bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Error Analysis of LFM-II Forecasts During the 1982–1983 Winter Season
Authors: Schechter Randy
Published: April 2018

An analysis of average errors (bias) in forecast variables of the National Meteorological Center (NMC) LFM-II model has been completed for the winter season of 1982–1983 (23 November 1982–31 March 1983). The forecast variables evaluated were sea level pressure, 1000-500 mb thickness, boundary layer temperature, boundary layer relative humidity, mean relative humidity, and boundary layer winds. Average errors were calculated from forecasts contained in the Forecast United States (FOUS) 60-78 bulletins for 89 stations around the United States and adjacent waters. Forecasts were stratified into runs initialized with 0000 GMT or 1200 GMT data. Verifications were produced for 12-, 24-, 36-, and 48-hour forecasts.

The results substantiate certain geographically dependent error characteristics (biases) in the model. Sea level pressure is generally forecast too low east of the Rockies, particularly in the upper Mississippi valley, and too high west of the Rockies, particularly in the far southwest. Errors of 1000-500 mb thickness are generally small and tend to be forecast too high in the central United States and too low in the Rockies. For mean relative humidity, the model is too moist over the northern Rockies and too dry from Texas northward to Wisconsin. With the exception of the Rocky Mountain states, forecasts of boundary layer relative humidity are too dry nationwide. The largest dry bias is centered on the Texas Gulf coast. Boundary layer temperature forecasts are too warm along the Gulf coast and Florida and too cold near the Great Lakes. While errors are usually small for boundary layer winds, the error vectors have cyclonic curvature in the east and a northerly component in the nation's midsection.

There is a pronounced diurnal variation in the model bias for some of the forecast variables examined (boundary layer temperature, boundary layer relative humidity, and, to a lesser degree, 1000-500 mb thickness). This is demonstrated by the differences in the average error fields at 0000 GMT and 1200 GMT.
Standardized Test to Evaluate Numerical Weather Prediction Algorithms
Authors: Pielke R. A. , Bernardet L. R. , Fitzpatrick P. J. , Hertenstein R. F. , Jones A. S. , Lin X. , Nachamkin J. E. , Nair U. S. , Papineau J. M. , Poulos G. S. , Savoie M. H. , Vidale P. L.
Published: April 2018

In order to assist in comparing the computational techniques used in different models, the authors propose a standardized set of one-dimensional numerical experiments that could be completed for each model. The results of these experiments, with a simplified form of the computational representation for advection, diffusion, pressure gradient term, Coriolis term, and filter used in the models, should be reported in the peer-reviewed literature. Specific recommendations are described in this paper.
Artificial Intelligence Needs Workshop 4–5 November 1993, Boston, Massachusetts
Authors: Frankel Donald S. , Draper James Stark , Peak James E. , McLeod J. Carr
Published: April 2018

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Needs Analysis Workshop provided a forum for representatives from government agencies and private industries to explore ways to use Al to solve various problems. Past accomplishments using Al were presented, and areas where Al might be used in future efforts were identified. Each agency suggested their particular problem areas where Al might be expected to solve difficult problems. Reports from three working groups suggested future research areas in which Al has the potential for success.
Global Coupled General Circulation Models
Authors: Meehl Gerald A.
Published: April 2018

Major conclusions and recommendations regarding the status of global coupled general circulation models are presented here from a workshop convened by the World Climate Research Programme Steering Group on Global Coupled Modelling that was held from 10 to 12 October 1994 at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, La Jolla, California. The purpose of the workshop was to assess the current state of the art of global coupled modeling on the decadal and longer timescales in terms of methodology and results to identify the major issues and problems facing this activity and to discuss possible alternatives for making progress in light of these problems. This workshop brought together representatives from nearly every group in the world actively involved in formulating and running such models. After presentations by workshop participants, four working groups identified key issues involving 1) initialization and model spinup, 2) strategies and techniques for coupling of model components, 3) flux correction/adjustment, and 4) secular drift and systematic errors. The participants concluded that improved communication between those engaged in this activity will be important to enhance further progress. Consequently, the World Climate Research Programme intends to continue the support of internationally coordinated activities in global coupled modeling.
Should Cities Embrace Their Heat Islands as Shields from Extreme Cold?
Authors: Yang Jiachuan , Bou-Zeid Elie
Published: April 2018

