bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Complete Syndesmotic Disruption and Deltoid Injuries and Different Reduction Methods on Ankle Joint Contact Mechanics
Authors: LaMothe Jeremy , Baxter Josh R. , Gilbert Susannah , Murphy Conor I. , Karnovsky Sydney C. , Drakos Mark C.
Published: March 2017

Background:

Syndesmotic injuries can be associated with poor patient outcomes and posttraumatic ankle arthritis, particularly in the case of malreduction. However, ankle joint contact mechanics following a syndesmotic injury and reduction remains poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to characterize the effects of a syndesmotic injury and reduction techniques on ankle joint contact mechanics in a biomechanical model.

Methods:

Ten cadaveric whole lower leg specimens with undisturbed proximal tibiofibular joints were prepared and tested in this study. Contact area, contact force, and peak contact pressure were measured in the ankle joint during simulated standing in the intact, injured, and 3 reduction conditions: screw fixation with a clamp, screw fixation without a clamp (thumb technique), and a suture-button construct. Differences in these ankle contact parameters were detected between conditions using repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Results:

Syndesmotic disruption decreased tibial plafond contact area and force. Syndesmotic reduction did not restore ankle loading mechanics to values measured in the intact condition. Reduction with the thumb technique was able to restore significantly more joint contact area and force than the reduction clamp or suture-button construct.

Conclusion:

Syndesmotic disruption decreased joint contact area and force. Although the thumb technique performed significantly better than the reduction clamp and suture-button construct, syndesmotic reduction did not restore contact mechanics to intact levels.

Clinical Relevance:

Decreased contact area and force with disruption imply that other structures are likely receiving more loads (eg, medial and lateral gutters), which may have clinical implications such as the development of posttraumatic arthritis.
Tinzaparin for Long-Term Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism in Patients With Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Martínez-Zapata M. José , Mathioudakis Alexander G. , Mousa Shaker A. , Bauersachs Rupert
Published: March 2017

Patients with cancer are at increased risk of recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) and bleeding. Thus, long-term treatment with anticoagulants for secondary prevention is challenging. The objective of this review was to evaluate current evidence on the safety and efficacy of tinzaparin compared with other anticoagulants for long-term VTE treatment in patients with cancer. Based on a preregistered protocol, we identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing long-term tinzaparin (therapeutic dose: 175 IU/kg) versus other anticoagulants for at least 3 months after an acute episode of VTE that included adult patients with underlying malignancy. We extracted predefined, clinically relevant outcomes of patients with cancer and, using standard methodology, pooled available data and assessed risk of bias and quality of evidence for each study. Three open-label RCTs evaluating 1169 patients with cancer were included in the analysis. Tinzaparin was associated with a significantly lower risk of recurrent VTE at the end of treatment (relative risk [RR], [95% confidence interval] 0.67 [0.46-0.99]) and at longest follow-up (RR: 0.58 [0.39-0.88]) and showed a lower risk of clinically relevant non-major bleeding at the end of treatment (RR: 0.71 [0.51-1.00]). No significant between-treatment differences were found for all-cause mortality (RR: 1.09 [0.91-1.30]) or fatal and non-fatal major bleeding events (RR: 1.06 [0.56-1.99]). The overall quality of evidence was deemed moderate, mainly due to small sample size in 2 of the studies and limited number of events in the meta-analyses. In conclusion, both short- and long-term treatments with tinzaparin were found to be superior to vitamin K antagonists for avoiding recurrences of VTE.
Primer in Genetics and Genomics, Article 3–Explaining Human Diversity: The Role of DNA
Authors: Read Catherine Y.
Published: March 2017

Genetic variation lays the foundation for diversity and enables humans to adapt to changing environments. The order of the nucleotides adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine on the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) molecules of the nuclear chromosomes and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) plays an important role in normal cell division, tissue development, and reproduction but is susceptible to alteration from a large number of random, inherited, or environmental events. Variations can range from a change in a single nucleotide to duplication of entire chromosomes. Single nucleotide polymorphisms are the major source of human heterogeneity. Other variations that can alter phenotypes and adversely impact growth, development, and health include copy number variations, aneuploidies, and structural alterations such as deletions, translocations, inversions, duplications, insertions, or mutations in mtDNA. In addition, DNA rearrangements in somatic cells underlie the uncontrolled cell growth found in cancer. This article explores the mechanisms by which variations in DNA arise and the impact those changes can have on human health.
International association meetings
Authors: Cró Susana , Martins António Miguel
Published: March 2017

