bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atmospheric blocking in an aquaplanet and the impact of orography
Authors: Narinesingh Veeshan , Booth James F. , Clark Spencer K. , Ming Yi
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Many fundamental questions remain about the roles and effects of stationary
forcing on atmospheric blocking. As such, this work utilizes an idealized
moist general circulation model (GCM) to investigate atmospheric blocking in terms of dynamics,
geographical location, and duration. The model is first configured as an
aquaplanet, then orography is added in separate integrations. Block-centered composites of wave activity fluxes and height show that blocks in the aquaplanet undergo a realistic dynamical evolution when compared to reanalysis. Blocks in the aquaplanet are also found to have similar life cycles to blocks in model integrations with orography. These results affirm the usefulness of both zonally symmetric and asymmetric idealized model configurations for studying blocking. Adding orography to the model leads to an increase in blocking. This mirrors what is observed when comparing the Northern Hemisphere (NH) and Southern Hemisphere (SH), where the NH contains more orography and thus more blocking. As the prescribed mountain height increases, so do the magnitude and size of climatological stationary waves, resulting in more blocking overall. Increases in blocking, however, are not spatially uniform. Orography is found to induce regions of enhanced block frequency just upstream of mountains, near high pressure anomalies in the stationary waves, which is poleward of climatological minima in upper-level zonal wind, while block frequency minima and jet maxima occur eastward of the wave trough. This result matches what is observed near the Rocky Mountains. Finally, an analysis of block duration suggests blocks generated near stationary wave maxima last slightly longer than blocks that form far from or without orography. Overall, the results of this work help to explain some of the observed similarities and differences in blocking between the NH and SH and emphasize the importance of general circulation features in setting where blocks most frequently occur.
Axial induction controller field test at Sedini wind farm
Authors: Bossanyi Ervin A. , Ruisi Renzo
Published: July 2020

Abstract. This paper describes the design and testing of an axial induction controller implemented on a row of nine turbines on the Sedini Wind Farm in Sardinia, Italy. This work was performed as part of the EU Horizon 20-20 research project CL Windcon. An engineering wake model, selected for its good fit to historical SCADA data from the site, was used in the LongSim code to optimise turbine power reduction setpoints for a large matrix of steady-state wind conditions. The setpoints were incorporated into a dynamic control algorithm capable of running on site using available wind condition estimates from the turbines. The complete algorithm was tested in dynamic time-domain simulations using LongSim, using a time-varying wind field generated from historical met mast data from the site. The control algorithm was implemented on site, with the wind farm controller toggled on and off at regular intervals to allow the performance with and without the controller to be compared in comparable wind conditions. Data was collected from July 2019 until early February 2020. The results have been analysed and show a positive increase in energy production resulting from the induction control, in line with LongSim model predictions. The measurements also provide a convincing validation of the LongSim model, proving its value for both steady state setpoint optimisation and time-domain simulation of wind farm performance.
El film como máquina de sentido: Peter Wollen y el estructuralismo británico en la década de 1970
Authors: Oubiña David Leonardo
Published: July 2020

Este artículo es una revisión teórica del cine-estructuralismo británico y recupera los planteamientos de Peter Wollen en su libro Signs and Meaning in the Cinema que fue fundamental para la constitución de una nueva perspectiva de análisis crítico. Apoyándose en la antropología de Claude Lévi-Strauss, los estructuralistas británicos de los años setenta pensaron los films como un sistema de mensajes gobernados por un código. Frente a los riesgos del “culto a la personalidad” (como se verificaba en la noción de autor propuesta por Cahiers du cinéma en los años cincuenta), los críticos vinculados a la revista Screen trabajaron sobre la materialidad de las formas, pensando en la figura del autor como consecuencia y no como fundamento de la obra. El libro de Wollen encarna ese momento de transición donde se revaloriza la figura del espectador, que empezará a ocupar un lugar central en los estudios sobre arte y comunicación.
Gestos nostálgicos en las series de televisión brasileñas: el caso de ¡Samantha!
Authors: Silva Marcel Vieira Barreto , Lopes Larissa Nascimento
Published: July 2020

This paper intends to discuss the instrumentalisation of nostalgias in contemporary audiovisual products, with a focus on Brazilian television series. For this purpose, we propose a content analysis of the first season of Samantha! (Netflix, 2018-2019), with the support of television and nostalgias studies. As a result, we consider that Samantha! addresses two perspectives on nostalgic gestures: one romanticized and the other critical, thus demonstrating the possibilities of working with nostalgic gestures on contemporary media production.
Análisis narrativo y creación de series dramáticas: la primera temporada de la serie Los 80
Authors: Unda Pablo Felipe Andrés , Crisóstomo Paz Andrea
Published: July 2020

