bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emily Dickinson’s “My life had stood a loaded gun” – An interdisciplinary analysis
Authors: Bauer Matthias , Bade Nadine , Beck Sigrid , Dörge Carmen , von Eckartsberg Burkhard , Niefer Janina , Ottschofski Saskia , Zirker Angelika
Published: January 2016

In this article we analyse Emily Dickinson’s poem “My life had stood a loaded gun” using a specific methodology that combines linguistic and literary theory. The first step is a textual analysis with the methods of compositional semantics. The second step is a literary analysis enriching the literal meaning with information about the wider context of the poem. The division of these two steps reflects the distinction between an objective interpretation of the text based solely on the rules of grammar and a subjective reading which draws on various external fields of reference. In combining both steps, we show why some interpretations of the poem are more plausible than others and how different lines of interpretation are related to each other. However, it is not our aim to provide one definite interpretation of the poem or to favour one reading over the others. Rather, we wish to show how Dickinson’s use of specific grammatical mechanisms leads to a number of interpretations which are more or less plausible. That is, we identify plausible interpretations on the basis of grammatical evidence, and we relate these to each other by pointing at instances in the poem where a divergence of interpretations is possible (cases of ambiguity, for example). This method is helpful for literary studies since formal linguistics helps produce a systematic and non-arbitrary analysis, and it is helpful for linguistic analysis since it uncovers which violations of grammar do or do not disturb the interpretative process, and which kind of structures need pragmatic enrichment.
Thermo-Elastic Analysis Of A Rotating Hollow Cylinder Made Of Arbitrary Functionally Graded Materials
Authors: Arefi Mohammad , Nahas Iman , Abedi Majid
Published: January 2016

Thermo-mechanical analysis of the functionally graded orthotropic rotating hollow structures, subjected to thermo-mechanical loadings is studied in this paper. The relations were derived for both plane strain and plane stress conditions as a cylinder and disk, respectively. Non homogeneity was considered arbitrary through thickness direction for all mechanical and thermal properties. The responses of the system including temperature distribution, radial displacement and radial and circumferential stresses were derived in the general state. As case study, power law gradation was assumed for functionally graded cylinder and the mentioned results were evaluated in terms of parameters of the system such as non-homogeneous index and angular velocity.
The Kinetic Study of The Hydrothermal Growth of Zno Nanorod Array Films / Zno Nanostieņu Kopu Pārklājuma Hidrotermālās Augšanas Kinētikas Izpēte
Authors: Gerbreders V. , Sarajevs P. , Mihailova I. , Tamanis E.
Published: January 2016

The simple analysis method has been introduced for the kinetic analysis of the hydrothermal growth. The zinc oxide nanorod arrays have been synthesized via a hydrothermal process. Zinc nitrate hexahydrate (Zn(NO3)2 · 6H2O) has been used as the precursor in the presence of hexamethylenetetramine (C6H12N4) for the formation of ZnO nanostructures. Long-term isothermal growth kinetics of ZnO nanorods has been investigated. The effect of the solution temperature (70-90 ℃) on the kinetics of the hydrothermal growth of ZnO nanorods has been examined. An extensive analysis by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction has revealed that the as-synthesized ZnO nanorod arrays are well-crystalline and possessing hexagonal wurtzite structure. These ZnO films have promising potential advantages in microelectronic and optoelectronic applications.
Obtaining a Well-Aligned ZnO Nanotube Array Using the Hydrothermal Growth Method / Labi Sakārtotu Zno Nanocauruļu Kopu Iegūšana, Izmantojot Hidrotermālo Metodi
Authors: Krasovska M. , Gerbreders V. , Paskevics V. , Ogurcovs A. , Mihailova I.
Published: January 2016

Optimal growing parameters have been found using the hydrothermal method to obtain well-aligned vertical ZnO nanorod and nanotube arrays. The influence of different growing factors (such as temperature, growing solution concentration, method of obtaining seed layer and condition) on nanotube morphology and size is described in the paper.

Well-structured ZnO nanotubes have been obtained by using a selfselective etching method with lowering temperatures of growth during the hydrothermal process.

It is shown that the optical properties of the nanostructure arrays obtained are sensitive to the medium in which they are placed, which is why they can be used as sensors for pure substance detection and in different solutions for impurity determination.
A new kind of the solution of degenerate
parabolic equation with unbounded
convection term
Authors: Huashui Zhan
Published: January 2016

A new kind of entropy solution of Cauchy problem of the strong degenerate parabolic equation

is introduced. If u0 ∈ L∞(RN), E = {Ei} ∈ (L2(QT))N and divE ∈ L2(QT), by a modified regularization
method and choosing the suitable test functions, the BV estimates are got, the existence of the entropy solution is
obtained. At last, by Kruzkov bi-variables method, the stability of the solutions is obtained.
Linear and nonlinear abstract differential
equations of high order
Authors: Shakhmurov Veli B.
Published: January 2016

The nonlocal boundary value problems for linear and nonlinear degenerate abstract differential equations
of arbitrary order are studied. The equations have the variable coefficients and small parameters in principal part.
The separability properties for linear problem, sharp coercive estimates for resolvent, discreetness of spectrum and
completeness of root elements of the corresponding differential operator are obtained. Moreover, optimal regularity
properties for nonlinear problem is established. In application, the separability and spectral properties of nonlocal
boundary value problem for the system of degenerate differential equations of infinite order is derived.
New criteria for H-tensors and an application
Authors: Wang Feng , Sun Deshu
Published: January 2016