The aim of our study is to discuss whether the key frequently identified destination attributes desired by associations and meeting planners determine the number of association meetings organized by each country in 2014. Regression analysis was used by ordinary least squares for the number of association meetings organized in 2014 by each country that shows the importance of 12 countries’ destination attributes reported in the meetings, incentives, conventions and events/exhibitions sector literature and included in the travel and tourism competitiveness index. Our study contributes to the literature in two ways: (i) to identify and evaluate the key attributes in the attraction of association meetings (until now dispersed) and (ii) empirically test the importance of these attributes in the selection of meeting host country. From a practical perspective, these findings give valuable information for destination management organizations and meeting planners about the factors that should be improved in each country in order to be selected more often in the organization of those events.
Shoot the messenger? The media’s role in framing populist attributions of blame
Authors: Hameleers Michael , Bos Linda , de Vreese Claes H
Published: March 2017

Attributing blame to elites is central to populist communication. Although empirical research has provided initial insights into the effects of populist blame attribution on citizens’ political opinions, little is known about the contextual factors surrounding its presence in the media. Advancing this knowledge, this article draws on an extensive content analysis ( N = 867) covering non-election and election periods to provide insights into how populist blame attributions are embedded in journalistic reporting styles. Using Latent Class Analysis, we first identified three distinct styles of reporting: neutral, conflict, and interpretative coverage. In line with our predictions, we find that populist blame attributions are present most in conjunction with an interpretative journalistic style and least when a neutral journalistic style is used. Populist blame attributions are more likely to be used by journalists of tabloid newspapers than journalists of broadsheet newspapers. These results provide valuable insights for understanding the intersections between journalism and populist communication.
Use of an elasto-plastic model and strain measurements of embedded fibre Bragg grating sensors to detect Mode I delamination crack propagation in woven cloth (0/90) composite materials
Authors: Kakei Ayad Arab , Islam Mainul , Leng Jinsong , Epaarachchi Jayantha A
Published: March 2017

Mode I fracture analysis being employed to study delamination damage in fibre-reinforced composite structures under in-plane and out-of-plane load applications. However, due to the significantly low yield strength of the matrix material and the infinitesimal thickness of the interface matrix layer, the actual delamination process can be assumed as a partially plastic process (elasto-plastic). A simple elasto-plastic model based on the strain field in the vicinity of the crack front was developed for Mode I crack propagation. In this study, a double cantilever beam experiment has been performed to study the proposed process using a 0/90-glass woven cloth sample. A fibre Bragg grating sensor has embedded closer to the delamination to measure the strain at the vicinity of the crack front. Strain energy release rate was calculated according to ASTM D5528. The model predictions were comparable with the calculated values according to ASTM D5528. Subsequently, a finite element analysis on Abaqus was performed using ‘Cohesive Elements’ to study the proposed elasto-plastic behaviour. The finite element analysis results have shown a very good correlation with double cantilever beam experimental results, and therefore, it can be concluded that Mode I delamination process of an fibre-reinforced polymer composite can be monitored successfully using an integral approach of fibre Bragg grating sensors measurements and the prediction of a newly proposed elasto-plastic model for Mode I delamination process.
Being and Becoming Men of Character: Exploring Latino and Black Males’ Brotherhood and Masculinity Through Leadership in College
Authors: Brooms Derrick R. , Clark Jelisa , Smith Matthew
Published: March 2017

This article advances knowledge on the significance of engagement and leadership for five Latino and Black male student leaders at a Hispanic-serving institution. By exploring their experiences in a male-centered initiative, identity and masculinity emerged as salient frames to understand students’ engagement on campus. Individual and focus group interviews yielded that relationships and male peer-to-peer bonding built on students’ cultural wealth by providing unique opportunities for learning and self-growth. Implications are offered as well.
HGL: A hybrid global-local load balancing routing scheme for the Internet of Things through satellite networks
Authors: Liu Ziluan , Li Jiangsheng , Wang Yanru , Li Xin , Chen Shanzhi
Published: March 2017

Satellite networks provide complete connectivity and worldwide data transmission capability for constructing the Internet of Things. However, because of the varying Internet of Things traffic density, satellite networks may endure imbalanced traffic requirements and frequent link congestion. To effectively resolve these problems and optimally transmit Internet of Things data, a novel hybrid global-local load balancing routing scheme for Low Earth Orbit satellite networks is proposed in this article. Hybrid global-local load balancing routing scheme enables satellites to route Internet of Things traffic through global planning and local real-time adjustments in two steps. In hybrid global-local load balancing routing scheme, given the predictive nature of Internet of Things traffic distribution and Low Earth Orbit satellite networks, the inter-satellite traffic demand is decomposed into a predictable long-range baseline and unpredictable short-range fluctuations. A global strategy is employed first for preliminary global traffic allocation based on long-range baselines, and a local strategy is then employed for route adjustments based on short-range fluctuations. With the combination of global planning and local real-time adjustments, network traffic can eventually obtain a near-optimal allocation. Numerical simulations indicate that in contrast to single-strategy schemes, hybrid global-local load balancing routing scheme can more thoroughly eliminate congestion, and it performs better in measures such as packet loss rate, average queuing delay, traffic distribution, route oscillation, and communication overhead.
Recognizing Risk and Vulnerability in Research Ethics: Imagining the “What Ifs?”
Authors: Peter Elizabeth , Friedland Judith
Published: March 2017

