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The purpose of the study is to analyse how second language learning is supported by language learning strategies (LLS) and various learning approaches, namely, self-efficacy, instrumental motivation, effort and perseverance, and preferences for cooperative or competitive learning. The sample of the research was composed of students in Hungary in Years 5-8 (10-14-year olds, N = 1600). Two questionnaires were used to collect the data: an adapted version of Oxford's "Strategies Inventory for Language Learning" (SILL) questionnaire and the "Student Characteristics as Learners" questionnaire. A path analysis showed that learning components can be explained differently via language learning strategies and learning approaches. Our results have confirmed our hypotheses that strategy use significantly influences several learning approaches in the sample. Students, who willingly apply their language learning strategies set their learning goals more confidently, plan their learning process more consciously as they learn, and develop more self-efficacy and motivation towards language learning.

Reading strategy use among learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) is one of the most important areas of foreign language (FL) strategy research. Students who actively use their reading comprehension strategies can understand and recall more information from what they read and acquire higher-level language proficiency. The focus of our study was to develop and validate a model for EFL reading strategy use, reading proficiency and two learning-related factors, general English proficiency and English language attitude, among FL/L2 learners in different age groups. The sample was drawn from lower secondary school students in Years 5-8 (N[subscript Students] = 3912; N[subscript Schools] = 65). The results showed that young language learners reported using reading strategies more often. We also tested our hypothesized model and proved its validity for each year. The results indicated a significant effect of the variables and showed that EFL reading strategies are mostly influenced by the attitude to English. Proficiency has an indirect effect on the employment of strategy use through attitude. The main significance of our research is that the model we have developed has proved to be valid for each year in the sample.

Our study aims to examine the perceptions of chefs and restaurants' management in Hungary regarding the importance of health and nutrition in menu planning in today's catering businesses. We assessed 190 complete responses from chefs/cooks and managers/owners of restaurants and catering businesses in Hungary between February 2021 and February 2022 via email on four aspects; health, nutrition, nutrition practice, and consumers' concerns. This study shows an overall improvement in chefs' and restaurants' management's nutritional knowledge compared with similar studies in the past. However, most chefs still believe that the customers ignore the nutrition and nutrient content of the meals when dining away from home. In addition, experienced chefs do not perceive that the preparation of low-fat foods requires additional work and that low fat-foods can taste great. This study found no significant differences related to nutrition in menu planning based on chefs' and managers' backgrounds (i.e., gender, age, position, educational level, work experience, and type and location of establishment). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is an emerging tick-borne disease endemic in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Balkan and Mediterranean regions of Europe. Although no human CCHF cases have been reported, based on vector presence, serological evidence among small vertebrates, and the general human population, Hungary lies within high evidence consensus for potential CCHF introduction and future human infection. Thus, the aim of our pilot serosurvey was to assess CCHF seropositivity among cattle and sheep as indicator animals for virus circulation in the country. (2) Methods: In total, 1905 serum samples taken from free-range cattle and sheep in 2017 were tested for the presence of anti-CCHF virus IgG antibodies using commercial ELISA and commercial and in-house immunofluorescent assays. (3) Results: We found a total of eleven reactive samples (0.58%) from five administrative districts of Hungary comprising 8 cattle and 3 sheep. The most affected regions were the south–central and northwestern parts of the country. (4) Conclusions: Based on these results, more extended surveillance is advised, especially in the affected areas, and there should be greater awareness among clinicians and other high-risk populations of the emerging threat of CCHF in Hungary and Central Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. Our study aimed to evaluate the indications and outcomes of intraocular lens (IOL) explantation surgeries in a tertiary eyecare center in Hungary. Materials and Methods. This retrospective study included all IOL explantation surgeries performed between 2006 and 2020 at the Department of Ophthalmology of Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary. There were no exclusion criteria for this study. For each patient, the demographics, clinical history, preoperative status, indications for IOL explantation, and operative and postoperative details were reviewed. Primary outcomes included explantation indications and the type of secondary implanted IOL. Results. A total of 161 eyes from 153 patients were included (96 males; 62.7%); age at the time of the IOL explantation was 65.0 ± 17.4 years. The mean time between primary cataract surgery and IOL explantation was 8.5 ± 7.7 years. In total, 139 (86.3%) PCIOLs and 22 (13.7%) ACIOLs were explanted. The main indications for IOL explantation were dislocation (n = 133; 95.7%) and refractive cause (n = 2; 1.4%) in the PCIOL group. Among ACIOL explantations, the main reasons were pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (n = 14; 63.6%), dislocation (n = 4; 18.2%), and refractive cause (n = 2; 9.1%). In the PCIOL group, 115 (82.7%) primary IOLs were implanted in the capsular bag, 16 (11.5%) were sulcus fixated, and 8 (5.8%) were scleral fixated. The most frequent ocular comorbidities were previous vitrectomy (n = 50, 31.1%), previous ocular trauma (n = 45, 28.0%), glaucoma (n = 16, 9.9%), pseudoexfoliation syndrome (n = 15, 9.3%), and high axial myopia (n = 14, 8.7%). The most commonly used secondary IOL implant was the prepupillary iris-claw IOL (n = 115, 73.7%), followed by the retropupillary iris-claw IOL (n = 32, 20.5%). Uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) was significantly better following IOL exchange in the entire sample (1.57 ± 0.61 (range: 2.40–0.05) vs. 0.77 ± 0.56 (range: 2.40–0.00); p < 0.001). Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was maintained or improved in 80.7% of cases after IOL explantation. Conclusions. The most common indication for IOL explantation at a tertiary eyecare center in Hungary is IOL dislocation, followed by pseudophakic bullous keratopathy. Prepupillary and retropupillary iris-claw IOL are the most frequently used secondary implants and their use resulted in a significant UCVA improvement following IOL exchange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Lege Artis Medicine (LAM) is the property of LifeTime Media Kft. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

White lupine (Lupinus albus L.) is a well-known green manure crop in Hungary, but the production of seeds can be badly impacted by weeds. The sweet white lupine 'Nelly' was grown on acidic sandy soil, and experimental plots were treated with different herbicides. Flumioxazin (0.06 kg ha−1), pendimethalin (5 L ha−1), dimethenamid-P (1.4 L ha−1), pethoxamid (2 L ha−1), clomazone (0.2 L ha−1), metobromuron (3 L ha−1), and metribuzin (0.55 L ha−1) were applied pre-emergence (1–2 days after sowing). Imazamox was also tested and applied post-emergence (1 L ha−1) when some basal leaves were clearly distinct (BBCH 2.3). In this paper, the weed control efficiency and the phytotoxicity of herbicides applied to lupine are examined. Vegetation index datasets were collected 12 times using a manual device and 2 times using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The phytotoxicity caused by herbicides was visually assessed on several occasions throughout the breeding season. The frequency of weed occurrence per treatment was assessed. The harvested seed yields, in kg ha−1, were analyzed after the seeds were cleaned. The herbicides metribuzin and imazamox caused extensive damage to white lupine. While pendimethalin, dimethenamid-P, pethoxamid, and clomazone were outstanding in several measured indicators, the final ranking which