bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe Refractory Immune Thrombocytopenia Successfully Treated with High-Dose Pulse Cyclophosphamide and Eltrombopag
Authors: Anwer Faiz , Yun Seongseok , Nair Anju , Ahmad Yusuf , Krishnadashan Ravitharan , Deeg H. Joachim
Published: June 2015

Severe refractory ITP is clinically challenging and a variety of single or combination chemotherapies have been tried with limited outcome. We report a case of ITP that was unresponsive to multiple agents including high-dose steroid, IVIG, Rho(D) immune globulin, rituximab, cyclosporine, azathioprine, vincristine, mycophenolate mofetil, romiplostim, and eltrombopag; however, it achieved complete remission with combination treatment of cyclophosphamide and eltrombopag.
Accuracy of Colposcopically Directed Biopsy: Results from an Online Quality Assurance Programme for Colposcopy in a Population-Based Cervical Screening Setting in Italy
Authors: Sideri Mario , Garutti Paola , Costa Silvano , Cristiani Paolo , Schincaglia Patrizia , Sassoli de Bianchi Priscilla , Naldoni Carlo , Bucchi Lauro
Published: June 2015

Purpose. To report the accuracy of colposcopically directed biopsy in an internet-based colposcopy quality assurance programme in northern Italy.Methods. A web application was made accessible on the website of the regional Administration. Fifty-nine colposcopists out of the registered 65 logged in, viewed a posted set of 50 digital colpophotographs, classified them for colposcopic impression and need for biopsy, and indicated the most appropriate site for biopsy with a left-button mouse click on the image.Results. Total biopsy failure rate, comprising both nonbiopsy and incorrect selection of biopsy site, was 0.20 in CIN1, 0.11 in CIN2, 0.09 in CIN3, and 0.02 in carcinoma. Errors in the selection of biopsy site were stable between 0.08 and 0.09 in the three grades of CIN while decreasing to 0.01 in carcinoma. In multivariate analysis, the risk of incorrect selection of biopsy site was 1.97 for CIN2, 2.52 for CIN3, and 0.29 for carcinoma versus CIN1.Conclusions. Although total biopsy failure rate decreased regularly with increasing severity of histological diagnosis, the rate of incorrect selection of biopsy site was stable up to CIN3. In multivariate analysis, CIN2 and CIN3 had an independently increased risk of incorrect selection of biopsy site.
A Novel Shape Memory Plate Osteosynthesis for Noninvasive Modulation of Fixation Stiffness in a Rabbit Tibia Osteotomy Model
Authors: Müller Christian W. , Pfeifer Ronny , Meier Karen , Decker Sebastian , Reifenrath Janin , Gösling Thomas , Wesling Volker , Krettek Christian , Hurschler Christof , Krämer Manuel
Published: June 2015

Nickel-titanium shape memory alloy (NiTi-SMA) implants might allow modulating fracture healing, changing their stiffness through alteration of both elastic modulus and cross-sectional shape by employing the shape memory effect (SME). Hypotheses: a novel NiTi-SMA plate stabilizes tibia osteotomies in rabbits. After noninvasive electromagnetic induction heating the alloy exhibits the SME and the plate changes towards higher stiffness (inverse dynamization) resulting in increased fixation stiffness and equal or better bony healing. In 14 rabbits, 1.0 mm tibia osteotomies were fixed with our experimental plate. Animals were randomised for control or induction heating at three weeks postoperatively. Repetitive X-ray imaging and in vivo measurements of bending stiffness were performed. After sacrifice at 8 weeks, macroscopic evaluation,µCT, and post mortem bending tests of the tibiae were carried out. One death and one early implant dislocation occurred. Following electromagnetic induction heating, radiographic and macroscopic changes of the implant proved successful SME activation. All osteotomies healed. In the treatment group, bending stiffness increased over time. Differences between groups were not significant. In conclusion, we demonstrated successful healing of rabbit tibia osteotomies using our novel NiTi-SMA plate. We demonstrated shape-changing SME in-vivo through transcutaneous electromagnetic induction heating. Thus, future orthopaedic implants could be modified without additional surgery.
Decreased Resting-State Interhemispheric Functional Connectivity in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Luo ChunYan , Guo XiaoYan , Song Wei , Zhao Bi , Cao Bei , Yang Jing , Gong QiYong , Shang Hui-Fang
Published: June 2015

Background. Abnormalities in white matter integrity and specific functional network alterations have been increasingly reported in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, little is known about the inter-hemispheric interaction in PD.Methods. Fifty-one drug naive patients with PD and 51 age- and gender-matched healthy subjects underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) scans. We compared the inter-hemispheric resting-state functional connectivity between patients with PD and healthy controls, using the voxel-mirrored homotopic connectivity (VMHC) approach. Then, we correlated the results from VMHC and clinical features in PD patients.Results. Relative to healthy subject, patients exhibited significantly lower VMHC in putamen and cortical regions associated with sensory processing and motor control (involving sensorimotor and supramarginal cortex), which have been verified to play a critical role in PD. In addition, there were inverse relationships between the UPDRS motor scores and VMHC in the sensorimotor, and between the illness duration and VMHC in the supramarginal gyrus in PD patients.Conclusions. Our results suggest that the functional coordination between homotopic brain regions is impaired in PD patients, extending previous notions about the disconnection of corticostriatal circuit by providing new evidence supporting a disturbance in inter-hemispheric connections in PD.
Interactions between CYP3A4 and Dietary Polyphenols
Authors: Basheer Loai , Kerem Zohar
Published: June 2015

