bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corpus Analysis of Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19)-Related Loneliness in Twitter (Preprint)
Authors: Shurafa Chereen , Zaghouani Wajdi
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Loneliness is a complex mental health issue involving feelings of isolation, disconnectedness, and a lack of purpose in life. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic and lockdowns significantly increased social isolation, contributing to a global rise in loneliness on social online platforms. However, research on mental health expressions in Arabic on social media is limited, exacerbating the lack of understanding of loneliness and mental health issues in these communities. Stigma and societal resistance in the Middle East hinder individuals from seeking mental health support, a trend which was particularly noticeable amidst the challenges of the pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to conduct a corpus analysis of an open-source dataset to gain insights into the origin of how loneliness was expressed in Arabic on Twitter during the initial months of COVID-19 regulations. Additionally, it explored temporal trends during the same time period to enhance comprehension of the prevalence of loneliness and mental health struggles during the initial months of the pandemic.

METHODS

Grounded in corpus linguistic methodology, the study also employs thematic analysis, explores temporal trends, and conducts Inter-Annotator Agreement (IAA) to comprehend the prevalence of loneliness and mental health struggles during the pandemic's early stages.

RESULTS

Our analysis of Twitter data using AntConc revealed crucial insights into the origins of mental health challenges and loneliness during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Employing sophisticated linguistic techniques, we identified over 18,000 instances of loneliness-related terms, which deepened our understanding of the issue. Emotions were expressed through various themes, with a significant focus on COVID-19 news and opinions. The advanced search features of AntConc were instrumental in this process, allowing us to gauge word frequency and locate relevant tweets. The association between loneliness and the pandemic was clear, especially with the word "corona" being the most frequent collocate. Thematic analysis identified the seven key themes that were despair in the face of uncertainty, grief for the loss of life, hope through faith, opinions on COVID-19, opinions on isolation, COVID-19 news, and fear of illness which characterized the emotional landscape during this time. Inter-Annotator Agreement highlighted the diversity of interpretations.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates the crucial role social media plays in capturing and understanding human emotions during major global events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Our AntConc analysis offers insights into mental health and loneliness during the early COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights the Arabic-speaking online community's experiences and contributes to global understanding of mental health and social media dynamics. This approach can be applied to different languages, enriching our understanding of loneliness and mental health during crises.
Enhancing Brain Connectivity and Improving Anxiety, Depression, and Sleep through Computing Technology for Mental Health with a Convenient Head-Wearing Device Equipped with Bioceramic Material (Preprint)
Authors: leung Yu-Chen
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

This pilot study aimed to investigate the potential efficacy of non-invasive Bioceramic brain stimulation (BMS) in improving brain connectivity and alleviating symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances.

OBJECTIVE

The study enrolled 25 healthy participants who underwent BMS and completed anxiety, depression, and sleep quality questionnaires before and after the intervention. Standard preprocessing techniques were applied to the resting-state fMRI data collected from the participants.

METHODS

Functional connectivity analyses were conducted to analyze the data and examine the effects of BMS on brain connectivity.

RESULTS

Following the administration of BMS, significant improvements were observed in anxiety, depression, and sleep quality scores among the participants. Furthermore, enhanced functional connectivity was identified within the default mode network, as well as between different brain regions associated with emotional regulation, sensory processing, and cognitive control.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study provide preliminary evidence supporting the potential efficacy of BMS as a non-invasive technique for brain stimulation. The observed improvements in symptoms and enhanced functional connectivity suggest that BMS may hold promise for the treatment of neurological and emotional disorders.

CLINICALTRIAL

The study was conducted at the Taoyuan General Hospital in Taiwan, and the research protocol involving human subjects was approved by the Medical Ethics and Institutional Review Board of the Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan (Approval No.: TYGH106015).
Effectiveness of using H. Kitaoka (AOFAS) scale, FFI (Italian version), Roles and Maudsley score, VAS in patients with flatfoot
Authors: Liabakh A.P. , Turchin O.A. , Pyatkovskyi V.M.
Published: February 2024