Some new criteria for identifying H-tensors are obtained. As an application, some sufficient conditions
of the positive definiteness for an even-order real symmetric tensor are given. Advantages of results obtained are
illustrated by numerical examples.
The estimates of diagonally dominant degree
and eigenvalues inclusion regions
for the Schur complement of block
diagonally dominant matrices
Authors: Wang Feng , Sun Deshu
Published: January 2016

The theory of Schur complement plays an important role in many fields, such as matrix theory and
control theory. In this paper, applying the properties of Schur complement, some new estimates of diagonally
dominant degree on the Schur complement of I(II)-block strictly diagonally dominant matrices and I(II)-block strictly
doubly diagonally dominant matrices are obtained, which improve some relative results in Liu [Linear Algebra
Appl. 435(2011) 3085-3100]. As an application, we present several new eigenvalue inclusion regions for the Schur
complement of matrices. Finally, we give a numerical example to illustrate the advantages of our derived results.
Large Area Concrete Surface Topography Measurements Using Optical 3D Scanner
Authors: Majchrowski Radomir , Grzelka Mirosław , Wieczorowski Michał , Sadowski Łukasz , Gapiński Bartosz
Published: January 2016

The paper presents examinations of the surface of base concrete with a 3D scanner. Two base concrete surfaces, differently prepared, were examined, together with two measurement strategies: simple and fast 3D scanning and partial scanning in selected areas corresponding to the device measurement space. In order to complete the analysis of a concrete surface topography an original Matlab-based program TAS (Topography Analysis and Simulation) was developed for both 2D and 3D surface analyses. It enables data processing, calculation of parameters, data visualization and digital filtration.
Perceptions of Social Media
Authors: Segaard Signe Bock
Published: January 2016

While observers have focused on the political use of social media when exploring their democratic potential, we know little about users’ perceptions of these media. These perceptions could well be important to understanding the political use of social media. In exploring users’ perceptions, the article asks whether politicians and voters view social media in a similar way, and to what extent they consider social media to be an apt arena for political communication. Within a Norwegian context, which may prove useful as a critical case, and using the technological frames model, we find that although voters’ and politicians’ opinions are not that dissimilar overall, politicians are more likely to recognize the political communicative role of social media. However, social media do indeed have the potential to become arenas for political mobilization among groups that traditionally are less visible in political arenas.
Professional autonomy
Authors: Nygren Gunnar , Dobek-Ostrowska Boguslawa , Anikina Maria
Published: January 2016

Degree of autonomy is one of the key dimensions of professionalization in journalism. However, the strive for autonomy looks different in different media systems, where pressure on autonomy can come from both political and commercial powers, outside and within the media. Media development also changes the conditions for professional autonomy for journalists, in both a positive and a negative sense. In the comparative research project “Journalism in change”, the journalistic cultures in Russia, Poland and Sweden are studied. In a survey involving 1500 journalists from the three countries, journalists report on their perceived autonomy in their daily work and in relation to different actors inside and outside the media. The survey covers how the work has been changed by media developments, and how these changes have affected journalists′perceived autonomy. The results show similarities in the strive for autonomy, but also clear differences in how autonomy is perceived by journalists in the three countries.
Patterns of Media Use and Reflections on Media among young Danes
Authors: Krogager Stinne Gunder Strøm , Povlsen Karen Klitgaard , Degn Hans-Peter
Published: January 2016

The present article examines cross-media use among 10- to 16-year-old Danish children and adolescents. Our research interest is in identifying and affirming patterns among media use, gender and age. Using a methodological design that combines qualitative and quantitative methods, we interviewed participants regarding their media use and paired our qualitative findings with quantitative rating inquiries generated from Danish commercial databases. Our results suggest that although cross-media use is complex and differs according to age and gender, media are often used for similar purposes, e.g., sustaining social relationships.
Solving nonlinear evolution equation system using two different
methods
Authors: Kaplan Melike , Bekir Ahmet , Ozer Mehmet N.
Published: January 2016

This paper deals with constructing more general
exact solutions of the coupled Higgs equation by using
the (G0/G, 1/G)-expansion and (1/G0)-expansion methods.
The obtained solutions are expressed by three types
of functions: hyperbolic, trigonometric and rational functions
with free parameters. It has been shown that the suggested
methods are productive and will be used to solve
nonlinear partial differential equations in applied mathematics
and engineering. Throughout the paper, all the calculations
are made with the aid of the Maple software.
Variability of Salpa thompsoni population structure in the Drake Passage in summer season 2010
Authors: Słomska Angelika W. , Panasiuk-Chodnicka Anna A. , Żmijewska Maria I. , Mańko Maciej K.
Published: January 2016

