bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Inter-parliamentary cooperation as a means for reinforcing joint scrutiny in the EU: upgrading existing mechanisms and creating new ones
Authors: Griglio Elena , Stavridis Stelios 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
This special issue develops a contextual analysis of EU inter-parliamentary cooperation in the post Lisbon Treaty framework. Indeed, it is possible to claim that there are several sources and causes for renewed EU inter-parliamentary cooperation: first, a voluntary one, i.e. the connection with the Lisbon Treaty’s intent to facilitate a wider democratisation objective; second, this time more a reaction than an initiative, the need to counterbalance the institutional outcomes of the economic and financial crisis that shook the world but particularly the eurozone; and, third, the call for an improvement in existing rules and mechanisms to develop even further democratic (read: parliamentary) input in common policies.
The special issue analyses whether current inter-parliamentary mechanisms are suited to react to these challenges. It specifically assesses the practical impact of interparliamentary cooperation on the numerous democratic gaps that still exist in the EU's multi-layered decision-making process. Its objective is to show, beyond the mere sharing of information and the comparison of best practices at a supranational and transnational level, whether existing inter-parliamentary practices contribute to joint parliamentary scrutiny by involving both the EP and the national parliaments of EU member states.
A comparison of existing forums for interparliamentary cooperation in the EU and some lessons for the future
Authors: Fromage Diane 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Interparliamentary conferences and other permanent forums for interparliamentary cooperation are blossoming in the European Union. Following more or less lengthy negotiations between national and European parliamentarians, two new conferences and a new joint parliamentary scrutiny group for Europol have been created since 2012. Against this background, this article examines to what extent the Joint parliament scrutiny group is comparable to the previously existing interparliamentary conferences. Beyond that, it asks the question as to whether any better-defined guidelines or procedures could be adopted to rationalise the process of creation of new forums for interparliamentary cooperation. It makes some concrete proposals in that direction.
The Contribution of COSAC to Joint Parliamentary Scrutiny in the EU: A Practitioner’s View
Authors: Dias Pinheiro Bruno A. 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
COSAC has played an active role in fostering and developing interparliamentary he central question addressed here is to assess whether COSAC is currently structured to allow NPs to obtain more information and access to the policy and decision-making circuits at EU level and, therefore, if NPs are benefiting from COSAC or are they, on the contrary, lagging behind and lost amidst so many interparliamentary meetings?
It is argued that COSAC occupies a key role in the multipolarised system of with the “global picture” and therefore in a unique position to bring coherence to the overall system. This paper therefore aims at putting forward some ideas and approaches regarding the role of COSAC in the effectiveness of interparliamentary cooperation, covering not only its present proceedings and output, but also some thoughts for further reflection on the future strengthening of COSAC.
Transnational Parliamentarism and the Dynamics of the IPC CFSP/CSDP: Policy-making, Accountability and Cooperation
Authors: Raube Kolja , Fonck Daan 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
This contribution proposes a framework of transnational parliamentarism to study inter-parliamentary cooperation, and applies it to the interparliamentary conference on CFSP/CSDP. It asks to what extent the IPC’s functioning reflects its constitutive intergovernmental logic, or whether its behaviour in practice might be guided by a transnational logic, hence becoming something more than just the parliamentary mirror of an intergovernmental cooperation framework. To this end we outline three functions that are brought forward by transnational parliamentarism: policy-making, collective accountability and cooperation, and investigate to which extent these logics can be observed in the functioning of the IPC CFSP/CSDP. Applying the framework reveals a nuanced picture of an inter-parliamentary cooperation framework which to some extent goes beyond purely intergovernmental functions of domestic accountability and representation, and also includes the performance of policy-making and parliamentary cooperation functions.
Article 7 TEU: From a Dormant Provision to an Active Enforcement Tool?