The higher temperature in cities relative to their rural surroundings, known as the urban heat island (UHI), is one of the most well documented and severe anthropogenic modifications of the environment. Heat islands are hazardous to residents and the sustainability of cities during summertime and heat waves; on the other hand, they provide considerable benefits in wintertime. Yet, the evolution of UHIs during cold waves has not yet been explored. In this study, ground-based observations from 12 U.S. cities and high-resolution weather simulations show that UHIs not only warm urban areas in the winter but also further intensify during cold waves by up to 1.32° ± 0.78°C (mean ± standard deviation) at night relative to precedent and subsequent periods. Anthropogenic heat released from building heating is found to contribute more than 30% of the UHI intensification. UHIs thus serve as shelters against extreme-cold events and provide benefits that include mitigating cold hazard and reducing heating demand. More important, simulations indicate that standard UHI mitigation measures such as green or cool roofs reduce these cold-wave benefits to different extents. Cities, particularly in cool and cold temperate climates, should hence revisit their policies to favor (existing) mitigation approaches that are effective only during hot periods.
Showing Up: The Gendered Effects of Social Engagement on Educational Participation in U.S. Correctional Facilities
Authors: Tietjen Grant E. , Garneau Christopher R. H. , Horowitz Veronica , Noel HarmoniJoie
Published: April 2018

The United States is home to the world’s largest correctional system where the majority of released ex-convicts reoffend. Consequently, accessing successful methods of reducing recidivism has become tantamount, with education as the most powerful predictor of decreased recidivism. This research found gendered differences in educational program usage based on group membership. Participation in prison parenting groups was found to be a greater predictor of college and vocational educational program usage for women than for men. For male inmates, membership in any type of organized group activity was found to predict greater educational program usage in college and vocational education programs.
Comparison of total ionic strength adjustment buffers III and IV in the measurement of fluoride concentration of teas
Authors: Patel Shilpa , Omid Narges , Zohoori Fatemeh V , Maguire Anne , Waldron Kevin J , Valentine Ruth A
Published: April 2018

Background:

Tea is the second most consumed drink in the UK and a primary source of hydration; it is an important source of dietary fluoride (F) for consumers and also abundant in aluminium (Al). Varying ranges of F concentrations in teas have been reported worldwide which may be, in part, due to differences in analytical techniques used to measure this ion.

Aim:

The effect of using total ionic adjustment buffers (TISAB) III or IV when measuring F concentration of black teas available in the UK was investigated and compared. Based on this evaluation, the effects of three different infusion times, 1 min, 10 min and 1 h, caffeine content and tea form on the F contents of the tea samples were investigated.

Methods:

The F concentrations of 47 tea samples were measured directly using a fluoride ion-selective electrode (F-ISE), TISAB III and IV and infusion times of 1 min, 10 min and 1 h.

Results:

Mean (SD) F concentration of tea samples for all infusion times was statistically significantly higher ( p < 0.001) measured by TISAB IV (4.37 (2.16) mg/l) compared with TISAB III (3.54 (1.65) mg/l). A statistically significant positive correlation ( p < 0.001) was found between Al concentration (mg/l) and differences in F concentration (mg/l) measured using the two TISABs; the difference in F concentration measured by the two TISABs increased with the magnitude of Al concentration.

Conclusion:

Due to higher concentrations of F and Al in teas and their complexing potential, use of TISAB IV facilitates more accurate measurement of F concentration when using an F-ISE and a direct method.
Safety and efficacy of the oblique-axis plane in ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein puncture: A meta-analysis
Authors: Miao Shuai , Wang Xiuli , Zou Lan , Zhao Ye , Wang Guanglei , Liu Yuepeng , Liu Su
Published: April 2018

Objective

This meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the oblique-axis plane in ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein puncture.

Methods

We searched Embase, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure for relevant randomized clinical trials comparing the oblique axis with the short axis in ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein puncture.

Results

Five randomized clinical trials were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled meta-analysis showed that the incidence of arterial puncture in the oblique-axis group was significantly lower than that in the short-axis group. No significant difference was found in the first-pass success rate between the oblique-axis group and short-axis group. Additionally, there were no significant differences in the puncture success rate or number of attempts required between the two groups.

Conclusion

Ultrasound-guided internal jugular vein puncture using the oblique-axis plane reduced the risk of arterial puncture, but no difference was found in the first-pass success rate, puncture success rate, or number of attempts required.
La transmission intergénérationnelle en comportement du consommateur : cadre conceptuel intégrateur et perspectives de recherche
Authors: Guillemot Samuel
Published: April 2018

Le concept de transmission intergénérationnelle a donné lieu à des travaux d’une grande hétérogénéité en comportement du consommateur. Il est mobilisé dans des champs de recherche aussi variés que la socialisation du consommateur ou encore la distribution de l’héritage. Cet article propose un cadre conceptuel intégrateur de la transmission intergénérationnelle en comportement du consommateur. Il émerge d’une lecture de la théorie du développement de la personnalité humaine d’Erikson (1959). Le premier apport de ce cadre conceptuel est de relier les préoccupations développementales des jeunes générations à celles des plus anciennes (apprendre, se distinguer, prendre soin et préserver) autour de la notion de capital intergénérationnel. Le second apport est de faire émerger les notions de capital socioculturel, économique, psychique et génétique qui viennent enrichir et préciser la nature du capital intergénérationnel. Enfin, il ouvre des perspectives de recherche telles qu’étudier le rôle central de la génération « pivot » (les 30–65 ans) ou encore prendre en compte le concept d’attachement (Bowbly, 1978) pour étudier l’effet des ressources héritées de nature psychique sur l’adoption de pratiques de consommation.
Review of the Role of the Pharmacist in Reducing Hospital Readmissions
Authors: Bach Quyen N. , Peasah Samuel K. , Barber Elizabeth
Published: April 2018