Assessment of the functional capacity of the foot requires adequate tools depending on a specific nosology. Objective: to investigate the possibility of using evaluation scale of H. Kitaoka (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS)), Foot Function Index (FFI) (Italian version), Roles and Maudsley score, visual analog scale (VAS) in patients with flatfoot. Materials and methods. Clinical and X-ray examinations of 63 patients (78 feet) who had flatfoot were performed. Their average age was 42.5 ± 2.0 (9–72) years. X-ray and clinical indicators were used: horizontal and vertical talo-metatarsal angles (TMA), angle of valgus deviation of the calcaneus, body mass index. The assessment of the functional state of the foot was carried out according to the H. Kitaoka (AOFAS) scale, FFI (Italian version), Roles and Maudsley score, VAS. The strength of the relationship between indicators was studied ­using Pearson’s pairwise correlations; a correlation regression analysis was performed on models where the indicators of rating scales were the dependent variables. Results. There was an inverse correlation between the foot function score (AOFAS) and the age and TMA, a direct correlation between the FFI and the age and body mass index, a direct dependence of functional insufficiency (Roles and Maudsley score) and pain level (VAS) on age. A sufficient degree of correlation (0.5–0.75) was found between the applied scales. Conclusions. Sufficient criterial and construct validity of the AOFAS scale, FFI (Italian version), Roles and Maudsley score, VAS was found when used in patients with flatfoot. The use of selected scales is an adequate tool for assessing functional capacity in patients with flatfoot.
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy: options in chronic osteomyelitis (literature review)
Authors: Gertsen G.I. , Remenyuk Yu.K. , Sikorska M.V. , Bilonozhkin H.H.
Published: February 2024

The use of extracorporeal shock wave therapy under experimental conditions has shown the effectiveness of the method in soft tissue and skeletal infections. In vitro, an energy-dependent effect of shock waves on reducing the viability of Staphylococcus aureus and other pathogenic flora was revealed. For the manifestation of the antibacterial activity of shock waves towards pathogenic bacteria of the typical flora in chronic osteomyelitis, at least 1,000 pulses were required, and for its almost complete eradication (99 %), 4,000 pulses were applied at an energy flux density of 0.59–0.96 mJ/mm2. Most authors confirm the isolated (without antibiotics) antibacterial effect of shock waves in vitro, although there are opposite opinions. It is known that pathogenic bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, form protective biofilms on infected soft, bone tissues, implants. Due to this, the emerging infection is difficult to treat for a number of reasons — the biofilm prevents the penetration of antibiotics and immune cells. In vitro studies have shown that shock waves destroy biofilms of pathogenic bacteria and create conditions for a joint bactericidal effect with antibiotics. In vivo observations under the conditions of modeling experimental osteomyelitis in animals have demonstrated bacteriologically that extracorporeal shock wave therapy, when used alone, does not have an antibacterial effect, however, a lower degree of osteomyelitis was detected morphologically. The authors stated the synergism of shock waves with antibiotics in the treatment of chronic osteomyelitis in animals, up to the bactericidal effect. Studies on the impact of shock waves on biofilms of pathogenic bacteria typical for soft tissue infections, chronic osteomyelitis, both in vivo and in vitro, showed that after the application of the method, the pathogenic flora becomes susceptible to antibiotic therapy. The currently widespread opinion about the contraindication of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the presence of infection in the body, due to the risk of exacerbation of the inflammatory process, the likelihood of bacteremia, sepsis, and foci of secondary infection, has not been confirmed in the experimental studies in vivo. Many research have shown the absence of similar or other complications in animals after the use of shock waves. The analysis of the presented data indicates the need for further study of the mechanism of extracorporeal shock wave effect on chronic osteomyelitis, possible complications associated with the use of the method, as well as its approbation in the clinic.
Multifunctional capabilities of СО2 for providing pharmacodynamics of carboxytherapy
Authors: Shtroblia V.V. , Filip S.S. , Lutsenko R.V.
Published: February 2024