Los 80 (2008–2014), una de las series de ficción chilenas más destacadas en términos de críticas y resultados de audiencia, motiva un análisis narrativo enfocado en el primer capítulo de esta producción, para profundizar en el estudio dramático de series televisivas que logran una fuerte identificación y anclaje entre los espectadores a lo largo de varias temporadas. Se desarrolla una Matriz de Construcción de Series, que busca contribuir al análisis y creación de ficciones seriadas que aspiran a un público amplio dispuesto a mirar, y volver a mirar, una historia compuesta por varios capítulos. Se establece finalmente que esta relación es posible a través de un capítulo piloto que contempla recursos dramáticos que posibilitan una emocionante y coherente expansión narrativa de la serie.
A mediação: A resolução 174 do Conselho Superior da Justiça do Trabalho e as disputas trabalhistas
Authors: Spengler Fabiana Marion
Published: July 2020

O presente texto tem as práticas mediativas nas disputas trabalhistas como tema central, questionando: a mediação prevista na Resolução 174 do Conselho Superior da Justiça do Trabalho (CSJT) é meio viável e adequado para resolver disputas trabalhis-tas? A hipótese positiva que se propõe confirma a importância e a aplicabilidade da me-diação no tratamento de disputas trabalhistas, mas discorda da abordagem e previsão de utilização conforme Resolução 174 haja vista que é procedimento realizado/supervisio-nado por um magistrado ou outro serventuário, equiparado e com pouca diferenciação da conciliação. Ao final as conclusões do texto confirmam a hipótese. Assim, os obje-tivos da pesquisa são: a) analisar a mediação a partir da Resolução 174 do CSJT, como meio hábil de resolver disputas trabalhistas; b) investigar se a proposta de mediação feita por um magistrado atende a base principiológica da mediação. Para fins de cumprir tais objetivos o método de abordagem utilizado foi o dedutivo. Como método de procedi-mento foi utilizado o método monográfico.
Emprendimiento Corporativo: El Plan De Excelencia De Aguas De Cartagena S.A. E.S.P. “Acuacar”
Authors: Mendoza Betin Javier Alfonso , Arrieta Rojas Yasmin Tatiana , Llorente Tovar Andres Felipe , Paternina Barros Andrea Carolina
Published: July 2020

La investigación describe las derivaciones de la gestión de la innovación en el clima organizacional a través del Plan de Excelencia de Aguas de Cartagena S.A. E.S.P. – Acuacar, un espacio grupal semanal de generación de ideas que sin juzgar su pertinencia evitan restringir la libre postulación de estas. Este lineamiento de desarrollo organizacional fomenta la participación de los empleados; dinamiza la cooperación y contribución activa de todos los colaboradores; genera oportunidades de mejora, consolidando una cultura fuerte y aprehendida de excelencia e involucramiento dinámico en la empresa, y a la postre la optimización de los procesos. La revisión de la literatura permitió establecer la siguiente hipotesis: la gestión de la innovación mejora el clima organizacional. Él análisis se realizó desde un paradigma mixto soportado principalmente en el análisis documental y posteriormente en la técnica de análisis de la varianza con base en los datos acopiados en deferencia a los instrumentos utilizados. Se encontró que el Plan de Excelencia es un espacio de creatividad, innovación y cocreación de conocimiento, en síntesis, un caso exitoso de emprendimiento corporativo. Bajo estos antecedentes y como principal conclusión, se corrobora la tesis sobre que la gestión de la innovación influencia positivamente el clima organizacional de ACUACAR.
Análisis económico de los “Precios de Transferencia” y sus efectos en los ingresos tributarios en Nicaragua, 2014-2018
Authors: Cuadra López Santiaga José
Published: July 2020

En el presente ensayo analiza la legislación nicaragüense vigente en materia de PT, en donde, se evidencia, que los métodos retomados, son los métodos tradicionales dictados por la OCDE, y estos aún no se están implementando, es por ello, que la evaluación de métodos alternativos costo eficiente, que se ajustan a la realidad económica de los países sub desarrollados como lo es el caso de Nicaragua. Además, se plasma una explicación accesible del marco conceptual, económico y jurídico de los PT en Nicaragua, y se efectúa un análisis estadístico de información y datos de comercio exterior, correspondientes a las exportaciones e importaciones de sectores económicos claves en el país, determinando de esta manera los impactos que generan en el PIBC y la Recaudación Total las alteraciones a los precios internacionales.
Determinación del Tipo de Cambio en Nicaragua
Authors: Canales Salinas Ricardo José , Morales Rivas Oliver David
Published: July 2020

Este trabajo presenta un análisis de los factores que influyeron en el comportamiento del tipo de cambio real.  Con datos de los informes del Banco Central de Nicaragua, tomando como referencia los años 2001 a 2006. Los factores más importantes para el Tipo de cambio real son los siguientes: Precios internacionales, Flujos de capitales, tasa de interés real, Impuestos y subsidios domésticos, Volumen del gasto público (déficit fiscal).  Los términos de intercambio para Nicaragua tuvieron un marcado deterioro.  La política fiscal ha venido controlando el déficit fiscal.  El entorno internacional no ha sido favorable para Nicaragua
Strategizing for The Competitiveness of Branches and Enterprises of Industry in The Spatial Development of The Region
Authors: Vyacheslavovich Shcheglov Evgeny , Urasova Anna Alexandrovna , Balandin Dmitry Arkadievich , Pytkin Alexander Nikolaevich Pytkin Nikolaevich
Published: July 2020