Hospital readmissions remain a public health concern despite progress in reducing and preventing its occurrence. Among strategies that have been implemented to reduce readmission most involves medication management. Our objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions involving pharmacists to reduce hospital readmissions. PubMed and Google Scholar were searched for primary literature from January 1990 to July 2016 with search terms such as “hospital readmission,” and “Pharmacist,” or “Pharmacy,” or “medications.” Studies with an abstract in English which highlighted a pharmacist involvement based on the type of intervention, country of origin, type of study, and findings were summarized. The outcomes of these interventions to reduce hospital readmissions were mixed. Of the 29 studies, 16 (55%) showed a statistically significant reduction in readmissions ranging from 3.3% to 30%. Most of the interventions focused mainly on patient education postdischarge (8) or in addition to medication reconciliation predischarge (9). There were no studies from Africa or Asia but mainly from the United States (72%). Although multiple factors contribute to hospital readmission, this review highlights the important role pharmacists can play singularly and as part of interdisciplinary teams. Most effective interventions often involved medication review and patient education postdischarge.
Knowledge push technology based on quality function knowledge deployment
Authors: Zhang Kai , Zhao Wu , Wang Jie , Chen Ling , Guo Xin
Published: April 2018

In order to help designers to acquire and apply knowledge, a kind of knowledge push technologies based on quality function knowledge deployment was proposed. During the whole lifecycle of product design, the knowledge requirement house of quality model could link up the required knowledge with design activities to help designers to track the required knowledge for realizing product innovation design. The hierarchical relationship between design tasks, designers, design activities, and required knowledge was analyzed, and the knowledge management system structure for product innovation design based on designers was put forward. Furthermore, knowledge acquisition method was analyzed. In view of the different requirements for knowledge in the different design stages, this paper proposed the mapping model between the process of product innovation design and required knowledge. Then the knowledge push model for product innovation design based on quality function knowledge deployment was established. Finally, a prototype system of computer-aided innovation design platform was developed to implement this knowledge push model, and through its application on the design case of space robot gripper, the practicability and validity of the prototype system were demonstrated.
“Sacred Pause” in the ICU: Evaluation of a Ritual and Intervention to Lower Distress and Burnout
Authors: Kapoor Sumit , Morgan Christopher K. , Siddique Muhammad Asim , Guntupalli Kalpalatha K.
Published: April 2018

Background:

Increased exposure to deaths in the intensive care unit (ICU) generate grief among ICU staff, which remains unresolved most of the time. Unresolved grief becomes cumulative and presents a risk factor for burnout. “sacred pause” is a ritual performed at patient’s death to honor the lost life and recognize the efforts of the health-care team.

Objective:

To study the impact of the ritual of sacred pause on the attitudes and behaviors of the ICU physicians and nurses.

Methods:

Ten-question online anonymous survey was sent to ICU physicians and nurses in the medical ICU of a tertiary care hospital in July 2017.

Results:

Thirty-four ICU team members completed the survey including 12 physicians and 22 nurses. Seventy sacred pause rituals were performed from July 2016 to June 2017. Seventy-nine percent respondents believed that the ritual brought closure and helped them overcome the feelings of disappointment, grief, distress, and failure after the death of their patient in ICU. Seventy-three percent agreed that the ritual has instilled and encouraged a sense of team effort. Eighty-two percent responded that the ritual makes their efforts feel appreciated. Many felt that the ritual should be a universal phenomenon in all ICUs. Only 55% respondents felt that the practice has a potential to decrease ICU burnout, many of them (42%) were undecided.

Conclusion:

Sacred pause brings closure, prevents cumulative grief and distress, builds resilience, promotes team effort, and improves professional satisfaction of ICU team. It may lower burnout syndrome in ICU, but further studies are warranted.
Problem Solving Using Visual Support for Young Children With Autism
Authors: Diamond Lindsay L.
Published: April 2018

Children with autism spectrum disorder may experience different levels of social and behavior deficits in the early elementary years. Behavioral deficits may impact the development of appropriate interpersonal problem-solving skills and peer acceptance, supporting the need for instructional support. This column discusses the implementation of a visual support poster to facilitate the development of problem-solving skills during social and academic instruction for young children with autism.
Contribution of Medial Cuneiform Osteotomy to Correction of Longitudinal Arch Collapse in Stage IIb Adult-Acquired Flatfoot Deformity
Authors: Kunas Grace C. , Do Huong T. , Aiyer Amiethab , Deland Jonathan T. , Ellis Scott J.
Published: April 2018

Background

Residual forefoot supination after correcting the hindfoot in stage IIb adult-acquired flatfoot deformity can be addressed with a dorsal opening wedge medial cuneiform (Cotton) osteotomy. The amount of correction is generally judged clinically, and there currently are no preoperative guides that can predict the size of graft needed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between patient and operative factors and the correction achieved with the Cotton osteotomy.