Dynamic climate changes have become noticeable in recent decades, especially in the vulnerable region of the West Antarctic. The relatively simple food web of this area relies on krill –Euphausia superba. Presumably, as a result of climatic fluctuations, a decrease in the number of this crustacean has been recorded, followed by an increase in the population of the gelatinous zooplankterSalpa thompsoni. In the research presented herein, population and morphometric analyses ofSalpa thompsonihave been conducted. Specimens for this research were collected from the Drake Passage, using a Bongo net in the summer season of 2010. It has been found that the horizontal distribution of this gelatinous zooplankter was significantly irregular (Kruskal-Wallis test, p < 0.001). In the northern part of the investigated area, both blastozooids and oozooids were recorded, which confirms the dynamic development of this species. The central part of the Drake Passage was characterized by the dominance of blastozooids, with embryos found at different stages of the development. Only in the region of the South Shetland Islands, the salpid population was characterized by reduced or even stopped reproduction. The immense reproductive efficiency observed in theSalpa thompsonipopulation was mostly induced by the favourable thermal conditions. These observations may suggest that the ongoing climat changes in the West Antarctic will promote the population expansion of this species.
Two-element acoustic array gives insight into ice-ocean interactions in Hornsund Fjord, Spitsbergen
Authors: Głowacki Oskar , Deane Grant B. , Moskalik Mateusz , Tęgowski Jarosław , Blondel Philippe
Published: January 2016

Glacierized fjords are dynamic regions, with variable oceanographic conditions and complex ice-ocean interactions, which are still poorly understood. Recent studies have shown that passive underwater acoustics offers new promising tools in this branch of polar research. Here, we present results from two field campaigns, conducted in summer 2013 and spring 2014. Several recordings with a bespoke two-hydrophone acoustic buoy were made in different parts of Hornsund Fjord, Spitsbergen in the vicinity of tidewater glaciers to study the directionality of underwater ambient noise. Representative segments of the data are used to illustrate the analyses, and determine the directions of sound sources by using the time differences of arrivals between two horizontally aligned, broadband hydrophones. The results reveal that low frequency noise (< 3 kHz) is radiated mostly from the ice cliffs, while high-frequency (> 3 kHz) noise directionality strongly depends on the distribution of floating glacial ice throughout the fjord. Changing rates of iceberg production as seen for example in field photographs and logs are, in turn, most likely linked to signal amplitudes for relevant directions. These findings demonstrate the potential offered by passive acoustics to study the dynamics of individual tidewater glaciers.
A study into politeness strategies and politeness markers in Jordanian print advertisements as persuasive tools
Authors: Issa Sadam
Published: January 2016

This study seeks to investigate the socio-pragmatic and persuasive functions of politeness in Jordanian print advertisements. Specifically, the study is concerned with the linguistic politeness strategies the Jordanian ads deploy in order to persuade the potential Jordanian customers of their products. Brown and Levinson’s (1987) seminal work as well as Watts’ (2003) and Spencer-Oatey’s (2005) research on politeness provide the framework for this study. My study is based on examining linguistic politeness as linked to social relationships (Christie 2005), in that “‘ways of putting things’ ... are part of the very stuff that social relationships are made of” (Brown and Levinson 1987: 55). It is believed that the success of the ads hinges on their politeness and persuasion strategies that appeal to the socio-economic and cultural specificities of Jordanian society. To this end, 200 Jordanian ads were collected from
Spatial Distribution And Synoptic Conditions Of Snow Accumulation And Snow Ablation In The West Siberian Plain
Authors: Bednorz Ewa , Wibig Joanna
Published: January 2016

The mean duration of snow coverage in the West Siberian Plain is approximately eight months in the north to about five months in the south. While the period of intense snow melting is short (one or two months between March and May), snow accumulation persists for most of the cold season. Snow accumulation is associated with negative anomalies of sea level pressure, which means increased cyclonal activity and weaker than normal Siberian High. Much lower anomalies of sea level pressure occur during snow ablation. This suggests smaller influence of air circulation on snow cover reduction in spring.
Two Strategies Of Agent-Based Modelling Application For Management Of Lakeland Landscapes At A Regional Scale
Authors: Giełda-Pinas Katarzyna , Dzieszko Piotr , Zwoliński Zbigniew , Ligmann-Zielińska Arika
Published: January 2016

This work presents two different strategies of ABM for management of selected lakeland landscapes and their impact on sustainable development. Two different lakeland research areas as well as two different sets of agents and their decision rules were compared. In Strategy 1 decisions made by farmers and their influence on the land use/cover pattern as well as the indirect consequence of phosphorus and nitrogen delivery to the water bodies were investigated. In this strategy, a group of farmer agents is encouraged to participate in an agri-environmental program. The Strategy 2 combines the decisions of farmers, foresters and local authorities. The agents in the model share a common goal to produce a spatial plan. The land use/cover patterns arising from different attitudes and decision rules of the involved actors were investigated. As the basic spatial unit, the first strategy employed a landscape unit, i.e. lake catchment whereas the second strategy used an administrative unit, i.e. commune. Both strategies resulted in different land use/cover patterns and changes, which were evaluated in terms of sustainability policy. The main conclusion for Strategy 1 is that during 5 years of farmer’s participation in the agri-environmental program, there was significant decrease of nutrient leaching to the lake. The main conclusion for Strategy 2 should be stated that cooperating of the agents is better for the natural environment than the competitions between them. In both strategies, agents’ decisions influence the environment but different spatial units of analysis express this environment.
Clinical applicability of biologically effective dose calculation for spinal cord in fractionated spine stereotactic body radiation therapy
Authors: Lee Seung Heon , Lee Kyu Chan , Choi Jinho , Ahn So Hyun , Lee Seok Ho , Sung Ki Hoon , Kil Se Hee
Published: January 2016

Background. The aim of the study was to investigate whether biologically effective dose (BED) based on linearquadratic model can be used to estimate spinal cord tolerance dose in spine stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) delivered in 4 or more fractions.