The human cytochrome P450 enzymes (P450s) catalyze oxidative reactions of a broad spectrum of substrates and play a critical role in the metabolism of xenobiotics, such as drugs and dietary compounds. CYP3A4 is known to be the main enzyme involved in the metabolism of drugs and most other xenobiotics. Dietary compounds, of which polyphenolics are the most studied, have been shown to interact with CYP3A4 and alter its expression and activity. Traditionally, the liver was considered the prime site of CYP3A-mediated first-pass metabolic extraction, butin vitroandin vivostudies now suggest that the small intestine can be of equal or even greater importance for the metabolism of polyphenolics and drugs. Recent studies have pointed to the role of gut microbiota in the metabolic fate of polyphenolics in human, suggesting their involvement in the complex interactions between dietary polyphenols and CYP3A4. Last but not least, all the above suggests that coadministration of drugs and foods that are rich in polyphenols is expected to stimulate undesirable clinical consequences. This review focuses on interactions between dietary polyphenols and CYP3A4 as they relate to structural considerations, food-drug interactions, and potential negative consequences of interactions between CYP3A4 and polyphenols.
Hepatitis B Virus X Protein (HBx) Is Responsible for Resistance to Targeted Therapies in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Ex Vivo Culture Evidence
Authors: Huang Pinbo , Zhuang Baoxiong , Zhang Heyun , Yan Haiyan , Xiao Zhiyu , Li Wenbin , Zhang Jianlong , Tang Qibin , Hu Kaishun , Koeffler H. Phillip , Wang Jie , Yin Dong
Published: June 2015

Purpose: Molecular targeted therapy is an important approach for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Hepatitis B virus–related HCC (HBV-HCC) accounts for approximately 50% of all HCC cases. Bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor (PI), is used extensively for the treatment of hematologic malignancies, but its application in HCC, particularly in HBV-HCC, has not been fully explored.

Experimental Design: The effects of bortezomib on HCC tissues were evaluated by TUNEL assays. The growth inhibitory activity was measured using cell viability assays, and apoptosis was measured using flow cytometry. The levels of HBx, P-Raf/Raf, and P-Erk/Erk expression were measured by Western blot analysis. The ability of the MEK inhibitor PD98059 to enhance the cell killing activity of bortezomib was evaluated using ex vivo and in vivo methods.

Results: The potency of bortezomib varied among HCC samples and cell lines, and HBV/HBx expression was associated with resistance to bortezomib. Bortezomib increased the levels of P-Raf and P-Erk in HBV/HBx–positive cells but not in HBV/HBx–negative HCC cells or in breast cancer or glioblastoma multiform cells. HBx was also upregulated after exposure to bortezomib, which was associated with the inhibition of proteasome activity. P-Erk upregulation mediated by bortezomib was effectively suppressed by the addition of the MEK inhibitor PD98059. Moreover, bortezomib and PD98059 synergistically inhibited HCC cell proliferation, as measured using both ex vivo and in vivo models.

Conclusions: Our studies demonstrate for the first time that HBx causes resistance to bortezomib in HCC, and this resistance can be antagonized by a MEK signaling inhibitor, providing a novel therapeutic approach. Clin Cancer Res; 21(19); 4420–30. ©2015 AACR.
Analysis of the Synergistic Effects of Fasting Plasma Glucose and Hypertension on Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy
Authors: Zhang Junwen , Zhu Jiaquan , Ding Shiao , Bao Chunrong , Jiang Zhaolei , Tang Zi-Hui , Mei Ju
Published: June 2015

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the associations of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and hypertension (HTN) with cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) and to estimate the extent to which the synergistic effects of FPG and HTN affect outcomes in a Chinese population. Method: We conducted a large-scale, population-based study to analyze the association and interaction of the two factors with CAN in a sample of 2,092 Chinese people. Univariate and multiple linear regression (MLR) analyses were employed to detect these relationships. Interaction on an additive scale can be calculated by using the relative excess risk due to interaction, the proportion attributable to interaction (AP), and the synergy index (S). Result: After adjusting for confounding factors, MLR showed that FPG and HTN were independently associated with CAN (p < 0.001 for both). A significant synergistic effect of FPG and HTN on CAN was detected (p = 0.046, RETI = 0.733, 95% CI 0.059-1.450; AP = 0.167, 95% CI -0.033 to 0.367; S = 1.275, 95% CI 0.140-2.410). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that FPG and HTN are independently associated with CAN, and they offer evidence to support the hypothesis that FPG and HTN have synergistic effects that influence the progression of CAN.
The Relationship between Serum Oxalic Acid, Central Hemodynamic Parameters and Colonization by Oxalobacter formigenes in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Gulhan Baris , Turkmen Kultigin , Aydin Merve , Gunay Murat , Cıkman Aytekin , Kara Murat
Published: June 2015