Research ethics committees (RECs) may misunderstand the vulnerability of participants, given their distance from the field. What RECs identify as the vulnerabilities that were not adequately recognized in protocols and how they attempt to protect the perceived vulnerability of participants and mitigate risks were examined using the response letters sent to researchers by three university-based RECs. Using a critical qualitative method informed by feminist ethics, we identified an overarching theme of recognizing and responding to cascading vulnerabilities and four subthemes: identifying vulnerable groups, recognizing potentially risky research, imagining the “what ifs,” and mitigating perceived risks. An ethics approach that is up-close, as opposed to distant, is needed to foster closer relationships among participants, researchers, and RECs and to understand participant vulnerability and strength better.
Children’s Decision-Making Involvement About Research Participation: Associations With Perceived Fairness and Self-Efficacy
Authors: Miller Victoria A. , Feudtner Chris , Jawad Abbas F.
Published: March 2017

The primary objective of this study was to examine the associations of children’s involvement in decisions about research participation with their perceptions of the decision-making process and self-efficacy. Participants were children (ages 8-17) who enrolled in research studies in the prior 2 months. Children completed a questionnaire that yielded three decision-making involvement subscales: Researcher Engages Child, Researcher Supports Autonomy, and Child Participates. Children reported on fairness of the decision-making process and health-related decision self-efficacy. After adjusting for age, higher scores on Researcher Engages Child were associated with greater self-efficacy, and higher scores on Researcher Supports Autonomy were associated with greater perceived fairness. These data underscore the potential importance of researcher–child interactions about research participation when assent is sought, including proactively involving children in the decision by asking for their opinions and communicating their central role in the decision, which are likely to be more meaningful to children than receiving information or signing a form.
Fault-tolerant communication topology management based on minimum cost arborescence for leader–follower UAV formation under communication faults
Authors: Wang Guoqiang , Luo He , Hu Xiaoxuan , Ma Huawei , Yang Shanlin
Published: March 2017

A novel fault-tolerant communication topology management method for the leader–follower unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) formation is proposed to minimize the formation communication cost while keeping the formation shape, even in the case of communication faults during the formation flight. This method is based on Edmonds’ algorithm for the minimum cost arborescence problem in graph theory. When a formation shape is given before the formation flight, this method can get the optimal initial communication topology with the minimum formation communication cost for keeping the formation shape. When some communication faults occur during the formation flight, which will cause the formation shape cannot be kept, this method can reconfigure the communication topology in time to guarantee the safety of all UAVs and recover the formation shape, and then it can reoptimize the communication topology by UAV position reconfiguration in the formation shape to minimize the formation communication cost for continuously keeping the formation shape. The effectiveness of this method is demonstrated through several simulation experiments.
National, regional, global TV in Algeria: University students and television audience after the 2012 Algerian media law
Authors: Sarnelli Viola , Kobibi Hafssa
Published: March 2017

This article investigates new trends in the consumption of national and transnational television channels in Algeria, following the changes introduced by the 2012 media law. Research on this topic was conducted through a small-scale audience survey among university students in Mostaganem, West Algeria, at the beginning of 2015. As with other neighbouring countries, since the 1980s, Algeria has been exposed to a rising amount of transnational television flows. After an initial French dominance, the last 10 years saw a gradual growth in the Gulf channels’ penetration, while national television became increasingly neglected. This partially changed after the 2011 uprisings as many Arab countries accelerated a process of media liberalization. In Algeria, the media law approved in 2012 opened the door to the creation of private television channels. The article explores the choices made by young Algerians in terms of national and transnational television content, both for news and for entertainment. Based on the results of our survey and on other historical and contextual data, we argue that a new national perspective on news and current affairs is emerging in the country, together with the success of non-Western productions for entertainment formats. In both these domains, students from different faculties and backgrounds showed similar preferences, going beyond the linguistic, cultural and social segmentation that has characterized the Algerian audience since the emergence of satellite television.
An analytical approach to assess the influence of the massive wall material, thickness and ventilation system on the Trombe wall thermal performance
Authors: Briga Sá Ana Cristina , Martins Analisa , Boaventura-Cunha José , Carlos Lanzinha João , Paiva Anabela
Published: March 2017