Patients and methods. Sixty-three metastatic spinal lesions in 47 patients were retrospectively evaluated. The most frequently prescribed dose was 36 Gy in 4 fractions. In planning, we tried to limit the maximum dose to the spinal cord or cauda equina less than 50% of prescription or 45 Gy2/2. BED was calculated using maximum point dose of spinal cord.

Results. Maximum spinal cord dose per fraction ranged from 2.6 to 6.0 Gy (median 4.3 Gy). Except 4 patients with 52.7, 56.4, 62.4, and 67.9 Gy2/2, equivalent total dose in 2-Gy fraction of the patients was not more than 50 Gy2/2 (12.1- 67.9, median 32.0). The ratio of maximum spinal cord dose to prescription dose increased up to 82.2% of prescription dose as epidural spinal cord compression grade increased. No patient developed grade 2 or higher radiationinduced spinal cord toxicity during follow-up period of 0.5 to 53.9 months.

Conclusions. In fractionated spine SBRT, BED can be used to estimate spinal cord tolerance dose, provided that the dose per fraction to the spinal cord is moderate, e.g. < 6.0 Gy. It appears that a maximum dose of up to 45-50 Gy2/2 to the spinal cord is tolerable in 4 or more fractionation regimen.
Why did Early Believers in Jesus Write Apocalypses?
Authors: Norelli Enrico
Published: January 2016

There were different messianic expectations in Judaism at the time of Jesus and his disciples, but in all of them, to the best of our knowledge, the presence of the Messiah marked the end of the action of evil powers in the world. Such a statement represents what Umberto Eco called a semiotic judgement in a semiotic system. However, the fact that the first believers in Jesus were still exposed to a distress they understood as being caused by evil powers obliged them to formulate a factual judgement, predicating of a given content “semantic markers that have never been attributed to it by a previous code.”1 As the code provided the ground for stating that Jesus was the Messiah, it could not simply be dismissed, but had to be restructured through the integration of the factual judgement as a new semiotic judgement. Taking up and transforming the genre “apocalypse” allowed early believers in Jesus to effect that transformation, because it required a competent authority to establish a rule corresponding to the factual statement. In a Christian apocalypse, God or a heavenly Being authorized by God accomplishes such a performance, explaining that the distress of believers between Christ’s Resurrection and his Parousia fits a system built on the idea of God’s plan of salvation for humans. John’s Revelation discloses Christ’s heavenly identity and his power over history, showing that his suffering and death was a necessary step for his glorification and that the same path has to be trodden by his followers. The last part of the contribution illustrates two examples of the transformation of traditional apocalyptic motifs so that they may function in the system restructured through the central role attributed to Jesus.
Follicular thyroid carcinoma with NRAS Q61K and GNAS R201H mutations that had a good 131I treatment response
Authors: Lu Jin-Ying , Hung Po-Ju , Chen Pei-Lung , Yen Ruoh-Fang , Kuo Kuan-Ting , Yang Tsung-Lin , Wang Chih-Yuan , Chang Tien-Chun , Huang Tien-Shang , Chang Ching-Chung
Published: January 2016

We report a case of follicular thyroid carcinoma with concomitant NRAS p.Q61K and GNAS p.R201H mutations, which manifested as a 13.5 cm thyroid mass with lung, humerus and T9 spine metastases, and exhibited good response to radioactive iodine treatment.

Learning points

GNAS p.R201H somatic mutation is an activating or gain-of-function mutation resulting in constitutively activated Gs-alpha protein and downstream cAMP cascade, independent of TSH signaling, causing autonomously functioning thyroid nodules.

NRAS p.Q61K mutations with GNAS p.R201H mutations are known for a good radioactive iodine treatment response.

Further exploration of the GNAS-activating pathway may provide therapeutic insights into the treatment of metastatic follicular carcinoma.
MANAGEMENT OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Long-term outcomes of the treatment of central precocious puberty
Authors: Guaraldi Federica , Beccuti Guglielmo , Gori Davide , Ghizzoni Lucia
Published: January 2016

GnRH analogues (GnRHa) are the treatment of choice for central precocious puberty (CPP), with the main objective to recover the height potential compromised by the premature fusion of growth cartilages. The aim of this review was to analyze long-term effects of GnRHa on height, body weight, reproductive function, and bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with CPP, as well as the potential predictors of outcome. Because randomized controlled trials on the effectiveness and long-term outcomes of treatment are not available, only qualified conclusions about the efficacy of interventions can be drawn. GnRHa treatment appears to improve adult height in girls with CPP, especially if diagnosed before the age of 6, whereas a real benefit in terms of adult height is still controversial in patients with the onset of puberty between 6 and 8 years of age. No height benefit was shown in patients treated after 8 years. Gonadal function is promptly restored in girls after cessation of treatment, and reproductive potential appears normal in young adulthood. Data are conflicting on the long-term risk of polycystic ovarian syndrome in both treated and untreated women. Fat mass is increased at the start of treatment but normalizes thereafter, and GnRHa itself does not seem to have any long-term effect on BMI. Similarly, analogue treatment does not appear to have a negative impact on BMD. Owing to the paucity of data available, no conclusions can be drawn on the repercussions of CPP and/or its treatment on the timing of menopause and on the health of the offspring.
Adaptation to acute coronary syndrome-induced stress with lowering of testosterone: a possible survival factor
Authors: Pesonen Erkki , Pussinen Pirkko , Huhtaniemi Ilpo
Published: January 2016

Objective

The objective of this study was to explore whether circulating testosterone (T) concentration is associated with the occurrence and risk for acute coronary syndromes (ACS).