Background. To identify potential opportunities for carboxytherapy, it is necessary to assess the importance of various signaling mechanisms of sensitivity to СО2 and summarize the knowledge about the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial and safe effects of carboxytherapy. High level of СО2 activates the mechanisms that convert hypoxia into the mode of survival and physiological homeostasis. The balance between the pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory phases in inflammation also shifts towards homeostasis when tissue СО2 level increases, which is very important for wound and fracture healing. The physiological properties of СО2 provide oxygenation, enhancement of angiogenesis, mitochondrial biogenesis, blood flow in tissues, anti-inflammatory effect, and reduction of oxidative stress. These pro-perties of СО2 determine the potential use of carboxytherapy as a therapeutic approach in tissue hypoxia, to accelerate tissue repair and reduce inflammation. Methods. Тhe search for scientific information on the possibilities of СО2 in medicine was conducted in the PubMed and Google Scholar electronic databases. Results. Literature data on СО2 studies aimed at the mechanisms of pharmacological action of carboxytherapy were found, which have been investigated in animal models in vivo and in research with human participants. Conclusions. This review presents the scientific evidence supporting the clinical benefits of therapeutic exposure to СО2 (carboxytherapy).
Exploration of Effective Articulation Path between Consolidation of Poverty Eradication Achievements and Rural Revitalization--Taking Shuanghuai Township of Hechuan District as an Example
Authors: Yu Hong
Published: February 2024

After the comprehensive victory in the battle against poverty, rural revitalization has become the focus of China's rural work at this stage and in the coming period. As an important part of industrial prosperity, consolidating the results of industrial poverty alleviation is the prerequisite and foundation for realizing industrial prosperity, and it is an important measure for realizing rural revitalization. As the consolidation of the results of poverty alleviation and rural revitalization are still in the exploratory stage in terms of the interface between the results of poverty alleviation and rural revitalization. Taking Shuanghuai Town of Hechuan District as an example, this study proposes specific paths for consolidating the results of poverty alleviation and rural revitalization effectively articulated in five aspects: industrial revitalization path, organizational revitalization path, talent revitalization path, cultural revitalization path, and ecological revitalization path, with a view to providing an articulated path reference for the realization of rural revitalization.
Holistic and Multidisciplinary Education Approaches in Higher Education NEP 2020
Authors: Sharma Dr. Abhay Kumar , Solanki Solanki ParesaBen H , Chamol Sangita
Published: February 2024

Abstract: National Education Policy: 2020 is ground-breaking step taken by Indian Government in the field of Education. We are living in the post modern virtual world where the boundary of the education of a country is kaput and enriched with the affluent global thoughts. Indian education has the greatest heritage and glorious past. It has been altering its form according to the passage of time on the demand of the crisis influenced by social, political and economical issues. The present study will focus on the holistic and multidisciplinary dimension of New Education Policy: 2020. The researcher will discuss how holistic attitude of education plays an important role in the field of ‘all round development’ of the child; and the researcher will find out how much multidisciplinary approach is relevant in contemporary education system in the respect of global education. The researcher has gone through the report of the previous education policies, committees and studied related literature closely which are desirable for this study. The findings of this study will help its readers to understand the context to introduce NEP 2020 by Government; the reader will realize the stream of the change of education policy, he/she will aware previous history of education in brief. The researcher has taken philosophical research method to convey philosophy of education and philosophy of life as well. The novelty of this study is to recognize the importance of the approach of holistic education in modern education system and curriculum. And then the readers will be able to distinguish how much multidisciplinary educational approach is significant for survival which is the ultimate aim of all education. Keywords: holistic approach, multidisciplinary education, all round development, heritage
Mechanical Properties of Geopolymer Concrete Subjected to Elevated Temperature
Authors: Srinivas Dilip , Suresh Dr N
Published: February 2024

Abstract: The present study is to examine the influence of the sustained elevated temperature on hardened properties of the Geopolymer concrete (GPC), achieved by complete replacement of cement by GGBS and SCBA in the proportion of 70:30 andmixing with the sodium based alkaline activators with varying molar concentration of NaOH (4M,8M,12M). After completion of 28 days curing the specimens were kept inside the electric oven , capable of attaining a maximum temperature of 10000C and the required temperature of 2000C, 4000C, 6000C and 8000C was set. After a steady state is reached the specimens were sustained for a predetermined duration of 2 hours. After attaining the 2 hours sustained temperature specimens are set aside to cool to room temperature and tests are conducted to measure the residual strength of the specimens using proper experiment setup. The outcomes revealed that with increase of temperature the weight loss of specimens is increased and the residual compressive strength of the specimens is decreased, GPC has a better resistance against cracking and spalling up to 600 0C
A investigação criminal direta pelo ministério público e sua constitucionalidade
Authors:   , Santos Gabriel Souza dos
Published: February 2024