Background/Objective: Elevated pulse wave velocity (PWV) and central aortic blood pressures are independent predictors of increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Oxalic acid is a uremic retention molecule that is extensively studied in the pathogenesis of calcium oxalate stones. Oxalobacter formigenes, a member of the colon microbiota, has important roles in oxalate homeostasis. Data regarding the colonization by and the exact role of O. formigenes in the pathogenesis of oxalic acid metabolism in HD patients are scant. Hence, we aimed to determine the relationship between fecal O. formigenes colonization, serum oxalic acid and hemodynamic parameters in HD patients with regard to the colo-reno-cardiac axis. Methods: Fifty HD patients were enrolled in this study. PWV and central aortic systolic (cASBP) and diastolic blood pressures (cADBP) were measured with a Mobil-O-Graph (I.E.M. GmbH, Stolberg, Germany). Serum oxalic acid levels were assessed by ELISA, and fecal O. formigenes DNA levels were isolated and measured by real-time PCR. Results: Isolation of fecal O. formigenes was found in only 2 HD patients. One of them had 113,609 copies/ml, the other one had 1,056 copies/ml. Serum oxalic acid levels were found to be positively correlated with PWV (r = 0.29, p = 0.03), cASBP (r = 0.33, p = 0.001) and cADBP (r = 0.42, p = 0.002) and negatively correlated with LDL (r = -0.30, p = 0.03). In multivariate linear regression analysis, PWV was independently predicted by oxalic acid, glucose and triglyceride. Conclusions: This is the first study that demonstrates the absence of O. formigenes as well as a relation between serum oxalic acid and cASBP, cADBP and PWV in HD patients. Replacement of O. formigenes with pre- and probiotics might decrease serum oxalic acid levels and improve cardiovascular outcomes in HD patients.
Arrhythmogenic Remodeling in Murine Models of Deoxycorticosterone Acetate-Salt-Induced and 5/6-Subtotal Nephrectomy-Salt-Induced Cardiorenal Disease
Authors: Fontes Magda S.C. , Papazova Diana A. , van Koppen Arianne , de Jong Sanne , Korte Sanne M. , Bongartz Lennart G. , Nguyen Tri Q. , Bierhuizen Marti F.A. , de Boer Teun P. , van Veen Toon A.B. , Verhaar Marianne C. , Joles Jaap A. , van Rijen Harold V.M.
Published: June 2015

Background: Renal failure is associated with adverse cardiac remodeling and sudden cardiac death. The mechanism leading to enhanced arrhythmogenicity in the cardiorenal syndrome is unclear. The aim of this study was to characterize electrophysiological and tissue alterations correlated with enhanced arrhythmogenicity in two distinct mouse models of renal failure. Methods: Thirty-week-old 129Sv mice received a high-salt diet and deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) for 8 weeks, followed by an additional period of high-salt diet for 27 weeks (DOCA-salt aged model). Adult CD-1 mice were submitted to 5/6-subtotal nephrectomy (SNx) and treated for 11 weeks with a high-salt diet (SNx-salt adult model). Vulnerability to arrhythmia as well as conduction velocities (CVs) of the hearts were determined ex vivo with epicardial mapping. Subsequently, the hearts were characterized for connexin 43 (Cx43) and fibrosis. Results: DOCA-salt and SNx-salt mice developed renal dysfunction characterized by albuminuria. Heart, lung and kidney weights were increased in DOCA-salt mice. Both DOCA-salt and SNx-salt mice were highly susceptible to ventricular arrhythmias. DOCA-salt mice had a significant decrease in both longitudinal and transversal CV in the left ventricle. Histological analysis revealed a significant reduction in Cx43 expression as well as an increase in interstitial fibrosis in both DOCA-salt and SNx-salt mice. Conclusion: DOCA-salt and SNx-salt treatment induced renal dysfunction, which resulted in structural and electrical cardiac remodeling and enhanced arrhythmogenicity. The reduced Cx43 expression and increased fibrosis levels in these hearts are likely candidates for the formation of the arrhythmogenic substrate.
ВПЛИВ ОКСИЕТИЛЬОВАНИХ НОНІЛФЕНОЛІВ ТА ЇХ ПОХІДНИХ НА ВМІСТ КОРТИКОТРОПІНУ, КОРТИЗОЛУ ТА АДРЕНАЛІНУ В СИРОВАТЦІ КРОВІ ЩУРІВ
Authors: Маракушин Д. І.
Published: June 2015

Досліджено вплив промислових хімічних забруднювачів довкілля - оксиетильованихнонілфенолів та їх похідних у дозах 1/10 і 1/100 ДЛ50 на вміст кортикотропіну, кортизолу й адреналіну в сироватці крові щурів на 45-тудобудії. Нонілфенолиз числом оксиетильованих груп 6, 12та їх похідні - натрієві солікарбоксиметилатівізононілфенолівз числом оксиетильованих груп 4, 6 у дозі 1/10 ДЛ50 знижують вміст кортизолу й адреналіну на тлі зростання рівня кортикотропіну в сироватці крові тварин, що вказує на деяке виснаження захисно-компенсаторних механізмів. Речовини в дозі 1/100 ДЛ50 підвищують рівень усіх досліджуваних гормонів, що свідчить про формування стану організму, спрямованого на збереження більш стабільних параметрів гомеостазу.
ГОМЕОПАТІЯ ЯК МЕТОД НАДАННЯ МЕДИЧНОЇ ДОПОМОГИ РІЗНИМ КАТЕГОРІЯМ НАСЕЛЕННЯ: ОЦІНКА ЛІКАРІВ
Authors: ГОЙДА Н.Г. , ГУЦОЛ Л.П.
Published: June 2015

Мета: проаналізувати думку лікарів щодо ефективності застосування гомеопатії у наданні медичної допомоги.