Method

This case–control study included male patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) (n=174) or unstable angina pectoris (UAP) (n=90) and healthy controls (n=238). Patients gave serum samples during the acute (n=264) and recovery (n=132) phases after a median of 10.5 months after the incident event. Secondary events (ACS or cardiovascular death) were registered during the following 6 years.

Results

During the acute phase, AMI and UAP patients had similar significantly reduced concentrations of serum testosterone in comparison to controls. Testosterone associated inversely with weight, the degree of inflammation (i.e. C-reactive protein concentration) and signs of a chronic infection. In a multiadjusted Cox regression, when compared to testosterone concentrations considered high-normal (14.91–34.0 nmol/l), low-normal testosterone (9.26–14.90 nmol/l) in the acute phase predicted better prognosis for cardiovascular death rate with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.17 (0.04–0.68, P=0.012). The increased testosterone concentrations after the recovery period did not associate with future cardiovascular disease events.

Conclusion

Low-normal testosterone levels in the acute phase of ACS predicted better survival. The observation may indicate better adaptation to stress in survivors and warrants further study.
Low testosterone levels are associated with endothelial dysfunction in oophorectomized early postmenopausal women
Authors: Rech Ciciliana Maíla Zilio , Clapauch Ruth , de Souza Maria das Graças Coelho , Bouskela Eliete
Published: January 2016

Background

The actual consequences of low testosterone levels in women remain uncertain.

Objective

To assess endogenous testosterone influence on body composition, vascular and metabolic function in recent postmenopausal women.

Design

We studied 81 postmenopausal women under transdermal estradiol (E2) replacement therapy, 36 with bilateral oophorectomy (group O), and 45 controls (group C) through venous occlusion plethysmography, bioimpedance, DEXA, biochemical, hormonal, and inflammatory profile.

Results

Total testosterone level (TT) in group O was 11.0 (4.0–17.75) vs 23.0 (10.0–42.5) ng/dl in group C (P=0.001). Forearm blood flow, in ml/min/100 ml tissue, was lower in group O compared to group C at baseline (1.57 (1.05–2.47) vs 2.19 (1.59–2.66)P=0.036), following reactive hyperemia response (endothelium-dependent flow mediated dilatation, 3.44 (2.38–4.35) vs 4.3 (3.09–5.52),P=0.031) and following nitroglycerin (endothelium-independent dilation, 1.39 (0.99–1.7) vs 1.76 (1.15–2.0),P=0.025), with a positive correlation between TT and all parameters except for the reactive hyperemia response (r=0.233–0.312,P=0.036–0.004). The sVCAM1 levels were negatively correlated with TT (r=–0.320,P=0.005). E2and other hormone levels, biochemical parameters and body composition did not differ between groups. Multiple linear regressions showed that the levels of TT, compared with other confounding variables, may explain the variation observed on endothelial parameters, with low explanatory power.

Conclusion

The absence of ovarian testosterone production in recent postmenopausal oophorectomized women was associated with deleterious effects on endothelial function.
Quality of life, clinical outcomes and safety of early prophylactic levothyroxine administration in patients with Graves' hyperthyroidism undergoing radioiodine therapy: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Taïeb David , Bournaud Claire , Eberle Marie-Claude , Catargi Bogdan , Schvartz Claire , Cavarec Marie-Béatrice , Faugeron Isabelle , Toubert Marie-Elisabeth , Benisvy Danielle , Archange Cendrine , Mundler Olivier , Caron Philippe , Abdullah Ahmad Esmaeel , Baumstarck Karine
Published: January 2016

Objective

While radioiodine therapy is commonly used for treating Graves' disease, a prolonged and clinical hypothyroidism may result in disabling symptoms leading to deterioration of quality of life (QoL) of patients. Introducing levothyroxine (LT4) treatment in the early post-therapeutic period may be an interesting approach to limit this phenomenon.

Methods

A multicenter, prospective, open-label randomized controlled trial enrolled 94 patients with Graves' hyperthyroidism randomly assigned to the experimental group (n=46) (group A: early prophylactic LT4treatment) or the control group (n=48) (group B: standard follow-up). The primary endpoint was the 6-month QoL. The secondary endpoints were other QoL scores such as Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) outcomes, thyroid function tests and safety.

Results

The primary endpoint at 6 months was achieved: the mental composite score (MCS) of Short Form 36 (SF-36) was significantly higher in group A compared to group B (P=0.009). Four other dimension scores of the SF-36 and four dimension scores of the thyroid-specific patient-reported outcome (ThyPRO) significantly differed between the two groups, indicating better QoL in group A. After adjustment for variables, the early LT4administration strategy was found as an independent factor for only two scores of SF-36: the MCS and the general health (GH) score. There were no differences in GO, final thyroid status and changes in the anti-TSH receptor antibodies (TRAbs) levels between the two groups. No adverse cardiovascular event was reported.