O presente artigo tem como objetivo estudar os impactos que a investigação criminal direta por parte do Ministério Público causa em toda a persecução penal, tratando dos argumentos favoráveis e contrários, analisando se há benefícios nessa prática para a solução de inúmeros casos que chegam ao conhecimento das autoridades todos os dias.
Abandono afetivo e material e as consequências jurídicas e sociais
Authors:   , Inoyama Cíntia Aiko
Published: February 2024

O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar e compreender os impactos causados pelo abandono afetivo e material familiar na sociedade, com base na opinião de juízes e doutrinadores tais como estudos de manuais, artigos científicos e jurisprudência. Foi utilizado o método de pesquisa descritiva com a finalidade de examinar os efeitos causados pelo abandono afetivo e material dos pais durante a infância dos filhos, partindo de uma revisão bibliográfica composta pelos principais autores e juristas da área, traçando uma linha de entendimento para definir e resolver os problemas trazidos com o tema proposto. O trabalho analisará a importância do princípio da dignidade da pessoa humana, princípio da solidariedade recíproca e do princípio da afetividade nas relações familiares. Para isso, será necessária uma pesquisa documental, utilizando-se de jurisprudência, leis, doutrinas, artigos. Através desta metodologia, será possível realizar o estudo dos impactos que o abandono afetivo e material poderá causar na sociedade.
A violação dos direitos fundamentais no cárcere brasileiro e o estado de coisas inconstitucional
Authors:   , Pinheiro Nathalia Dornelas
Published: February 2024

O presente artigo trata principalmente sobre a violação dos direitos fundamentais no cárcere brasileiro e o estado de coisas inconstitucional, ou seja, a notória falha quanto ao efetivo cumprimento de direitos essenciais previamente previstos na constituição federal de 1988, que confere direitos básicos a todo e qualquer ser humano para que se viva em condições dignas. Trás consigo ainda o objetivo de analisar os direitos fundamentais violados para entender as consequências à sociedade com relação a inobservância estatal e as falhas de execução penal por parte do poder punitivo deste. Utilizou-se para este artigo uma metodologia descritiva e exploratória no que diz respeito ao abordar os temas em questão, contando com técnicas de pesquisa através de doutrinas, artigos e bases de dados.
Abortamento em gestação decorrente de crime de violência sexual
Authors:   , Rosa Beatriz Santa
Published: February 2024

Com o objetivo de evidenciar a luta enfrentada pelas vítimas de violência sexual resultante em gestação indesejada, o presente artigo cientifico apontará as falhas do cumprimento da lei, constantes no Código Penal Brasileiro, bem como, a formas possíveis de lidar com estas situações tão complexas e garantir a aplicabilidade do exercício do direito de forma justa. Através de pesquisas, artigos, doutrinas e leis, foi possível concluir que por mais que este direito esteja disposto há anos na lei brasileira, permanece grandemente ignorado, por se tratar de um assunto envolto de opiniões controversas, resultando por muitas vezes a proibição do livre exercício desta norma, e escolhendo pelas vítimas o seu futuro. Diante disso, se mostra a importância de políticas públicas efetivas e até mesmo a informação a população em relação aos seus direitos e saúde.
Concept of accounting for transaction costs: problems and prospects
Authors:   National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Lytvynenko Volodymyr , Khomovyi Serhii ,   Bila Tserkva National Agrarian University, Tomilova-Yaremchuk Nadiia ,   Bila Tserkva National Agrarian University
Published: February 2024

Research in the field of institutional economics has proved the importance of transaction costs in economic governance. However, it is quite difficult to obtain reliable data about the a of the enterprise transaction costs because transaction costs are not reflected in the accounting as a separate item. The aim of this article is to explain the rationale of the concepts of accounting for transaction costs on the separate synthetic account and on the basis of analytical accounting data with the help of modern information systems. To achieve this goal, the authors reviewed existing approaches to the classification of transaction costs for the purpose of registration. The study analysed research works on the assessment of transaction costs’ proportion in the economies of selected countries and Ukraine. The authors estimated transaction costs of the investigated agricultural enterprises according to accounting data. The study reviewed research approaches to obtain the data about the transaction costs’ accounting in companies. As a result of the research, the authors developed the methods of the transaction costs’ accounting on the separate synthetic account and by the help of analytical data of ERP systems. Also, the authors proposed the classification of transaction costs, adapted for the opening of analytical accounts for accounting.
Factors impacting the amount of state social insurance benefits in Latvia
Authors:   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Mistre Baiba , Leibus Inguna ,   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Bulina Iveta ,   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies
Published: February 2024