Authors: Coli Martina 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
For a long time considered, improperly, a sort of ‘nuclear’ option, Article 7 TEU is the key EU Treaty provision in the field of values enforcement. In the context of the Union’s current rule of law crisis, such a provision deserves the greatest attention, especially after the European Commission’s proposal in December 2017 to trigger the procedure against Poland, under Article 7(1) TEU. This article contributes to understandings of the provision by reviewing its main features and contextualising its deployment in the general Polish rule of law crisis, with the aim of evaluating whether it can now be considered as an operational instrument for values enforcement. Although the Commission’s (late) decision to activate the Article 7(1) TEU procedure should be welcomed as a major effort in restoring the rule of law within the European Union, the (perceived and real) limits of Article 7 TEU and the inertia of the EU institutions cast a shadow over the procedure’s effective implementation.
Eosinophil count (EC) as a diagnostic and prognostic marker for infection in the internal medicine department setting
Authors: Karakonstantis Stamatis , Gryllou Niki , Papazoglou George , Lydakis Charalampos 
Published: December 2018

Abstract

Introduction
. Eosinopenia has been previously investigated as a marker to differentiate infectious from non-infectious diagnoses and as a prognostic marker. Most previous studies were conducted in intensive care unit patients. Our study focuses on the value of eosinopenia in patients admitted to the Internal Medicine department.

Methods
. We retrospectively analyzed 271 consecutive patients with infection and 31 patients presenting with fever or inflammatory syndrome and a non-infectious diagnosis. We evaluated and compared the following markers for differentiating infectious from non-infectious diagnoses: eosinophil count [EC], CRP, WBC and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte count ratio [NLCR]. We also evaluated the value of eosinopenia as a monitoring parameter in patients with infections.

Results
. Eosinopenia at admission was found in 71% of patients with infection compared to 32% in the non-infection group. EC and NLCR were moderate markers for discriminating infection from non-infection, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.789 and 0.718 respectively. Significant eosinopenia (≤ 10/µL) had a high specificity (90%) for diagnosing infections. High EC at admission (> 400/µL) was rare in the infection group (1.5%), but not uncommon in the non-infection group (25.8%). Persistent eosinopenia was noted in non-survivors, compared to the rapid normalization of EC in survivors.

Conclusions
. Among patients presenting with fever and/or high inflammatory markers a low EC is supportive of infection, while a high EC may suggest non-infectious diagnoses. The persistence/ resolution of eosinopenia may be a useful monitoring parameter to predict response to therapy.
Recurrence of Chronic Subdural Hematomas Requiring Reoperation: Could Small Trephination Be a Valid Alternative to Conventional Approaches?
Authors: Adam Danil , Iftimie Dragos , Moisescu Cristiana 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Background: Chronic subdural hematomas (CSDHs) are one of the most common intracranial lesions treated in a neurosurgical department. They associate significant morbidity and mortality that increase in the case of recurrences requiring reoperation. Despite extensive published literature, there is still significant debate regarding optimal management of CSDHs and their potential recurrence. Objective: Identify factors for recurrence requiring reoperation of CSDHs in order to adjust our management strategies. Methods: A retrospective review of 64 cases harbouring 71 CSDHs that were surgically treated in the Neurosurgery Department of “Saint Pantelimon” Clinical Emergency Hospital over a period of two years (January 2016 - December 2017). Two main surgical techniques were used: small trephine and large bone flap craniotomy, according to the operating surgeon’s preference. CT scans were performed at admission and 24 hours postoperatively. Postoperative management was similar in all cases. Results: Recurrence requiring reoperation (RrR) was encountered in 16 (25%) of the reviewed cases. Reoperation was found to be significantly more often encountered in particular preoperative CT characteristics: laminar type (RrR=38,10%, p=0.027) and maximal thickness above 22 mm (43,75%, p = 0,013). Surgical technique had a substantial impact on recurrence: in trephinated cases, reoperation was required in only 8 of 51 patients (RrR=15,69%, p = 0.007), while large bone flap craniotomy associated a RrR of 61,54% (p = 0.008), which increased when associated with inner membranectomy (RrR=87,5%, p = 0,007) or subdural drain placement (88,89%, p = 0.007). Reoperations not only doubled the neurosurgical hospital length of stay, but also associated higher perioperative mortality rates (18.75% versus 14,58%). Conclusions: In our series, surgical technique had a decisive impact on the rate of recurrence. CSDH surgery is another example of “in medio stat virtus”, where finding the right balance between the least and most aggressive technique has the potential of providing the best outcomes, and thus small trephination could be taken into consideration.