Methods:

Seventy-nine feet in 74 patients undergoing Cotton osteotomy as part of flatfoot reconstruction were reviewed retrospectively. Preoperative and minimum 40-week postoperative lateral foot weightbearing radiographs were compared to assess correction of longitudinal arch collapse as measured by 13 radiographic parameters, with particular emphasis on the cuneiform articular angle (CAA). Additional demographic and intraoperative variables analyzed for association with radiographic change included age, gender, body mass index, amounts and graft types of Cotton osteotomy and lateral column lengthening, and amount of medializing calcaneal osteotomy. A multivariate linear regression model was developed for each variable found to be significant in univariate analysis.

Results:

The Cotton osteotomy graft size was significantly associated with changes in the CAA ( P < .001), calcaneal pitch ( P = .03), lateral talonavicular Cobb angle ( P = .03), and lateral naviculomedial cuneiform Cobb angle ( P = .03). The Cotton graft size was the only factor found to significantly predict a change in the CAA in the final linear regression model ( P < .001, R2 = 0.27), with each millimeter of Cotton corresponding to a 2.1-degree decrease of the CAA.

Conclusion:

Correction of longitudinal arch collapse, as measured by the CAA, was primarily influenced by the size of the graft used for the Cotton osteotomy in a linear fashion. The preoperative CAA may help surgeons titrate the proper amount of graft placed intraoperatively.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, Retrospective Case Series
Memeingful memories and the art of resistance
Authors: Silvestri Lisa Ellen
Published: April 2018

This article explores the rhetorical function of Internet memes as memory actants. It contributes to an ongoing conversation about the ways in which digital communication has transformed the relationship between media, memory, and the archive by disrupting predicable “decay times” and emphasizing memory as a “connective” process rather than a “collective” product. Through an analysis of memetic responses to affective flashpoints in the collective US experience, namely, the 9/11 constellation, this article explores the potential for memes to influence not only the content of public memory but also the attitudes with which we remember that content.
‘Poison ivy’: Queer masculinities, sexualities, homophobia and sexual violence
Authors: Javaid Aliraza
Published: April 2018

This paper critically engages with notions of sexualities and male rape, using the concepts of heteronormativity and the social construction of sexualities to make sense of male sexual victimization. It offers primary data, which were collected via qualitative interviews and qualitative questionnaires involving police officers and practitioners working in voluntary agencies ( N = 70). The theoretical framework of heteronormativity is used to elucidate the data, drawing on issues and notions of sexualities that shape the ways in which state and voluntary agencies perceive, respond to and deal with male victims of rape. The aim of this paper, then, is to explore how notions of sexualities affect British state and voluntary agencies’ understanding of male rape and their views of men as victims of rape. I argue that state and voluntary agencies see male rape solely as a homosexual issue. As a result, heterosexual male rape victims, in particular, fear that societies will see them as homosexuals potentially drawing in homophobic reactions, responses or appraisals from others because rape challenges men’s heterosexual identity and sense of self as a ‘real’ man. Owing to the myth that male rape is a homosexual issue, and owing to heteronormativity, rape between men is seen as ‘consensual’ because anal penetration is considered to be an activity for gay men. Thus, sexist, homophobic and disbelieving attitudes emerge.
The Trump Draw: Voter Personality and Support for Donald Trump in the 2016 Republican Nomination Campaign
Authors: Fortunato David , Hibbing Matthew V. , Mondak Jeffery J.
Published: April 2018

This study explores how variation in voters’ personality traits, as represented by the Big Five framework, corresponded with variation in judgments regarding the leading presidential candidates during the 2016 nomination campaign. We argue that the context of a crowded field and an atypical candidate in the Republican nomination campaign activated personalistic criteria for candidate evaluation—voters’ own personality traits plausibly gave direction to their candidate assessments, and personality was a useful basis on which to differentiate between eventual winner Donald Trump and the other leading Republican competitors early in the primary process. Analyses make use of data from a large national survey fielded at the time of the Iowa caucuses. Results show that voters with a particular constellation of personality traits—high conscientiousness and extraversion, and low openness, agreeableness, and neuroticism—favored Donald Trump as compared with Ted Cruz, John Kasich, Marco Rubio, Jeb Bush, Ben Carson, and the remainder of the Republican field.
Outcomes of Surgical Management for Thumb Basilar Arthritis in Patients 55 Years of Age and Younger
Authors: Rhee Peter C. , Paul Aaron , Carlsen Brian , Shin Alexander Y.
Published: April 2018