summarizes all the variables showed that only the pethoxamid and clomazone treatments performed better than the control. Metribuzin and imazamox were highly phytotoxic to white lupine. In the future, it would be appropriate to integrate more post-emergence active substances into trials, and the pre-emergence herbicides involved in this study should be further tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A red mud suspension of ~700,000 m3 was accidentally released from the alumina plant in Ajka, Hungary, on the 4th of October 2010, flooding several buildings in the nearby towns. As there is no information in the literature on the effects of red mud on indoor mold growth, we conducted studies to answer the following question: does the heavy metal content of red mud inhibit fungal colonization in flooded houses? In order to gain knowledge on fungal spectra colonizing surfaces soaked with red mud and on the ability of fungi to grow on them, swabs, tape lifts, and air samples were collected from three case study buildings. A total of 43 fungal taxa were detected. The dominant species were Penicillium spp. on plaster/brick walls, but Aspergillus series Versicolores, Cladosporium, Acremonium, and Scopulariopsis spp. were also present. The level of airborne penicillia was high in all indoor samples. Selected fungal strains were subcultured on 2% MEA with 10−1 and 10−4 dilutions of red mud. The growth rate of most of the strains was not significantly reduced by red mud on the artificial media. The consequences of similar industrial flooding on indoor molds are also discussed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: A major source of ammonia emissions in Hungary is pig production. The NEC Directive requires Hungary to achieve significant reductions in ammonia emissions by 2030 compared to the base year of 2005. In order to clarify the data available for 2005, a questionnaire was used to collect representative data on the housing and manure management technologies used in the Hungarian pig sector in 2005 and 2015, as well as the age groups and numbers of pigs affected by each technology. As our aim was to use the data for the calculation of the national emission inventory, a novel expert-based calculation method was developed to ensure that the data for the age group categories provided by the farmers were converted into the accepted statistical categories. In Hungary, there is a lack of information on the pig production technologies in place in the base year of 2005 and changes since then, as well as a lack of information on the number of pigs kept in different age and production categories, which makes it difficult to calculate ammonia emissions and reductions in the national inventories. Our research team conducted a representative survey of pig farms to assess housing and manure management technologies in the Hungarian pig sector in 2005 and 2015. Novel expert-based calculation methods were developed to convert farm data on pig populations into daily average numbers (DAN) of animals in different statistical categories and feeding phases. The survey resulted in a representative database of housing, manure handling, storage and manure application practices in Hungarian pig production. The data and methodology from the survey helped to develop an ammonia emission calculator and knowledge transfer tool (AGEM-S) for use by farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following the introduction of the West Nile virus (WNV) into Hungary in 2004, it has shortly become one of the most important human arbovirus infections, with a gradually increasing number of cases. The study aimed to summarize the current epidemiological situation in Hungary and sequence the WNV PCR-positive clinical specimens and virus isolates by next-generation whole genome sequencing (NGS) to obtain a detailed phylogenetic analysis of the circulating virus strains. Whole blood and urine samples from confirmed WNV-infected patients and WNV isolates were investigated by reverse transcription PCR assays. Genome sequencing was carried out by Sanger-method, followed by NGS on the Illumina MiSeq platform. Altogether 499 human infections were diagnosed between 2004 and 2022. A particularly remarkable increase in human WNV infections was observed in 2018, while the number of reported cases significantly decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Between 2015 and 2022, 15 WNV isolates, and 10 PCR-positive clinical specimens were investigated by NGS. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the major European WNV lineage 2 clades, namely the Eastern European (or Russian) and the Central European (or Hungarian) clades, are presented in Hungary. Strains of the Balkan and other European clusters within the Central European clade are co-circulating in the country, following a characteristic geographical distribution. In Hungary, the presence and co-circulation of multiple lineage 2 WNV strains could be identified in the last few years. Therefore, in light of the 2018 WNV outbreak, sequence-based typing of the currently circulating strains could highly support outbreak investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Loess-paleosol bluffs can be unstable, but in the course of urbanization, houses may be built in such locations to take advantage of the view. One factor affecting the stability of such bluffs is water, the role of which in mass movements is well established. In this study, the connection of mass movements to meteorological conditions, such as rainfall and subsequent water level changes, was researched using new statistical methods. The periodicity of the water level of the Danube was analyzed using wavelet spectrum analyses, while changepoint analysis was used to determine variations in the quantity of precipitation. These results were compared to the chronology of six mass movements in Kulcs, Hungary. This study also focused on the changes in geochemical properties of loess in different weather conditions (dry periods, wet periods, and flooding). The results showed that only two mass movements were connected to hydrological conditions, and in the other case human activity and geochemical changes may have been factors. The results of geochemical models created using PHREEQC showed calcite and kaolinite precipitation, and albite and dolomite dissolution as the main mineral changes over the course of a year. Albite was found to dissolve only in wet periods, and kaolinite precipitation was significant during flood periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is increasingly accepted globally, that many food-borne diseases are associated with climate change. The goal of the present research is to investigate whether changes in the annual number of the registered food-borne diseases in Hungary can be correlated to any climate parameter, as it is reasonable to suppose that it can be linked to climate change. Ten climate parameters and indices were examined as potential influencing factors. A multiple linear regression model was employed, using the backward elimination method to find the climate factors that have a significant effect on the annual number of food-borne diseases. It was found that the annual mean temperature was the only significant predictor of the annual number of registered food-borne diseases, and that 22.0% of the total variance in the annual number of food-borne diseases can be explained by the annual mean temperature. It should be noted that this relationship is negative, given that they are derived from time series with opposite trends. This phenomenon may be explained by the process of evolution and adaptation of the infecting fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Burnout is one of the most extensively studied phenomena of the twenty-first century; which has been extensively studied among helping professions, although it can be broadened to several other types of occupation. Based on our knowledge and literature search, no similar studies have been carried out among postal workes to date. Methods: This cross-sectional questionnaire-based epidemiological study was carried out between May 2021 and January 2022 in five counties in Hungary with the recruitment of postal delivery workers focusing on (1) the prevalence of burnout among postal delivery workers; (2) including the role of demographic parameters, duration of employment as well as the presence of secondary employment; (3) and also analyzed the role of several risk factors and medical conditions; (4) and we also examined the possible association between depression, insomnia and quality of life and burnout. Results: Overall 1300 questionnaires were successfully delivered and 1034 responses received (response rate of 79.5%). Three hundred sixty-eight males (35.6%) and six hundred sixty-six