bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
APPROBATION OF PHYSIOTHERAPETIC METHOD IN LUMBOSACRAL PAIN SYNDROME
Authors:   Department of Kinesitherapy, Faculty of Public Health, Healthcare and Sports, South-West University Neofit Rilski, Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria., Mitova Stamenka , Gramatikova Mariya ,   Department of Kinesitherapy, Faculty of Public Health, Healthcare and Sports, South-West University Neofit Rilski, Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria., Nenova Gergana ,   Department of Kinesitherapy, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria., Bogomilova Stanislava ,   Department of Kinesitherapy, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria.
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to approbate own kinesitherapeutic methodology in lumbosacral pain syndrome and to study its effectiveness. Material and Methods: The study includes 36 participants, mean age (X±SD) 51.67±4.93 years, selected according to the indications for the use of experimental methods. The methodology includes the following functional tests: anamnesis, somatoscopy, Shober Test, Ott Test, Lasseg Test, VAS (Visual Analog Scale). The examination of the pain was done through experimentally induced palpation pain (applying the same pressure, by the same person) in trigger point (TP) and evaluated with VAS. Values of pain were measured before therapy and tree months after kinesitherapy treatment which includes: soft-tissue mobilization, analytical exercises, post-isometric relaxation, hydrotherapy (tangentor). Results: 36 people (12 women and 24 men) with lumbosacral pain syndrome were included. The mean (± SD) of the pain threshold measured before and three months after the kinesitherapy program was 9.06 ± 0.79mm and 1.69 ± 0.82mm, respectively. Differences in mean pain thresholds in both measurement period were statistically significant (p <0.05). Conclusions: Data presented demonstrate the effectiveness and positive effects of the applied kinesitherapeutic methodology in patients with lumbosacral pain syndrome. The strong reduction in pain symptom and muscle spasm in the course of three months treatment improves the quality of life of patients with this pathology.
Determinants of Motivation of Workers of First Isabela Cooperative Bank Branches in the Province of Nueva Ecija in the Philippines
Authors: Felipe Ronald F. , Carreon Kim Arvin D. , Bontigao Norwind B. , Romero Mary Jane J.
Published: November 2020

It is said that the most motivated workers can be found in the Banking and Insurance Industry. The study looks into the motivational factors affecting the satisfaction and performance of twenty workers from the three FICO Branches in the province of Nueva Ecija in the Philippines. Through the use of mixed methods of research and self-made questionnaire designed to elicit the responses of the bank workers, the study found out that most of them are college graduates, are very satisfied with the offerings of the company, have been rendering their services for less than five years, and performs Above Expectations based on the company’s recent evaluation. Based on the findings, it is suggested that: The motivational factors identified be reinforced for the worker’s benefits; The management should consider conducting a regular survey to serve as platform where workers can voice out their needs and opinions for the further improvement of the workplace and existing policies, and to further uphold the workers’ welfare; and Let the workers organize informal programs for stress management, recreations, trainings that they deem fit and necessary with due consideration to available resources and existing policies. Since the study is limited to the FICO Bank Branches in Nueva Ecija, it is also suggested that similar study be conducted in other locales and other bank branches.
Income Inequality and Public Debt: What Can Be Learned from the Lebanese Indebtedness?
Authors: Sayed Adham
Published: November 2020

This paper examines the impact of domestic public debt on income inequality in Lebanon. The analysis is carried out using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach and Error Correction Model (ECM). The data used covers the period between 1990 and 2015. By applying the bounds test, we indicate that there is the existence of a long-run relationship between our variables. Therefore, in both the short and long run, our results show that the domestic share of public debt has a positive and significant effect on income inequality. Hence, a bigger share of domestic public debt leads to wider income inequality. We also suggest steps that may halt the negative impact of public debt on equality in Lebanon, such as reforming the tax system, restructuring the public debt, and searching for sources other than borrowing to cover the budget deficit.
Higher Education in Saudi Arabia: Rooted in Bureaucracy, Inspired by an EFL Semi-Decentralization Model
Authors: Aburizaizah Saeed Jameel
Published: November 2020

Educational initiatives and plans worldwide are now heading towards more decentralized systems including curricular decentralized models which are assumed to enhance teaching and learning outcomes and allow the whole educational community to participate in decision making. Decentralized approaches foster whole communities to share the development of teaching and learning management and processes. Providing a comprehensive description of a proposed semi-decentralized model, smoothly built into a higher education institute in Saudi Arabia and synchronized with the current Saudi Vision 2030, this paper illustrates a planned and deployed road map that guided the reform of some major aspects of the organization starting from the vision, mission, philosophy, principles, curriculum and decision-making, to teachers’ autonomy and creativity, and students learning outcomes.
Ignacio Ellacuría y el horizonte del bien común de la humanidad
Authors: Senent-De Frutos Juan Antonio
Published: November 2020