The issues related to developing the industrial complex of a particular region or country in terms of the need to increase competitiveness in the modern conditions of economic instability have been discussed in the article. The synthesis of methods of strategic matrix and factor analysis with data sampling and consideration for the Kaiser normalization criterion is the methodological basis of the work. In particular, the methods include procedures for determining weighting factors based on the comprehensive ranking of expert estimates using the simplex method with bringing the initial data to the linear programming problem. The authors have made the conclusions that allow, using a specific example, to determine the strategic positions of enterprises and industries in the region, outlining possible paths to increase competitiveness.
Factors Affecting the Competitive Capacity of Commercial Banks: A Critical Analysis in an Emerging Economy
Authors: Dao Le Kieu Oanh , Pham Thuy Tu , Nguyen Van Chien
Published: July 2020

This research was conducted to investigate the factors influencing the commercial bank’s competitive capacity in an emerging country. Data were collected from the domestic-owned commercial banks and foreign-owned commercial banks listed on Vietnam’s Stock Exchange over the period of nine years from 2010 to 2018. Three statistic approaches were employed to address econometrics issues and to improve the accuracy of the regression coefficients: Pooled Ordinary Least Square (Pooled OLS), Random Effects Model (REM), and Fixed Effects Model (FEM). To correct the diagnostics and endogeneity in the model, the study uses Generalized Least Square (GLS) and Generalized Method of Moments (GMM). In order to account for the degree of competitive capacity we use Lerner index. Results demonstrate that the impact of bank-specific characteristics on market power in banks is statistically significant, and there are substantial distinguishments of economic consideration among these factors. In addition, a bank with a higher level of competitive capacity in the previous year will outstandingly generate competitive capacity in the current year. Another possibility, a greater level foreign investment into the banks in the host country could further encourage competitive capacity in the banking system. Finally, economic growth rate has no impact on competitive capacity at a significant level of 5% while a positive effect from inflation on bank’s market power could be found.
The Role of Profitability in the Effect of Company Growth on the Debt Policy
Authors: Akhmadi Akhmadi , Yunia Dabela , Robiyanto Robiyanto
Published: July 2020

This study aims to examine the role of profitability as a mediating variable on the effect of company growth on debt policy. The samples were companies of textile and garment sub-sector listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in the 2014-2018 period. The results show that asset growth (AG) did not affect the debt to equity ratio (DER). In addition, return on asset (ROA) was found to have a positive effect on the DER. Meanwhile, the ROA could not mediate the effect of asset growth on the DER.
The Effect of the Relationship Between Cash Flows From Operating Activities and Earnings per Share in Jordan
Authors: Hamshari Yaser Mohd Ahmed
Published: July 2020

The study assumes that there is a relationship between the cash flows from the operational activity and the earnings per share. The companies listed on the Amman Stock Exchange have been studied, including the banking sector, the insurance companies sector, and the service sector (education sector). One of the objectives of the study was to know that the administration exploits all available capabilities and achieve quality in profits through activities, operating, financing and investment in a way that achieves a sense of security for the investor and who is waiting for the reward that he invested his money in order to obtain a return that meets what is expected. Therefore, it was necessary to educate users of the data of the importance of understanding and studying the list of cash flows as an analytical tool.It is assumed that the conclusion of this study is that there is a strong relationship between cash flows from operating activity and earnings per share (earnings per share) with a need to pay attention to operational activity and provide and create economic conditions and laws and legislation that help to strengthen and achieve voluntary power because it reflects the continuity of facilities and companies.
Internal Control, Organizational Culture, and Quality of Information Accounting to Prevent Fraud: Case Study From Indonesia's Agriculture Industry
Authors: Setyaningsih Puji Rahayu , Nengzih Nengzih
Published: July 2020

This research wants to find out how far internal control, organization culture and the quality of accounting information system will help the small-medium enterprises (SMEs) to prevent fraud. by applying the case study approach in achieving its aims and objectives. This study is done by a used case study from SMEs in the agriculture industry in Lampung province, Indonesia. The data were collected through observations and semi-structured interviews with employed and managerial staff. This research applied a mixed method in collecting and analyzing data, which were document analyses and interviews. Applying more than a single method in collecting data enables the researcher to compare and to verify the information accuracy (Brewer and Hunter 2006). This method can increase the credibility and validity of the findings because the final bias will depend on one method which later can be avoided (Yin 2012). This type of research is quantitative descriptive research. The purpose of this descriptive research is to provide a descriptive, systematic, factual and accurate description of the facts, properties, and relationships between the phenomena investigated. All data that will be used in this study is sourced from the results of respondents' answers to the questionnaire given to employees at PT. XYZ as many as 70 respondents with the unit of analysis are part of Business Control, Human Capital, Finance, Marketing, and Operations. The sampling technique that uses saturated sampling, which is a sampling technique where all members of the population will be used as samples. The results of the study show that some weaknesses of the internal controls have been identified as one of the factors of fraud. The results show that Internal Control Organizational Culture and Quality of Information Accounting have a positive significant effect to prevent fraud.
The Role of Corporate Governance on the Relationship Between IFRS Adoption and Earnings Management: Evidence From Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan Mohammad Tariq , Rahman Azhar Abdul
Published: July 2020