females (64.4%) participated in our study. The prevalence of burnout was 50.8% (525/1034) in this study population (mean score 2.74 ± 0.33). Logistic regression analysis showed that female gender [OR = 2.380, 95% CI: 1.731 to 2.554], first workplace [OR = 1.891, 95% CI: 1.582 to 2.162] and working more than 30 years [OR = 1.901, 95% CI: 1.608 to 2.326] have significantly increased the likelyhood of burnout as well as the history of muscoskeletal pain [OR = 1.156, 95% CI: 1.009 to1.342], current quality of life [OR = 1.602, 95% CI: 1.473 to 1.669] and the presence of sleep disturbance [OR = 1.289, 95% CI: 1.066 to 1.716]. Conclusion: This is the first study in Hungary to investigate the prevalence of burnout among postal workers and to explore the relationship between burnout and mental health problems. Our study underlines the clinical importance of burnout and draws attention to the need for appropriate prevention and treatment strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Elementary Education in Theory & Practice is the property of Jesuit University Ignatianum in Krakow and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Early peaks of airborne ragweed (Ambrosia L.) pollen concentrations were observed at several monitoring stations in Hungary in June 2017 and 2018, one month before the usual start of the pollen season at the end of July. Backward trajectories were calculated to simulate potential sources of pollen collected at different locations in the Pannonian Biogeographical Region. In a collaboration between aerobiological and phenological networks, a nationwide campaign was conducted to collect field data of ragweed blooming. During field surveys, ragweed plants having extremely early blooming were found most abundantly in a rural site near Vaja (North-East Hungary) and other locations in Hungary. Field observations matched with source areas identified by trajectory analyses; i.e., early-flowering ragweed plants were found at some of these locations. Although similar peaks of airborne pollen concentrations were not detected in other years (e.g., 2016, 2019–2021), alarming results suggest the possibility of expanding seasons of ragweed allergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article analyses the importance of paper in the context of early modern warfare. During the war against the Ottoman Empire at the end of the 17th century, the Habsburgs were establishing a new administration in Hungary, which served both military and civil purposes. Not only did administrative tasks have to be organized, but the very success of military operations depended on the well-ordered work of the administration: communication had to be smooth, and a wide variety of tasks had to be properly and reliably processed. To fulfil these requirements, the administration needed large quantities of paper. This study follows the traces of paper in the records of the Chamber Administration in Buda and points to the vital need for paper at the heart of the new Habsburg rule. The challenges of acquiring and producing paper themselves became crucial aspects of the administration’s work. The article argues that a reliable supply of paper competed even with the distribution of arms and food to become an essential resource in warfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of the study was to ascertain whether English as a Foreign Language learners with various levels of English language achievement differ significantly in applying foreign language learning strategies. We also aimed to explore strategy use frequency in connection with attitude toward English language learning. Data were collected from 1,653 lower secondary students in Hungary through a revised version of the previously developed online Self-Regulated Foreign Language Learning Strategy Questionnaire (SRFLLSQ) based on Oxford's Strategic Self-Regulation (S2R) Model. The findings point to statistically significant differences in the frequency of English language strategy use among more and less proficient learners. Quantitative analyses also reported that, in spite of the students stated low or moderate levels of strategy use, it turned out as a statistically significant predictor of foreign language attitude and language achievement. The results draw attention to the relevance of strategy research in foreign language teaching as well as encourages strategy teaching within language instruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hagnosa longicapillata, gen. nov., sp. nov, is described and illustrated from wooden building materials collected in Hungary and from pure culture. This species has been collected exclusively from indoor environments, where it was quite common. The ascocarps develop in a thick layer of brown, woolly mats of mycelia. The ostiolar region of the perithecia is ornamented with a five-lobed, flower-shaped crown. Asci are four-spored; ascospores are dark brown, smooth, muriform, not constricted at the septa, and liberated mostly through crackings of the thin ascomatal wall. Apparently, ascospores are dispersed by the mechanical disturbance of the mycelial web. In the phylogenetic tree, Hagnosa samples were placed as a basal lineage, independently from the other family of Sordariomycetidae, with high support. To place Hagnosa in Sordariales, the new family, Hagnosaceae, is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives This study, first in Hungary, examined the success of presurgical nasoalveolar molding (NAM) therapy in cleft patients from a caregiver's perspective and revealed factors that can cause inconvenience. Patients and Methods A survey-based study was performed using a 32-item questionnaire following NAM therapy. The survey was sent to families whose child underwent NAM therapy from 2010 until 2020 at the 1 st Department of Paediatrics, Semmelweis University. The questions focused on four main parts: socioeconomic, origin of the cleft, difficulties of therapy, and self-assessment. Fifty-three families received the questionnaire, 17 of them completed it. Results The mean age was 5 ± 3.7 weeks when NAM therapy started. Fifty-eight percent of the patients were male and 42% female. Patients are living more than 60 km from the cleft center (59%). Patients had to make the journey between their residence and the cleft center ~10 to 15 times. In most cases, NAM therapy was covered by health insurance (83%). The unilateral cleft and lip palate occurred 58%, while the bilateral were 42%. Thirty-five percent of the patients had an allergic reaction against the adhesive, and 35% were affected by wounds on their lips or noses. The way of feeding was variable. Seventeen percent of the parents were able to breastfeed. In all cases, parents were satisfied with the NAM therapy. Conclusions The present study highlighted the value of caregivers' role in NAM therapy. The burden of care is acceptable, caregivers have high compliance, and are determined to help the effectiveness of therapy. Limitations of this study include a single-institute data with a small number of cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) is a recognised tool for tracking community transmission of COVID-19. From the second half of 2020, the emergence of new, highly infective, more pathogenic or vaccine-escape SARS-CoV-2 variants is the major public health concern. Variant analysis in sewage might assist the early detection of new mutations. Weekly raw sewage samples from 22 wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in Hungary (representing 40% of the population) were analysed between December 2020 and March 2021 for signature mutations N501Y and del H69/V70 of B.1.1.7 lineage by melting point genotyping and RT-digital droplet PCR (RT-ddPCR). The latter method proved to be more efficient in parallel detection of different variants and also provides quantitative information. Wastewater surveillance indicated that the B.1.1.7 variant first emerged in Budapest in early January 2021 and rapidly became dominant in the entire country. Results are in close agreement with the available clinical data (Pearson’s correlation coefficient, R ¼ 0.9153). RT-ddPCR was confirmed to be a reliable tool for tracking emerging variant ratios in wastewaters. It is a rapid and cost-effective method compared to whole-genome sequencing, but only applicable for the detection of known mutations. Efficient variant surveillance might require the combination of multiple methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Directive on National Emission Ceilings specifies the reduction of ammonia (NH3) emissions among other air pollutants, which is most significant for the agricultural sector. The ammonia emission limit set for Hungary was a 10% reduction by 2020, while the target of 32% should be reached by 2030 compared to the 2005 reference year. The