Матеріали і методи. Дослідження проведено з використанням методів системного підходу і системного аналізу та медико-статистичного методу. За спеціально розробленими анкетами було опитано лікарів різних спеціальностей. Опрацьовано 139 якісно заповнених анкет.

Результати. Встановлено задоволеність лікарів гомеопатією як методом надання медичної допомоги. Більшість респондентів відмітили ефективність цього методу (88,5%±3,4%), понад половина застосовують його у своїй лікарській практиці (56,1%±4,2%), а також самі використовують цей метод (46,8%±4,2%). Респонденти зазначили ефективність методу гомеопатії як при лікуванні гострих та хронічних захворювань, так і при застосуванні його з метою профілактики.

Висновки. Системне впровадження методу гомеопатії може сприяти суттєвому підвищенню ефективності, якості, безпечності та доступності медичної допомоги різним категоріям населення.

КЛЮЧОВІ СЛОВА: соціологічне дослідження, гомеопатія, лікар, ефективність медичної допомоги.
СЕРЦЕВО-СУДИННЕ РЕМОДЕЛЮВАННЯ ТА РІВЕНЬ СИРОВАТКОВОГО УРОТЕНЗИНУ II У ПАЦІЄНТІВ З АРТЕРІАЛЬНОЮ ГІПЕРТЕНЗІЄЮ
Authors: Візір В. А. , Школовий В. В. , Деміденко О. В.
Published: June 2015

РЕЗЮМЕ. Артеріальна гіпертензія - основна причина захворюваності і смертності серед дорослого населення у всіх
кранах світу. З метою встановлення взаємозв’язку між станом процесів серцево-судинного ремоделювання і
сироватковим рівнем уротензину II у пацієнтів з артеріальною гіпертензією у 51 хворого були вивчені показники
кардіально та васкулярно перебудови за допомогою ехокардіографі, дуплексного сканування екстракраніальних
артерій, проведено визначення концентраці уротензину II в сироватці крові імуноферментним методом. Встановлено,
що формування атеросклеротичних уражень у хворих на гіпертонічну хворобу II стаді призводить до вірогідного
збільшення індекса маси міокарду лівого шлуночка, товщини інтима-медіального комплексу, сироватково
концентраці уротензину II. Серед типів кардіального ремоделювання у пацієнтів з наявністю атеросклеротичних
уражень брахіоцефальних артерій достовірно переважали концентрична і ексцентрична гіпертрофія лівого шлуночка.
Це свідчить про наявність структурних ознак патологічно судинно перебудови, переважання патологічних типів
ремоделювання серця, особливого нейрогуморального статусу у хворих на гіпертонічну хворобу II с тад і, асоційовану
з каротидним атеросклерозом.
КЛЮЧОВ! СЛОВА: артеріальна гіпертензія, серцево-судинне ремоделювання, оклюзійно-стенотичні ураження
брахіоцефальних артерій, уротензин II.
Effect of the Lookback Period’s Length Used to Identify Incident Acute Myocardial Infarction on the Observed Trends on Incidence Rates and Survival
Authors: Sulo Gerhard , Igland Jannicke , Vollset Stein Emil , Nygård Ottar , Egeland Grace M. , Ebbing Marta , Sulo Enxhela , Tell Grethe S.
Published: June 2015

Background—

In studies using patient administrative data, the identification of the first (incident) acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in an individual is based on retrospectively excluding previous hospitalizations for the same condition during a fixed time period (lookback period [LP]). Our aim was to investigate whether the length of the LP used to identify the first AMI had an effect on trends in AMI incidence and subsequent survival in a nationwide study.

Methods and Results—

All AMI events during 1994 to 2009 were retrieved from the Cardiovascular Disease in Norway project. Incident AMIs during 2004 to 2009 were identified using LPs of 10, 8, 7, 5, and 3 years. For each LP, we calculated time trends in incident AMI and subsequent 28-day and 1-year mortality rates. Results obtained from analyses using the LP of 10 years were compared with those obtained using shorter LPs. In men, AMI incidence rates declined by 4.2% during 2004 to 2009 (incidence rate ratio, 0.958; 95% confidence interval, 0.935–0.982). The use of other LPs produced similar results, not significantly different from the LP of 10 years. In women, AMI incidence rates declined by 7.3% (incidence rate ratio, 0.927; 95% confidence interval, 0.901–0.955) when an LP of 10 years was used. The decline was statistically significantly smaller for the LP of 5 years (6.2% versus 7.3%;
P
=0.02) and 3 years (5.9% versus 7.3%;
P
=0.03). The choice of LP did not influence trends in 28-day and 1-year mortality rates.