Unusual Posttraumatic Vascular and Cerebral Injuries in Young Patients
Authors: Marciuc Emilia , Barcan M. , Dobrovăţ B. , Popescu Roxana , Tudorache Cornelia , Haba Danisia 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Blunt carotid artery injury is a relatively rare but potentially lethal injury that predominantly occurs in high-impact mechanisms such as motor-vehicle collision. Any simptoms or neurological deficits following a multiple trauma patient mandates a thorough evaluation and consideration of BCI. This is a case report on two young patients with neurologic simptoms developed after blunt trauma in the cervical region. Both patients had left internal carotid artery dissection diagnosed on a CT-angiography, followed by middle cerebral artery territory infarction. Although it can be a delayed onset with no signs of vascular demage, we believe that, by implementing a protocol with additional imaging for early detection, we can prevent a devastating outcome.
Techniques of Surgery for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A comparative study
Authors: Iacob Gabriel , Salam Abdul , Hawis Abdul Rahman 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Aim: To compare between classic open surgeries and minimally invasive surgeries in Lumbar Spinal Stenosis. Methods: A comparative descriptive study, involved 117 patients suffering from lumbar canal stenosis, aged between 40-70 years; admitted to department of Neurosurgery from March 2011 till august 2016 in King Fahad Hospital in Saudi Arabia. Study groups are consisted of group A as patients managed with classical laminectomy, group B as patients managed with Endoscopic spinal procedures and group C as patients managed with Microscopic decompression facilitated by the Metrex Tubular System. SPSS was used in data entry and analysis, and ethical considerations taken into consideration and participants filled the required inform consents. Results: Age of particaoncet ranged from 45 - 63 Year, Mean +/- 50. The degenerative canal stenosis with acute disc single level (cauda equina syndrome) was the most common type of lumbar canal stenosis encountered in group A, the unilateral foraminal and lateral recess stenosis without disc prolapse was the most common type of lumbar canal stenosis encountered in group B, while The unilateral foraminal and lateral recess stenosis without disc prolapse was the most common type of lumbar canal stenosis encountered in group C. Classic laminectomy and disectomy used mostly in group A, endoscopic unilateral decompression lamino-foraminotomy without discectomy used mostly in group B and bilateral microscopic laminectomy without discectomy followed by unilateral microscopic lamino-foraminotomy without discectomy used mostly in group C. Mean of operation duration was the highest in both gender of group A, followed by group B, then group C. Unintended durotomy was the most common intra operative complications occurred in the whole study especially in group A. Mean of blood lost was the highest in both gender of group A, followed by group B, then group C. Postop complications in the patients of study Groups was the highest in group A (33.3 %) ,followed by group B (8.5 %) and then group C (2 %). Conclusion: Microscopic decompression facilitated by the Metrex Tubular System is the most effective techniques of Surgery for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis and the least intraoperative and post-operative complications.
Is there a role for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in neurovascular compression syndrome?