I carry out in this work a genealogical reading and, at the same time, an update and projection of the ethical-political criterion ofthe common good in the context of today's global society. To do this, I maintain a critical dialogue about the meaning of this criterion in the classical authors of the western tradition, and about the way in which they have been used and resignijied in the successive times until today. In this dialogue and for this reconstruction, I pay special attention to the civilizing and normative sense that the common good plays in Jesuit thinkers in the globalized world that emerged from the 16th century; such as Francisco Suárez (1548-1617), and particularly from the conscience crisis and unsustainability of the dynamisms that rule in this global world, and which is analyzed in the work of Ignacio Ellacuría (1930-1989). Thus, I show the critical and ethical relevance of the criterion of the common good of humanity from our historical challenges, as a normative element to ethically evaluate, guide and rebuild the interactions and plural practices and social institutions that perate in world society.
Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 155, 2020: 105-129
Saludo de la familia de Ignacio Ellacuría, con motivo del Coloquio Internacional Conmemorativo de los XXX años del asesinato de los mártires de la UCA
Authors: Ellacuría Juan Antonio , Ellacuría José
Published: November 2020

No abstracts available
Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 155, 2020: 131-135
Ignacio Ellacuría.Teología, filosofía y crítica de la ideología, de Juan José Tamayo Acosta y José Manuel Romero Cuevas
Authors: Centeno Ángel Alfonso
Published: November 2020

No abstracts available
Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 155, 2020: 165-180
The Potential of Rats and Bats as Reservoirs of Leptospirosis and Japanese Encephalitis (JE) in Muna Region, Southeast Sulawesi Province, Indonesia
Authors: Widayati Anis Nur , Nurjana Made Agus , Ardanto Aryo , Ristiyanto Ristiyanto , Dhewantara Pandji Wibawa , Wardhana April Hari
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND: Small mammals such as rats and bats are important animal reservoirs of various zoonotic diseases of public health importance. The potential of rats and bats as a reservoir of leptospirosis and Japanese Encephalitis (JE) in Muna Regency remains unknown. This study aimed to determine the presence of Leptospira spp and JE virus (JEV) in rats and bats in Muna Regency, Southeast Sulawesi Province.

METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was carried out in three districts, namely Kabawo, Batalaiworu, and Katobu. Bats and rats were caught in six ecosystems spread across the three districts. Serological (Microscopic Agglutination Test, MAT) and molecular examinations (Polymerase Chain Reactions, PCR) were performed to detect Leptospira spp. and JEV in rats and bats, respectively.

RESULTS: A total of 137 rats from seven species were successfully caught, namely Mus sp., Rattus argentiventer, R. nitidus, R. exulans, R. hoffmanni, R. norvegicus, and R. tanezumi. Of which, six species were confirmed positive for Leptospira spp by PCR, with the highest prevalence was found in R. argentiventer (50%) and R. tanezumi (36.4%). Meanwhile, a total of 86 bats were also successfully captured. The JEV antibody was detected in D. viridis, R. celebensis and S. wallacei.

CONCLUSION: Rats and bats are the potential reservoirs of leptospirosis and JE in Muna Regency. Most importantly, the study provides the first evidence of JE reservoirs (R. celebensis and S. wallacei) in Sulawesi. Surveillance of leptospirosis and JE are recommended. 
Las universidades de Madrid y Cataluña en redes sociales
Authors: Perez-Bonaventura Marc , Tárrega Salomé , Vilajosana Jordi
Published: November 2020

En el entorno competitivo actual el marketing y la publicidad son esenciales para las instituciones de educación superior. En el momento de elección de la futura universidad, estas se esfuerzan por estar en la mente del estudiante. Usar las redes sociales es la mejor opción para que las instituciones de educación superior lleguen a los futuros alumnos. El presente artículo estudia el comportamiento en redes sociales de las universidades de Cataluña y la Comunidad de Madrid para atraer a los estudiantes y ser elegidas. Se pretende descubrir cuál de las dos comunidades tiene mejores resultados en redes sociales.
Analysis of the attention distraction of inexperienced drivers using a fuzzy model – research results
Authors: Kruszewski Mikołaj , Nader Mirosław
Published: November 2020

Limiting the number and consequences of the traffic accidents is one of the most important goals of the EU policy for the road transport. Despite significant efforts in this area, the targets set for the 2010-2020 decade are unlikely to be achieved. This may be due to, inter alia, the increasing importance of the driver attention distraction as a factor contributing to their occurrence. In order to limit the effects of distraction, attempts are made to develop a method to detect such a state of a driver. The distraction of the driver affects the way he drives the vehicle. The authors in their earlier work conducted a research aimed at developing model for detecting states of distraction of the driver's attention, based on a change in the method of vehicle steering. The developed model uses fuzzy logic to detect distraction. This paper presents the results of this model's operation on a sample of 72 drivers, including 36 inexperienced drivers who were the main object of the tests.
Information technologies as a new method of improvement the railway cargo transport efficiency
Authors: Lewiński Andrzej , Perzyński Tomasz , Piwko Magdalena
Published: November 2020

The article presents how of wagons and the train equipped with new information technologies allows to reduce the queues and time of in/out charging. It has been indicated that this allows significantly decreasing the probability of being in the state connected with time of waiting for unloading (queue) especially after case of disturbance caused by random events, including environmental conditions, weather conditions or failures.
Selected aspects of people behavior under tests using the VR class driving simulator
Authors: Nader Stanisław
Published: November 2020