Conclusions—

The length of LP may influence the observed time trends in incident AMIs. This effect is more evident in older women.
“I am a Vegetarian”
Authors: Shapiro Kenneth Joel
Published: June 2015

Employing a qualitative method adapted from phenomenological psychology, the paper presents a socio-psychological portrait of a vegetarian. Descriptives are a product of the author’s reflection on (dialogue with) empirical findings and published personal accounts, interviews, and case studies. The paper provides evidence for the hypothesis that vegetarianism is a way of being. This way of experiencing and living in the world is associated with particular forms of relationship to self, to other animals and nature, and to other people. The achievement of this way of being, particularly in the interpersonal sphere, comprises an initial, a transitional, and a crystallizing phase of development. The paper frames contrasts between vegetarianism and carnism through the phenomena of the presence of an absence and the absent referent, respectively.
Effects of colour morph and season on the dehydration and rehydration rates of Plethodon cinereus
Authors: Smith Geoffrey R. , Johnson Todd , Smith Wesley O.
Published: June 2015

Plethodon cinereushas a striped morph and an unstriped morph that differ in aspects of their ecology and physiology. However, little is known about the water relations of these two morphs. The striped morph is often found at higher frequencies in moist conditions than is the unstriped morph. We examined dehydration and rehydration rates of striped and unstripedP. cinereusin the fall and spring. The morphs did not differ in dehydration rate, nor did dehydration rate differ between seasons. Striped salamanders rehydrated faster than unstriped salamanders. Salamanders in fall had greater rehydration rates than in spring. Our results suggest the striped morph may be better able to recover from water loss than the unstriped morph, whereas both morphs appear equally able to resist water loss.
Attributes of basking sites of the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) in central Italy
Authors: Vignoli Leonardo , Bologna Marco A. , Manzini Silvia , Rugiero Lorenzo , Luiselli Luca
Published: June 2015

Attributes of basking sites are important elements to study in management plans of threatened freshwater turtles. Here, we analyzed the basking-site characteristics of European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) populations in a Mediterranean territory of central Italy (Tolfa Mountains, Latium). We used logistic regression and Principal Components Analysis to characterize 29 presence sites versus 61 random sites, through 16 descriptive variables recorded within a 5 m radius from the sighting/target spot. Our analyses revealed that some variables (i.e. water turbidity, presence of small coves, submerged vegetation, and emergent tree-trunks) were those that influenced most strongly the presence of turtles on potential basking sites. Maintenance of deadwood in water and preservation of submerged aquatic vegetation should be included in the management planning for this turtle species in central Italy.
In Search of Interreligious Competence: An Empirical Study in the Context of Training Caregivers Through Religious Education
Authors: Losert Martin , Merkt Heinrich , Schweitzer Friedrich
Published: June 2015

Given the increasingly diverse and multi-religious character of contemporary societies in Europe and beyond, interreligious education has come to attract more and more interest. This is especially true for the field of religious education. This article comes from a research project that has two aspects as its focus. The first aspect refers to the question of whether approaches to interreligious education really are effective. The other aspect concerns what is called the meaning of interreligious abilities or competence for professional qualification. The process of training future caregivers includes both of these aspects. Moreover, the project entailed an attempt to test a number of religious-education teaching units empirically for their effects on the trainees. In this article, an attempt is made to shed light on the structure of interreligious competence. The main focus is on finding a general factor of interreligious competence at the heart of more specific facets of competence.
Transnational Christianity and Converging Identities
Authors: Womack Deanna Ferree
Published: June 2015

This study of Arabic speaking Protestant churches in New Jersey adds to the limited amount of existing scholarship on Arab American Protestantism and aims to make Arab Christianity a topic of discussion within studies of world Christianity and mission. After considering the historical and demographical data on Arabic speaking churches in the United States, it examines the ecology and culture of five Arabic Protestant churches in New Jersey and identifies key factors in individual and congregational identity formation. The study recognizes the converging identities and multiple reference points for first and second generation Arab Protestant immigrants in America and the challenges and opportunities their congregations face in facilitating members’ transition experiences.
The Powerful and Vulnerable Intercultural Encounters of Jesus
Authors: Hertig Paul
Published: June 2015

In this reading of the New Testament record, Jesus approached intercultural situations with wisdom, grace, and sensitivity. He interacted with Gentiles, marveled at their faith, and even sent them as missionaries to their own people. He followed cultural patterns when they were helpful; he resisted cultural patterns when they were hurtful. He often interacted with people whom even his disciples wanted to avoid. Through humility and vulnerability, he created an atmosphere that elicits transparency and transformation. Jesus walked along borderlands and traversed across borders into Gentile regions. In doing so, he engaged in intense theological discussions with a Canaanite woman and a Samaritan woman, and, in both cases, met them in their brokenness and met their deepest needs. At times he interacted with high people of society, for instance, the centurion. Prior to healing his servant, Jesus marveled at the centurion’s faith, declaring it greater than all of Israel.

This article argues that, though each intercultural context proved to be unique, Jesus contextually tailored his approach to the individual. While respectful of cultural customs, he boldly broke through cultural barriers that caused brokenness and oppression. Jesus carried on conversations with skill and sensitivity. He filled his conversation with questions, metaphors, and dialogue, thus respecting individuals and their cultural contexts.
Neighborhood Income Composition by Household Race and Income, 1990–2009
Authors: Reardon Sean F. , Fox Lindsay , Townsend Joseph
Published: June 2015

Residential segregation, by definition, leads to racial and socioeconomic disparities in neighborhood conditions. These disparities may in turn produce inequality in social and economic opportunities and outcomes. Because racial and socioeconomic segregation are not independent of each other, however, any analysis of their causes, patterns, and effects must rest on an understanding of the joint distribution of race/ethnicity and income among neighborhoods. In this article, we use a new technique to describe the average racial composition and income distributions in the neighborhoods of households with different income levels and race/ethnicity. Using data from the decennial censuses and the American Community Survey, we investigate how patterns of neighborhood context in the United States over the past two decades vary by household race/ethnicity, income, and metropolitan area. We find large and persistent racial differences in neighborhood context, even among households with the same annual income.
Housing Unit Turnover and the Socioeconomic Mix of Low-Income Neighborhoods
Authors: Theodos Brett , Coulton Claudia J. , Pitingolo Rob
Published: June 2015