Purpose: This study investigates the relationship between IFRS adoption and earnings management (EM) i.e. discretionary accruals (DA) and real earnings management (REM) in developing economy like Bangladesh. Moreover, the study examine the relationship between corporate governance (CG) strength and EM as well as moderating role of CG strength on the relationship between IFRS adoption and EM.Design/methodology/approach: The study employs 94 firms listed in Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) for 6 years i.e. 564 firm years observation, over two time period as pre (2004-06) and post (2013/14-15/16) adoption of IFRS. Underpinning theory of the study is agency theory which explained the relationship among variables. Based on earlier literature a CG index is developed to measure the strength of CG. The study uses random effect GLS with robust regression in a balanced panel data.Findings: The results show that IFRS and CGI both have significant negative relationship with EM. Moreover, it is documented that the CG strength significantly moderates the relationship between IFRS and REM. It implies that the presence of good CG may help to attain the objectives of IFRS adoptionOriginality/value: To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is one of the first empirical attempts at providing evidence about the role of CG on the relationship between IFRS adoption and EM in Bangladesh. The findings of this study can be beneficial for the member of the regulatory bodies and researchers to formulate new policy and enhance corporate governance practices in Bangladeshi companies as well as develop a better framework for all stakeholders involved in financial reporting. Future studies may also investigate the interacting effect of corporate governance strength on other related variables which may influence the level of earnings management.
The Mediating Effect of Crisis Management on Leadership Styles and Hotel Performance in Jordan
Authors: Alzoubi Raed Hussam , Jaaffar Amar Hisham
Published: July 2020

Research scholars have argued that the emergence of the crisis in the Middle East have led to significant changes in business performance. This has been most notable in the hotels operating in the Jordanian tourist sector, thus, creating a need to investigate leadership styles, crisis management, and hotel performance in a holistic framework. However, this is quite lacking in the literature, and this needs to be addressed. Transformational leadership style and transactional leadership styles are the independent variables, crisis management is the mediating variable and hotel performance is the dependent variable. A quantitative study that used a self-administered questionnaire was carried out on 3-star to 5-star hotels operating in Jordan. The Partial Least Squares (PLS) method as part of Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was applied to analyse the causal relationships between constructs using the software application Smart-PLS 3.0. The Partial Least Squares approach was chosen according to the research’s exploratory nature. In order to analyze data two-step approach was utilized; the first step was to test the reliability and validity of the constructs in the measurement models, the second step was to test research hypotheses in the structural models. The results show that transformational leadership has significant positive effects on hotel performance and crisis management. Transactional leadership had a significant positive effect on crisis management and crisis management had significant positive effects on hotel performance. Moreover, crisis management partially mediated the relationship between transformational leadership and hotel performance; while the relationship between transactional leadership and hotel performance was fully mediated by crisis management. These findings will help to strengthen the discussion in the extant literature.
The Impact of Political Stability on the Effectiveness of the Early Warning Systems in Predicting the Financial Crises: The Case of Jordan and Qatar
Authors: Shnekat Baker , Al-Assaf Ghazi
Published: July 2020

The research aims to identify the impact of political stability in determining the effectiveness of early warning systems in predicting financial crises. The research applied a standard descriptive approach.In general, when comparing the two countries before including the model for economic variables the results showed that the nature of the impact of economic variables is different as the index of the financial crisis in Jordan is affected by the import of goods and services while the most influential indicators in the early warning model for the occurrence of the financial crisis in Qatar is the index of exporting goods and services on the basis that the system Qatari financial is very sensitive to the subject of export of gas and oil. Also, the results showed that there is a very significant impact of political stability on the financial crisis, which is greater than the impact of economic indicators, and if the two countries differed in which indicators for political stability have the greatest impact on the occurrence of the financial crisis, in Jordan the most influential indicator was the government effectiveness variable in Qatar, the regulatory quality index was the most influential.
The Role of Shariah Auditor in Islamic Banks: The Effect of Shariah Governance Framework (SGF) 2011
Authors: Yasoa' Mohd Rushdan , Wan Abdullah Wan Amalina , Endut Wan Anisah
Published: July 2020

