Lord's Supper. In recent years some white Baptists articulated their understandings in light of ecumenical trends, retaining or modifying in varying degrees a “traditional view” that is non-sacramental, individualistic, and memorialist. There has not been a corresponding consideration of the theology of the Supper found among African American Baptists. This essay begins this conversation. After tracing the development of the “traditional” Baptist account of the Supper and the recent, broader engagement, attention is turned to African American understandings. This witness is distilled from sermons, theological writings, and the practices of black Baptist congregations. These provide greater emphasis in the Supper on community and incarnation, rooted in a theology of the cross.
Grieving the Loss of a Companion Animal: Pastoral Perspective and Personal Narrative regarding One Sort of Disenfranchised Grief
Authors: Rosell Tarris D.
Published: March 2014

People grieve because of the death of their companion animals; however, this grief is often overlooked or trivialized as an insignificant form of mourning. In this essay Tarris Rosell helps define disenfranchised grief and brings it into a practical pastoral perspective. He provides readers with sensitive ways to consider the impact that the loss of a companion animal can have on a grieving individual. Beside the pastoral definition of disenfranchised grief, the author also provides a thoughtful and touching personal narrative of his family's grief, rituals and healing regarding the loss of their companion animal.
Systems Theory and Congregational Leadership: Leaves from an Alchemist's Journal
Authors: Lamkin James E.
Published: March 2014

Bowen Family Systems Theory is a beneficial lens through which the minister may see his or her own life, and how that life interfaces with the life of the congregation. In addition, upon seeing the layered landscape of family and congregation, the minister may better understand his or her role as a pastor and as a leader. The article supports this thesis through personal and parish examples of how the author attempts to “live the theory.” These “system snapshots” are explored within the four basic components of the theory: The Emotional Triangle, Self-Differentiation, The Emotional Field, and Multi-Generational Transmission. The article opens with the story of the healing of a cut-off in the author's own family. As this healing was taking place, a parallel process was occurring in the church he led as the congregation dealt with a cut-off regarding its founding minister. These interlocking stories of reconnection illustrate the power and beauty of Bowen Family Systems Theory in a parish setting. Thus, the author concludes: “The greatest laboratory in which to practice this type of alchemy is the local congregation. Amid its problems and possibilities, its exasperations and epiphanies, is the strange chemistry of grace.”
To Repair the World: Judaism and Christianity in Partnership
Authors: Greenberg Irving
Published: March 2014

Judaism and Christianity have begun a new encounter with each other that aims to reinterpret the very nature and foundation of their relationship. Three broad categories that help frame the conversation between the two communities in such a way that we build upon the progress of the recent past and make possible a truly historic future of partnership together are covenant, pluralism, and tikun olam (the repair of the world). Covenant is central to both Judaism and Christianity in that both faiths teach that the full perfection of the world will not be achieved by Divine unilateral action but, instead, by covenant—the partnership of God and humanity. Pluralism, though widely dismissed as a compromised religious position that breaks down into relativism, is in fact a dynamic affirmation of faith that alone does justice to the dignity of human beings and the variety of ways they have encountered God. And tikun olam—the promise of partnership between Judaism and Christianity for the repair of the world—requires that both faiths put aside their rivalries and make urgent cause with each other to advance the witness of God's love for the world and desire for its healing.
Genesis 3: Sin, Shame and Self-Esteem
Authors: Biddle Mark E.
Published: March 2014

In a study based on his recent book Missing the Mark: Sin and Its Consequences in Biblical Theology, Mark Biddle explores the story of Genesis 3 and concludes that the church must reaffirm the Good News that God created a good world and that God values authentic humanity enough to create it and affirms it in the incarnation. The phenomenon of shame, as old as Adam and Eve, and the cult of self-esteem, founded by the serpent, both now rampant in our culture, indicate that members of our society acutely feel the effects of their sin.
The Future of Christianity in Asia
Authors: Seat Leroy
Published: March 2014

This lengthy article begins with an introductory section sketching the immensity and the religious diversity of Asia and then summarizes briefly the long history of Christianity in that continent, a history that has seen both “failure” and “success.” Here, as throughout the essay, attention is paid primarily to those Asian countries that are among the most populous twenty-five nations of the world. The second part of the paper assesses Christianity in Asia at the present, describing the current situation in the western, southern, southeastern, and eastern areas of the world's largest continent. In the third section, the longest and most important part of this essay, the writer first suggests the possible future of Christianity in specific countries, grouping those that are predominantly Muslim, Hindu, or Buddhist and then discussing Japan and China separately. Consideration is given next to four focal factors which will greatly affect the future growth of Christianity in Asia: the political situation, secularization, contextualization, and the ecumenical movement. The final subsection discusses issues regarding the quality of Christianity, the Kingdom of God, and the work of the Holy Spirit, three crucial concerns related to the future of Christianity in Asia, as elsewhere. The article ends with an expression of guarded optimism as the writer states his conviction that the Spirit is, indeed, expanding the Gospel of life, love, light, and liberty in Asia, as well as in the rest of the world.
Do Baptists Really Want an Educated Clergy? Vocation and Charism for Theological Education
Authors: Marshall Molly T.
Published: March 2014