State social insurance benefits play an essential role in situations where residents experience any of the social risks (unemployment, sickness, disability, maternity etc.), since the benefits partially compensate for the previous income of residents. State social insurance benefits in Latvia include benefits in case of unemployment (unemployment benefit and benefit in case of death of an unemployed person) and benefits and allowances for maternity and sickness insurance (maternity and paternity benefits, parental allowance, sickness benefit and funeral allowance). The defined research hypothesis states that the amount of social insurance benefit and wage remuneration are subject to the impact of the same factors. The research aim is to study factors impacting state social insurance benefits in Latvia. The authors have identified factors impacting work remuneration and respectively social insurance benefits based on the scientific literature and the research of the Ministry of Welfare of the Republic of Latvia. In the course of the research, seven experts were asked to evaluate the identified factors by means of the paired method and determine the most significant factors influencing the amount of social insurance benefits. The research results show that experience and education (personality-related factors) are among the most important factors influencing wage remuneration and, hence, the amount of social insurance benefits. The research highlighted a necessity to make a proposal to the State Employment Agency to continue organising various training courses and educational programmes that increase the qualification of an employed person. However, the influence of a region was noted by experts as the main factor when evaluating the impact of the workplace on the wage remuneration.
Charitable activities of economic entities during the period of martial law in Ukraine: essence and regulatory and accounting aspects
Authors:   Vinnytsia National Agrarian University, Podolianchuk Olena , Ozeran Alla ,   Kyiv National Economic University named after  Vadym Hetman, Ukraine, Myskiv Liubov ,   National University of Life and Environmental  Sciences of Ukraine, Ukraine
Published: February 2024

The full-scale invasion of Russia on the territory of Ukraine caused a significant need for additional resources, which began to come from foreign countries, international partners, and from the Ukrainians themselves. The purpose of the study is to develop a method of accounting for charity donations to the Armed Forces of Ukraine and to substantiate recommendations regarding their accounting display by business entities. The task of the article is to reveal of the content and research of the normative and legal framework for the regulation of charity activities, characteristics of the current system of accounting for charity expenses, with the aim of identifying problematic issues in the conditions of martial law. The forms of charity (volunteer, humanitarian, philanthropic) are characterized and the types (charitable donation, charitable grants, public collection of charitable donations, charitable servitudes and charitable endowments) and methods of charity activity are substantiated. The characteristic features of charitable assistance are substantiated: voluntariness, selflessness, purposeful activity. The need to regulate certain provisions and clarify the terminological apparatus in the field of charitable activities at the level of current legislation is substantiated. It is proposed to clarify the legislative definition of the content of the category "charitable activity (charity)" and introduce additions to the legislative documents of the terms "charitable assistance", "humanitarian activity", "patron", "patronage assistance". The revenues of the consolidated state budget of Ukraine in the period from 2014, from the beginning of the occupation of certain territories of Ukraine by the Russian Federation, until now have been analysed. Problematic aspects of the accounting of charitable assistance provided by business entities for the needs of the army are identified and the relevance of solving this methodological issue is substantiated. The obligation to document charitable donations for the benefit of the army with standard forms of documents and the Act of acceptance and transfer of humanitarian (charitable) aid is substantiated, which will confirm the fact of providing charitable aid, ensure the legitimacy of the operations carried out and reduce abuses in this area. The main accounting stages of the provision of charitable assistance are highlighted. The practical value of the study lies in the development of proposals regarding the accounting system for charitable donations to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which will contribute to reducing the risks of erosion of the tax base by business entities, as well as increasing the level of information provision for stakeholders at various levels of management.
An overview of biofuel potential from energy crops waste biomass
Authors:   Vytautas Magnus University, Buzinskiene Rita
Published: February 2024