This paper ascertains the current roles and responsibilities of Shariah auditor in the Islamic banking industry in Malaysia. To explore further, we identify the changes in these roles, especially after the introduction of the Shariah Governance Framework (SGF) 2011. The study employs a qualitative method by utilizing in-depth interviews with nine (9) key individuals in Malaysian Islamic banks. Our findings support the notion that Shariah auditors' roles and responsibilities are still under the jurisdiction of the banks' internal audit unit. More importantly, Shariah auditors play their roles as the third line of defense by giving assurance to the shareholders and stakeholders that all businesses and operations comply with Shariah precepts. Also, Shariah auditors need to look at the internal control elements of whether effective and efficient enough to alleviate any possible Shariah breaches. In terms of changes in its roles after the SGF implementation, most of the interviewees assert that the approach has been changed from compliance audit to risk-based audit. Our findings guide us to propose more structured and specific guidelines about Shariah auditors' roles and responsibilities in the Islamic banks. This guideline eventually could provide stimulus to improve governance and strengthen market as well as stakeholder's confidence. Finally, this study stipulates some precious recommendations to further enhance the Shariah auditor roles not only in the Malaysian Islamic banking industry but also in similar contexts.
Op zoek naar succesvol gezag in het lokaal bestuur
Authors: Jansen Thijs , van der Meulen Corné
Published: July 2020

Searching for successful authority in local governance

When we look at the number of people leaving local governance, we see a discouraging trend. According to an investigation of the magazine Binnenlands Bestuur, 126 of 1144 aldermen in the Netherlands were forced to step down in 2019. Making 2019 the year with the highest number since 2004. The same trend can be seen with municipal secretaries. A municipal secretary used to be a lifetime appointment, yet now they often stay at their position for no more than 5 years.

This is why it is of the utmost importance to understand the different functions within local governance and how they can be best understood. This number of Bestuurskunde contains articles that offer more in depth analysis towards successful factors of aldermen and municipal secretaries.
Open (de) deuren
Authors: van Gils Frans-Willem
Published: July 2020

What makes local political-administrative relationships work?

The collaborative relationship between the appointed mayor and the non-political highest administrative official is a crucial one in Dutch local government. It aligns two different domains or spheres: the political, decision making domain on one hand, and the administrative, executive domain on the other. Since research points out that 25% of these collaborative relations fail, the need for insight in the factors that shape the relations and the success of it emerges. Non-successful collaboration between public top-officials usually results in financial, societal or personal costs or damage. In this research, 17 factors were indicated that influence the (perceived) collaborative success, divided in three levels: external factors, functional factors and personal factors. Within the success factors, several ‘critical’ factors were determined, without which a successful collaborative relationship never is possible. On the functional level the critical factors are trust, role convergence and shared understanding, and on the personal level consistency and integrity. Best guaranty for a successful collaborative relationship is when both actors adapt their roles to each other’s liking, reciprocally building trust and shared understanding by using open communication, while being consistent and maintaining their integrity.

Finally, officials are being called upon to open their doors, and share valuable experiences.
Het gezag van gemeentesecretarissen beschouwd
Authors: van der Meulen Corné , Jansen Thijs , Karsten Niels
Published: July 2020

The authority of the municipal secretary

The authority of a municipal secretary has to be continuously earned. This is a complex task that demands highly developed personal qualities and attributes. According to an opinion poll, filled out by 120 active municipal secretaries, they believe that they meet these necessary standards. In this poll they were asked what they recognize as their most important sources of authority. The top three answers were, respectively; personal leadership, trust, embodied ethics. Other important factors were their roles as chief executive officer of local governance and/or first advisor. These roles are however no longer enough to establish authority within local governance. Authority and influence must be earned on a daily basis in vastly different spheres and among different social groups.
Gezag volgens een doorgewinterde tussenpaus
Authors: van Nunen Gerard
Published: July 2020

Authority according to a seasoned municipal secretary. An interview with municipal secretary Boudewijn Marinussen

Boudewijn Marinussen feels right at home working in local governance. He has a deep understanding of the balancing act required by the municipal secretary due to his rich experience in local governance. Marinussen’s work as an entrusted person at the Association of Municipal Secretaries entails being a voice for his colleagues’ opinions. In this interview he will ponder the following questions: which sources of authority are essential? What causes a loss in authority, and can this loss be recommended? On the basis of Marinussen’s direct personal experience in local governance and his experience as an entrusted person, he concludes that in cases where authority is coming under pressure, too little is done to ensuring a fast recovery of authority. His advice would be to start earlier with conversations that quicken the healing process.
Succesvol wethouderschap onder de loep
Authors: Verheij Peter
Published: July 2020

A closer look at successful aldermen in the Netherlands

Research into successful alderman is scarce. Scientifically less is known about the perspective of residents and council members on (successful) aldermen. A recent study investigated the sources of legitimacy that successful aldermen draw on. In addition, the contribution of characteristics of local political leadership to successful alderman has been examined. Based on a survey of residents, councilors and aldermen, differences in opinions about aldermen, aspects and indicators of legitimacy and personal characteristics were uncovered. There are clear differences in judgment, indicators and personal characteristics that are considered important and another source on which the judgment is based. This provides interesting and new research material for public administration literature as well as for administrative practice. The view of residents learns us that the distance to aldermen must be reduced, more connection must be made, a more outside view must be taken and an addition to the management style of councilors with responsive qualities is required.
Autonomie ontrafeld. De casus van de Nederlandse Kinderombudsman
Authors: Bouterse Marjolein , Pattyn Valérie
Published: July 2020

Unravelling the autonomy of ombudspersons. The case of the Dutch Children’s Ombudsman