Background: Trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction tendon interposition (LRTI) or suspensionplasty is an effective treatment in older patients with end-stage thumb basilar arthritis. However, the survivability of this procedure is unknown in younger patients who may impart more stress on their thumbs. Methods: A retrospective review was performed on all patients who underwent trapeziectomy and LRTI or suspensionplasty at 55 years of age or younger from 1992 to 2008. Objective clinical outcome measures included preoperative to postoperative changes in thumb range of motion, grip and pinch strength, a study-specific thumb function score, and the Buck-Gramcko subjective outcome score. Progressive metacarpal subsidence was evaluated on radiographs. Survivorship free from revision surgery was calculated with a Kaplan-Meier analysis. Results: A total of 57 wrists underwent trapeziectomy and LRTI (n = 18) or suspensionplasty (n = 39). The mean patient age at the time of surgery was 49.6 years (range: 38-55 years). Mean clinical and radiographic follow-up were 10.2 and 6.4 years, respectively. Overall, there were significant improvements in pain and grip strength despite progressive and metacarpal subsidence. Survivorship was 100% and 86% free from revision surgery at 10 and 15 years, respectively (n = 2 failures). Conclusions: Trapeziectomy and LRTI or suspensionplasty in patients less than or equal to 55 years of age can result in considerable improvements in pain and grip strength with a 10-year survivorship free from revision.
Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Silicone Arthroplasty for Osteoarthritis: Midterm Outcomes
Authors: Naghshineh Nima , Goyal Kanu , Giugale Juan M. , Neral Mithun K. , Ferreira Joel V. , Buterbaugh Glenn A. , Imbriglia Joseph E.
Published: April 2018

Background: Osteoarthritis of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint affects a large percentage of the population and can lead to significant functional disability. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the midterm clinical effectiveness of PIP joint arthroplasty for nonrheumatic arthritis. Methods: A single-center retrospective cohort study evaluating preoperative and postoperative objective and subjective measures was conducted. Range of motion (ROM), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores, key pinch strength, grip strength, and satisfaction with respect to pain, deformity, function, and strength were measured. Results: Forty-five fingers in 25 patients were followed up for a mean period of 42 months. Preoperative and postoperative mean ROM was equivalent at 59.1° and 59.2°, respectively. Postoperative grip and key pinch strength showed significant improvement and near normalization compared with contralateral extremity. Complication rate was 37% with 20% requiring revision surgery. Patients with diabetes mellitus had higher odds of requiring revision surgery. Pain scores improved from 7.4 to 1.9 on a visual analog scale. Overall satisfaction was high at 84%, and 91% of patients would have the surgery performed again. Conclusions: Silicone arthroplasty for osteoarthritis of the PIP remains a good option for pain relief. Our study presents midterm follow-up data that support significant pain relief, increased grip and key pinch strength, and high satisfaction associated with this implant.
Spirit, Community, and Mission: A Biblical Theology for Spiritual Formation
Authors: Averbeck Richard E.
Published: April 2018

This article offers an overview of three main themes in biblical theology that form the basis for sound Christian spiritual formation. These three themes have foundations in the Old Testament and run through into the New Testament for the Christian life. First there is the work of the Holy Spirit in the human spirit, occupying, empowering, and reshaping us and our lives from the inside out. Second, the Holy Spirit works to build us into local communities of faith in which he dwells and in which we have fellowship with one another. Third, the Holy Spirit makes us into prophets and prophetic communities that stand out in the world showing forth God's glory and attracting others to him. This biblical theology motivates the following definition of ‘spiritual formation’: the ministry through which we seek to stimulate and support the ongoing spiritually transforming work of the Holy Spirit in and through the personal lives, relationships, and ministries of genuine believers so that we all progressively become more conformed to the image of Christ according to the will of God the Father (Romans 8:26-30).
Sanctification in a New Key: Relieving Evangelical Anxieties over Spiritual Formation
Authors: Porter Steve L.
Published: April 2018

This article is meant to be an apologetic for spiritual formation to those within the evangelical tradition who find themselves concerned about its emphases. Eight common objections to spiritual formation are presented with the twofold aim of recognizing any needed corrective and defusing the objection. While more must be said in response to each of these objections, it is hoped that enough will be said here to relieve much of the anxiety surrounding spiritual formation.
Praying with Kavanah: Watching Christ from Death to Glory
Authors: DelHousaye John
Published: April 2018

This article shows the similarities between early Christian and Rabbinic prayer, particularly the latter's emphasis on kavanah, which describes an inner activity that must precede recitation. We suggest the evangelical appropriation of the term may be helpful, and offer guidance on its implementation.
“Living with the Lord Always before Them”: Considerations of Spiritual Guidance Offered by Ignatius of Loyola and Dallas Willard
Authors: Catherine Looker Ssj
Published: April 2018