A number of place-based policies attempt to deconcentrate poverty, yet not enough is known about how the socioeconomic mix of low-income neighborhoods evolves nor the role of residential mobility in this evolution. This study focuses on changes in low-income neighborhoods as they transpire at the micro level of housing unit turnover. Using a unique panel survey of low-income neighborhoods, the study examines how characteristics of previous occupants, housing units, and neighborhoods affect the chances that units will transition into or out of poverty. Results show that although turnover rates are high, the poverty status of occupants changes infrequently. Occupant, unit, and neighborhood factors help to explain the changes that do occur. Improving low-income neighborhoods is challenging because the poverty status of occupants tends not to change, but there are aspects of the built and social environment that can affect occupancy transitions in ways that reduce poverty concentration.
Would You Impugn My Justice? A Nuanced Approach to the Hebrew Bible’s Theology of Divine Recompense
Authors: Kaminsky Joel S.
Published: June 2015

Recent scholarship has tended to see the book of Job as sweeping away an earlier, mechanistic theology of divine recompense. This essay argues that the widespread biblical notion that God rewards the righteous and punishes the wicked is more complex than generally recognized and that recovering its nuances not only helps one better understand the theological outlook of books like Deuteronomy, Proverbs, and Psalms, but also helps one better grasp the debates within Job. The essay is framed by some reflections on why our contemporary culture regularly misreads the Bible’s language of divine retribution in spite of the fact that many contemporary readers affirm analogous ideas of reward and punishment.
The Contagion of Drug Violence
Authors: Osorio Javier
Published: June 2015

Why are some territories ravaged by intense levels of criminal violence while others are relatively peaceful? This research contributes to an understanding of the escalation and diffusion of drug violence in Mexico from 2000 to 2010 by formalizing the interactions between the state and organized criminals and by relying on a large database of event data containing more than 1.6 million observations. Results based on spatial econometrics provide evidence of the spatial diffusion of violence. In congruence with the theoretical expectations, the results show that the disruptive effect of law enforcement is an important catalyst for the intensification of violence between criminal organizations, especially when deployed in areas hosting a high concentration of criminal groups. This relationship holds for a broad menu of violent and nonviolent law enforcement tactics. The analysis also reveals that other broadly held factors (international, geographic, and socioeconomic characteristics) have a modest effect on the dynamics of drug-related violence.
For better or worse
Authors: Shane Jacob , Heckhausen Jutta
Published: June 2015

Individuals’ motivational self-regulatory system is challenged as they cross the transition from school to work. Using data from a longitudinal study of participants approaching and crossing university graduation ( n = 140), we examine the ways in which individuals’ motivational strategies reflect and direct their career-related opportunity field. Our findings indicate that participants’ beliefs about how socioeconomic status (SES) is attained in society and how they themselves believe their own SES will be attained, are related with the degree to which they engage with or disengage from their career goals. These SES-related beliefs can be broadly organized into two patterns: the first emphasizing personal control over attaining career goals and the second emphasizing non-action-contingent control. Regarding the former, participants who viewed career goal attainment as being determined by merit (e.g., effort and ability) were more likely to engage with their career goals, and in so doing reported more rapid progress toward attaining their career goals. Conversely, participants who believed that career attainment is due to factors outside of their direct control (e.g., privilege and luck), were more likely to disengage from their career goals, and in so doing devalued the importance of attaining their career goals.
The view from outside
Authors: De Caro Mario , Terrone Enrico
Published: June 2015

What aesthetic interest do we have in watching films? In a much debated paper, Roger Scruton argued that this interest typically comes down to the interest in the dramatic representations recorded by such films. Berys Gaut and Catharine Abell criticized Scruton’s argument by claiming that films can elicit an aesthetic interest also by virtue of their pictorial representation. In this article, we develop a different criticism of Scruton’s argument. In our view, a film can elicit an aesthetic interest that does not come down to an interest in the dramatic representation or in the pictorial representation. We will argue that this is a distinctively cinematic interest. In section I we outline Scruton’s argument. In section II we point out an interest in how the cinematic medium presents the portrayed subject as detached from the spectator’s environment. In section III, by referring to Wittgenstein’s account of the contemplation from outside, we contend that the interest in films introduced in section II can count as an aesthetic interest. In section IV we argue that both documentaries and fiction films can elicit this kind of interest. In section V we compare the three different kinds of aesthetic interest that, in our view, a film can elicit. In section VI we describe the corresponding kinds of cinematic achievements.
Reading active labour market policy politically: An autonomist analysis of Britain’s Work Programme and Mandatory Work Activity
Authors: Wiggan Jay
Published: June 2015

Drawing on Autonomist Marxist theory this article situates the 2010–15 Conservative–Liberal Coalition government’s active labour market policy as the most recent phase in a state ‘strategy of underdevelopment’ (Cleaver, 1977) to erode the autonomy of labour power and facilitate a reconfiguration of labour and work to impose (competition for) undesirable jobs on the terms and conditions offered by capital (Peck, 2001: 349). The article contends that Mandatory Work Activity and the Work Programme facilitate a pattern of differentiated activation, where segmentation and stratification of the non-employed population (re)produces an insecure, disciplined, segmented and stratified labour power for insecure, segmented, stratified labour markets. From the perspective of capital and the state the differential job outcomes associated with these programmes are less a mark of policy failure than of policy success.
Friedrich Kittler: E-Special Introduction
Authors: Parikka Jussi , Feigelfeld Paul
Published: June 2015