In order to mitigate climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and ensure the security of energy independence, it is important to expand immediately the energy crop waste biomass utilization in the agricultural sector. The aim of the study is to assess the potential of energy crop waste biomass with particular focus on biofuels in the case of Lithuania. The posed research question is: what type of energy crop waste biomass is considerable for the consumption of biofuel production. The results of analysis showed that the dominant position was associated with biodiesel production in Lithuania's transport sector, followed by bioethanol production. Biogas production has taken the lowest position in the biofuel industry. It was determined that the highest potential of biofuel was associated with four based energy crops. Unfortunately, the biofuel potential is still not used by utilization of other energy crops. The recommendation is to promote the cultivation of energy crops, such as miscanthus, hemp, switchgrass, reed canary grass, and others energy crops in the agricultural sector of Lithuania.
Modelling the state of agrarian enterprises’ economic security with management accounting tools
Authors:   Kyiv National Economic University named after Vadym Hetman, Kyiv, Ukraine, Hnylytska Larysa , Korshykova Renata ,   Kyiv National Economic University named after Vadym Hetman, Kyiv, Ukraine, Boiarova Olena ,   National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: February 2024

The purpose of the research is to develop a modified version of a risk-oriented approach for assessing the state of economic security of agricultural enterprises, which is based on the management accounting methodological tools and involves the formation of a system of indicators that determine the impact of risk factors on changes in the results of the enterprise’s activities. The usage of the following methods was the methodological basis of the research: analysis and synthesis to establish the interrelationship of analytical indicators applied in models for assessing the state of economic security of business entities; theoretical generalization and grouping to substantiate management accounting tools that serve as risk indicators for lowering the level of economic security; comparison in conducting an analytical assessment of actual performance indicators of agricultural enterprises with their indicators. The paper puts forward a hypothesis about the priority of management accounting in information support for safety oriented management and forms a system of indicators used as risk assessment indicators for the activities of agricultural enterprises, including the C/S ratio, the margin of safety, the breakeven point, and the operating leverage factor. The practical value of the scientific research is justified by the proposed approach for assessing the state of economic security of agricultural enterprises, which methodologically expands the toolkit of security specialists and contributes to strengthening the argumentation for funding protective measures to reduce the impact of critical risks and threats. The testing of the proposed approach to modelling the state of economic security has revealed catastrophic risks associated with the inefficient cost structure of domestic agricultural enterprises. In conditions of a decrease in the market volume for agricultural products, this leads to a sharp increase in the losses of activities and a decline in the level of economic security.
Bioeconomy concept and possibilities of its implementation in Uzbekistan agriculture for making it more attractive for investments
Authors:   Tashkent Institute of Finance, Raimjanova Madina , Popluga Dina ,   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies
Published: February 2024

One of the most crucial elements in the development of Uzbekistan's agricultural sector is investment. When compared to 2002, the monetary number of investments in agriculture increased by 176.7 times, which had a beneficial impact on agricultural exports, value added, gross output, and food manufacturing. However, for more rapid and dynamic agricultural development even bigger investments are needed. This study analyses possibilities of implementing bioeconomy concept in Uzbekistan agriculture for making this sector more attractive for investments. In this study authors explain bioeconomy concept as set of activities were renewable bioresources are basis for all economic processes in agriculture, agricultural production is promoted by research and innovation, and were broad cross-sectoral and institutional focus is present. . In this study, the authors have identified agricultural priorities in Uzbekistan, analysed direction and character of agriculture development in Uzbekistan depending on the number of investments, identified Uzbekistan’s needs for bioeconomy development. In order to make agricultural sector more attractive for investments this study authors recommend that it is necessary to develop and implement a state program for the development of bioeconomy, containing a set of its goals and priorities, mechanisms for achieving and ensuring them, principles for selecting participants in the production process, as well as determining their powers and degree of responsibility.
Visual mediated dialogue in distance education
Authors:   Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Lithuania, Valantinaite Ilona , Asakaviciute Vaida ,   Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Lithuania, Sedereviciute-Paciauskiene Zivile ,   Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Lithuania
Published: February 2024

