Hungarian System Research Articles

Technology acceptance of balcony solar systems in Hungary – exploring influencing factors in a late-adopter country

PurposeBalcony solar panels are popular and widespread in most EU Member States, except in Hungary, where their use is currently banned. However, the lifting of this strict ban is expected to be approved in the near future. The aim of this research is to investigate which factors influence residents’ intention to use balcony solar panels in Hungary and how strong these impacts are.Design/methodology/approachUnified theory of acceptance and use of technology 2 (UTAUT2) is applied to predict which factors may influence residents’ behavioral intention to use this technology. Six components are tested: performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, hedonic motivation and price value. Data were gathered in Hungary in 2023 using an online survey. A quota sampling method was employed during the data-collection process.FindingsOur results confirm the importance of all components except effort expectancy. In addition to the economic benefits that can be achieved, citizens consider energy independence and a sense of freedom to be important in the adoption of such systems.Research limitations/implicationsDespite the large share of positive responses (expressed intention) that is identified, a gap between intention and action can be expected.Practical implicationsTo increase the rate of acceptance, transparent regulation, simplified administration and the application of nudges may be crucially important. However, the widespread use of balcony solar systems is hindered by the lack of a modern, energy-efficient building stock, emphasizing the urgency of deep renovation in the Hungarian household sector.Originality/valueThis research is the first to use the UTAUT2 model to analyze the technology acceptance of balcony solar systems in a late-adopter country.

Nest site selection and fidelity of European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) population of Babat Valley (Gödöllő, Hungary)

BackgroundThe conservation of aquatic and semiaquatic turtles requires knowledge of the area and vegetation structure of habitat used for nesting, and nesting migration route. We aimed to survey the effects of habitat features to the nest site selection, nesting success, and test the possibility of nest site fidelity. Our study was carried out at 10 different nesting areas, with special emphasis on data from returning females in a pond system in Hungary between 2014 and 2017.ResultsMost nesting attempts were found in closed sand steppes, uncharacteristic dry and semi-dry grasslands habitat patches. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed that increased sandy soil cover, sunlight and slope were important variables in nest site choice. The increasing PCA first axis score significantly increased the chance of an emergence. The degradation of open steppe vegetation, occurrence of weeds, invasive and disturbance tolerant species have a negative effect on the selection of nest sites. We observed that 96.55% of nests were located within 20 m south of a pine forest at preferred nest site at pond 5, which provided the right incubation temperature through partial shading. The returning females nested significantly closer to the northern pine forest than the single clutch females. Most probably the returning females already has the necessary experience to select the right nesting site. The individually marked females did not choose new nesting areas during the monitored years which suggests nesting area fidelity, but we did not find nest site fidelity.ConclusionThe maintenance of mosaic habitat structure, slowing down the succession process at the nesting area should be basic priorities in European pond turtle conservation programs. We suggested a spatial and temporal scheduling of land management and agricultural work to the local farmers. If the actual nest site is in an agricultural area, all work should be avoided throughout the year. Agricultural machinery should avoid the migration routes of adult turtles and emerged hatchlings during the concerned period. Under strong predation pressure, predator control should be carried out, and use nest protection.

A Longitudinal Overview Of The Situation Of Families From An Inclusion Perspective Environmental And Family Factors Associated With Special Educational Needs

While diagnostic systems such as the ICD-11 and DSM-5 exclude social and economic factors as potential causes of disability and learning problems, statistics from the educational and social systems of many European countries contradict this approach. Our research focuses on the compensatory strategies of the education system in Hungary, as the literature suggests that disability, differential development, and learning problems are a major stress factor and problem to be solved for the education system, the individual, and the family.An examination of the Hungarian system is particularly warranted in light of the results of the most recent PISA surveys, which show that educational failure in this country is strongly correlated with family background. Our research has demonstrated that special educational needs are more strongly related to family background and social factors than to other factors, which may be indirect evidence that family and social background are significant variables in the management of stress. In the presence of an unfavorable social background, disability and learning disabilities place greater pressure and stress on the family, increasing the risk of disconnection and early school leaving. Consequently, the role of proper education and cooperation is of paramount importance, as it is clear that neither the family nor the education system alone can be successful in dealing with stress.Our research has shown that resilience is intimately connected to parental factors, which are strongly influenced by parental education. Therefore, stress management and the avoidance of additional stress can be linked to the education system, even if indirectly. Furthermore, the formal education system is a crucial site for fostering effective attitudes, underscoring the importance of formal education in shaping attitudes and preparing individuals for lifelong learning, rather than simply imparting knowledge. To effectively manage stress, individuals must continuously develop and learn new coping strategies, and consciously cultivate resilience, as future stressors are unpredictable.