Baptists have tended to be suspicious of the scholarly practice of ministry as exemplified in the vocation of theological education. This may be due to an underdeveloped concept of this vocation in the life of the church. There is a particular calling to formation of ministers that, if neglected, leads to the impoverishment of congregational life. Yet, if the church is to forthrightly engage post-Christian contexts, not only must this vocation be exercised, it must also be configured in ways that support the spiritual and theological formation of church leaders who can guide their faith communities into such engagement. Of chief concern is what kind of formation process makes this engagement most fruitful. This article argues that there is a unique vocation in theological education, which should be valued as necessary for strengthening congregational life. To that end it would be helpful for Baptists to construct a better covenant with the church. The shape of Baptist theological education as “reflection on practice” grows out of the central conviction of discipleship as faithful Baptist witness. Intrinsic to this is missional identity, long a hallmark of Baptist life.
Under My Wings: Jesus' Motherly Love: Matthew 23:37–39
Authors: Blevins Carolyn
Published: March 2014

Matthew's emphasis on the royal identity and mission of Jesus is framed predominantly in the masculine imagery of kingship. In dramatic contrast to the traditional gender and power roles associated with kingship, Jesus' lament over Jerusalem recorded in Matt 23:37–39 draws upon the feminine image of a hen offering protection to her chicks. A brief survey of Hebrew canonical and extracanonical literature explores an array of feminine images attributed to God as the one who births, nurses, and carries God's children. Particular attention is given to the motif of maternal protection and support granted to those who come under God's wings. Appealing to this imagery in his lamentation, Jesus expresses both his offer of motherly care to Jerusalem's children and a warning of the disaster coming upon them because they have rejected him in the same way that they have rejected all God's messengers. Jesus' invitation to be gathered under his wings has deep resonance with Israel's longed for gathering of their scattered nation. Jerusalem's children have not only turned away from Jesus but from their own most cherished hope. Like a mother, Jesus weeps over the disastrous choices his wayward children have made and the destruction they will incur.
Human Rights and the Promise of Political Forgiveness
Authors: Amstutz Mark R.
Published: March 2014

While legal retribution provides an effective way of confronting wrongdoing within stable, developed societies, the retributive model is not well equipped to deal with regime offenses, civil war atrocities, and genocide. If deeply divided societies are to be healed, more than punishment is required. A more effective approach in dealing with systemic offenses is restorative justice, which emphasizes the reparation of human relationships. Unlike retribution, which emphasizes accountability and punishment, the restorative approach pursues healing and reconciliation based on truth, acknowledgement of wrongdoing, remorse and contrition, renunciation of revenge, and forgiveness. The mitigation of punishment is thus a means to the restoration of community.
When They Ask You, “Why?”: Pastoral Engagement with Sufferers Seeking Reconciliation
Authors: Oliver Ronald
Published: March 2014

When life imposes itself in cruel ways, sufferers invariably find themselves asking, “Why?” Frequently individuals are caught in an experience where the faith they had been living with does not speak meaningfully to their pain and disappointments. In these times the pastoral practitioner must own the initiative to move toward the sufferer to engage that individual in the soulful work of reconciling beliefs with the experience of life. Without this reconciliation, grief, hope, and faith itself can be jeopardized. This article makes the case for taking and maintaining pastoral initiative with these sufferers and provides eight principles of engagement.
“Kum… Ba…Yah… ALLAH!”
Authors: Lamkin James E.
Published: March 2014

This article summarizes the journey of a pastor and a congregation in seeking out interfaith dialogue. That dialogue has posed many challenges—especially in connection with the events of 9/11—but also has had many positive outcomes, including not only a broader awareness of and appreciation for a variety of other faiths, but also a deeper understanding of the distinctive values and commitments of “living life Christian.”
What Have the Maasai (And the Church of England) to Do with America? Lessons from Vincent Donovan for a Post-Christian West
Authors: Bowen John P.
Published: March 2014

Vincent Donovan (1926–2000) worked among the Maasai in Tanzania in the 1960s and 1970s, and is author of the best-selling Christianity Rediscovered (Orbis 1978). As North America moves further from its Christian origins, the lessons of missiologists like Donovan become ever more pressing. Britain has moved further down the road of “deChristianization” than the USA, and it is interesting to see the churches there, particularly the Church of England, applying the missiological principles of enculturation espoused by Donovan and others, with exciting results. What might this movement have to say to us in North America?
Observing the Christian Year as a Means of Facilitating Spiritual Growth
Authors: Shepard C. Edward
Published: March 2014

Observing the Christian year in the life and worship of the church facilitates spiritual growth and faith formation in the lives of the participants. This article initially speaks briefly about the Christian year and how it provides a framework for recounting the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus—the Gospel story. The Christian year provides an opportunity for presenting the core doctrinal beliefs of the Christian faith. Secondly, drawing from the scriptures, spiritual growth is defined as becoming like Christ—“to be conformed to the image of his Son” (Rom 8:29). Finally, the author presents ways that observing the Christian calendar has provided a means of spiritual growth for the congregation in which the author serves.
“To the God Who is in Dan”: The Archaeology and History of Biblical Dan
Authors: Laughlin John C.H.
Published: March 2014

This article consists of two foci. First, the archaeological history of Tel Dan as revealed by the longest running excavation ever conducted in Israel will be surveyed. Emphasis will be given to the major periods of known urbanization of the site: The Early Bronze Age; the Middle Bronze Age; and the Iron Age II. The materials dated to Iron Age II will be especially emphasized because they have the most significance for any attempt to understand the city of Dan during the biblical period. The second issue to be discussed is the thorny one of relating biblical texts to archaeological data or vice-versa. The Bible is not written as straightforward history, whatever that may be. Thus biblical texts cannot often be taken at face value in evaluating their historical content. It will be argued that is especially true of the mostly negative and hostile attitude seen towards the City of Dan in the Bible. It will be concluded that this view of Dan is due to the literary formation and editing of the texts as we now have them in the Bible. This hostility represents a Judean perspective which is very negative of the northern kingdom of Israel that was created after the death of Solomon.