The influence of the massive wall material, thickness and ventilation system on the Trombe wall thermal performance was analysed based on an analytical methodology. Results obtained from experimental work will also be added to this study. During the heating season, for the non-ventilated Trombe wall, the global heat gains decrease is not proportional to the thickness increase, and this ratio depends on the massive wall material heat storage capacity. A ventilation system in the massive wall leads to higher heat gains due to the air convection, but this growth is not in the same proportion for the different materials. If solid brick or earth is used, heat gain values are much higher than those obtained if there is no ventilation system, increasing to the double in the case of earth and 2.5 times more in the case of solid brick. When the massive wall is ventilated and made of granite, an increase in the gains of 44.06% is obtained when compared with the non-ventilated. During the cooling season, closing the ventilation system and the external shutter leads to heat gains considerably lower than those obtained during the heating season. In this case, earth can be a suitable material.
Penumbra and re-canalization acute computed tomography in ischemic stroke evaluation: PRACTISE study protocol
Authors: El-Tawil Salwa , Wardlaw Joanna , Ford Ian , Mair Grant , Robinson Tom , Kalra Lalit , Muir Keith W
Published: March 2017

Rationale

Multimodal imaging, including computed tomography angiography and computed tomography perfusion imaging, yields additional information on intracranial vessels and brain perfusion and can differentiate between ischemic core and penumbra which may affect patient selection for intravenous thrombolysis.

Hypothesis

The use of multimodal imaging will increase the number of patients receiving intravenous thrombolysis and lead to better treatment outcomes.

Sample size

400 patients.

Methods and design

PRACTISE is a prospective, multicenter, randomized, controlled trial in which patients presenting within 4.5 h of symptom onset are randomized to either the current evidence-based imaging (NCCT alone) or additional multimodal computed tomography imaging (NCCT + computed tomography angiography + computed tomography perfusion). Clinical decisions on intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator are documented. Total imaging time in both arms and time to initiation of treatment delivery in those treated with intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator, is recorded. Follow-up will include brain imaging at 24 h to document infarct size, the presence of edema and the presence of intra-cerebral hemorrhage. Clinical evaluations include NIHSS score at baseline, 24 h and day 7 ± 2, and mRS at day 90 to define functional outcomes.

Study outcomes

The primary outcome is the proportion of patients receiving intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator. Secondary end-points evaluate times to decision-making, comparison of different image processing software and clinical outcomes at three months.

Discussion

Multimodal computed tomography is a widely available tool for patient selection for revascularization therapy, but it is currently unknown whether the use of additional imaging in all stroke patients is beneficial. The study opened for recruitment in March 2015 and will provide data on the value of multimodal imaging in treatment decisions for acute stroke.
#IfTheyGunnedMeDown
Authors: Everbach Tracy , Clark Meredith , Nisbett Gwendelyn S.
Published: March 2017

Focusing on the hashtag #IfTheyGunnedMeDown, this study examined the framing of mainstream newspaper coverage of social media activism in the aftermath of the 2014 police shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. People of color primarily used the hashtag to draw attention to what they perceived as negative stereotypes perpetuated by the news media. The study employed a textual analysis of news coverage combined with semistructured interviews with hashtag-protest participants. The analysis found that the mainstream media followed news production rituals by relying primarily on elite, established sources and generally ignoring the social media protestors’ voices. The social media protestors who used the hashtag said they used it to bypass the mainstream media, and this research indicates they may well have done so and possibly reached a younger generation that relies more on social media than legacy media.
Public Policy and the Court of Justice: The “Combinatorial Logic” in the Framework of Criminal Law
Authors: Manacorda Stefano
Published: March 2017

Introductory remarks: public policy, limitation or vector of European criminal law integration? I. The unstable equilibrium between Community public policy and national criminal law – A. General public policy clauses recognised by the Treaties: a polysemous and flexible concept. B. The restrictive approach of the Court of Justice: autonomous meaning and strict interpretation. C. The dynamics of interpretation and the concerns for national criminal law. II. In search of the method of the Court's reasoning: a “combinatorial logic” – A. The criterion of appropriateness in relation to legitimate purpose: the variable application of free movement. B. The criterion of the seriousness of the threat and individual conduct. C. The test of proportionality and non discrimination laid down by the Court. Concluding remarks.
The Europol Council Decision: A New Legal Basis for Europol
Authors: De Moor Alexandra , Vermeulen Gert
Published: March 2017