Preparatory study for carbon sequestration modelling of agroforestry systems in Hungary: The assessment of the yield class distribution of windbreaks

The escalating carbon dioxide emissions leading to global climate change are acknowledged as a paramount environmental challenge in the twenty-first century. The significance of land use systems in stabilising carbon dioxide levels and enhancing carbon sink potential has gained noteworthy attention from both the scientific and political communities. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change emphasises that agroforestry systems present vital prospects for synergising climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts, offering substantial technical mitigation potential. Windbreaks are well-known agroforestry systems in Hungary and form an important part of agricultural landscapes. The improved agroforestry subsidy system in our country makes it relevant to model the carbon sequestration potential of windbreaks. In the framework of the ForestLab project we plan to develop a carbon sequestration model specific for Hungarian agroforestry systems. In this study, as a preparatory step of the model development, we assessed the yield class distribution of Hungarian windbreaks by tree species group and identified variables that had significant effect on yield class based on the data of the National Forestry Database. Our results show that among the examined effects the most important predictor of the yield class of windbreaks was the tree species group, followed by the thickness of the productive soil layer and the hydrology of the site.

A Candle in the Wind? The Tax Autonomy of Hungarian Municipalities in Light of the Coronavirus Pandemic

Abstract This article aims to offer a brief introduction to the system of local tax autonomy in Hungary, primarily by accentuating its peculiar features compared to other systems used in the region. Particular attention is paid to the local business tax, a less typical source of local revenue, which constitutes the backbone of the Hungarian system, and to the relatively recently introduced possibility for local authorities to levy so-called ‘settlement taxes’ on an open-list basis. The author then describes how the coronavirus pandemic and the measures aimed at mitigating its economic consequences affected local governments’ financing mechanism and fiscal capacity. Finally, by drawing conclusions from these occurrences, the resilience of local tax autonomy in Hungary is evaluated.

Skúmanie implementácie koncepcií na rozvoj slovenského školstva v Maďarsku

The article focuses on the research of the implementation of the Concept for the Development of the Slovak Educational System in Hungary, the so-called Our Compass Concept, which was presented in 2017 by the National Slovak Self-Government in Hungary. After a short historical excursion of Slovak education in Hungary, the author focuses on the importance of Slovak education in Hungary for the preservation of the Slovak minority in this territory. It is for this reason that supporting the functioning of the Slovak school system is important. The article presents the support of education "from above" in the form of research on the implementation of the aforementioned concept. At the same time, the author supplements the research with a "bottom-up" approach, in which she presents feedback from Slovak teachers working in Hungary. The data from Slovak teachers come from a questionnaire survey in 2019, and in this study, questions were processed where the teachers expressed their opinions both on the aforementioned concept of the development of Slovak education in Hungary, as well as on the extent to which the selected measures contribute to the functioning of the school system where they work.

Catalysts of change: Advancing Equity in Hungarian Education

In 1945 a regulation was made, with the commitment to establish a universally compulsory eight-year elementary school system in Hungary. At that time, only two notable experimental schools existed. One is associated with the name of László Gáspár, exemplified by the school experiment in Szentlőrinc (1969). The second is the Linguistic-Literary-Communication Programme (1971), and -stemming from this- the Value Transmitting and Ability Development Programme developed by József Zsolnai. The objective of this research is to elucidate the pedagogical approacches of József Zsolnai and László Gáspár with a specific focus on disadvantaged situations, the principles underlying their programs and equal opportunities.

A jogi oktatás kezdetei Egerben: a Foglarianum II. Az abszolutizmustól a népi demokráciáig

The legal training in Vienna changed greatly due to the reforms of Maria Theresa (1740–1780). She formulated a dual goal for the Vienna Faculty of Law in her study decree of 1753. One of her goals was to turn the institution into an internationally known scientific research and education centre, and the other was to train specialists with legal and administrative knowledge for the state. As a result of the centralising quest of absolutism, the state intervened more and more decisively in the administration of church law academies, which was the primary reason why Eger’s university plan could not have been achieved. One of the goals of the Second Education Decree issued by Francis I was to unify legal education at universities and colleges. The imperial centralisation efforts aimed to establish the Austrian university system in Hungary because the traditional educational frameworks no longer corresponded to neo-absolutist imperial criteria.

Availability of continuous glucosemonitoring system in Hungary

Aim: The study aims to present the continuous glucose monitoring system, the operational principles of sensor technology in common parlance, the main features of devices available with social insurance support in Hungary, and the support conditions applicable to adult patients.Methodology: The work includes the current professional guideline related to the management and care of diabetic patients, the currently valid list of medical aids available with social insurance support, the list of designated institutions for ordering, and the social insurance conditions applicable to adult patients. The main features of available systems were compared by reviewing the data on the websites of companies that produce continuous glucose monitoring systems.Findings: Sensors that work in a similar or analogous way differ in a number of ways, have similar material costs, and their accuracy is not comparable. Currently, social insurance support is only available for type 1 diabetes, with its conditions not being strict but tied to regular usage. The advancement and simplification of the technology may lead to an expansion in the user base and may provide assistance in assessing the suitability of public safety and defence personnel living with diabetes.Value: The article summarises the condition system for ordering continuous glucose monitoring system with social insurance support and the main characteristics of currently available devices. It provides insight into the operational principle of the technology and new perspectives in its development.