This e-Special Issue of Theory, Culture & Society focuses on the German media theorist Friedrich Kittler’s (1943–2011) impact across the field of humanities. By including Kittler’s own texts and other scholars’ articles that continue or comment on Kittler’s work, the editors have sought to address the core aspects of Kittler’s provocative insights into how media technologies underpin our cultural formations. The editorial introduction sets out key sections on technology, aesthetics, ontology and epistemology, identified as the significant axes where Kittler opens up traditional notions of art and humanities. The sections also develop a common theme having to do with a media material understanding of aesthetics and philosophical determinations of the concept of media from Ancient Greeks to computational culture.
Anatomy of the lymph node venous networks of the groin and their investigation by ultrasonography
Authors: Uhl Jean Francois , Lo Vuolo Miguel , Labropoulos Nicos
Published: June 2015

Objective

To describe the anatomy of the lymph node venous networks of the groin and their assessment by ultrasonography.

Material and methods

Anatomical dissection of 400 limbs in 200 fresh cadavers following latex injection as well as analysis of 100 CT venograms. Routine ultrasound examinations were done in patients with chronic venous disease.

Results

Lymph node venous networks were found in either normal subjects or chronic venous disease patients with no history of operation. These networks have three main characteristics: they cross the nodes, are connected to the femoral vein by direct perforators, and join the great saphenous vein and/or anterior accessory great saphenous vein. After groin surgery, lymph node venous networks are commonly seen as a dilated and refluxing network with a dystrophic aspect. We found dilated lymph node venous networks in about 15% of the dissected cadavers.

Conclusion

It is likely that lymph node venous networks represent remodeling and dystrophic changes of a normal pre-existing network rather than neovessels related to angiogenic factors that occur as a result of an inflammatory response to surgery. The so-called neovascularization after surgery could, in a number of cases, actually be the onset of dystrophic lymph node venous networks. Lymph node venous networks are an ever-present anatomical finding in the groin area. Their dilatation as well as the presence of reflux should be ruled out by US examination of the venous system as they represent a contraindication to a groin approach, particularly in recurrent varicose veins after surgery patients. A refluxing lymph node venous network should be treated by echo-guided foam injection.
Application of MFA as a decision support tool for waste management in small municipalities – case study of Serbia
Authors: Stanisavljevic Nemanja , Vujovic Svjetlana , Zivancev Miodrag , Batinic Bojan , Tot Bojana , Ubavin Dejan
Published: June 2015

In this paper, attention is shifted from larger cities and regions to the important role of small municipalities in large-scale capacity waste management systems. The motivation of this analysis is to understand how small municipalities can be prepared for future inclusion in regional waste management. For the first time, solutions that include integrated treatment of municipal, agricultural, and industrial waste generated by small-scale municipalities are developed and assessed. For this purpose, five small Serbian municipalities with populations up to 30,000 inhabitants were chosen as case studies. The methodology integrates field data with material flow analysis (MFA) to analyze and evaluate future scenarios. A set of indicators which reflect the goals of waste management, including the total costs, was chosen for scenario comparison and evaluation. It was found that delivering generated waste to regional waste management centers can result in the most affordable environmental benefits for the representative municipalities. More advanced solutions, which include composting and joint treatment of municipal, agricultural, and industrial waste, can contribute to reaching waste management goals, but are more costly (217% and 652% comparing to delivering generated waste to regions). These results can be regarded as a representative for similar municipalities and can serve to support pre-planning decisions in other countries with problems in establishing regional waste management systems.
Social Desirability in Intimate Partner Violence and Relationship Satisfaction Reports: An Exploratory Analysis
Authors: Visschers Jonas , Jaspaert Emma , Vervaeke Geert
Published: June 2015

The social desirability bias can be considered a two-dimensional construct, consisting of impression management and self-deception. Although social desirability is often considered a threat to the validity of intimate partner violence (IPV) reports, little is known about which dimension is most responsible for this distortion. Furthermore, it is unclear whether social desirability distorts the report of relationship satisfaction. In this study, two instruments that claim to measure social desirability are investigated on their ability to measure impression management and self-deception. Afterward, which dimension (if any) is responsible for a distortion in IPV and relationship satisfaction reports is examined. The survey consisted of the following measures: the Revised Conflict Tactics Scales for IPV, the Couples Satisfaction Index for relationship satisfaction and the Balanced Inventory of Desirable Responding, the Limited Disclosure Scale, and the Idealistic Distortion Scale for social desirability. The Limited Disclosure Scale was found to predominantly measure impression management. The Idealistic Distortion Scale did not measure social desirability well and appeared to be a bad measure for relationship satisfaction. Both the reports of IPV and relationship satisfaction were influenced by impression management, but not by self-deception. However, impression management and self-deception only accounted for a small portion of the variance in IPV and relationship satisfaction reports. These results indicate that the social desirability bias, when reporting IPV and relationship satisfaction, is a conscious process, but that its influence on IPV and relationship satisfaction reports might be overrated.
Research on visual segmentation and localization of multi-robots under different lighting conditions
Authors: Yuan Mingxin , Zhao Rong , Hua Xiaobin , Shen Yi
Published: June 2015