Authors: Temkar Prasad , Kato Yoko , Yamada Yasuhiro , Ansari Ahmed 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Introduction - CFD uses complex algorithms to predict flow of fluids through a tube & also predicts its impact on walls. It is increasingly being used for prediction of aneurysmal wall thickness, flow, wall shear stress and to decide clip strategy. This is an experimental study, which analyses use of CFD in neurovascular compression syndrome and probable future applications. We analysed CFD findings in 12 cases retrospectively to know fluid dynamics of vessels and its implications. Methodology - Twelve patients - 7 cases of trigeminal neuralgia and 5 of hemifacial spasm who were to be treated by MVD, were enrolled. CFD i.e. WSSv (wall shear stress vector), WSSm (magnitude), SL (stream line) and Pressure, was done in all prospectively. Results - CFD of superior cerebellar artery, anterior inferior cerebellar artery and vertebral artery was done in each case at the contact site and immediate pre + post contact location. Comparitively High WSSm correlated maximally at nerve vessel contact junction (NVCj) and also high SL at the NVCj comparing with nerve vessel contact proximal (NVCp), WSSv showed wide variations and pressure change was in-conclusive. Conclusion - At contact site, the high WSSm& SL might be a reliable indicator of a neurovascular conflict zone. To conclusively validate the findings we need large number of patients and control group.
Long term results of Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy using Side viewing Conical working tube
Authors: Kaif Mohammad , Yadav Kuldeep , Husain Mazhar 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Object: Endoscopic discectomy is a common procure performed worldwide with various devices being used and studies have reported their long term results. In this study we present the long term results of the unique device with separate side viewing channel. Methods: 66 patients of lumbar disc herniation treated between March 2009 to April 2012 using the unique conical working tube with separate side viewing endoscopic channel. Their preoperative and postoperative Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Macnab scores were used to evaluate the outcome after a minimum follow of 5 years with mean follow up of 76.18 months. Results: There were 46 males and 20 females with age ranging from19-72 (mean-38.4 years). The follow up ranged from 61 months to 95 months with mean of 76.18 months. The mean preoperative ODI score was 74.7 which decreased to a mean of 7.8 and the outcome evaluated by Macnab criteria was 69.69% excellent, 17 % good, 10% fair, 3.03% poor. 2 patients underwent second surgery. None of the patient had to change their occupation due to their lumbar disc disease. Complications occurred were dural tear in 2 patients, transient foot paresis in 1 patient and 1 discitis in 1 patient which improved on medical management. Conclusion: Endoscopic discectomy using thins Conical working tube is a safe and effective technique for lumbar disc prolapse. It has the advantage for early mobilization, short hospital stay and low cost. The long term results are comparable to the conventional techniques.
External ventricular drainage for intraventricular hemorrhage
Authors: Kumar V.A. Kiran , Kiran N.A. Sai , Kumar V. Anil , Moscote-Salazar Luis Rafael , Ghosh Amrita , Pal Ranabir , Bola Venkata Ramya , Agrawal Amit 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Background: Intervention to reduce intracranial pressure using External Ventricular Drain (EVD) is a common life saving measure in a neurosurgery intensive care unit(ICU). Objective: The present study was undertaken to assess the outcome of patients who underwent external ventricular drainage for intraventricular hemorrhage(IVH). Methods: The available data of the patients who underwent placement of external ventricular drain from February 2012 to May 2016 for intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) at Narayana Medical College and Hospital, Nellore, was retrieved from the hospital case records and analyzed. Results: Total of 69 patients were included in this study. Mean age was 53.7 ±11.6 years. Clinical presentation included altered sensorium in 66 patients (96%), hemiparesis in 62 patients (90%) , vomiting in 40 patients (58%) and seizures in 9 patients (13%). Fifty two patients (75%) were known hypertensives and 10 patients (15%) were diabetic. Past history of smoking was recorded in 16(23%) patients and alcohol intake in 17 patients (25%). GCS at the time of admission was 3-8 (low) in 39 patients (57%), 9-12 in 23 patients(33%) and 13-15 in 7 patients (10%). At the time of admission, 60 patients ( 87%) had diastolic blood pressure more than 90 mmHg, 63 patients (91%) had systolic blood pressure more than 140 mmHg. Major site of hemorrhage was basal ganglia in 24 (35%), thalamus in 13 (19%), cerebellum in 5 (7%), brain stem in 3, frontal/temporal in 2 patients. SAH with IVH was noted in 12 patients (17%) and only IVH was noted in 10 patients (14%). Mean duration of external ventricular drainage was 4.6+1.7 days (Range 1-9 days). Mean hospital stay was 11.3±7.5 days and mean ICU stay was 8+5.4 days. Thirty eight patients (55%) died during hospital stay. At the time of discharge, poor out come (Glagow out come score 1-3) was noted in 52 patients (75%) and good out come (Glagow out come score-4,5) was noted in 17 patients. Among various parameters analyzed , poor GCS (3-8) at admission, history of smoking and alcohol intake were found to correlate significantly with poor outcome. None of the other factors like old age, site of bleed, pupillary asymmetry at admission, high blood pressure at admission, past history of hypertension and diabetes were found to correlate with poor outcome. Conclusions: Majority of the patients with intracranial hematomas with intraventricular extension presented in poor neurological condition (GCS= 3-8). Poor neurological condition at the time of admission, past history of smoking and alcohol intake were associated with poor outcome.