A comparative analysis of hungarian and american medical liability: examining medical malpractice in justice

In recent years, medical liability and medical malpractice lawsuits have gained particular importance in the field of law. They have a great influence on trust in medicine and the entire health care system, so their knowledge and understanding are indispensable. The purpose of my essay is to present and compare the Hungarian and American medical liability systems with a particular focus on medical malpractice and its impact on the pursuit of justice. I will light out that the Hungarian and the American legal frameworks concerning medical liability differ in several aspects, including the burden of proof, statutes of limitations, damage caps, and compensation mechanisms. By comparing and contrasting these two distinct contexts, i would like to show the strengths and weaknesses of each system and identify potential areas for improvement. Potential improvements may include clearer guidelines for determining medical malpractice, establishing specialist medical malpractice courts, incentivizing early settlement, and evaluating the need for limitation on damages. In conclusion, this essay presents an analysis of the medical liability systems in Hungary and the United States, focusing on medical malpractice. Through a comparative examination I would like to point out the need for reform to ensure justice for patients while protecting the healthcare profession. By learning from one another, both countries have the potential to enhance their respective medical liability systems and provide better avenues for resolving medical malpractice claims.

Potential appendix to János Kornai's “revisited system paradigm”

AbstractJános Kornai published an interesting and important paper in 2000 about the “system paradigm”, and another in 2016 about the “system paradigm revisited”. In the last one he made a theoretical approach for differences between democracies, autocracies and dictatorships; made a typology for the most important elements for characterization of different political systems. In the second half of the 2010’s a debate has started among political analysts, public intellectuals and journalists, how we can characterize the new political system of Hungary led by Viktor Orbán. We can read detailed analyses about “hybrid regime”, “limited democracy”, “illiberal democracy”, “plebiscite leader democracy” etc. In this paper I would like to deal with the question of different political systems in general, and – on the experiences of the debates about the current Hungarian system – I would like to think further – the Kornai's model. Kornai pointed out 10 elements for characterization of it (the questions of removable governments, opposition parties in parliaments, elections, civil society, freedom of press, etc.) – I would like to differentiate 10 new potential elements, especially from the side of the political ideas, historical backgrounds and other viewpoints.

Characteristics of Illicit Access to Data and Crimes against Information Systems in Hungary between 2013 and 2021

Aim: The aim of the study is to present the results of the research carried out by the National Institute of Criminology on the implementation of the Criminal Code. Chapter XLIII of the Criminal Procedure Code was conducted by the National Institute of Criminology.Methodology: The study was conducted using the methodology of data collection, data analysis, criminal file analysis.Findings: The domestic regulatory environment adequately covers a wide range of cyber-attacks. Hungarian characteristics can be seen in the broader perspective of current international and European developments in cyber security and cybercrime. The data show a steady but not uniform increase in the number of reports of such crimes, as more and more people use various information systems in their daily lives, while neglecting, in whole or in part, measures to ensure their safe use. The conclusion of the national survey is that there are several types of offences which are basically well defined. It may be a challenge for law enforcement to keep track of new types of offences and to classify individual offences.Value: Conclusions and recommendations on the specifics of the offences covered by Chapter XLIII of the BPC; the (new) Criminal Code since its entry into force, there has been no research of this scope and content on the topic, including criminal document analysis, in Hungary.

Investigation of the Geometrical Deterioration of Paved Superstructure Tramway Tracks in Budapest (Hungary)

In the 21st century, one of the key requirements is to develop and maintain our infrastructure facilities most efficiently using the available resources. Tramways are of significant national economic importance and represent an important national asset. There are currently seven different types of superstructure systems in Hungary, based on the national regulations and the related requirements currently in force. This paper compares the paved tramway superstructure systems in the context of track geometry, through-rolled axle tons of track, and the age of track sections. Paved tracks have many benefits, but the main ones are easier maintenance and road traffic use. Elastically supported continuous rail bedding (ESCRB; in Hungary, this is known as “RAFS”) and “large” slab superstructure systems are used to create paved superstructure systems. Road crossings use the latter systems, while heavily loaded lines use several ESCRB systems. This article examines the geometrical changes in several ESCRB superstructure systems. A TrackScan 4.01 instrument was used to take measurements in June and September 2021 and in April 2022, September 2022, and May 2023. Track gauge, alignment, and longitudinal level are examined. Regardless of the ESCRB superstructure system or age, a medium-loaded line’s track gauge trendline increases, which means that the track gauge is widening and, regardless of traffic load or age, the average longitudinal level is constantly increasing from year to year. When it is a medium-loaded line, the average value of alignment increases slightly, and the trendline is almost straight, but it decreases when it is an extremely heavily loaded line. The authors will analyze how the reference track section will change in the future. Based on the results, it is important to assess how subsequent measurements affect the trend lines. Because the data evaluations show similar results, comparing open tramway tracks to paved ones is crucial.