This article offers a thorough analysis of the legal basis of Europol over the years of its existence. Three eras are distinguished: the pre-Convention era, the Convention era and the post-Convention era. The succession of legal instruments represents choices embodying the development of Europol. The choices made are analysed and evaluated using four criteria: necessity, consistency, balance and transparency. By studying Europol's legal basis simultaneous insight is gained into the lawmaking process under the third pillar of the EU. Here a distinction is made between the periods before and after the entry into force of the Treaty of Amsterdam, as well as between the periods before and after the entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon.
Collection, Analysis and Exchange of Dna Data in the European Union
Authors: Belfiore Rosanna
Published: March 2017

The present article provides a general overview of the relevant legislation concerning collection, analysis and exchange of DNA data throughout the EU. While collection and analysis of biological materials for the purpose of obtaining DNA profiles have been mainly left to national legislations, which have, however, assimilated internationally recognised profiling techniques, exchange of DNA profiles thereby obtained has been made the object of several EU measures, some generally dealing with exchange of information and data, others expressly devoted to DNA data exchange. In the light of this overview, the aim of this article is to discuss whether the current legislative framework is adequate for promoting swifter and more effective police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters within the EU.
The European Investigation Order: Changing the Face of Evidence-Gathering in EU Cross-Border Cases
Authors: Heard Catherine , Mansell Daniel
Published: March 2017

This article examines the controversial European Investigation Order – a Belgium-led Member States' legislative initiative whereby a single “mutual recognition” style instrument will replace the existing “mutual legal assistance” regime for cross-border evidence-sharing in EU Member States. The article charts the difficult negotiations on the text so far and details the safeguards still needed if this Directive is to offer adequate protection for fundamental rights. More fundamentally, the article asks whether a “one-size fits all” approach to cross-border investigations and evidence-sharing makes sense in the absence of harmonized, coherent rules on admissibility, data protection and investigative procedures in an EU where equality of arms is not a feature of many legal systems.
Irish Sex Offender Laws and the Right to Privacy
Authors: Barron Lorraine
Published: March 2017

This article provides a general overview of sex offender laws in Ireland and their compatibility with the European Convention on Human Rights, namely Article 8, the right to privacy. An analysis of public notification schemes such as Megan's Law in the US and Sarah's Law in England and Wales provide a backdrop for a discussion on the proposed introduction of such measures in Ireland. The competing interests of public protection and offenders' rights are also discussed in the context of punitive measures such as incarceration and registration versus rehabilitation and reintegration.
Framework Decision on Combating Terrorism: Two Questions on the Definition of Terrorist Offences
Authors: Borgers Matthias J.
Published: March 2017

This contribution discusses two questions arising in relation to the definition of terrorist offences in the Framework Decision on combating terrorism. Firstly, the question is considered as to what extent this definition contains a requirement of endangerment that Member States have to include in their national legislation. Secondly, the Framework Decision's significance for the position of activists, demonstrators and strikers will be addressed.
Legal Aspects of Escape from Criminal Liability for Cartelists in Russia
Authors: Kremyanskaya Elena A.
Published: March 2017

The article is based on the conference speech made by the author during the “Per Se Cartel Offences – Legitimacy and Utility of Criminal Sanctions?” conference, organized by the University of Luxembourg on the 23rd and 24th March 2012 and covers current cartel regulations in Russia, administrative and criminal liability for cartelists and aspects of escape from criminal liability.
The Europeanisation of Polish Substantive Criminal Law: How the European Instruments Influenced Criminalisation in Polish Law
Authors: Nowak Celina
Published: March 2017

Polish accession to the European Union has contributed to an extensive change of the Polish legislation, including substantive criminal law. The implementation of EU legal instruments led in particular to a change of definitions of crimes – new crimes were introduced and also already existing definitions were changed. The article aims at presenting the process of implementation of EU instruments taking as an example provisions on corruption and human trafficking. It argues that this process, which was one of the most powerful factors contributing to the change of the scope of criminalisation in the Polish criminal law over the last 15 years, lacked reflection on the ultima ratio principle and was full of mistakes made by the Polish legislator. As a result, a complete and real harmonisation of the Polish provisions with the EU criminalisation standards has not been fully achieved.
Towards a Decentralised European Public Prosecutor's Office?
Authors: White Simone
Published: March 2017

The author puts forward three models for the implementation of a European Public Prosecutor's Office, taking into account the legislative progress that has been made in the area of the European Criminal Law since the initial project was proposed in the late 1990s. She argues that the project is evolving towards a decentralised version of its former self, to fit in not only with legislative developments but also with the Zeitgeist, which calls for projects focussing resources on the EU Member States.
Globalised Criminal Justice in the European Union Context: How Theory Meets Practice
Authors: Banach-Gutierrez Joanna Beata
Published: March 2017