The way people communicate, work, and socialize has changed in the 21st century. Using a virtual environment, we lose connection and dialogue with the person. A person becomes an object. Losing a relationship, we lose responsibility. Only dialogue allows us to become individuals who are not selfish and limited. When education moved to the Internet, the issues mentioned above became crucial. Virtual dialogue in digital space can be termed as a quasi-dialogue focused on creating and maintaining superficial, consumer, short-term relationships, which are not based on values and intrinsic connection. Directness, the certainty of emotions and feelings, disappears here. Mediated communication has become the norm, but interactive dialogue constructed through the Internet only mimics the illusion of closeness because the human face and voice remain inauthentic. Without personal dialogue, education is not possible. It is possible to learn but not possible to transfer the values to develop thinking. The article presents the view of the learners about visual contact during their distance lectures. The purpose of the research is to reveal the harmony between Buber's and the learners' views on the role of the use of video cameras in the study process. A qualitative research (an open-ended question) was conducted. The research participants comprised 82 1st year students of their studies: 47 were studying online for their undergraduate diploma (B), and 35 were studied online for the doctorate diploma (D). Qualitative research showed that the widest role of using a video camera is associated with a quality study process, emphasizing information transfer and reception, concentration of attention, active learning and settlements. The pursuit of the quality of distance studies rests on Buber's philosophy in search of a person, life and the constant manoeuvring between the relationship I-Thou and I-It. In remote studies, as in face-to-face studies, the most important focus remains the relationship, connection, the interaction of people, exchanging values, information and perception. Regardless of the political, economic situation, and at the same time the change of educational paradigms, learners are looking for the I-Thou relationship in the education/study process.
Psychological Correlates of Time Perception
Authors:   Daugavpils University, Latvia, Makarevics Valerijs , Ilisko Dzintra ,   Daugavpils University, Latvia
Published: February 2024

A person exists in space and time. His or her life and work are subject to a temporal rhythm. Each of us has his/her own psychological time, which is different from the objective, physical time measured by the chronometer. The perception of time is a part of human experience, which is important for everyday behavior and for the survival of an individual organism. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between the accuracy of perceived time intervals and the specifics of the activity, age and functional state of an individual. One’s functional state of being is understood as a level of well-being, activity and a mood of a person. In the experiment, respondents were offered to watch two videos of different lengths. At the end of the demonstration, they had to estimate the duration of video. Before demonstration, all participants filled in a SAN test form, which determined the level of their functional state. The results of the study indicate that there are no relationship between the accuracy of perception of the duration of the demonstration of video films, age, as well as the specifics of the professional activities of respondents. The accuracy of perception is influenced by the well-being and level of activity of respondents.
Supervision Opportunities in Overcoming the Fear of Failure, Increasing Self-efficacy and Professional Achievement
Authors:   RISEBA University of Applied Sciences, Zumberga Rita K. , Zakrizevska-Belogrudova Maija ,   RISEBA University of Applied Sciences
Published: February 2024

Data suggest that, globally, an average of 40-50% of entrepreneurs and their management teams experience various types of fear of failure (FF), which is currently reinforced by the high levelsof uncertainty. Combined with the external circumstances, these factors create substantial barriers, echoes in the relationship between human resources and influences individual self-efficacy (SE), evaluation of opportunities, and the levels of mental health. Although psychologists emphasize that, in the sample of entrepreneurs, FF may transform into a stimulus and a factor that increases motivation, the levels of entrepreneurial confidence suggest a pessimistic frame of mind with regard to growth and development. The aim of the research study is to find out what effects FF amongst entrepreneurs and top-level managers has on their SE and professional achievements as well as whether supervision has a potential in overcoming the FF and increasing the levels of professional achievements. Using the approach of quantitative research, the authors created a questionnaire consisting of three parts: The FFSurvey (six fear factors), the Overall SE Survey and the Future-oriented Professional Achievements Survey - Proactive Career Engagement (PCE), Achievement Motivation (AM), Hope of Success (HOS). The questionnaire was completed electronically, and 193 respondents were surveyed. It was found out that statistically significant correlations and mutual influences exist between fear of failure, self-efficacy and professional achievements. In addition to that, statistically significant differences were found between the female and male sub-samples and also between the respondents who never attend any supervision sessions (or advisory sessions of any other type) and those whose attend such sessions "rarely" and "frequently". The research study enables supervisors and other advisors to develop amethodology in order to focus on the needs of entrepreneurs and top-level managers more purposefully and efficiently with regard to FF, SE and professional achievements.
The Impact of The School on The Development of Normative Understanding of Citizenship: The Case of Latvia
Authors:   University of Latvia, Strode Ieva
Published: February 2024