The paper presents selected results of tests, carried out on a selected group of people using a car driving simulator based on the VR technology. For the prepared test scenario, tests were conducted for a group of 31 people, different in terms of sex and age. In order to analyze the reaction, the behavior of the participants under study using the camera was recorded, and the activity of selected areas of the brain was evaluated using the BCI interface. The analyzed population of people was analyzed for the presence of behavioral analytics during the conducted research, and the reactions of electrical activity in the form of registered brain waves were done. Additionally, questionnaire research was carried out among the respondents, allowing to determine the suitability of the VR technology used in the aspect of realism of the observed sensations and reactions of the subjects.
Utilization of the railway transport during the realization of tasks by the Polish Armed Force
Authors: Pietrzyk-Wiszowaty Katarzyna
Published: November 2020

Utilization of the railway transport for the needs of national defense it is a very broad issue, which requires constant analysis and studying the dynamics of changing needs the defense system in the field of railway transport. The carrying potential of the railway services providers for the army and also the organizational, legal and technical solutions in this area, should be adapted to contemporary conditions. The aim of this article is an identification of restrictions affecting the use of rail transport by the Polish Armed Forces to carry out tasks within the operating movements in conditions of peace.
Transport of hazardous carriage in road transport and threat there
Authors: Pyza Dariusz , Rogalski Grzegorz
Published: November 2020

The article presents problems related to organization, transport and factors affecting the state of safety during transport of dangerous goods by road. The reasons for the emergence of threats were identified, including legal and legislative conditions, economic and organizational conditions, psycho-motor conditions of drivers-vehicle operators transporting hazardous materials, characterized by the main reasons for the emergence of threats. This article has been prepared on the basis of data from the Chief Inspectorate of Road Transport for 2016, data from the Police Headquarters, available sources of information on the causes of road traffic hazards listed in the bibliography.
The modernization problem for high-speed tracks and adaptation to EU standards
Authors: Chrzan Marcin
Published: November 2020

The article will present aspects related to the construction (modernization) of railway lines in Poland on the example of the modernized section of the railway line E20 Warsaw-Terespol. The purpose of the modernization of this line was to adjust its technical parameters to the EU standards and requirements of AGC (European Agreement on Main International Railway Lines) and AGTC (European Agreement on Main International Combined Transport Lines and Associated Facilities) agreements, which provide for a maximum permissible speed of 160 km/h for steam passenger trains and 120 km/h for freight trains, with a permissible axle load of 22.5 tons. It will present the previous results of measurements on selected sections and the original concept of rail measurements using ultrasonic defectoscopy and satellite navigation.
Depriving the vehicles for military or police purposes of the utility features in the field of armoured and automotive technology
Authors: Kończak Jarosław , Mieteń Marcin , Simiński Przemysław , Radzimierski Mariusz , Luty Witold
Published: November 2020

Exploitation of vehicles on the civil market requires the deprivation of utility features of vehicles intended for military or police purposes. The work presents an algorithm of operation to deprive combat vehicles of the utility features. As part of the work, an example of the analysis of the elements of vehicle construction and equipment which should be deprived of functional features is shown, in accordance with the list contained in the above regulations. The authors also provided a description of how to proceed in order to deprive the utility features of the designated construction elements or equipment of the selected combat vehicle.
Selected aspects of the use of fuel cells in military vehicles propulsion system
Authors: Makarewicz Mateusz , Płochocki Patryk , Simiński Przemysław
Published: November 2020

This article aims to present the energy needs of a cargo off-road vehicle, whose primary task is to perform the function of transporting goods. For the assumed character of performed transport tasks, an analytical studies of possible construction solutions were carried out. For further considerations, a classic vehicle with an internal combustion engine and its equivalent powered by electricity produced in the fuel cell stack were adopted. For both of the concerned constructions an energy balance and simulation calculations of traction parameters were made. The result of the executed work is a comparative assessment of the suitability of the fuel cell stack as a primary source of drive energy for a general-purpose cargo off-road vehicle.
Calculation of section modulus and moments of inertia of the 60E1 rail profile due to its head cross-section change
Authors: Makowski Jacek , Stolarczyk Łukasz , Muzolf Paweł
Published: November 2020

The paper presents the theoretical foundations regarding the operational wear of rail heads. Rail, which constitute the basic element of the railway track, among others, guides the wheel in a lateral direction as well as enables a safe operation of rail vehicles. The criteria for the interaction of vehicles with the railway surface are described and the issues of interaction of the rail vehicle wheel with the rail is described. In the further part of the work an analysis of the influence of rail head wear of the 60E1 rail profile on the value of the moment of inertia Ix and sectional modulus Wx of this profile was carried out. The analysis was conducted on real, previously prepared samples of 60E1 operated rails. The methodology for calculating the geometric characteristics of cross-sectional characteristics of worn rails has been proposed using the Autodesk Autocad (Computer Aided Design software). The obtained values of moments of inertia and sectional modulus were compared with theoretical formulas described in the literature.
Probabilistic method for railway traffic control systems diagnosis
Authors: Nowakowski Waldemar , Ciszewski Tomasz , Łukasik Zbigniew
Published: November 2020