paper presents the results of a survey on pig production technology in Hungary from 97 domestic farms. The study aims to know the level of implementation of reduction techniques in livestock production and manure management and highlights the need for further improvements in this production sector. The research found that the application of ammonia reduction techniques was not considered widespread, either in livestock buildings or in manure storage (treatment) and during field application. For almost all (more than 90%) pig production groups, the housing systems were the reference without additional emission reduction. For manure storage, farms have insulated storage under the current regulation, however, significantly more emission reduction technologies were in the variant without cover or crust. Slurry spreading was mainly used with manure application techniques, but more emission-friendly injection and band spreading were also emerging. Besides the expected immediate incorporation, a high proportion of manure was applied between 12 and 24 hours or even after 24 hours. In the studied elements of manure management, significant improvements are needed in applying techniques to reduce ammonia emissions. Effective results can be achieved even by shortening the time between manure application and incorporation with efficient work organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2014 a catastrophic ice storm occurred in the forests of Börzsöny Mts., Hungary. In this study we analyzed the potential of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data, complemented, and compared with optical imagery, in mapping this event. Great emphasis was put on reference data: three types of field-based reference datasets were used and the damaged patches were delineated manually based on the visual interpretation of pre- and post-event orthophotos. Four classifications with different set-ups were carried out by applying the eXtreme Gradient Boosting method. Combinations of radar backscatter coefficients, polarimetric descriptors, interferometric coherence, and optical data variables were tested. All classifications were suitable for identifying uprooted trees properly (1–11% underestimation), but none of them could detect crown loss accurately (55–58% overestimation), based on the validation of the most damaged area. Proper differentiation of healthy forests with various levels of canopy closure in the reference data seems crucial for accurate canopy loss estimation. In the case of methods using only Sentinel-1 imagery, interferometric coherence together with polarimetric descriptors provided the best results (OA: 65.7%). This setup can be useful for immediate uproot damage detection for planning salvage logging if a natural disturbance happens outside the vegetation period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The main goal of the paper is to describe the knowledge interconnection process embedded in an interactive business relationship. The purpose of this study is to understand the knowledge interconnection inside the supplier-buyer relationship in the field of contract manufacturing. The knowledge interconnection process is defined by the authors as a process linked to business relationships, which contains different types of knowledge and various sub-processes related to them. Design/methodology/approach: The Industrial Marketing and Purchasing Group (IMP) research framework has been applied and the contribution is a better understanding of the role of knowledge in the interactive business world. The empirical evidence is based on a case study of a Hungarian contract manufacturing company. This paper describes empirical, qualitative research about knowledge interconnection processes applying an abductive research design. Findings: The knowledge interconnection process is linked to business relationships. It is a complex process, which contains three types of knowledge and five sub-processes. The knowledge evolution indicates the links between the different types of knowledge. The sub-processes relate to different types of knowledge and allow the flow of knowledge between the supplier and the buyer. In the business relationship, this flow of knowledge makes possible the new knowledge creation. A model of the knowledge interconnection process has been developed. Research limitations/implications: Single case studies can create rich descriptions of complex phenomena, but the possibility for generalization is limited. Another limitation is that the knowledge interconnection process has been studied only from the supplier's perspective. The present research extends IMP's knowledge of embedded knowledge. In addition, empirical research contributes to the emerging field of IMP research that explores knowledge as a resource but lacks an empirical foundation. Practical implications: The knowledge interconnection process is a decisive factor in the development and maintenance of long-term customer relations in the field of contract manufacturing. The evolution of knowledge types – from the body of knowledge to knowledge in use – demands the management of different sub-processes. Knowledge selection, knowledge recombination, knowledge mobilization and new knowledge creation processes are more strongly related to the supplier-customer dyad, while the knowledge relocation process has a network character. The knowledge interconnection process influences the company's body of knowledge and its relationship management capability. Originality/value: The originality of the study is, on the one hand, an empirical examination of the process of knowledge interconnection. On the other hand, the development of a model of the knowledge interconnection process. A further feature is that empirical research has been conducted in the field of contract manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ammonia Gas Emission Model for Swine (AGEM-S), a nitrogen flow model, was created with the objective of assisting in the reduction of ammonia emissions in the Hungarian pig sector. Regarding the applied technological processes and considering the factors that influence ammonia emissions, the model quantifies the amount of ammonia emissions of pig farming in all stages (feeding, housing technology, manure storage, and application in the field). The aim of the project was to create a system that performs general calculations using the input data used by practicing farmers, without compromising the information content of the output data. Using this system, the input parameters can be entered as simply as possible and in the shortest possible time. In addition to demonstrating the impact of ammonia emission reduction measures to farmers from an integrated N management approach, AGEM-S has the potential to support the transfer of emission reduction technologies and practices at the farm level as a knowledge transfer tool primarily, but also as a decision support tool for technological change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work considers dust deposition and the heavy metal (HM) content on leaves of urban trees (Acer platanoides L. 'Globosum,' Fraxinus excelsior L. 'Westhof's Glorie' and Tilia tomentosa Moench.) in order to estimate the trees' capacity to remove dust and HM from the air. Leaves were collected from the Buda Arboretum and from different streets of heavy traffic in Budapest, Hungary, during 2015 and 2016. At each site, five trees were sampled by collecting 6 leaves from each tree from the height of 2–3 m. Dust deposits on the leaves were removed by soaking the fresh foliage in distilled water for 20 h and then washed with ultrasound shaking. Afterward, the leaves were dried to constant weight and then they were digested in nitric acid–hydrogen peroxide treatment, and their Pb, Fe, Ni, Zn and Cu contents were measured using an inductively coupled plasma (ICP AS) spectrometer. The removed dust deposit was dried, and after a similar digestion treatment the Pb, Fe, Ni, Zn and Cu contents were measured using an AURORA AI 1200 AAS appliance. The HM deposit was calculated in mg m–2 leaf surface area. In 2015, the amount of foliar dust deposit from spring to autumn increased from 86.3 to 270.2 mg m–2. The most efficient tree species in trapping dust on their leaves was the silver linden (98.5–123.5 mg m−2), followed by the Norway maple (74.2–84.8 mg m−2) and the common ash (62.8–74.6 mg m−2). The deposit of HM elements showed seasonal differences: the quantity of Fe and Pb deposit on autumnal leaves increased five- to tenfold, while other heavy metals did not show accumulation. Silver linden with its pubescent (hairy) leaf surface proved to be most efficient in entrapping and retaining dust and heavy metals. The 60–100% higher Pb and Fe content of autumnal leaves indicate that over the season leaves may absorb Fe and Pb from the foliar dust. Our results confirmed that the foliar dust is a potential indicator for monitoring the HM content in the air. We also show that foliar dust deposits should be considered when estimating the capacity of urban trees to clean the air. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to compare the energy content and macronutrients of forty main popular traditional and modern meals in both Jordan and Hungary with the national and international recommendations. The calculation of energy content and macronutrients were done on traditional and modern recipes by two different softwares (ESHA and NutriComp). Neither Jordanian nor Hungarian foods met the recommended energy content (35% of daily energy intake, 8400 kJ for energy intake). The recipes of both nations are characterised by higher protein, fat, and salt contents than WHO recommendation, a lower fibre content, and sugar content within the recommended limits. The fat energy ratio and saturated fatty acid content of Hungarian recipes are significantly higher than WHO recommendation. In general, Jordanian meals were more likely to meet the inclusion criteria. In conclusion, neither Jordanian nor Hungarian traditional and popular meals meet the international nutritional recommendations for a healthy diet, however, the composition of the real dishes may differ significantly from the recipes depending on the available ingredients and chosen kitchen technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occurrence ofmembers of the Pasteurellaceae and Neisseriaceae families was studied in dogs and cats. A total of 110nasal and pharyngeal swab samples from47dogs and 8 catswere collected.Most of the strainswere identified by 16S rDNA sequencing, except Frederiksenia canicola and Pasteurella multocida where species- specific polymerase chain reactions were applied. Themost frequently isolated species was F. canicola,which occurred only in dogs, mainly in the pharyngeal cavity. The second commonest bacterium, P. multocida was found in both types of samples and in both hosts. Other species from the family Pasteurellaceae,suchas Haemophilus haemoglobinophilus, Pasteurella canis and P. dagmatis, were detected only in dogs. All isolated species belonging to the family Neisseriaceae, mainly representing Neisseria weaveri, were found only in the pharyngeal cavity.Neisseria weaveri and N. zoodegmatis could be detected in both hosts.Neisseria dumasiana andN. caniswere isolated fromdogs, whileN. shayeganii only froma cat. For phylogenetic analysis, rpoB gene sequencingwas performed,where the strainswere onmonophyletic branches and clearly separated fromeach other. In this study, recently described species such as F. canicola, N. shayeganii and N. dumasiana were detected that had never been isolated in Hungary before. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Lege Artis Medicine (LAM) is the property of LifeTime Media Kft. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background and Objectives: West Nile virus (WNV) is one of the most important viral zoonotic infections in Hungary; however, no transfusion-transmitted WNV infections have been confirmed so far. In 2016, the number of clinical cases of WNV reported was 44, but the seasonal WNV screening of whole-blood donors has not yet been implemented. Our aims were to assess the WNV RNA reactivity and the prevalence of WNV-specific antibodies in the samples of blood donors collected in 2016. Materials and Methods: WNV RNA with Cobas TaqScreen and anti-WNV antibody determination from plasma samples of 2112 donors was performed. Cross-reactivity to tick-borne encephalitis virus was excluded. WNV neutralization test was used for the confirmation of anti-WNV IgG reactive results, and the presence of anti-WNV IgM antibodies was also determined. Results: None of the samples showed WNV RNA reactivity. The total weighted anti-WNV IgG prevalence was 2.34% (95% confidence interval 1.65–3.03), and in addition, three donors were found to be IgM positive. There was a comparable tendency between the data of WNV seroprevalence and cumulative incidence in six out of seven statistical regions in Hungary. Conclusion: Our results show a comparable data with publications that estimated the WNV seroprevalence in some other European endemic areas. As protective measures, both the 30-day deferral of blood donors who spent at least 24 h in WNV-exposed areas and the exclusion of affected Hungarian territories from blood donation are enforced by the Hungarian National Blood Transfusion Service. Our study is the first comprehensive serological survey to obtain actual data about WNV seroprevalence in the Hungarian human population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lake Pannon, covering the Pannonian Basin (Hungary) during the Late Miocene, had a complex lake bottom with deeper sub-basins and intrabasinal basement highs, sometimes emerging above the lake level as islands and peninsulas. Above structural highs, the basin fill sequence usually commenced with deposition of transgressional, locally sourced coarse-grained deltas. These deposits are overlain by distally-sourced deltaic bodies associated with the prograding delta system that gradually filled up the entire basin. The transition between these two distinct delta systems was studied in a large outcrop on the edge of a former basement high (Mecsek Mts., southern Hungary). The transgressional phase is represented by the deposition of a mass flow dominated fan delta body, fed by local material from a granitic catchment area. An overlying fossil-rich, clayey unit records an episode for which sediment delivery into the basin was curtailed, possibly due to submergence of the granite body. The deposition of these two units took place between 8 and 6.8 Ma. The onset of sedimentation associated with the arrival of the distally sourced regressive delta system (around 6.8 Ma) is represented by deposition of shoreface sediments. This unit is characterized by distinctive bioturbation and storm related, sand filled scour-fills. Resedimented local material that forms mm thick, coarse laminas in the scour fills is indicative of denudation due to tectonic events and implies coupled storm-flood sedimentation. The deposition of the two distinct delta bodies and the interplay between tectonic events and lake-level changes occurred during a relatively short, ca. 1.5 Ma long time interval. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Extraction of miRNA is efficient from Wilms' tumor FFPE samples. • Downregulation of miR-184 may be characteristic to a subset of blastemal tumors. • Loss of miR-203a may play a role in the pathogenesis of blastemal Wilms' tumors. Blastemal Wilms' tumors are associated with poor chemo-responsiveness and an adverse prognosis. Our aim was to contribute to the miRNA profiling of the disease, while demonstrating the value of archived formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples as miRNA sources. MiRNA was extracted from tumor and normal tissues of 8 patients diagnosed with blastemal Wilms' tumor in Hungary. A quantitative real-time PCR-based protocol was used to identify miRNAs of interest and study the expression of selected miRNAs in all samples. Profiling of miRNA expression from FFPE samples turned out to be cost-effective in Wilms' tumor, as most miRNAs (including miRNA-194-5p, which was studied in all patients) showed expression alterations similar to the ones reported in the literature. MiR-184 expression was found to be lower than in previous studies, while the downregulation of miR-203a is a novel finding. MiR-184 may be downregulated in a subset of blastemal and other Wilms' tumors. A loss of miR-203a may or may not be specific to blastemal cells, but available evidence hints at its importance in the pathogenesis of Wilms' tumor. It should be considered for inclusion in future studies of miRNA expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The indoor air quality (IAQ) was investigated in 15 Passive Houses in the heating and non-heating seasons between 2019 and 2021 in Hungary. The concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), aldehydes, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, PM 2.5 mass, carbon dioxide, bacteria, fungi, and pollen were measured together with the monitoring of temperature, relative humidity and air change rate (ACR). The IAQ varied considerably among the investigated buildings. Significant seasonal differences were obtained for all physical parameters (temperature, relative humidity, ACR), certain VOCs (benzene, α-pinene, limonene), acetaldehyde, and airborne fungi. Considerable health concern was associated with the indoor concentrations of PM 2.5 mass and nitrogen dioxide in many cases based on the evaluation of IAQ in relation to