Conclusion

Early LT4administration post-radioactive iodine (RAI) could represent a safe potential benefit for patients with regard to QoL. The optimal strategy taking into account administered RAI activities and LT4treatment dosage and timing remains to be determined.
FLAGS: A Flexible and Adaptive Association Test for Gene Sets Using Summary Statistics
Authors: Huang Jianfei , Wang Kai , Wei Peng , Liu Xiangtao , Liu Xiaoming , Tan Kai , Boerwinkle Eric , Potash James B , Han Shizhong
Published: January 2016

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been widely used for identifying common variants associated with complex diseases. Despite remarkable success in uncovering many risk variants and providing novel insights into disease biology, genetic variants identified to date fail to explain the vast majority of the heritability for most complex diseases. One explanation is that there are still a large number of common variants that remain to be discovered, but their effect sizes are generally too small to be detected individually. Accordingly, gene set analysis of GWAS, which examines a group of functionally related genes, has been proposed as a complementary approach to single-marker analysis. Here, we propose a flexible and adaptive test for gene sets (FLAGS), using summary statistics. Extensive simulations showed that this method has an appropriate type I error rate and outperforms existing methods with increased power. As a proof of principle, through real data analyses of Crohn’s disease GWAS data and bipolar disorder GWAS meta-analysis results, we demonstrated the superior performance of FLAGS over several state-of-the-art association tests for gene sets. Our method allows for the more powerful application of gene set analysis to complex diseases, which will have broad use given that GWAS summary results are increasingly publicly available.
EKONOMINĖ KRIZĖ IR TEISINĖ SISTEMA: ĮTAMPŲ TRIADA
Authors: Kūris Egidijus
Published: January 2016

The article deals with the impact of the world economic crisis that caught Lithuania in 2008, and the measures to overcome it, on Lithuania’s legal system. The legal system is treated as a concept much wider than the system of positive law, statutory and jurisprudential. It includes inter alia legal mentality, legal culture and practice of law-making and law-applying institutions. In this sense, the crisis and the measures designed to overcome it have produced a much wider impact on the legal system, than merely intervention to the positive law (different areas of legal regulation), because the legal standards of a democratic regime have underwent change: the settled standards of the rule of law and the protection of human rights have been lowered as the legal system appeared to be no longer able to secure defence of certain rights. This is a general hypothesis which has to be tested in the framework of the research project “Challenges of the Economic Crisis (Recession) for the Rule of Law and Human Rights”, conducted by the scholars of the Faculty of Law of Vilnius University. This article is introductory in relation to other articles written within the said project and published in this issue of “Teisė”. The articles discusses at length the methodological avenue along which distinct parts of the research have to be further developed, that is dimensions, or fields of tension, where opposition between law and other phenomena show: (i) law v. economic reality; (ii) law v. politics; (iii) law v. society. The research aims at showing how, in each of the segments of the human rights catalogue, and to what extent economic inevitability has induced the lowering of the settled standards of the rule of law and the protection of human rights and, on the other hand, where there lies a boundary of these standards which even economic inevitability is not able to force the legal system to overstep. Also, the research has to show what political initiatives aimed at self-protection of anti-crisis policy (and policy/politics at large) against judicial control have been promoted, and what is the condition of society which either allows these initiatives to be implemented or hinders them. In order to draw on the latter aspect, a representative opinion research was conducted in the framework of the research project, which has produced results testifying of some auspiciousness of the social medium for such situation where policy/politics is less controlled by law than in the pre-crisis times.
SOCIALINĖS APSAUGOS GARANTIJŲ MAŽINIMAS KRIZĖS LAIKOTARPIU: SPRENDIMAI IR TEISINIS VERTINIMAS
Authors: Petrylaitė Daiva , Petrylaitė Vida
Published: January 2016

Social rights and social guarantees of individuals attract a lot of attention of the legislator and of the public reaction. The article analyses the part of social guarantees, in specific, the social security benefits, which amounts and payment terms have been changed during the economic crisis. Three types of social security benefits, which were touched by the highest level, are analysed: old-age and disability pensions, unemployment benefits and sickness benefits. Although the reduction of social security benefits during the crisis was upheld and legitimate according the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Lithuania, but part of the decisions may be found not meeting the requirements of the main principles of the law. The compensation arrangements of social insurance pensions do not sufficiently provide all pension beneficiaries the right to compensation, and do not correspond the principles of justice and proportionality in the society. Actual amounts of unemployment insurance benefits and the sickness benefits during the crisis did not meet even the minimum social protection standards enshrined in the provisions of international law.
AKCININKO TEISĖ Į IŠVESTINĮ IEŠKINĮ: EX LEGE PREVENCINĖS PRIEMONĖS
Authors: Mikalonienė Lina
Published: January 2016

This article is the second article on the topic related to the shareholder‘s derivate action. After evaluating the key general aspects of the shareholder’s derivate action (e.g. concept, rationale and goals) with respect to the Lithuanian Corporate Law, this article analyzes some ex lege protective measures to prevent shareholder’s abuse in bringing shareholder‘s derivate action as well as evaluates need to revise the related Lithuanian legislation. The focus of the article is, first, on specific requirements for shareholder’s standing (e.g. locus standi of minority shareholders, contemporaneous ownership rule, continuing ownership rule) and, second, prior demand requirement as ex lege protective measures devoted to protect shareholders’ investment in a properly balanced way. It is concluded in the article that from the Lithuanian legislation perspectives shareholder’s locus standi for derivative action should be vested to each shareholder having legitimate interest in both public and private limited liability companies without requiring to comply with the above mentioned shareholder’s standing requirements as well as without requiring first mandatory making a demand to the company, as it is currently being established by the Lithuanian legislation. Taking into account the rare shareholder’s derivative action litigation in Lithuania, there is no need to change the Lithuanian legislation from practical point of view as well.
VIEŠOJO VALDYMO REFORMŲ POVEIKIS PILIETINĖMS IR POLITINĖMS TEISĖMS LIETUVOJE EKONOMINĖS KRIZĖS METU: TEISĖS Į TINKAMAS KALINIMO SĄLYGAS ATVEJO ANALIZĖ
Authors: Milašiūtė Vygantė
Published: January 2016