The centuries-old art of spiritual direction continues to be crafted by those who willingly serve as spiritual mentors for countless spiritual seekers who feel drawn by God's grace to engage in the transformative process of spiritual formation. The work of this article offers an in-depth consideration of the spiritual guidance offered by two outstanding spiritual guides, Ignatius of Loyola in his 16th century spiritual manual, The Spiritual Exercises, and Dallas Willard in his recent spiritual book, Renovation of the Heart. After establishing the historical and contextual frameworks needed for getting to know each of our spiritual guides, significant attention will be then given to the exploration of five key spiritual movements that can effectively serve as unifying threads for our consideration of the work of our spiritual transformation into Christ-likeness.
“That They May Hear”: Biblical Foundations for the Oral Reading of Scripture in Worship
Authors: Block Daniel I.
Published: April 2018

The Western evangelical church has lost both the passion for and the art of reading Scripture orally in worship. This exploration of the biblical roots of reading Scripture orally examines both the Old and the New Testament evidence, noting particularly the paradigm established by Moses in Deuteronomy 31:9-13 and modeled by Ezra in Nehemiah 8 that reflects the formative reading of Scripture. Since literacy was limited and few had access to written copies of the Scriptures in ancient Israel and in the early church, public hearing of the Word of God provided the primary means of inspiration and spiritual formation. The essay concludes with a discussion of the implications of the biblical evidence for evangelicals today, including specific guidelines for developing the art of reading the Scriptures in corporate worship.
The Art and Discipline of Formative Reading: Revisiting Holy Scripture with Humble Receptivity
Authors: Muto Susan
Published: April 2018

This article will show that lectio divina or the formative reading of Holy Scripture goes beyond exegetical-critical methods and fosters in the heart of every reader a more personal-reflective approach. This approach serves as a directive source guiding our faith and formation journey. Formative readers by definition desire to grow in spiritual self-knowledge and to allow the communications they receive to touch and transform their lives, if God so wills. Two requirements for formative reading will be explained herein: its meditative or contemplative components and its applicative dimensions. Both facets of this discipline lead to a dynamic encounter with sacred words. We are to read the Bible and the literature of spirituality in such a way that the texts we imbibe will help us to tune into the inner life form or direction meant for us by God from eternity. Essential to this article is also a description of the difference between informational and formational reading. While there is a time and place for both, one way should not be substituted or forgotten in favor of the other. In short, the integration of head and heart, of inspiration and incarnation, is the hidden goal of formative reading.
Sleep, Sloth, and Sanctification
Authors: McMartin Jason
Published: April 2018

I develop a spiritual theology of the physical act of sleep. The spiritual significance of the physical act of sleep ought to be a relational trust that recognizes my place as a creature that depends on the grace of a self-sufficient provider. After distinguishing this topic from other related themes, I develop a theological anthropology of sleep by considering how sleep brings glory to God and by placing sleep within the redemption narrative. I explore sleep as a spiritual practice and investigate the theme of sleep as trust in Scripture. I exposit a spiritual danger associated with sleep, the capital vice of sloth, and show how the traditional conception of this vice further illumines the spiritual significance of sleep.
A Theology of the Body for a Pornographic Age
Authors: Rhea Rob , Langer Rick
Published: April 2018

The Internet has become a normal and formative influence in the lives of emerging adults. Within this engagement, the consumption of sexualized content has become de rigueur. The regular use of pornographic materials has raised fundamental questions regarding online encounters vis-à-vis real encounters. Is an online engagement of sexually explicit materials simply a “virtual” experience or does it necessarily have a physical dimension? How are cyber-sexual encounters the same or different than physical ones? These issues call for an understanding of the body and sexuality that extends into the cyber-based versions of the self. Spiritual formation efforts will increasingly need to take into account the online lives and interactions of people. To that end, understanding the interaction of the body and soul, when engaging an online sexually explicit image, is an important task of the church. This article will lay the groundwork for a biblical understanding of being human and being sexual within an online context. The goodness of the body will be addressed as well as an exploration of the ways sin affects the whole person, particularly through the engagement of pornography. Together, this discussion will better equip the church to continue to assist Christians in conforming their lives, online or offline, to the image of Christ.
The Journey of Our Life: Dante as a Spiritual Theologian of Grace
Authors: Peters Greg
Published: April 2018

This essay is an examination of Dante Alighieri as a spiritual theologian of grace. Using Cantos 9 and 29–30 of the Purgatorio the essay shows that Dante constructs his other-worldly journey as one that is grace-filled and dependent on the grace bestowed through the church's sacraments, in concert with Thomas Aquinas’ theology of grace. Further, in light of the creation of the Feast of Corpus Christi in the thirteenth century, the essay offers a unique interpretation of the figure of Beatrice, showing that she, at least within the context of Purgatorio 29–30, is divine grace.
Unintegrated Suffering: Healing Disconnections between the Emotional, the Rational, and the Spiritual through Lament
Authors: Rochester Kathleen M.
Published: April 2018