potential adverse health effects, while the peak concentrations of other pollutants (e.g. trichloroethylene, α-pinene, certain aldehydes, fungi) were also of concern in a couple of cases. The median indoor/outdoor concentration ratios of benzene, PM 2.5 mass, nitrogen dioxide, ozone and fungi indicated that these pollutants are mainly of outdoor origin, while the other VOCs, aldehydes and bacteria showed higher concentration indoors. Overheating, the lack of proper particle filters in the mechanical ventilation system, and low ACR and relative humidity were identified as frequent problems related to the building characteristics. The emissions from building materials and furniture, the proximity of construction works and unpaved roads, and the allergenic vegetation might considerably influence IAQ. The results highlight that risk reduction measures are needed to create healthier indoor environment in the Passive Houses. • IAQ was measured in 15 Passive Houses in Hungary between 2019 and 2021. • Several IAQ parameters showed significant seasonal difference. • The highest health concern was on PM 2.5 and NO 2 concentrations in most cases. • Risk reduction measures are needed to create healthier IAQ in Passive Houses. • Air pollutants were present in similar concentrations compared to previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ornithobacterium rhinotrachealeis a widely distributed rod-shaped Gram-negative bacterium that infects several avian species including chickens and turkeys. It is associated with respiratory signs, growth retardation, mortality, and reduced egg production, thus causing severe economic losses to the poultry industries. In this study, 37 field isolates ofO. rhinotracheale, collected from various locations in Hungary between 1997 and 2015, were identified and characterized by the analysis of partial 16S rRNA gene sequences, enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC)-PCR, and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) PCR assays with the OPG11, OPH19, and M13 primers. Most of the field isolates were serotype A, one was serotype B, and four were serotype D. One isolate could not be typed with antisera against serotypes A–E. In a phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA sequences, the isolates formed two clusters. Thirteen distinct patterns were identified with ERIC-PCR, and the RAPD assay with the M13 primer assigned the isolates to 10 different patterns. The other two RAPD assays were unsuitable for distinguishing and grouping the isolates. Neither ERIC type nor RAPD pattern correlated with the place or year of isolation. However, the strains isolated from chickens were more heterogeneous on ERIC-PCR than the isolates recovered from turkeys. In this study, ERIC-PCR was the most discriminatory method for investigating the genetic diversity ofO. rhinotrachealeisolates. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article illustrates certain aspects of the process of shaping territorial space, using the example of the legal dispute between the southern Hungarian counties of Bács and Bodrog. The documents studied for this research show a great variety in terms of the methods and approaches used by the members of the relevant commissions, the participating lawyers, and the people interviewed on the ground to describe and perceive the space and boundaries between the particular territories. The article traces the logic behind the giving of evidence in the boundary-drawing process. This was based on historical documents and maps on the one hand, and on the questioning of witnesses on the other. The resulting boundaries and territories of the counties can be described as the outcome of a process that brought forth new spaces on the basis of the memory passed down both orally and in written form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports an outbreak of haemorrhagic septicaemia caused by Pasteurella multocida B:2 in beef calves, a disease that has not been described in the Hungarian literature since 1943, and has not been reported to the World Organisation For Animal Health (OIE) since 1970. Acute haemorrhagic septicaemia was confirmed in beef calves on one small farm, and was suspected on two further nearby holdings with concomitant unexplained losses. The source of the infection could not be determined. Apart from a short duration of depression and loss of appetite, the affected calves developed characteristic distal limb oedema. Gross findings in two calves submitted for laboratory examinations included subcutaneous oedema and haemorrhages on serous membranes, and in one case severe pharyngeal lymph node enlargement was observed. Histological examinations revealed lesions characteristic of septicaemia. Moderate to large amounts of Pasteurella antigens were detected in all organs tested by immunohistochemistry. Two isolates of P. multocida (Pm240, Pm241) were cultured from these cases and examined in detail. These were identified as P. multocida ssp. multocida biovar 3. Both were toxA negative and belonged to serotype B:2. Multilocus sequence typing was used to assign these to a new sequence type (ST64) that is closely related to other haemorrhagic septicaemia causing strains of P. multocida regardless of the host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While informal relations between economic and political actors are prevalent in post-communist economies, proper tools for their quantitative measurement are lacking. This paper is a starting point for thinking about this issue. Relying on previous research (Magyar – Madlovics 2020), we elaborate the concept of 'relational economy,' and discuss the problem of measuring its peculiar phenomena by existing direct and indirect data. Towards a set of indices for relational economy, we consider the use of proxies in three ways: (1) a radar chart composed of specific company data; (2) 'moments of truth' when property movements reveal an actor's de facto ownership status; and (3) 'moments of truth' when adoption to or exclusion from the informal patronal network is accompanied by a significant change in financial situation. Illustrations to each of the three methods are provided from the case of Hungary after 2010. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study was to identify factors determining weed species composition in soyabean crops in Hungary, where its expanding production faces difficult weed problems. The abundance of weed flora was measured in 262 fields across the country, along with 38 background variables. Using a minimal adequate model containing 24 terms with significant net effects, 21.6% of the total variation in weed species data could be explained. Plot location (edge vs core position, the single site variable in our analysis) was found to be the most important explanatory variable that was followed by a set of environmental (temperature, precipitation, altitude, soil texture, pH, Ca, K, Na and humus content), cultural (cultivar maturity, organic manure, fertiliser P and N, row spacing) and weed management (flumioxazin, pendimethalin, dimethenamid, propaquizafop, bentazone, quizalofop-p-ethyl, quizalofop-p-tefuril, linuron, thifensulfuron) factors. Variation partitioning revealed that environmental variables accounted for about four times more variance than cultural and about two and half times more than weed management variables. Chenopodium album, Ambrosia artemisiifolia, Hibiscus trionum, Echinochloa crus-galli and Convolvulus arvensis were the most dominant and frequent weeds, but their abundance was influenced by different factors. The responses of weed species to the studied variables provide new information about their ecological behaviour, and our findings also can be used to develop better weed management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:The relationship between migraine and psychological distress has been consistently reported in cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. We hypothesised that a stable tendency to perseverative thoughts such as rumination would mediate the relationship between migraine and psychological distress. Design and Main Outcomes Measures:Self-report questionnaires measuring depressive rumination, current psychological distress and migraine symptoms in two independent European population cohorts, recruited from Budapest (N = 1139) and Manchester (N = 2004), were used. Structural regression analysis within structural equation modelling was applied to test the mediational role of brooding and reflection, the components of rumination, between migraine and psychological distress. Sex, age and lifetime depression were controlled for in the analysis. Results:Migraine predicted higher brooding and reflection scores, and brooding proved to be a mediator between migraine and psychological distress in both samples, while reflection mediated the relationship significantly only in the Budapest sample. Conclusions:Elevated psychological distress in migraine is partially attributed to ruminative response style. Further studies are needed to expand our findings to clinical samples and to examine how rumination links to the adjustment to migraine. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents a case study of the Hungarian company Videoton from its origin in 1938 to the present day. The aim of this paper is to describe how the company coped with changes in its business context, while the relevant network of Videoton changed significantly, and what factors enabled these changes in the network position. The analysis runs along three dimensions: changes in the key customer relationships, in the product and process technology. It describes the outcome of strategizing (Gadde et al. 2003) as influencing the network position through building up and maintaining business relationships and the company's competences and resources. The analysis takes place through the five periods in the Videoton story: (1) The foundation of Videoton; (2) Videoton in the Centrally Planned Economy; (3) Videoton in the Decentralized-Planned Economy; (4) The collapse of Videoton; and, (5) Phoenix Videoton, which are introduced through a case description. We investigate how the company mobilizes different types of resources according to the 4 R model in each period (Håkansson and Waluszewski, 2002 in Håkansson et al, 2009). The paper shows that strategizing is based on the company's resources and capabilities which create value only if they are connected to the resources and activities of other companies through different types of interactions. Analysis of the case demonstrates that the focal point of strategizing is building network position and the ability to develop business relationships. In our Videoton case the outcome of strategizing shows that this process is heavily built on company experiences. We also discuss "network-bridge-over capabilities" that can help a firm facing a dramatically changing business context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Military Science Review / Hadtudományi Szemle is the property of National University of Public Service and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract: The aim of the present study was to distinguish areas with different chemical properties in Neusiedler See, to determine which background processes are responsible for this pattern, and to discover their spatial distribution. Uni- and multivariate data analysis was applied to the data concerning 13 mainly chemical and some biological parameters for the time period 2000–2009 from 33 sampling sites. The sampling sites were first clustered then grouped. Besides reed belt and open water areas, smaller localities, which are influenced by water inputs (the treatment plant, the river Wulka, the channels of weekend houses) were also distinguished. Using Wilks’ lambda distribution it was determined that the main components (ions) have a greater effect on forming the cluster groups than those parameters which stand in close relation to biological processes. These results concurred with those obtained from the principal component analysis (PCA) conducted on the whole lake and on the groups as well. It can be stated that most of the variance in the dataset can be explained by the main components (ions). The spatial distribution of the principal component scores was visualized with isoline maps. The results of this research lead us to the view that Neusiedler See cannot be treated as one homogeneous system. This exceptional variability originates from the lake''s shallow water depth, its unstable water balance, and anthropogenic activity (agriculture, tourism, sewage treatment) in the lake''s vicinity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives Determining the in vitro susceptibility to 11 antibiotics of Francisella tularensis subsp. holarctica strains belonging to the phylogenetic group B.13, from different areas of Hungary. Methods Twenty-nine F. tularensis strains isolated between 2003 and 2010 from free-ranging European brown hares (Lepus europaeus) and a captive patas monkey (Erythrocebus patas) were collected from different parts of Hungary and examined for antibiotic susceptibility with commercially available MIC test strips on modified Francis agar plates; values were interpreted according to CLSI breakpoints. Results The strains were susceptible to aminoglycosides (MIC90 values: gentamicin, 0.75 mg/L; and streptomycin, 6.0 mg/L), tetracyclines (MIC90 values: tetracycline, 0.5 mg/L; and doxycycline, 1.0 mg/L), quinolones (MIC90 values: ciprofloxacin, 0.047 mg/L; and levofloxacin, 0.023 mg/L) and chloramphenicol (MIC90 value: 1.5 mg/L), i.e. antibiotics commonly used in therapy. Tigecycline (MIC90 value: 0.19 mg/L) and rifampicin (MIC90 value: 1.0 mg/L) were also active against F. tularensis strains, while resistance to erythromycin (MIC90 value: >256 mg/L) and linezolid (MIC90 value: 32 mg/L) was observed in all strains. Conclusions Based on the results, quinolones are recommended as first choice therapy for F. tularensis infection. The in vitro susceptibility of the strains to tigecycline may encourage the application of this antibiotic as well. The similar antibiotic susceptibilities of the Hungarian strains belonging to different subclades of phylogenetic group B.13 indicates that strains from other Central and Eastern European countries belonging to this group might also have the same susceptibility profile. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: Nuclear Power Plant (Hungary) is developed in this paper based on first engineering principles that is able to describe the time-varying active and reactive power output of the generator. These generators are required to take part in the reactive power support of the power grid following the demand of a central dispatch center, and also contribute to the frequency control of the grid. The developed model has been verified under the usual controlled operating conditions when the frequency and the active power are controlled. Static and dynamic sensitivity analysis has been applied to determine the model parameters to be estimated. The model parameters have been estimated applying the asynchronous parallel pattern search method using real measured data from the nuclear power plant. The confidence regions in the parameter space have been analyzed by investigating the geometry of the estimation error function. The developed model can serve as a basis for controlling the optimal energy production of the generator using both the active and reactive power components. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: The 170-year history of the library of the Royal Society of Medicine in Budapest illustrates both that political and cultural context matter and that "medical" libraries, if they survive, in due course become primarily "medical history" libraries. Methods: Two of the authors are on the staff of the Semmelweis Medical History Library; the third is a US scholar who makes frequent use of the library. Together, they avail themselves of archival and published materials--and personal experience with the collection--to establish the context that produced the original library, trace its evolution, and describe its present-day incarnation. Results: A tale of transformation emerges that reflects how collections are likely to change. The authors present events and individuals in the life of the Royal Society's library and paint a picture of the value of today's Semmelweis Medical History Library. Unique treasures in the collection are described. Conclusion: The story told here is of how a particular nineteenth-century library became a twenty-first-century institution. The authors establish its peculiarly Hungarian context and potential value to librarians and historians from outside Hungary. The overall message is that general medical libraries everywhere are perforce likely to become medical historical libraries over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The common ragweed, Ambrosia artemisiifolia is a widespread invasive weed species in Europe. In order to estimate the deteriorative effect of native arthropods on the invasive ragweed the effect of three indigenous aphid species on plant development and pollen production was studied. Common ragweed plants grown in a greenhouse were artificially infested with five apterous individuals of either Aphis fabae, Brachycaudus helichrysi or Myzus persicae at the 4-leaf stage. Feeding by all three aphid species over a 5-week period significantly reduced plant height, the number of male inflorescences, the length of racemes, pollen emission and plant dry mass. Brachycaudus