Railway traffic control systems have a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of railway traffic. Therefore, the basic requirement, in addition to the implementation of necessary system functions, is continuous striving for ensuring the high level of reliability. Contemporary development of railway traffic control systems is associated with the application of modern information and communication technologies, which makes it possible to extend the functionality of these systems by the logging events and selfdiagnostics. However, there are no standards in this area, which considerably complicates the unification of scope and types of acquired diagnostic data as well as their analysis. This, of course, has a negative impact on the maintenance of the systems technical reliability. The authors of the paper have noticed this important problem and have proposed a new diagnostic method for railway traffic control systems, which is based on a probabilistic inference. They also verified the developed diagnostic method by testing it on the level crossing protection system. The obtained results have proved the correctness of the adopted railway traffic control systems diagnosing concept.
Problematics of planning transport of dangerous goods with the use of simulation tools
Authors: Waśniewski Tomasz R. , Żak Jolanta , Jóźwiak Katarzyna , Świderski Andrzej
Published: November 2020

The article discusses the most important aspects regarding the planning of dangerous goods transport routes resulting from the provisions of the ADR agreement. Among other things, it touched upon issues related to road transport planning of this type of materials, the problem of setting safe routes, enabling timely delivery. Attention is paid to the possibility of using computer simulation tools supporting the planning of transport of dangerous goods. The method of using computer software for 3D modeling and Simulation and ProcessFlow for creating decision blocks has been presented.
Defense Diplomacy as a Research Problem. Current State of
Research in Poland
Authors: Gębska Marta Halina
Published: November 2020

The article analyzes research issues raised in publications on diplomacy, published after 2014 on the
Polish publishing market. Particular attention was paid to the issue of defense diplomacy. In the first
part of the article, seven monographs on diplomacy were analyzed in terms of their content, in search
of issues related to defense diplomacy. However, the second part of the article analyzes the content of
the only publication available on the Polish publishing market, entirely devoted to defense diplomacy,
showing its strengths, weaknesses and its practical usefulness.
Rozpoznanie wojskowe w wojnach przyszłości - prognozowane kierunki rozwoju
Authors: Wrzosek Marek
Published: November 2020

Celem artykułu jest przedstawienie prognozowanych kierunków rozwoju rozpoznania wojskowego w przyszłych konfliktach zbrojnych. W procesie badań wykorzystano metodę krytycznej analizy literatury oraz efekty badań empirycznych prowadzonych w środowisku oficerów WP. Struktura artykułu obejmuje trzy zasadnicze zagadnienia. W pierwszej przedstawiono scenariusze wojen przyszłości, które stanowią implikacje do zmian w strukturze systemu rozpoznania wojskowego. Drugie zagadnienie koncentruje się na zmianach w sposobie prowadzenia działań militarnych wpływających na sposób organizacji systemu rozpoznania wojskowego. Natomiast trzecie zagadnienie podejmuje kwestie związane z prognozowanymi kierunkami rozwoju rozpoznania wojskowego. W treści artykułu wykorzystano wnioski z doświadczeń uzyskanych w czasie konfliktów militarnych w Iraku i w Afganistanie.
Journalistische Verantwortungsethik und sexueller Missbrauch
Authors: Baugut Philip , Neumann Katharina
Published: November 2020

Sexueller Missbrauch ist ein häufig verborgener Missstand, der gerade dann ins öffentliche Bewusstsein rücken kann, wenn Betroffene den Weg in die Medienöffentlichkeit wählen. Um zu ergründen, welche Verantwortung Journalist*innen dabei gegenüber Betroffenen tragen, untersucht diese Studie die weitgehend unerforschten Medienwirkungen auf Betroffene, die im Zentrum von Berichterstattung standen. Vor dem theoretischen Hintergrund von Kepplingers Konzept der reziproken Effekte zeigten 18 qualitative Interviews mit Betroffenen, dass diese schweren Belastungen ausgesetzt sind, wenn Journalist*innen einer am Primat der Publikumsaufmerksamkeit orientierten Medienlogik folgen und das politische Anliegen der Betroffenen ignorieren, vor allem die strukturellen Ursachen sexuellen Missbrauchs zu thematisieren. Bestimmte als respektlos empfundene journalistische Verhaltensweisen und Berichterstattungsmuster können für Betroffene bedeutende psychische Folgen haben, auch weil sie relativ starke Medienwirkungen auf Dritte wahrnehmen. Insgesamt zeigen die Betroffenen ein differenziertes Medienbild, das von Dankbarkeit für lang ersehntes öffentliches Gehör bis hin zu „Voyeurismus“-Vorwürfen an Journalist*innen reicht.
Wirtschaftlicher Nutzen statt gesellschaftlicher Debatte? Eine quantitative Framing- Analyse der Medienberichterstattung zum autonomen Fahren.
Authors: Taddicken Monika , Reif Anne , Brandhorst Julia , Schuster Janina , Diestelhorst Morten , Hauk Lennart
Published: November 2020