Childhood sexual, physical, or emotional abuse can result in splitting many aspects of the emotional and rational sides of a person. Commonly the emotions become confused and difficult to name, and the rational side dominates as a survival mechanism. This can be exacerbated by simplistic teaching that suggests people need to choose to act in certain ways and ignore their emotions. Examples of biblical lament provide helpful models of integration between the rational and emotional sides, encouraging the naming of negative emotions before God, turning to God rather than away from God to an abuser. A realistic grasp of forgiveness and repentance enables wounded people to find healing as they work towards integrating emotions, rationality, and spiritual formation.
African American Spirituality: Through Another Lens
Authors: Chandler Diane J.
Published: April 2018

African American spirituality provides a rich lens into the heart and soul of the black church experience, often overlooked in the Christian spiritual formation literature. By addressing this lacuna, this essay focuses on three primary shaping qualities of history: the effects of slavery, the Civil Rights Movement under Dr. Martin Luther King's leadership, and the emergence of the Black Church. Four spiritual practices that influence African American spirituality highlight the historical and cultural context of being “forged in the fiery furnace,” including worship, preaching and Scripture, the community of faith and prayer, and community outreach. The essay concludes by recognizing four areas of the lived experiences of African Americans from which the global church can glean: (1) persevering in pain and suffering, (2) turning to God for strength, (3) experiencing a living and passionate faith, and (4) affirming God's intention for freedom and justice to be afforded to every individual.
Generation to Generation: Inter-Generationality and Spiritual Formation in Christian Community
Authors: Smith Gordon T.
Published: April 2018

The witness of the Scriptures and of virtually every human culture suggests that one of the most pivotal and thus crucial dimensions of human formation, and thus spiritual formation, is the intergenerational dynamic: older men with younger men; older women passing on the faith to younger women. One generation encouraging, blessing and transmitting wisdom to the next generation. And yet, it is often observed that this is a missing dimension of congregational life–that congregations are increasing stratified along generational lines. Thus this essay will make the case that the church is a liturgical, catechetical and missional community and that faith formation, in Christian community, will happen through the interplay of the generations in worship, teaching/learning and service. And that therefore congregations would be wise to be more attentive to how they foster intergenerational connections, rather than inadvertently or intentionally create generational divides in the church. Also, it is important to stress that a critical part of congregational life is that of equipping older men and women to be a means of grace to their younger counterparts. The essay will draw on the Biblical references to intergenerational formation, the insights of contemporary social-psychology and the observations of the author regarding contemporary congregational life.
Anthropology, theology, critique
Authors: Bielo James S
Published: April 2018

This article reflects on one potential relationship the anthropological study of religion might enjoy with a critical orientation to religion. To do so, I highlight a burgeoning (but tenuous) dialog between anthropology and theology. Ultimately, I propose that a focus on religion and human flourishing provides one wavelength on which an anthropology–theology collaboration can thrive. I follow the observation that anthropologists and theologians are united by concern with shared problems. If human and social flourishing is one such problem, then what might a collaborative configuration look like? The example I consider is how ethnographic evidence of religion in public life can be mobilized to advance prophetic theological critiques of injustice.
Creating a Service Climate for Enhancing Employee Value through the Role of Middle Managers: A Case Study in Leading Insurance Company
Authors: Duncan Lucio R. Lescano
Published: April 2018

The creation of value for customers depends significantly on the knowledge, skill and motivation of service employees. Heskett, Sasser and Schlesinger (2003, The value profit chain. New York, NY: The Free Press) argued that customer value is created by satisfied, productive and loyal employees. This indicates that the company must first provide value to employees. What has not sufficiently been analysed is how to and who should provide value to employees. We verified that not only the company provides value through its policies or systems, but also through those managers who lead at middle level. They play an essential role in creating value for employees when guiding them consistently through specific behaviours that promote value for customers. Our research has focused on developing specific middle managers’ behaviours in order to create a climate focused on service that contributes to enhancing employee value in the commercial unit of a leading insurance company in Peru. The literature explains the need of a generic climate (GC) as a foundation for focused climates, but it has not been demonstrated how to link these climates through the leadership of middle managers. We applied a model of service leadership that facilitates this link, emphasizes excellence in service and enhances employees’ value.
Anticoagulant treatment in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with systemic sclerosis: More shadows than lights
Authors: Palazzini Massimiliano , Manes Alessandra , Gotti Enrico , Dardi Fabio , Rinaldi Andrea , Galiè Nazzareno
Published: April 2018