The opportunities of the resilience measurement in the family and child protection system in Hungary

This paper provides insight into the Hungarian research results of resilience among children, carried out in the research workshop of Rubeus Association and Gál Ferenc University. Our objective by communicating the research results published in the study was to exhibit the process and areas of applicability of measure instrument developments completed between 2018-2021, in the public and civil society sectors of the Hungarian Family and Child Protective System. We measuered the child resilience and the parental attitudes among the different targetgroups in Hungary. The children and their parents consist of the sample who are in very difficult lifepositions, dispite of they able to live with the help of the innovative model program wich in they are supported by professionals to able to live.

Multimethodological Revisit of the Surface Water and Groundwater Interaction in the Balaton Highland Region—Implications for the Overlooked Groundwater Component of Lake Balaton, Hungary

The hummocky Balaton Highland is located in western Hungary and is part of the Transdanubian Mountains, the most extensive carbonate aquifer system in Hungary. The study region also encompasses Lake Balaton, the biggest lake in central Europe, which is to the south of Balaton Highland. The surface water–groundwater interaction in the Balaton Highland–Lake Balaton region and the groundwater contribution to Lake Balaton are revisited in this paper. Hydrostratigraphic classification was performed first; then, groundwater flow directions by hydraulic head distribution were analysed, and baseflow indices of surface watercourses were calculated. Regarding hydrochemical characterisation, general hydrochemical facies were identified, natural tracers of temperature, chloride and uranium were applied, and the stable isotopic composition of oxygen and hydrogen was determined. Finally, groundwater flow and heat transport were simulated in a 2D numerical model. A high level of hydraulic interaction was evidenced between surface water and groundwater and the sub-regions of Bakony Mountains, Balaton Highland and Lake Balaton by physical and chemical parameters, numerical simulation and groundwater-flow-related natural manifestations, revealing hydraulic continuity in the study region. Based on the results, the division of legislative water bodies can be reconsidered, especially that surface water and groundwater should be regarded as interconnected, and Lake Balaton can be considered a groundwater-dependent ecosystem in any water-use planning in the region.

The Impact of Pension Reforms on the Sustainability of Pay-as-You-Go System in Hungary: Theory and Policy

The Impact of Pension Reforms on the Sustainability of Pay-as-You-Go System in Hungary: Theory and Policy

The Role of The Dependency Ratio In The Sustainability of The Pay-As-You-Go Pension System In Hungary

The Role of The Dependency Ratio In The Sustainability of The Pay-As-You-Go Pension System In Hungary

Start-Up Ecosystem: Proposals for Fuelling the Hungarian Start-Up Scene

The essay examines the role of the start-up ecosystem in the economy. It offers an international outlook to analyse the features of the Hungarian system, points out areas for development and reviews international best practices. The examination shows that overarching cooperation among economic actors could engender a startup scene where not only 30,000 new high value-added jobs would be created, but also around EUR 1.3 billion in direct funding would appear in the economy.

Mapping Freshwater Aquaculture’s Diverse Ecosystem Services with Participatory Techniques: A Case Study from White Lake, Hungary

Freshwater aquaculture has a significant role in fish production and biodiversity conservation. Due to climate change, however, the sustenance of fish farms became more challenging, endangering both people and natural values. The establishment of multi-purpose fishpond systems, utilizing ecosystem services besides fish production, could serve as a long-term solution for this problem. However, the lack of knowledge about fishponds’ ecosystem services creates an obstacle in the process. We would like to lower this barrier by mapping 13 different ecosystem services of White Lake, one of the most prominent fishpond systems in Hungary. The results of two different participatory mapping techniques indicated that standing waters, reedy areas, and canals, possessed the highest potential values in the provision of the listed ecosystem services, marking them as the most important areas for future developments. In the case of current sources, local experts linked the highest values to reedy areas and lookout towers. Participatory mapping also indicated that microclimate regulation and bird watching were the most widely used ecosystem services after fish production. By collecting and visualizing experts’ spatial data about White Lakes’ ecosystem services, our unique paper has the potential to serve future decision-making and provide a basis for further studies on this topic.

How the Russo-Turkish War over Ukraine (1677–81) Changed the Course of Hungarian History

How the Russo-Turkish War over Ukraine (1677–81) Changed the Course of Hungarian History