Autonomes Fahren ist eine Technologie von hoher gesellschaftlicher Relevanz, die aufgrund verschiedener Risiken und Vorteile aus diversen Blickwinkeln betrachtet werden kann und muss. Dazu zählen auch ethische Debatten über die künftige Anwendung und Ausgestaltung der Technologie, nicht zuletzt begründet durch den ersten tödlichen Unfall eines selbstfahrenden Autos 2016. Der Medienberichterstattung kommt dabei eine besondere Relevanz zu, Debatten über komplexe Themen aufzugreifen und anzustoßen. Aus diesem Grund untersucht dieser Beitrag die deutsche Berichterstattung anhand von 540 Zeitungs- und Zeitschriftenartikeln zum Thema im Zeitverlauf von 2014 bis 2017. Nach dem Framing-Ansatz von Entman (1993) in Verbindung mit Matthes und Kohring (2008) werden vier Frames identifiziert: (1) technologischer Fortschritt, (2) Ambivalenz-Frame, (3) Regulierung der Technologie und (4) wirtschaftlicher Nutzen. Der Fokus der Berichterstattung liegt insgesamt auf technischen und wirtschaftlichen Vorteilen, ethische sowie Sicherheitsbedenken werden kaum diskutiert. Auch nach dem ersten tödlichen Unfall finden sich nur leichte Veränderungstendenzen.
Transnational Jurisdiction for Cybercrimes de lege lata and de lege ferenda
Authors: Ibold Victoria
Published: November 2020

In a legal discourse about criminal law in an interconnected society, cybercrime plays an important role - the more the Internet invades essential areas of life, the more criminal behaviour is committed on and with the assistance of the Internet. However, there is a fundamental conflict in the attempt to regulate human behaviour on the Internet - a conflict between the boundless nature of the Internet and the limited sovereign powers of governments. This applies to the question of jurisdiction over extraterritorial offences. Which criminal law order should apply if the perpetrator has acted abroad but because of the internet the actual or potential effects of his act also extend to national territory? This article looks in detail at the transnational application of criminal law, especially in the case of “offences of abstract endangerment”. After looking briefly at the current legal situation in Germany, it evaluates two draft laws planning to extend jurisdiction. This allows a discussion about legislative means to close possible jurisdictional loopholes and about limits to such legislative means set by the principle of non-intervention.
Human Trafficking – Between Punishable Human Rights Violations and Decriminalization
Authors: Schmidt Anja
Published: November 2020

The necessity of combating human trafficking is often justified by the violation of human rights of the victims of human trafficking. Criticism has, however, repeatedly been voiced that the victim-centred, human rights-based approach has not been consistently applied - because, in reality, state interests in effectively combating (organized) crime and securing borders against illegal migration take precedence. An opposite tendency criticizes the criminalization of human traffic on the grounds that human rights are not violated in every case within the definition of human trafficking, and criminalization is inappropriate in such cases. Furthermore, various parties point out that there is little empirical data on trafficking in human beings, and the available data is unreliable. This contribution aims to provide an overview of these issues and argue in favour of a nuanced examination of phenomena covered by the legal definition of human trafficking.
The Taking of Evidence in a Fair Trial in the Light of the ECtHR – Especially the Protection of Confidential Information or State Secrets as Evidence
Authors: Arslan Mehmet
Published: November 2020

This article deals with the requirements of a fair trial while taking evidence in court. In particular, it outlines the content and scope of rights when examining defence or prosecution witnesses, and procuring documentary or other material evidence. Furthermore, it explores the extent to which confidential information or state secrets may be protected during the taking of evidence in court, and the limits placed on the application of such protective measures by the defence’s right to a fair trial.
EU Corporate Fines Hit the Wrong and Fail their Purpose: Empirical Considerations and their Consequences from the Perspective of Shareholders‘ Fundamental Rights
Authors: Reuter Alexander
Published: November 2020

Corporate fines are imposed on companies and geared to, and meant to hit, the company, not the acting managers. While corporate fines leave the simultaneous enforcement against individual managers by fines (or other sanctions) unaffected, their size tends to move them in the foreground of law enforcement: Law enforcers, public treasurers and media are attracted by large figures. In addition, under EU law the Commission can impose fines, notably fines for EU competition law infringements, on companies only, not on individual managers. Over the last years, the amounts of national and EU corporate fines have increased steadily and indeed come to reach orders of magnitude relevant to the public treasuries to which these monies flow. However, economically speaking, corporate fines are borne by the shareholders. They are also meant to be borne by the shareholders. This is underscored where, as in most EU countries, domestic law denies companies to seek recourse against the managers for fines even where managers can be demonstrated to have been responsible for the illicit conduct, and even where the managers have circumvented the company’s compliance barriers. Yet, the purpose of EU corporate fines is to act as deterrent and thus to influence the conduct of companies. However, conduct can be influenced in human individuals only. A company, in contrast, is a legal person and, physically speaking, a mere pile of paper filed with the company register. A pile of paper cannot be “deterred”. This entails the question whether such fines unduly encroach upon the fundamental rights of those who are effectively hit by corporate fines, that is, the shareholders. The EU Charter of Fundamental Rights protects their property (including property in shares) and their econonomic freedoms. According to the ECJ, restrictions of fundamental rights must be proportionate: They must not be “manifestly unsuitable” to reach their purpose and they must “strike the right balance”. The author has submitted elsewhere that corporate fines, analyzed in the framework of corporate, D&O and insurance law, fail to meet these standards and thus, for legal reasons, violate the fundamental rights of shareholders: Shareholders are usually not responsible for the illicit conduct, and under corporate law they are typically unable to prevent recidivism. Against that background, this article analyzes the findings of recent empirical studies on the causes for law infringements committed in a corporate context. These findings show that managers engaging in illicit conduct are driven by factors detached from corporate fines. Hence, the studies, from an empirical perspective, support the view that corporate fines are a disproportionate restriction of shareholders’ rights and thus unlawful. The article thus submits that major revisions in today’s corporate fine practice are called for. This holds particularly true about the EU’s mushrooming fines.
Is It Necessary to Weight Loss in Obese Boys with Small Penile Length? A Case-Control Study
Authors: Rezakhaniha Sadra , Rezakhaniha Bijan , Aarabi Nahid , Siroosbakht Soheila
Published: November 2020