This paper will explore a question about the operation of an increasingly globalised criminal justice system in the European Union context. The emergence of European Union criminal law, characterised by its legal supremacy and universalism is a relatively new research area in penal science. This raises the need for some discussion of governing rules and principles. European Union criminal justice should be based on the principle of mutual recognition which is now formally recognised as a foundation stone of judicial cooperation in criminal matters among the Members States. Such an approach presupposes that each competent national authority should trust the criminal justice systems of its peers. This allows therefore for some legal pluralism. However, the principle of mutual recognition does not have an absolute character, in the sense of allowing for the adoption of rules and procedures in a pure legal form in another Member State.
Reaction to Radu Judgment of the Oberlandesgericht of Munich of 15 May 2013
Authors: Vogel Joachim
Published: March 2017

We publish a short version of the above judgment at the request of and as translated by the reporting judge, Professor Joachim Vogel, for no other reasons than that it shows law in action, a judicial reaction to the Radu judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union and, for non-Germans, how German courts structure their judgments. The contents speak for themselves.
Punishing Denialism beyond Holocaust Denial: EU Framework Decision 2008/913/JHA and other Expansive Trends
Authors: Lobba Paolo
Published: March 2017

The EU Framework Decision 2008/913/JHA was introduced to harmonise criminal legislation combating racism and xenophobia. Among other measures, it promotes the punishment of conduct identified by scholars as ‘denialism’ or ‘négationnisme’. In line with a current, multi-faceted tendency curbing freedom of expression, the Framework Decision requests Member States to criminalise not only the denial, justification and gross trivialisation of the Holocaust, but also that of most international crimes.

This paper seeks, firstly, to outline the Framework Decision's provisions concerning denialism, taking into account the variety of positions emerging from domestic legal systems. In this regard, it is argued that, due to its own clauses, this European act produces minor legal effects and its influence is essentially of persuasive nature.

Secondly, the present article purports to demonstrate the main risk implied by the prohibition of denialism, namely the slippery slope. After having illustrated some disconcerting consequences flowing from the broad version of such crime, it is submitted that its scope should remain limited to existent anti-hate speech legislation.
Civil Asset Forfeiture and the Presumption of Innocence under Article 6(2) Echr
Authors: Boucht Johan
Published: March 2017

This article deals with so-called civil asset forfeiture (CAF), or non-conviction based confiscation, and the presumption of innocence (POI). CAF measures are civil actions, directed against proceeds of crime, which facilitate the forfeiture of suspected criminal proceeds, even when it has not been possible to achieve a criminal conviction. CAF emphasises the unlawful provenance of the property, rather that the guilt of the property holder, and is generally considered to be preventive, rather than punitive, in nature. One of the central concerns raised in relation to CAF is that the respondent can be excluded from some of the basic safeguards normally conferred on a defendant in criminal proceedings, including the POI. This article analyses the relationship between CAF and the POI as expressed in Article 6(2) of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Overall, it is concluded that Article 6(2) will normally not be applicable to CAF proceedings. However, even if the POI were considered to apply, it is concluded that it would be unlikely that this would have a dramatic effect on the operation of forfeiture proceedings, as the ECHR is mainly concerned with issues of procedural fairness rather than substantial unreasonableness.
Effectiveness in EU Criminal Law and its Effects on the General Part of Criminal Law
Authors: Melander Sakari
Published: March 2017

EU criminal law has traditionally focused on more effective criminal law cooperation and approximation of substantive criminal law. The general doctrines of criminal law have pretty much remained intact, when it comes to approximation of substantive criminal law. Principle of effectiveness in EU law, however, has a crucial position also in EU criminal law. This has meant that the scope of EU criminal law has been expanding and the scope is today also reaching general doctrines. While it can be seen that general doctrines constitute the identity of a branch of law, this development may entail the embryo of the new kind of EU criminal law that is more supranational. This development is analysed in the article with critical insights.
Do We Really Need Criminal Sanctions for the Enforcement of EU Law?
Authors: Öberg Jacob
Published: March 2017

This article examines how the ‘essentiality’ requirement can limit the exercise of the EU's criminal law competence under Article 83(2) TFEU. Building on criminological research, and contextual and principled considerations, it argues for an evidence-based approach to the ‘essentiality’ criterion. It sustains that the Union legislator must show by empirical proof that criminal laws are more ‘effective’ than non-criminal sanctions in the implementation of a specific EU policy. The article proposes that judicial enforcement is a key mechanism for implementing the ‘essentiality’ criterion. On the basis of the Court's rulings in Kadi II and Tetra Laval a strict procedural test for review of criminal law legislation is suggested. It entails that the EU legislator must show that the justification for exercising the EU's criminal law competence is substantiated by relevant evidence. Because criminal penalties entail severe consequences for individuals and potentially breach their fundamental freedoms such a stringent test is justified.
The Quest for Proportionality for the European Arrest Warrant: Fundamental Rights Protection in a Mutual Recognition Environment
Authors: Xanthopoulou Ermioni
Published: March 2017