The article addresses the impact of public administration reforms carried out during the economic crisis on human rights in Lithuania, with a special focus on the right to appropriate conditions of detention. The impact, in this field, of the reforms aimed at improving the quality of legislation, attracting private investments, and reducing administrative costs is examined. It is demonstrated that the expected positive impact of these reforms on the conditions of detention has in practice been limited. The question of a possible impact of these reforms on the complaints filed by convicts deprived of their liberty and respective judicial decisions is also addressed paying special attention to the problem of the amount of compensation as well as broader questions on the link between the economic resources of the state and the amount of compensation for inappropriate conditions of detention.
DARBO TEISĖ, DARBO SANTYKIAI IR ŽMOGAUS TEISĖS RECESIJOS LAIKOTARPIU: ITALIJOS PATIRTIS
Authors: Tiraboschi Michele
Published: January 2016

Article 23 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights reasserts one’s “right to work”: “Everyone has the right to work, to free choice of employment, to just and favourable conditions of work and to protection against unemployment”. [...]
Perencanaan Kota Secara Komprehensif Berbasis Hukum Integratif Menuju Pembangunan Kota Berkelanjutan (Comprehensive Urban Planning Based On Integrative Law Towards Sustainable Urban Development)
Authors: Nazarudin Teuku
Published: January 2016

Abstract: Comprehensive Urban Planning Based on Law Integrative Towards Sustainable Urban Development. This study is aimed to analyze the dynamics of sustainable urban development and comprehensive urban planning based on integrative law. Using a qualitative approach to the normative juridical method. The analysis showed that the dynamics of sustainable urban development not only implies ecological sustainability or biophysical, but also the sustainability of socio-cultural and economic sustainability. A comprehensive urban planning based on integrative meaningful spatial law as an interdisciplinary science is the mindset that is comprehensive and integrated. Implementation of integrative law to a sustainable city spatial plan guarantees that every citizen has access to freedom in activity, the equality and rights among themselves.   Abstrak: Perencanaan Kota Secara Komprehensif Berbasis Hukum Integratif Menuju Pembangunan Kota Berkelanjutan. Kajian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis dinamika pembangunan kota berkelanjutan dan perencanaan kota secara komprehensif berbasis hukum integratif. Menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan metode yuridis normatif. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa dinamika pembangunan kota berkelanjutan tidak sekedar mengandung pengertian keberlanjutan ekologis atau biofisik semata-mata, melainkan juga keberlanjutan sosio-kultural dan keberlanjutan ekonomis. Perencanaan kota secara komprehensif berbasis hukum integratif bermakna tata ruang sebagai ilmu interdisiplin adalah pola pikir yang bersifat menyeluruh (comprehensive) dan terpadu (integrated). Penerapan hukum integratif terhadap suatu rencana tata ruang kota berkelanjutan menjamin bahwa setiap warga kota memiliki akses terhadap kebebasannya dalam beraktifitas, adanya persamaan derajat dan hak di antara sesamanya.  DOI: 10.15408/jch.v2i2.2315
Pertanggungjawaban Pidana Korporasi Dalam Tindak Pidana Korupsi (Bentuk Tindak Pidana Korupsi yang Merugikan Keuangan Negara Terutama Terkait Dengan Pasal 2 Ayat (1) UU PTPK)
Authors: Saputra Roni
Published: January 2016

Abstrak: Pertanggungjawaban Pidana Korporasi Dalam Tindak Pidana Korupsi. Di Indonesia, korupsi diterima secara luas sebagai penyakit yang sudah mewabah, bahkan ada yang menganggap telah menjadi budaya masyarakat. Korupsi di Indonesia dewasa ini sudah bersifat sistemik dan endemik sehingga tidak saja merugikan keuangan negara dan perekonomian negara tetapi juga telah melanggar hak-hak ekonomi dan sosial masyarakat luas. Korupsi di Indonesia sudah merembes masuk ke segala aspek kehidupan, ke semua sektor, ke segala tingkatan, baik di pusat maupun di daerah. DOI: 10.15408/jch.v2i2.2318
Pengaturan Hukum Pengelolaan Sumber Daya Air di Kota Bandar Lampung
Authors: Hamidah Upik
Published: January 2016

Abstrak: Pengaturan Hukum Pengelolaan Sumber Daya Air di Kota Bandar Lampung. Pasal 33 Ayat (3) Undang-Undang Dasar Negara Republik Indonesia (UUDNRI) Tahun 1945 sebagai dasar konstitusi pengelolaan sumber daya alam menyatatan bahwa pemanfaatan sumber daya alam termasuk air di dalamnya harus ditujukan untuk sebesar-besarnya bagi kemakmuran rakyat. Akan tetapi dalam prakteknya, tujuan pengelolaan air untuk kemakmuran rakyat masih menghadapi berbagai kendala yang membuat tidak semua masyarakat dapat terpenuhi kebutuhan akan air baik di perkotaan maupun di perdesaan. Oleh karena itu perlu dikaji dalam suatu penelitian mengenai bagaimana kewenangan pemerintah daerah dalam pengelolaan air dan bagaimana kebijakan pemerintah daerah Kota Bandar Lampung dalam pengelolaan sumber daya air di daerah. DOI: 10.15408/jch.v2i2.2322
KONFLIK DAN RESOLUSI
Authors: Sudarnoto Wisnu
Published: January 2016