Background: Nowadays, parents are paying more attention to the penis size of their children, especially obese children. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between obesity, testosterone, and estradiol in prepubertal non-obese and obese children with micropenis. Methods: This case-control study was done on 58 non-obese and 86 obese micropenis children aged 8 - 13 years at Golestan Hospital, Tehran, Iran, from June 2018 to May 2020. The body mass index (BMI), testosterone and estradiol levels, stretched penile length (SPL), and the correlation between these were studied. Results: The mean age of children in non-obese and obese groups was 10.2 ± 1.34 and 10.5 ± 1.6 years, respectively. SPL in non-obese and obese subjects was 3.1 ± 1.3 and 2.9 ± 1.22 cm, respectively. SPL in both groups was significantly correlated with height and testosterone (height: r = 0.239, P = 0.009; testosterone: r = 0.344, P = 0.001) but not with BMI, weight, and estradiol. After the adjustment for age, BMI, weight, and estradiol, adjusted odds ratio with confidence interval 95% for penile length across to height and testosterone levels in non-obese group was 1.52 (0.91 - 1.83; P = 0.001) and 0.56 (0.36 - 0.98; P = 0.001), respectively and in the obese group was 1.42 (0.81 - 1.66; P = 0.001) and 0.75 (0.51 - 0.87; P = 0.001), respectively. Conclusions: Penile length is positively correlated with height and testosterone but not with weight and estradiol in non-obese and obese children. It is probably not essential and obligatory to recommend weight loss for this issue and weight loss should not be concerned by children and their parents.
Ultrasonic Evaluation of Spontaneous Portosystemic Shunts in Patients with Budd-Chiari Syndrome
Authors: Wang Ji-Chen , Cai Shi-Feng , Su Chen , Fan Hui-Li , Gai Yong-Hao , Wang Guang-Chuan , Chen Li
Published: November 2020

Background: Spontaneous portosystemic shunts (SPSS) are one of the hallmarks of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). Ultrasound can accurately show the location and type of portosystemic collaterals. Objectives: To study the sonographic feature of SPSS in patients with BCS and to evaluate differences in the main portal vein diameter among multiple types of portosystemic shunts. Patients and Methods: Ultrasonographies of 44 patients with SPSS among 352 BCS patients between June 2000 and November 2015 were reviewed retrospectively. The SPSS in 44 BCS patients were first detected by ultrasound and then confirmed via digital subtraction angiography (DSA), computed tomography angiography (CTA) or magnetic resonance venography (MRV). The location, course, diameter and hemodynamics of the spontaneous portosystemic shunts were observed by ultrasound. In addition, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to evaluate the difference in the main portal vein diameter between the different shunt types. Results: The blood drainage patterns of SPSS in 44 of 352 patients with BCS were classified as the following five types: portal-umbilical shunts (15/44), portal-hepatic shunts (11/44), portal-accessory hepatic shunts (6/44) (the accessory hepatic veins included the inferior right hepatic vein and the caudate lobe vein), splenorenal shunts (8/44) and main portal vein-inferior vena cava shunts (4/44). The corresponding hemodynamics of the five types mentioned above were obtained. Main portal vein-inferior vena cava shunts had a significantly larger mean portal trunk diameter compared with all other types (P < 0.05 for all comparisons). In addition, the mean portal trunk diameters in portal-umbilical shunts and portal-hepatic shunts were obviously larger than that of splenorenal shunts (P < 0.05), while there were no statistically significant differences between the other types. Conclusion: Spontaneous portosystemic shunts are not rare in patients with BCS. Ultrasound is a reliable means for their diagnosis and it offers substantial information for use in clinical treatment.
Stage directions and dramatic communication
Authors: Đurković Uroš
Published: November 2020