The paper examines the impact of the principle of proportionality on the European Arrest Warrant (EAW). The only function of proportionality discussed here concerns the mutual recognition context. The argument is stated against the backdrop of overemphasis of the principle of mutual recognition for the purpose of fast-track judicial cooperation in criminal matters to the detriment of fundamental rights protection. This paper explores the recent case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) affirming the need to secure the operation of the mutual recognition and secondly the debate on overusing the instrument. It provides an analysis of the quest for a proportionality based approach in the context of mutual recognition where fundamental rights protection is competing with fast-track judicial cooperation.
The European Public Prosecutor's Office: A Ground-Breaking New Institution of the EU Legal Order
Authors: Damaskou Anna
Published: March 2017

The present Article provides an overview and preliminary evaluation of the Commission's and the Greek and Italian Presidencies' drafts regarding the Regulation on the Establishment of the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO). As a background, reflections and proposals before the publication of the draft Regulation are presented. Finally, the impact of the potential establishment of the EPPO on existing EU entities competent for the protection of the EU financial interests is also discussed.
Fighting the European Ecomafia: Organised Trafficking in Waste and the Need for a Criminal Law Response from the EU
Authors: Giardi Giulia
Published: March 2017

Organised crime groups have been profiting from illicit trafficking in waste for decades at the expense of human health and the environment. The damage resulting from this activity is severe and often irreversible. To this day, national and international responses have been inadequate. Existing measures are not commensurate with the gravity of the problem, or with the magnitude of the gains made by organized crime groups. More importantly, the transnational nature of this problem means that coordinated action must be taken across borders. With the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty, this is made possible: the EU now has the means to approximate definitions of criminal conduct and related levels of sanctions using Article 83(1) TFEU. This contribution explores the problem of organized trafficking in waste and argues, on the basis of an interdisciplinary analysis, that European criminal law measures must be adopted in order to effectively combat this illicit activity.
Some Considerations on the Role of the Court of Justice of the European Union and the Compliance of Italy with EU Law
Authors: Milanesi Enzo Moavero
Published: March 2017

It is important to stress the immense contribution of the Court of Justice to the development of the law of our Union. This is what Professor Moavero Milanesi does. Thus although his paper does not discuss criminal law its relevance not only to the conference reported here but to the development of EU law in general and the criminal law of the Union in particular may not be doubted. Without the Court it is unlikely that the doctrine of the supremacy of EU law would have prevailed and had the Member States maintained the sovereignty of their respective domestic laws Union law would not have acquired its central authority and the European legal system would have collapsed and with it the entire European endeavour. It is salutary to bear this in mind at all times. It is particularly important to bear it in mind at a time where the future of another vital European court, the European Court of Human Rights, is being endangered by the current government of the United Kingdom whose stated and official policy is to reject the binding nature of its judgments so as to revert to domestic law. Should this come to pass the entire edifice of human rights protection under the European Convention will begin to unravel, because of course if the law is not the same for all, if it is not applied universally and uniformly, it loses its impartiality and its cohesive power.

So, Professor Moavero Milanesi is to be congratulated for reminding us of first principles. Remember them and everything falls into place. Forget them and the result is chaos.
The Symbiotic Relationship between Mutual Trust and Fundamental Rights in Europe's Area of Criminal Justice
Authors: Mitsilegas Valsamis
Published: March 2017

The entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon has brought questions of the compatibility of aspects of EU criminal law – and in particular the application of the principle of mutual recognition in criminal matters – with fundamental rights. The constitutionalisation of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights has added urgency to these questions. At the heart of the debate lies the question of the relationship between mutual trust and the protection of fundamental rights in Europe's area of criminal justice. This article will examine the evolving and symbiotic relationship between the protection of fundamental rights and mutual trust before and after Lisbon. It will examine four different types of relationship between fundamental rights and mutual trust: fundamental rights as the outcome of trust (by examining the evolution of ne bis in idem from a principle to a fundamental right); fundamental rights as a limit to trust (by focusing on fundamental rights as grounds for refusal to recognise and execute judicial decisions, and in particular European Arrest Warrants); fundamental rights as the source of trust (by focusing on legislating for human rights at EU level via the adoption of minimum standards on procedural rights in criminal proceedings); and fundamental rights as a source of trust via the development of uniform, autonomous concepts. The article will conclude by reiterating the importance of ensuring effective and on the ground protection of fundamental rights as a cornerstone of establishing a system of mutual recognition based on earned, rather than presumed, trust.
Free Movement of EU Citizens and Their Family Members
Authors: Guild Elspeth
Published: March 2017