helichrysi produced the largest colonies, followed by A. fabae and M. persicae. In a host plant choice test, B. helichrysi showed significant preference for ragweed over sunflower, whereas A. fabae preferred sunflower and M. persicae did not show any preference. In a field experiment, the growth rate of A. fabae on caged ragweed plants was similar to that in the greenhouse, but the final numbers of B. helichrysi and M. persicae after 30 days was ten and seven times lower than under greenhouse conditions, respectively. On exposed field plants, B. helichrysi was more abundant than other species. However, no aphid species affected the height or dry mass of either caged or exposed plants during a 30-day period. Under controlled conditions aphids effectively hampered development and pollen production of ragweed, however, under Hungarian field conditions the development of ragweed was much more dynamic, therefore no deleterious effect of aphid feeding occurred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper gives a review on the results of the latest rootstock evaluation projects in Hungary. Several cherry rootstock evaluation projects were carried out in Hungary during the last two decades. The evaluated rootstocks are partly mahalebs selected in Hungary, but more or less all the most important new rootstocks from different countries are involved. The aim of these evaluation projects was to find appropriate rootstocks in a wide range of vigour for our climate and soil conditions. The conclusion of the last 20 years of research in Hungary proved just the opposite of believes, that high density orchard can only be planted with dwarfing rootstocks. Before choosing the right rootstock the most important is to consider adaptability, precocity and productivity. Dwarfing and semi-dwarfing rootstocks showed proper results only with irrigation or very good site conditions. These rootstocks are very precocious, but branches form easily blindwood. This must be corrected by severe pruning in the first years. The relatively small leaf surface area can also be disadvantageous, but it can be controlled by pruning, fruit-thinning, irrigation and fertilization. After studying different rootstocks semi-vigorous rootstocks seem to be the most adequate for different site conditions in Hungary. Fast initial growing and competent precocity are their favourable characters. From the vigorous group of clonal mahalebs or seedlings are highly recommended first of all for poor site condition (sandy, lime soils with high pH). They turn to bearing early and easy to find them in the Hungarian nurseries. But on vigorous rootstocks trees might need stronger summer pruning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High density central leader systems, the so called "spindle trees" are spreading in intensive stone fruit orchards established for hand picking in Hungary. Results of Brunner (1972, 1990) and Zahn (1967, 1996) inspired the researchers to implement their theories into practice under our climate and special soil conditions. For sweet cherry it is essential to apply an orchard system appropriate for hand picking because of the European market requirements. In intensive sweet cherry orchards two new training and orchard systems are developed and adapted to environmental conditions in Hungary based on previous inventions. The first step of the development is represented by modified Brunner-spindle, which applies the delayed heading of the central leader and the sectorial-double-pruning system from Brunner, resulting semi-intensive orchard of 600-800 trees/ha density, planted on standard vigour rootstocks. Based upon tree size spacing of 5 m between row and 2.5 - 3 m between trees is recommended, tree height is around 3.5-4 m. This training system is useful for hand-picking; 60-70% of the crop can be harvested from ground. Modified Brunner-spindle is suitable for either standard or moderate vigorous rootstocks. The cherry spindle is an intensive orchard planted with 1250 - 2300 trees per hectare and it is recommended for sweet and sour cherries on semi dwarf to vigorous rootstocks, depending on soil fertility and quality. Trees are 2.5 - 3.5 m high, 75-80% of the crop can be harvested from the ground. Permanent basal scaffolds are developed on the basis of the canopy to counteract the stronger terminal growth. Trials on various rootstocks are running to find optimum spacing and fruiting wood management. The training and pruning guidelines are discussed in the paper. The average crop of bearing years is around 20-30 t/ha depending on site and cultivars. This new system is spreading in Hungary, around 70 ha sweet and sour cherry orchards are trained according to our guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bitumen (asphalts) used for road pavement in Hungary have a low tar content since the 1960s. However, traditional bitumen, as a substance belongs to the IARC Group 2B of carcinogens, because of its tar content, which was radically reduced in the last decades to develop an environmentally friendly substance. Other carcinogens in the working environment which are used, are solvents such as crude oils (Group 1), and diesel exhaust gases (Group 2A). Lifestyle factors also affect the health status of road pavers. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in health status and geno- and immunotoxicology parameters of asphalt exposed road pavers. Multiple end-point follow-up genotoxicology monitoring was performed in Hungarian road pavers between 1996-1999 and 2003-2006. The latter set was supplemented with immunotoxicological endpoints. Studied subjects were interviewed by a physician to collect data on age, medication, smoking and drinking habits, medical and work histories, and they took part in a routine clinical laboratory check-up, including hematology, liver and kidney function tests and risk factors. The multiple end-point genotoxicology monitor, developed in our laboratory, includes the determination of chromosome aberration (CA), sister-chromatid exchange, and HPRT mutation frequencies and the measurement of DNA repair performed in peripheral blood lymphocytes according to the standard methods. Immunotoxicology monitoring includes determination of lymphocyte subpopulations and the measurement of lymphocyte activation. Altogether 89 asphalt-exposed workers (23 managers, 23 hand pavers, 28 finishers and 15 mixers) were investigated. The results were compared to 33 non-exposed industrial controls. More than half of the studied subjects were active smokers and more than 80% were regular drinkers. Among the exposed the most frequent clinical symptoms were liver and kidney dysfunctions, hypertension, hyperglycemia, high cholesterol, rheumatoid complaints and high count of white blood cells. However, the low exposed management also suffered from hypertension, hyperglycemia and high cholesterol. For genotoxicology monitoring the most significant changes were in the mean CA yields. At the start (1996) CA was increased in exposed subjects. The highest CA was found among mixers, and CA was also elevated among finishers working in closed cabins and pavers cleaning equipment with crude oil. By 1999 the CAs of exposed subjects decreased and remained at the level of industrial controls, except that of mixers still above the control level in 2004. The immunotoxicological tests showed a shift of lymphocyte subpopulations both in the exposed workers and management controls as well as the activation of T and B cells. Alterations found in clinical parameters except rheumatoid complaints can be attributed to the lifestyles of the studied subjects. Data suggest that the main genotoxic agents were exhaust gases in the closed cabins among finishers and crude oil used for cleaning in pavers, as proper ventilation and the use of harmless detergents resulted in the decrease of CA yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the moment, Hungarian agriculture is confronted with a certain duality as far as nutrients are concerned. On the one hand, national soil nutrient balances show substantial deficits, and on the other hand, agricultural nutrient use is responsible for a part of the nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) losses to the environment. To understand this duality and help optimize farm nutrient management, the farm gate N and P balances of 12 farms, representing a variety of Hungarian agriculture, were calculated for the year 2002. The farm gate N and P surpluses/deficits in the east of the country were lower than in the west. This was correlated with a lower fertilization rate. The low soil fertility level due to a prolonged period of low fertilization in combination with continuing nutrient deficits can lead to possible future reduction in crop yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]