Abstract: Conflict and Resolution. Conflict is a result of interaction between two parties.  Conflict is perceived as negative element because it can create incovenients to the parties involved and three parties as well. However, it exist the benefits of conflict since it can lead an improvement. Conflict which naturally produce bad effect can function positively as to strengthen solidarity within the group and to stimulate the members of society in giving their contribution and open the communication between the members of the group.Key Words: conflicts, social interaction and dialectical process Abstrak: Konflik dan Resolusi. Konflik merupakan sebuah konsekuensi logis dari sebuah interaksi di antara dua pihak. Dalam kehidupan sosial manusia di mana saja dan kapan saja, tidak pernah lepas dari suatu konflik. Konflik sering dianggap negatif karena merugikan semua pihak baik yang bertikai maupun pihak di sekelilingnya. Tetapi konflik juga memiliki ruh atau spirit untuk melakukan perubahan yang lebih baik, karena kehidupan adalah proses dialektis. Konflik yang sejatinya berimplikasi buruk dapat berfungsi positif seperti diantaranya dapat memperkuat solidaritas kelompok yang agak longgar, dapat menyebabkan anggota masyarakat yang terisolasi menjadi turut berperan aktif, selain dapat dijadikan sebagai fungsi komunikasi antar anggota kelompok.Kata Kunci: Konflik, interaksi sosial, dan proses dialektis DOI: 10.15408/sjsbs.v2i1.2236
MELACAK DINAMIKA SIPIL-MILITER PASCA REVOLUSI MESIR
Authors: Rofiq Atep A
Published: January 2016

Abstract: Tracking Civil-Military Dynamics after Egypt Revolution.  Military revolution following Assisi’s administration shows that democratization process in Egypt and Middle East Countries has not been so easy.  Military infiltration has taken in place since 60 years ago. Thus, causing the difficulty to decrease its influence in Egypt. The Movement of Civil supremacy lead by the Mass Organization so called “Ikhwanul Muslimin” and the others opposition has not yet succeeded. This situation proved that Arab Spring has failed and the democratization in Middle EastKey Words: Military leadership, Egyptian Revolution and Arab Spring Abstrak: Melacak Dinamika Sipil-Militer Pasca Revolusi Mesir. Revolusi Militer Kepemimpinan El-Sisi pasca Mesir memperkuat paradigma umum bahwa demokratisasi Mesir dan negara-negara Timur Tengah lainnya tidaklah mudah. Infiltrasi Militer terjadi sejak 60 tahun membuat kepemimpinan Mesir berakar dan sulit untuk menghapus dalam kepemimpinan Mesir. Supremasi sipil diperjuangkan Ikhwanul Muslimin dan pihak oposisi lainnya masih memerlukan waktu yang sangat lama dengan momentum politik berdarah. Situasi ini semakin menunjukkan bahwa Arab Spring telah gagal dan jalan demokratisasi di Timur Tengah mengalami kebuntuan. Kata kunci: Kepemimpinan Militer, Revolusi Mesir, Arab Spring DOI: 10.15408/sjsbs.v2i1.2244
Cranial Ultrasound as a First-Line Imaging Examination for Craniosynostosis
Authors: Rozovsky Katya , Udjus Kristin , Wilson Nagwa , Barrowman Nicholas James , Simanovsky Natalia , Miller Elka
Published: January 2016

BACKGROUND:

Radiography, typically the first-line imaging study for diagnosis of craniosynostosis, exposes infants to ionizing radiation. We aimed to compare the accuracy of cranial ultrasound (CUS) with radiography for the diagnosis or exclusion of craniosynostosis.

METHODS:

Children aged 0 to 12 months who were assessed for craniosynostosis during 2011–2013 by using 4-view skull radiography and CUS of the sagittal, coronal, lambdoid, and metopic sutures were included in this prospective study. Institutional review board approval and parental informed consent were obtained. CUS and radiography were interpreted independently and blindly by 2 pediatric radiologists; conflicts were resolved in consensus. Sutures were characterized as closed, normal, or indeterminate. Correlation between CUS and radiography and interreader agreement were examined for each suture.

RESULTS:

A total of 126 children (82 boys, 64.5%) ages 8 to 343 days were included. All sutures were normal on CUS and radiography in 115 patients (93.7%); craniosynostosis of 1 suture was detected in 8 (6.3%, 5 sagittal, 2 metopic, 1 coronal). In 3 cases the metopic suture was closed (n = 2) or indeterminate on CUS (n = 1) but normally closed on radiography. CUS sensitivity was 100%, specificity 98% (95% confidence interval 94%–100%). Reader agreement was 100% for sagittal, coronal, and lambdoid sutures (κ = 0.80); after consensus, disagreement remained on 3 metopic sutures.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this series, CUS could be safely used as a first-line imaging tool in the investigation of craniosynostosis, reducing the need for radiographs in young children. Additional assessment may be required for accurate assessment of the metopic suture.