Why is there so much friction between EU citizens moving in the European Union and state authorities regarding the third country national family members of those citizens? What are the fears of state authorities and what are the objectives of mobile EU citizens regarding their family members? This article examines these questions from an interrogation of the case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union. It investigates the sources of disaccord or inadequate articulation between what EU citizens want and what state authorities seek to control.
Prescribing pattern of clozapine and other antipsychotics for patients with first-episode psychosis: a cross-sectional survey of early intervention teams
Authors: Tungaraza Tongeji E. , Ahmed Wakil , Chira Chinonyelum , Turner Erin , Mayaki Susan , Nandhra Harpal Singh , Edwards Tom , Farooq Saeed
Published: March 2017

Objective:

To describe the pattern of antipsychotic drug prescribing in patients with first episode psychosis, with more emphasis in the use of clozapine in this group of patients.

Method:

A cross-sectional survey involving six early intervention service (EIS) teams in the West Midlands was conducted. Data was extracted from case notes and electronic records by clinicians working in each participating team. The pattern of antipsychotic prescribing and the changes that took place after being accepted in EIS, including the use of clozapine, was established. Clinicians involved in the treatment of patients in each team rated the overall clinical response to treatment based on the presence or absence of positive psychotic symptoms.

Result:

431 patients with FEP were included in the final analysis. Low antipsychotic discontinuation rate was observed, with the majority (88.2%) still being prescribed antipsychotics. Most (77.3%) were prescribed second-generation antipsychotic drugs, with olanzapine (21.8%) and aripiprazole (19.7%) being the most frequently prescribed antipsychotics. There was low rate use of antipsychotic combinations (7.4%), high dose antipsychotic regime (3.9%), low depot antipsychotic prescribing (9.3%), and clozapine use was low (9.7%). On average, three antipsychotics were tried before clozapine was initiated and it took on average 19.5 months from being accepted into EIS to clozapine being initiated.

Conclusion:

The majority of patients were prescribed antipsychotics within the guidelines. EIS was associated with an overall low antipsychotic discontinuation. There was also a short waiting time before clozapine was initiated following patients being accepted into EIS.
Use of adjunctive prednisolone in the management of a cat with bilateral quadriceps contracture following trauma
Authors: Tisdall Penelope LC , Rogowski Cameron P
Published: March 2017

Case summary

A 6-month-old cat was successfully treated for bilateral quadriceps contracture. Conventional treatments including surgery, dynamic flexion apparatus and physical therapy along with analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs resulted in temporary clinical improvement that was relapsing. The initiation of supplementary corticosteroid treatment with prednisolone coincided with an immediate and sustained clinical improvement and long-term resolution.

Relevance and novel information

Successful treatment of bilateral quadriceps contracture has not previously been reported in a cat. Quadriceps contracture remains a challenging condition to treat with some cases unresponsive to therapy. Systemic prednisolone treatment appeared to be of benefit in the management of this case and may have a role in some cats where muscle contracture appears relapsing in nature. Further prospective investigations in cats with muscle contracture, including muscle biopsies of affected cats, are warranted.
Increased burn healing time is associated with higher Vancouver Scar Scale score
Authors: Finlay Vidya , Burrows Sally , Burmaz Maddison , Yawary Hussna , Lee Johanna , Edgar Dale W. , Wood Fiona M.
Published: March 2017

[Formula: see text]

Increased burn wound healing time has been shown to influence abnormal scarring. This study hypothesised that scar severity increases commensurate to the increase in time to healing (TTH) of the wound.

Wound healing and scar data from burn patients treated by the Burn Service of Western Australia at Royal Perth Hospital were examined. The relationship between TTH and scar severity, as assessed by the modified Vancouver Scar Scale (mVSS), was modelled using regression analysis. Interaction terms evaluated the effect of surgery and total body surface area – burn (TBSA) on the main relationship. Maximum likelihood estimation was used to account for potential bias from missing independent variable data.

The sample had a median age of 34 years, TTH of 24 days, TBSA of 3% and length of stay of five days, 70% were men and 71% had burn surgery. For each additional day of TTH, the mVSS score increased by 0.11 points ( P ≤ 0.001) per day in the first 21 days and 0.02 points per day thereafter ( P = 0.004). The relationship remained stable in spite of TBSA or surgical intervention. Investigation of the effect of missing data revealed the primary model underestimated the strength of the association.

An increase in TTH within 21 days of injury is associated with an increase in mVSS or reduced scar quality. The results confirm that efforts should be directed toward healing burn wounds as early as possible.