A key factor to a well-functioning ombudsman’s office is autonomy, which can also be derived from the public turmoil surrounding the appointment of Dutch Children’s ombudsman in 2016. Organization-wise, the Dutch Children’s ombudsman is embedded within an existing autonomous institution: the National ombudsman. This triggers the question to what extent such nested constructions can guarantee sufficient autonomy. Viewing the statutory and de facto autonomy of the Children’s ombudsman, we find that the autonomy of the Children’s ombudsman depends to a large extent on the position of the National ombudsman and on the relationship between the National ombudsman and the Children’s ombudsman. Our findings point out that it is necessary to determine and codify the degree of autonomy at the start of an ombudsman’s office.
Bestuurders: onderbelicht, maar onder het vergrootglas
Authors: van Genugten Marieke , Honingh Marlies
Published: July 2020

Boards: little explored, while in the spotlight

The number of boards in the public domain has risen sharply in recent decades and so has the number of reports containing guidelines for effective and good governance. The question, however, is what this flow of advice is based on and what we actually know about board capacity. In this paper, we discuss theoretical expectations on boards, recent developments in governance based inspection, and empirical research on this topic. All in all, it appears that relatively little empirical research is conducted into boards in the public domain. And the research that is available is as yet not very optimistic. Based on these observations, we conclude that it is necessary to re-examine the policy assumptions with regard to board capacity in the public domain.
Rhabdomyoma of the Parapharyngeal Space
– A Case Report
Authors: Sieniawska-Buccella Olga , Osuch-Wójcikiewicz Ewa , Kazimierska Karolina , Kukawska Monika , Rzepakowska Anna , Niemczyk Kazimierz
Published: July 2020

Introduction:  Rhabdomyomas  (RM) are rare benign mesenchymal tumors. They are a much more uncommon entity than their malignant counterparts, rhabdomyosarcomas. Rhabdomyomas fall into two general categories: cardiac tumors and extracardiac tumors. Extracardiac myomas are among the rarest tumors in humans and can be classified as fetal and adult, depending on the degree of differentiation of individual tumors by light microscopy. Adult extracardiac myoma is most commonly characterized by the occurrence in the head and neck, and mainly in the laryngeal and pharyngeal area.

Case report: This article presents a case of rhabdomyoma of the parapharyngeal space with a review of world literature.
Auditory hypersensitivity – definition, etiology, etiopathogenesis, diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities
Authors: Czarnecka Emilia , Lachowska Magdalena
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Auditory hypersensitivity is a phenomenon difficult to define for several reasons. The most important obstacle to the formulation of a clear definition of terminology complexity, the variety of reported symptoms, their subjectivity and the circumstances of occurrence. Abnormalities in auditory, physiological and psychological processes are connected with auditory hypersensitivity. Despite the wide range of diagnostic tests, managing a patient with this disorder is not an easy task.
Aim: The review explains the causes of inconsistencies in the terminology associated with this phenomenon, lists the types of auditory hypersensitivity mentioned in the latest literature, presents available epidemiological data and characterizes the most important diseases accompanied by auditory hypersensitivity. In addition, difficulties in determining the etiology and potential mechanisms for auditory hypersensitivity in subjects with no hearing impairment have been described. The paper also presents methods of diagnosis and treatment options proposed in the literature.
Auditory ossicles in ScanningElectron Microscopy
Authors: Wiatr Agnieszka , Składzień Jacek , Wiatr Maciej
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Knowledge about the physiology of a healthy middle ear is essential for understanding the activity and mechanics of the ear as well as the basics of ossiculoplasty. Trauma of the epithelial lining of the tympanic cavity as well as the ossicular chain may be the result of chronic inflammation and surgery. Depending on the observed changes of the middle ear lining, there are several types of distinguished chronic inflammatory changes: simple, with cholesteatoma, with the formation of inflammatory granulation tissue, in course of specific diseases.
Purpose: The aim of the article is presentation of the microstructure and vasculature of the ossicular chain in the Scanning Electron Microscope. Particular attention is drawn to the anatomical aspects of the structure and connections of auditory ossicles as vital elements for reconstruction of the conduction system of the middle ear.
Material and method: The analysis covered auditory ossicles standardly removed in accordance with the methodology of the investigated surgical procedures. The preparations were evaluated in a scanning electron microscope.
Results: The exposure of bone surface promotes deep erosion. The advanced process of destruction of bone surface in the case of chronic otitis media correlates with a significant degree of damage to both the lining covering the auditory ossicles and that surrounding articular surfaces.
Conclusions: (1) The ossicles in the image of the Scanning Electron Microscope are covered with lining. It passes from the surface of the ossicles to the vascular bundles, forming vascular sheaths; (2) Damage to lining continuity on the surface of the auditory ossicles promotes the rapid destruction of bone tissue in the inflammatory process; (3) The dimensions of the individual ossicles are respectively: malleus – 8.36 +/- 0.01, incus – 8.14 +/- 0.0, stapes – 3.23 +/- 0.01 mm. Behavior of the anatomical length of ossicular chain during tympanoplasty appears to be essential to maintaining adequate vibration amplitude of the conductive system of the middle ear.
Frontal sinus mucocele with advanced orbital involvement – a case series
Authors: Monga Seema , Malik Junaid , Priya Ratna , Rasool Shahid , Naseeruddin Khaja
Published: July 2020