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a chronic and progressive disease characterized by elevated pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance leading to heart failure and premature death. Pulmonary arterial hypertension is characterized by proliferative and obstructive lesions in the distal pulmonary arteries and some descriptions include also thrombotic lesions. Despite this, in an era when multiple effective pulmonary arterial hypertension therapies are available, the role of anticoagulation in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension remains uncertain. In particular, anticoagulant treatment in pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with connective tissue disease seems to be associated with unfavorable risk to benefit ratio due to an increased rate of bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract. However, anticoagulation may be required in conditions with increased thrombophilia like in the presence of lupus anticoagulant phenomenon or in the presence of anticardiolipin antibodies.
Cardiac transplantation in a 20-year-old woman with scleroderma
Authors: Schreiber Benjamin E , Parish Victoria , Knight Daniel S , Bell Alexander D , Denton Christopher P , Banner Nicholas , Coghlan Gerry
Published: April 2018

Purpose:

To describe cardiac transplantation in a young woman with juvenile onset diffuse scleroderma and cardiac involvement.

Methods:

Case report.

Results:

A young White girl developed anti-topoisomerase-1 positive diffuse scleroderma aged 14 years with myositis. Pulmonary function tests were normal. Skin disease was treated with mycophenolate mofetil 1 g twice daily, methotrexate 7.5 mg weekly and periodic intravenous prostacyclin. When aged 17 years, she developed raised troponin T of 0.207 mcg/L (normal range <0.03) and NTproBNP (155 pmol/L); 6-min walking distance was 341 m, and she had episodes of presyncope with effort. The next year she developed symptomatic ventricular tachycardias and dual-chamber implantable cardioverter-defibrillator was inserted, with further episodes of ventricular tachycardia and one shock delivered. By age 19 years, 6-min walking distance was 125 m. Echocardiography showed ejection fraction of 15%–20% with dilated left ventricle and pericardial effusion. She was treated with intravenous Rituximab. She became breathless while dressing and managed only 118 m in 6 min. She experienced increasing orthopnoea and peripheral oedema and was found to be in a low cardiac output state, requiring treatment with intravenous milrinone to maintain renal function. She underwent orthotopic cardiac transplantation, making an excellent post-operative recovery, and was discharged 16 days later with tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil and prednisolone. After 1 year, she was in New York Heart Association functional class I and with normal cardiac function on echocardiography.

Conclusion:

This case illustrates the severe cardiac involvement that can occur in juvenile onset diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis, in which cardiac involvement is the leading cause of death.
Aggressive combination therapy for treatment of systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Coghlan JG , Denton Christopher P.
Published: April 2018

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is an important complication of systemic sclerosis with high mortality but should be regarded as a treatable manifestation of the disease. Management draws on experience from other forms of pulmonary arterial hypertension and benefits from an increasing number of licenced therapies. Outcome is variable but recent clinical trials suggest that combination therapies used early in the disease may be associated with better outcomes. This is important because previous clinical trials using short-term gain in exercise capacity did not show significant benefit compared to that observed for idiopathic or heritable forms of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Thus, it is important to identify cases as early as possible and to manage cases that are in a high-risk group using early combination therapy. This review summarises the most recent analyses of clinical trial data, with a focus on those patients with SSc-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension and provides the evidence base that supports current treatment recommendations for aggressive pulmonary arterial hypertension occurring in systemic sclerosis, including the early use of combination pulmonary arterial hypertension–specific drugs in appropriate cases.
A comparative study of common-reflection-surface prestack time migration and data regularization: Application in crooked-line data
Authors: Garabito German
Published: April 2018

To improve the time-domain imaging of poor-quality seismic data, the common-reflection-surface (CRS) stack method was introduced to simulate zero-offset (ZO) stacked sections from a multicoverage data set based on automatic coherence analysis of seismic signals. This method produces improved ZO stacked sections with a high signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) and good continuity of reflection events. However, the stacking results may have some undesirable artifacts that can degrade the poststack migrated image. To overcome these drawbacks, I have developed a prestack data regularization method, based on CRS partial stacks, which produces prestack data with high S/N and enhanced reflection events. The regularized data are usually applied for velocity analysis and conventional prestack migration in the time and depth domains. Recently, the CRS stacking operator has also been applied for developing a new type of prestack beam migration. This new migration combines the classic Kirchhoff migration with the CRS stack method, in which the beam-forming process stacks locally coherent events that are performed using the CRS operator during migration. This work reviews this CRS-based prestack migration method in the time domain and presents a comparative study with the main standard applications of the CRS stack method, such as CRS stacking plus poststack time migration and CRS-based regularization plus prestack time migration (PSTM). To evaluate its effectiveness and reliability, CRS-based PSTM and CRS-based prestack data regularization were applied in a crooked line. The time-migrated image resulting from the regularized data has strong migration artifacts due to the crookedness of the seismic line; in contrast, the CRS-based time migration provides a good-quality image without migration artifacts.