In the vision-based segmentation and localization of mobile robots, a change in light will greatly influence the accuracy of segmentation and localization. To obtain accurate positions of multi-robots under different lighting conditions, a threshold segmentation combining histogram equalization and cluster analysis algorithm based on the designed color label plate is presented. First, the local regions of interest of mobile robots are obtained and the histograms of the regions of interest are equalized, which normalizes the video image under different lighting conditions. Then, the accurate segmentation threshold values for the color label plates of multi-robots are calculated based on cluster analysis in the YUV color space of regions of interest. After that, the segmentation and localization of multi-robots based on the segmentation threshold value are realized. Compared with other segmentation algorithms, the proposed threshold segmentation combining histogram equalization and cluster analysis algorithm can not only guarantee fast segmentation but also is characterized by better segementation robustness and higher localization accuracy. Finally, based on the proposed visual segmentation and localization algorithm, a trajectory tracking experiment of a mobile robot is carried out, which further supports the real-time performance of the proposed threshold segmentation combining histogram equalization and cluster analysis algorithm in the practical application.
How should we manage anxiety in patients with schizophrenia?
Authors: Bosanac Peter , Castle David
Published: June 2015

Objective:

We aim to provide a selective clinically focused review of the epidemiology, aetiology and management of comorbid anxiety in people with schizophrenia.

Method:

The following databases were reviewed: PubMed, Medline and Embase.

Results:

Anxiety is highly prevalent throughout course of schizophrenia, but is often not identified or its clinical significance is under-appreciated. Also, there is a paucity of rigorous data to support specific treatment guidelines for people with schizophrenia and concurrent anxiety disorders. Psychological treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy appear effective if targeted carefully, and preliminary data suggest that mindfulness approaches and progressive muscle relaxation may be beneficial. Pharmacological interventions need to be tailored to the individual and target specific symptom sets. There is a growing evidence base about the neurobiology of schizophrenia and concurrent anxiety symptoms or disorders which will hopefully enhance treatment options.

Conclusions:

Further research is required to guide treatment guidelines for anxiety in people with schizophrenia.
Occupational Safety, Health, and Well-being Among Home-based Workers in the Informal Economy of Thailand
Authors: Nankongnab Noppanun , Silpasuwan Pimpan , Markkanen Pia , Kongtip Pornpimol , Woskie Susan
Published: June 2015

The objective of this article is to provide a summary of the issues related to occupational safety and health and well-being among workers in the informal economy of Thailand, with a special emphasis on home-based workers. The reviewed literature includes documents and information sources developed by the International Labour Organization, the National Statistical Office of Thailand, peer-reviewed scientific publications, and master’s theses conducted in Thailand. This work is part of a needs and opportunities analysis carried out by the Center for Work, Environment, Nutrition and Development—a partnership between Mahidol University and University of Massachusetts Lowell to identify the gaps in knowledge and research to support government policy development in the area of occupational and environmental health for workers in the informal economy.
Lessons From Rural Madagascar on Improving Air Quality in the Kitchen
Authors: Dasgupta Susmita , Martin Paul , Samad Hussain A.
Published: June 2015

Household air pollution is the second leading cause of disease in Madagascar, where more than 99% of households rely on solid biomass for cooking. This article presents findings and conclusions from an initiative to monitor household air pollution in rural Madagascar. The average concentrations of fine particulate matter and carbon monoxide in kitchens significantly exceeded World Health Organization guidelines for indoor exposure. A fixed-effect panel regression analysis was conducted to investigate the effects of fuel (charcoal, wood, and ethanol), stove (traditional, improved charcoal and wood, and ethanol), kitchen size, ventilation, building materials, and ambient environment. Ethanol is significantly cleaner than biomass fuels, and a larger kitchen significantly improves the quality of household air. Although improved wood stoves with a chimney were effective in reducing concentrations of carbon monoxide in the kitchen, improved charcoal stoves were found to have no significant impact on air quality compared with traditional charcoal stoves. The findings reinforce the need for initiatives that foster fuel switching and improved ventilation as critical first steps to fight unhealthy household air pollution in developing countries.
Postprandial effects on arterial stiffness parameters in healthy young adults
Authors: Murray Tyler , Yang Eric Y , Brunner Gerd , Kumar Anirudh , Lakkis Nasser , Misra Arunima , Virani Salim S , Hartley Craig J , Morrisett Joel D , Ballantyne Christie M , Nambi Vijay
Published: June 2015

Postprandial lipemia has been associated with acute endothelial dysfunction. Endothelial dysfunction, in turn, is associated with increased arterial stiffness. However, the relationship between postprandial lipemia and acute changes in arterial stiffness has not been extensively investigated. Therefore, we conducted a pilot study on the effects of postprandial lipemia on arterial stiffness in 19 healthy young adults before and after consumption of a high-fat mixed meal. Arterial stiffness was assessed locally with echo-tracking carotid arterial strain (CAS) and globally with carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV). As assessed by these two benchmark parameters, arterial stiffness did not differ significantly postprandially. However, the arterial distension period (ADP) was significantly lower 2 hours after mixed meal ingestion. In addition, slopes of carotid artery area (CAA) curves were significantly steeper postprandially. Therefore, we concluded that ADP may be a more sensitive marker of arterial stiffness in healthy young adults when compared to PWV and CAS.