According to various theoretical perspectives, views of didaskalia as a literary and theatre term have been changing from paratext through element in secondary text (Pfister) to essence of drama. Therefore, meaning of stage directions can be important for an overview of communication strategies in drama, such as multimedia, issue of auctorial voice in drama, and complex relationship between dramatic text and staging. Also, as an element in a secondary text, stage directions can maintain certain degree of independence, which emphasizes their distinct nature. This paper shows how various meanings of stage directions can fundamentally change the way we approach drama.
Superior Specimen and Diagnostic Accuracy with Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Liver Biopsies Using 19-Gauge versus 22-Gauge Core Needles
Authors: Shah Rucha M. , Schmidt Jason , John Elizabeth , Rastegari Sheila , Acharya Priyanka , Kedia Prashant
Published: November 2020

Background/Aims: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided liver biopsy (EUS-LB) is an effective and safe method of procuring liver tissue. The aims of this study were to assess and compare the outcomes and tissue adequacy of a single-pass, single-actuation, wet suction technique between 19 G and 22 G needles in patients undergoing EUS-LB.Methods: We performed a prospective case series study of 20 patients undergoing EUS-LB at a single center between September 2017 and April 2020. The primary objective was to evaluate differences in sample adequacy via a single actuation wet suction technique between a 19 G core needle and a 22 G core needle. Adequacy was gauged by cumulative core biopsy length and the number of portal tracts visualized.Results: The 19 G needle provided a longer core length (2.5 cm vs. 1.2 cm, p<0.0001), more complete portal tracts (5.8 vs. 1.7, p<0.0001), more total tracts (8.8 vs. 3, p<0.0001), and a longer, intact, fragment length (0.75 cm vs. 0.32 cm, p<0.0006). The 19 G needle was superior in providing adequate (60% vs. 5%, p<0.001) and diagnostic pathologic samples (85% vs. 10%, p<0.001).Conclusions: A single-pass, single-actuation, wet suction technique using a 19 G needle is superior to that using a 22 G needle for tissue acquisition and sample adequacy in EUS-LB.
Central Precocious Puberty as a Sign of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: Case Presentations
Authors:   Yerevan State Medical University, Yerevan, Armenia, Markosyan R.L. ,   Muratsan University Hospital, Yerevan, Armenia, Navasardyan L.V.
Published: November 2020

Central precocious puberty results from the premature activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Rarely congenital adrenal hyperplasia and/or its inappropriate treatment can be a peripheral cause of CPP. There are very few case reports of this etiology. Chronic mildly to moderately elevated adrenal androgens or intermittent hyperandrogenemia in congenital adrenal hyperplasia may trigger the precocious activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, leading to CPP. In the current work, we describe 6 cases of late diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia associated with central precocious puberty. Central precocious puberty seems to be a complication of congenital adrenal hyperplasia, particularly in countries where a routine neonatal screening program for this condition is lacking. It is unclear whether these patients could avoid central precocious puberty development if the congenital adrenal hyperplasia was diagnosed in the neonatal period and appropriately treated. The current work underlines the need for congenital adrenal hyperplasia neonatal screening implementation and further investigation of the association of these two endocrine disorders.
From appearings to disengagements: Openings and closings in video-mediated tele-homecare encounters
Authors: Ilomäki Sakari , Ruusuvuori Johanna
Published: November 2020

In this article, we examine openings and closings in video-mediated tele-homecare for older adults in Finland, using multimodal conversation analysis. We demonstrate how participants organise these boundaries sequentially and multimodally, how visual appearing and disengaging are of key importance in these processes, and how openings and closings mirror each other in this institutional setting. In the openings, the participants orient to sequential structures that resemble those from mundane telephone conversations and Skype interactions: summons−answer, appearing−noticing, greeting−greeting and the “how are you” question−answer. The participants treat appearing as an accountable part of the opening, and delay advancing to the “how are you” question until a proper visual appearing is produced. Closings are managed through stepwise transition practices that result in a terminal exchange and both participants disengaging from the encounter: the clients, by walking away; the nurses, by closing down the connection. In addition to managing visuality, time-oriented talk is present in both openings and closings. A comparison of our results with findings from other technology-mediated encounters emphasises the importance of visuality in managing closings, and shows that tele-homecare is an interesting hybrid of institutionality and informality.
Noticing-prefaced recoveries of the interactional space in a video-mediated business meeting
Authors: Oittinen Tuire
Published: November 2020

Drawing on conversation analysis and authentic data from a video-mediated multiparty meeting, this study investigates the sequential and temporal organisation of recoveries of the interactional space. It focuses on moments in which either an auditory or a visual barrier emerges, and the participants orient to these troubles through intensified bodily-visual displays: embodied noticings. The analysis illustrates noticing-prefaced recoveries of the interactional space as procedural and multimodal accomplishments that require close attentiveness to the co-participants’ verbal and visual conduct and to the contingencies of the meeting. The study highlights not only the affordances of video-mediated settings, but also the consequences that asymmetric access to the distributed environments can have for the organization of actions.
The effects of a combined psychotherapy and physiotherapy group treatment program for survivors of torture incarcerated in an adult prison in Kurdistan, Iraq: A pilot study
Authors: Gamble April , Amin Ahmed Ahmed M. , Hassan Rahim Salah , Hartman Jeff
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Survivors of torture have high rates of mental health problems and can experience a sequela of physical effects with the most common being persistent pain. Similar to survivors of torture, persons that are incarcerated have high rates of mental health problems, persistent pain and pain-related disability.The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of an interdisciplinary group treatment approach, involving psychotherapy and physiotherapy, with survivors of torture whom are incarcerated in a prison in Kurdistan, Iraq.