Mucoceles of the paranasal sinuses are more common in Frontal sinus than other sinuses and have multifactorial causes but due to their close proximity to orbit and brain the patients can present with related complications like diplopia, proptosis and vision diminution. We describe our experience of Frontal mucocele cases and their surgical management by endoscopic approach which has the advantage of short recovery time, easy access, lower morbidity and lesser incidence of potential complications.
Current strategies for the treatment of malignant gliomas – experience of the Department of Neurosurgery, Brodno Masovian Hospital in Warsaw
Authors: Turek Grzegorz , Pasterski Tomasz , Bankiewicz Krzysztof , Dzierzęcki Sebastian , Ząbek Mirosław
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Malignant gliomas (HGG) are the most common primary malignant brain tumors arising from glial cells. Between HGG, glioblastoma is the most common and the most malignant histological subtype with only a 27% 2-year survival rate. Current standard medical treatment of malignant gliomas is still not satisfactory, and may need some development and modification. We presented and discussed the achievements of the Department of Neurosurgery at Brodno Masovian Hospital in the treatment of malignant gliomas.
Material and methods: We step by step presented and discussed the policy in the treatment of malignant gliomas. We showed all steps starting from preparation of surgery (eg. neuroimaging) and finishing on the presentation the development of perioperative management – from intraoperative electrical stimulation mapping and monitoring which is nowadays already standard method to convection-enhanced delivery (CED) and gamma knife (GK) which are new and promising methods in the treatment of glioblastoma.
Results: All surgical methods described in this manuscript were introduced to achieve maximal and safe resection of malignant glioma. CED and GK are the last resort methods for patients with recurrent HGG.
Discussion: Department of Neurosurgery at Brodno Masovian Hospital deal with all types of brain tumors, including all types of high grade gliomas. As the first Department in Europe with close cooperation with the Department of Neurosurgery in San Francisco, we have started local infusions of drugs directly to the tumor in the real time of magnetic field, and we think that technology may change all approaches to the treatment of high grade gliomas.
A rare case of acute pancreatitis: a diagnostic conundrum and unusual complications
Authors: Strzelec Bartłomiej , Chmielewski Piotr , Strzelec Martyna , Taboła Renata
Published: July 2020

A 63-year-old man with a history of recurrent idiopathic acute pancreatitis (AP) was admitted to our surgical ward due to severe abdominal pain. He denied chronic excessive alcohol use. Other typical causes of AP, such as gallstones, hypertriglyceridemia, and trauma, were ruled out. After considering all possible etiologies, the most likely factor producing AP was medication that had been administered to him two weeks before the very first episode of the disease. Medication should always be considered as a possible trigger of AP, especially if the first episode occurs shortly after drug administration and the etiology is unclear. During patient’s hospitalization, laboratory reports revealed significant fluctuations in the serum levels of pancreatic enzymes, which can be attributed to recurrent bacteriemia. After the 30-day period of hospitalization and long-lasting antibiotic therapy, he was discharged in a good condition with normal levels of serum pancreatic enzymes.
PREPARATION FOR RELEASE FROM PRISON ON THE BASIS OF ART. 164 OF PENAL ENFORCEMENT CODE. IMPLEMENTATION STATUS AND NEEDS OF SYSTEM SOLUTIONS
Authors: Kuźmicki Wojciech
Published: July 2020

The presented article addresses the issue of readaptation of convicts as part of the program of preparation for release from prison on the basis of art. 164 of the Penal Enforcement Code . The author presents the assumptions of the discussed institution of executive criminal law. Then, he defines the areas of activity and specific tasks of the probation officer for adults, implementing the convict to leave the prison in the light of applicable regulations and his own practice. He notices the deficiencies in the applicable provisions regarding the detailed specification of tasks and procedures of the body preparing the “dismissal program”. Indicates specific examples and the need to create specific legal regulations. He postulates the development of a coherent and complementary system of social readaptation of convicts, in which each institution obliged to implement the above objective would have a clearly defined role and tasks in practice.
Les origines du conflit syrien (2011-2018): de l’hégémonie Baathiste à la suprématie néolibérale
Authors: Lima Felipe Costa
Published: July 2020

L’objectif de cet article réside dans la démonstration de l’influence du néolibéralisme et des réformes néolibérales dans le conflit syrien (2011-2018). Afin d’atteindre cet objectif, il est indispensable de mettre l’accent sur la perte hégémonique du parti Baath, surtout à partir des changements des « idées/habitudes » du Baathisme au néolibéralisme.
Uma crise de múltiplas dimensões: uma reflexão sobre o processo de integração regional da Europa após quase sete décadas em curso
Authors: Carvalho Patrícia Nasser de
Published: July 2020