A clinicoradiological scoring for management of acute subdural hematoma: a prospective study
Authors: Gautam Sachidanand , Sharma Anubhav , Dulara S.C. 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Background: Acute subdural hematoma is the most common type of traumatic intra cranial hematoma accounting for 24% cases of severe head injuries and caries highest mortality. The aim of this study is to analyze the prognostic factors and to propose Neuro-clinical and radiological prognostic scoring system on the clinical spectrum and to evaluate the postoperative outcome and validate the same. Methods: This is a prospective Study which included 100 patients admitted in Government Medical College, Kota, Rajasthan from 01st Jan 2016 to 30 June 2017 with head injury and were diagnosed to have Traumatic Subdural Hemorrhage. A detailed clinical history, Physical examination, Computerized Tomography scan was performed in all patients and were divided into 2 groups; that is conservative or surgical interventional as per Neuro-clinical and radiological prognostic scoring system. Results: The maximum patients suffering from Subdural Hematoma were in the age group of 11-60 years with male predominance 72%. The most common mode of injury was RTA with 68 % of incidence. 36 out of 100 cases presented to hospital with GCS <8 while 44 patients showed improvement of GCS after resuscitation. Out of 100 cases, surgical approach was considered in 34 patients while remaining patients were managed conservatively. Pupillary reaction, Hypotension, CT scan findings that is, thickness of hematoma >10mm and midline shift of >5mm, delay in interval between the surgery had greatly affected on outcome of patients. Conclusions: According to the results, use of Neuro-clinical and radiological prognostic scoring system is very useful in determining early intervention and also avoids unnecessary surgical intervention.
Flow characteristics of intermittent rivers in Slovakia
Authors: Rutkowska Agnieszka , Kohnová Silvia , Banasik Kazimierz , Szolgay Jan 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Flow characteristics of intermittent rivers in Slovakia. Intermittent rivers are rivers that cease to fl ow, i.e. temporary, ephemeral, seasonal, and episodic rivers. Analysis of hydrological regime of such rivers is pivotal in assessment of water resources because changes in fl ow characteristics of such rivers may affect neighboring catchments or the entire region through changes in water supply reservoirs such as lakes, wetlands and mosses. Recently, an increasing number of intermittent rivers and ephemeral streams (IRES) and an elongation of the zero- -fl ow events has been observed in Europe due to climatic changes and anthropogenic influence. Intermittent rives in Slovakia were studied in the paper using statistical methods. The characteristics of the zero-fl ow period, of duration of the longest annual zero-fl ow event and of timing of such events were derived. The circular statistics were helpful in recognition of the dates of occurrence of such events. The comparative analysis between catchments was performed. The variability in precipitation and evapotranspiration and the increasing temperature were identified as the possible drivers of the fl ow intermittence in these catchments. The research was performed within the COST Action SMIRES (Science and Management of Intermittent Rivers & Ephemeral Streams).