Methods: A parallel group study design was used to compare a treatment group (n=11) and a wait-list control group (n=16). The treatment group participated in an interdisciplinary treatment service for a total of 10 weekly group sessions for each discipline.The primary outcome measures were symptoms of nociplastic pain, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Secondary outcome measures evaluated physical functioning, sleep quality, and general self-efficacy.

Results: A statistically significant reduction in outcome measure scores was seen in all symptoms measured immediately post-treatment.

Discussion and Conclusion: These findings suggest that a culturally and contextually appropriate interdisciplinary group treatment intervention for survivors of torture in a prison could be effective for short-term reductions in symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, persistent pain, and function. The study has limitations including a small sample size, lack of long-term outcome measures, and an inability to isolate effect of each component of care. The study does demonstrate the feasibility of implementing research that follows international research standards and practices within under-researched settings and post-conflict areas.
Painful memories: Challenges in trauma-focused therapy for torture survivors with PTSD and chronic pain
Authors: Dibaj Iselin Solerød , Halvorsen Joar Øveraas , Kennair Leif Edward Ottesen , Stenmark Håkon Inge
Published: November 2020

Introduction: PTSD and chronic pain are disorders that researchers increasingly acknowledge to be risk factors that overlap and their comorbidity is associated with poorer treatment outcomes. This review focuses on torture survivors due to the high prevalence of comorbidity in this group, as well as how PTSD and chronic pain might develop, interact and mutually maintain each other.

Methods: A narrative review of empirical studies and theoretical models regarding chronic pain and PTSD in torture survivors, informed by studies conducted in other contexts.

Results and discussion: An overview of PTSD and chronic pain studies of torture survivors is presented. Treatment studies for torture survivors with PTSD are scarce and have been discouraging. Studies in other patient populations and theoretical models of maintaining factors within the cognitive-behavioral paradigm are presented, and focused around how interactions between PTSD and chronic pain might mitigate treatment of both disorders. Mutually maintaining factors between chronic pain and PTSD are presented as potential barriers to healing, and clinical implications involve suggestions for clinicians with intention to overcome these barriers in trauma-focused treatment of torture survivors. The knowledge base on how chronic pain and PTSD interact within the context of torture is still very limited. Torture is a potent risk factor in itself for both chronic pain and PTSD. Studies point to complex interactions between pain and PTSD across different trauma-exposed populations, especially when the trauma includes pain. Moreover, the coping strategies that are available and might function as some form of protection during torture [e.g. dissociation, withdrawal], might conversely function to exacerbate symptoms when the survivor is in a safe rehabilitation context.

Observations combined with CPPC literature and recent developments in learning theory challenge clinical practice accordingly. Additionally, the limited knowledge base prevents us from providing clear-cut sugges- tions, particularly as the majority of scientific enquiry regarding chronic pain and PTSD has been conducted in other populations outside of the torture survivors group. Furthermore, cultural factors, specific needs and characteristics in this group, the human rights perspective and the socio-political context all need to be acknowledged. Trauma-focused treatment does not appear to specifically target all the mechanisms that are supposedly interacting in maintaining chronic pain and PTSD. Interdisciplinary rehabilitation and close collaboration between physiotherapists and trauma-focused therapists are warranted.
Commentary by Juliet Cohen:
Authors: Cohen Juliet
Published: November 2020

This is a response to the article debating what are the ethics of providing medico-legal reports for a victim of torture who may also be a perpetrator. There are important considerations to make, but in summary, we should treat all patients equally according to their healthcare needs, and leave the determination of guilt or innocence to others.
An Overview of Torture Prevention Systems in Russia, Lithuania, Sweden and Norway
Authors: Herbert Tania
Published: November 2020

The very nature of detention means that those subjected to it are dependent on detaining authorities to provide protection and to refrain from human rights abuses, including torture and ill treatment. Recognising this, the Optional Protocol to the UN Convention against Torture (OPCAT) obliges signatories to establish detention monitoring bodies through National Preventative Mechanisms (NPMs). Whilst some regions have received considerable attention in terms of CAT and OPCAT compliance, this has not generally been so for the region incorporating Russia, Nordic and Baltic countries.
Torture based on discrimination in Chile.
Authors: Bustos Jesus Antona
Published: November 2020

Of the approximately 40 Mapuche political prisoners currently serving sentences in Chilean jails, more than half have either gone on, or are currently on, hunger strike. The first prisoners to adopt such a measure did so on May 4. They are taking in liquids, but no solids, and so the state of health of many has now reached a critical level. Following substantial international pressure, the Chilean government has offered some minor prison benefits, however, there is no sign of measures to address neither the reasons for the strike, nor the torture perpetrated for reasons of discrimination that the Mapuche prisoners continue to suffer.