Após quase sete décadas em curso, o processo de integração regional da Europa experimenta a sua mais grave crise de múltiplas dimensões: fiscal, financeira, socioeconômica, migratória, geopolítica, de legitimidade das suas instituições, de falta de confiança no projeto integrativo por parte sociedade e de liderança do bloco europeu. O objetivo deste artigo é refletir sobre como se caracteriza a atual crise do processo de integração regional da Europa e de que forma ela impõe desafios cujas soluções cada vez mais não conseguem retirá-la desse estado que parece permanente.
Die Rechtslage bei nicht selbst nutzenden Wohnraummietern
Authors: Beckhaus Lennart
Published: July 2020

Die Verknappung des Angebots von Wohnraum in Groß- und Universitätsstädten führt dazu, dass immer mehr Mietverträge unter Einschaltung von Mietern ohne eigene Nutzungsabsicht geschlossen werden. Häufig geschieht dies auf Drängen des Vermieters, der leistungsschwache Mietinteressenten nur als Nutzer, nicht aber als Vertragspartner akzeptieren will.

Das gewollte Auseinanderfallen von Wohnraummieter und Nutzer ist der wohnraummietrechtlichen Systematik des BGB fremd und wirft zahlreiche rechtliche Fragen auf. Zu klären ist etwa, ob und in welcher Form die wohnmietrechtlichen Schutzvorschriften zu Gunsten des Nutzers anwendbar sind und ob die unbeschränkte vertragliche Haftung des nicht nutzenden Mieters im Hinblick auf § 551 Abs. 1, 4 BGB haltbar ist. Auch die Anwendung des Rechtsinstituts des Vertrages zu Gunsten Dritter wird überprüft.

Nach eingehender Analyse unterbreitet der Autor Lösungsvorschläge für die unterschiedlichen Fälle der Einschaltung nicht selbst nutzender Wohnraummieter.
Combustion Characteristics and Behaviour of Agricultural Biomass: A Short Review
Authors: Suman Swapan , Mohan Yadav Anand , Tomar Nomendra , Bhushan Awani
Published: July 2020

Biomass energy is one of the alternative sources of energy, which is particularly accessible in huge quantity worldwide in rural areas. Globally, solid biomass waste is the fourth as an energy resource after coil, oil and gas, which was providing approximately 14% of the world’s energy needs. The potential of biomass materials depends on feedstock quantities and their composition. The use of biomass materials as energy source provides extensive benefits as far as the environment is concerned. The agricultural biomass materials absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) during growth and emit it during combustion. Utilization of these types of wastes in various applications is in the form of a renewable and CO2-neutral fuel. The physicochemical and structural analyses of agricultural biomass differ significantly with the feedstock types. This review study provides an alternative approach and better understanding to utilize huge amount of energy stored in biomass as the substitute of fossil fuels and also it should play an important role in sustainable energy systems as a component of a renewable energy mix.
Thrombocytopenia in Neonates
Authors: Resch Bernhard
Published: July 2020

Thrombocytopenia defined as platelet count below 150,000/μL is not an uncommon event at the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). In our region we calculated a prevalence of nearly 2 of 1000 live births. Early-onset neonatal thrombocytopenia (NT) occurring within the first 72 hours of life is more common than late-onset NT. Preterm infants are affected more often than term infants and bacterial infection is the most common diagnosis associated with NT. There are a lot of maternal, perinatal, and neonatal causes associated with NT and complications include bleedings with potentially life-threatening intracranial hemorrhage. Alloimmune thrombocytopenia (NAIT) often presents with severe thrombocytopenia (<30,000/μL) in otherwise healthy newborns and needs careful evaluation regarding HPA-1a antigen status and HLA typing. Platelet transfusions are needed in severe NT and threshold platelet counts might be at ≤25,000/μL irrespective of bleeding or not. Immune mediated NT recovers within 2 weeks with a good prognosis when there happened no intracranial hemorrhage. This short review gives an overview on etiology and causes of NT and recommendations regarding platelet transfusions.
Analgesic Poisoning
Authors: Jafarova Demirkapu Mahluga
Published: July 2020

According to the 2018 Annual Report of the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC), published in 2019, the most common cause of poisoning was medicines in all human exposures. According to the data in this report, the most common group of drugs that cause poisoning in humans are analgesics. The first three drugs that cause poisoning among analgesics are fentanyl, acetaminophen, and oxycodone, respectively. Fentanyl and oxycodone are analgesic drugs with an opioid nature. Opioid analgesics are the drugs of choice for acute and chronic pain management, but after repeated exposure, they cause addiction as a result of stimulation in the brain reward center, are used in higher doses to achieve the same effect, and lead to withdrawal syndrome when medication is not taken. Acetaminophen, which takes the second place in analgesic-related poisoning, is a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic drug. Acetaminophen is often found in hundreds of over-the-counter (OTC) medications. In addition to being an OTC drug, acetaminophen often causes poisoning as it is cheap and easily accessible. This chapter reviews pharmacological properties of fentanyl, acetaminophen, and oxycodone, in addition to poisoning signs and treatments.