Analysing the normative perceptions of citizenship in society - what is a good citizen–what are the civic virtues that influence political behaviour–attention is paid not only to what these perceptions are but also to the political socialisation process–when and how the views were formed. Traditionally, schools have been seen as one of the most important agents of political socialisation. This study aims to determine how the Latvian population describes the formation of their normative notinos of citizenship and how they recall the influence of schools in this area. Qualitative methods were used to conduct the research based on 30 in-depth interviews that were conducted in the first part of 2022. Participants were selected by ensuring that people of different ages, genders, and ethnicities, as well as citizens with migration experience, were represented. The results of the study show that not only the Soviet past and the different approaches in Latvian and minority schools regarding political issues but also the changing curriculum and the lack of common standards have influenced the lack of a common understanding in this area. The study shows that the population is not used to reflecting on these topics, which suggests that it is necessary to activate discussions not only in school but also in society as a whole - what are the political values on which they want to base the future of the country?
Social inclusion vs social exclusion: the case of the Preili and Livani districts
Authors:   Rīga Stradiņš University, Latvia, Bite Dina , Sile Vija ,   Rīga Stradiņš University, Latvia
Published: February 2024

In August 2021, we carried out a study of the needs of socially isolated people in the Preiļi and Līvāni districts of Latvia. The aim was to identify the real situation of social exclusion in rural areas of Latvia in order to provide a more complete picture of the needs of socially excluded groups and thus contribute to regional development policy, especially from the perspective of social inclusion. The qualitative research approach was chosen to acquire information: interviews with representatives of socially excluded groups and semi-structured interviews with professionals working with different categories of socially excluded people. Social exclusion is a sensitive topic for those who are socially disadvantaged, so the basic principles of research ethics were strictly observed: personal autonomy, non-harm, confidentiality and fairness. The study found that the most pronounced form of social isolation is exclusion from the labour market. People who are unemployed, are trapped in a ‘poverty cycle’ from which they cannot escape without the help of social institutions. The information obtained does not confirm the long-standing assumption that long-term unemployed are mere ‘consumers of the system’, nor does it confirm the assumption that socially isolated people have high expectations of a high salary. Sometimes existing attempts to improve the situation of socially isolated people are not in line with their real needs, thus failing to achieve the intended goal. In general, the specificity of the region is such that there are no mass one-size-fits-all solutions, but each situation and problem has to be tailored individually
The performance of Latvian social enterprises: strengths, challenges and the vision for the future
Authors:   University of Latvia, Casno Kristine , Sloka Biruta ,   University of Latvia
Published: February 2024

Performance is a concept which is critical to both conventional businesses as well as social enterprises. However, for the latter, performance is closely tied to social impact which social enterprises and governments supporting the social entrepreneurship field are seeking to achieve. Despite the criticality of the topic, in Latvia performance of social enterprises has not been analyzed in detail before; therefore, this study serves as a valuable starting point for discussions and evidence-based policy and also as a benchmark for future development in the field. Research results indicate that the Latvian social enterprises regard their performance across the social dimensions to be stronger, compared to their results in the business/financial dimensions. A greater balance between the social and businesses/ financial performance dimensions is desirable, providing ample space for interventions aimed at strengthening the business skills and capacities of social enterprises, paying particular attention to those engaged in work integration.
Higher education and labor market trends in the transport and logistics sector
Authors:   Riga Technical University, Latvia, Auzina-Emsina Astra , Jurgelane-Kaldava Inguna ,   Riga Technical University, Latvia, Ozolina Velga ,   Riga Technical University, Latvia, Batenko Agnese ,   Riga Technical University, Latvia
Published: February 2024

Developed transport and storage sector has up-most importance for production capacities in regions, especially in rural areas, ensuring supplies and deliveries, including well-developed and maintained infrastructure, transport vehicles, IT systems and human capital. Till 2040 demand for highly-educated and qualified logistics specialists will increase in Latvia due to growing labor costs, introduction of new technologies and digital solutions. The aim of the study is to identify the recent trends that give valuable findings for education and regional development policy elaboration and implementation in order to achieve balanced regional development promoting also rural development. The findings reveal that the higher the share of population with higher education the higher the wages. The regions with the larger share of population with higher education are mainly urban and pre-dominantly urban regions. However, transport and logistics sector is in all regions as well as demand for logistics specialists. Balanced regional development is crucial for sustainable development in national and the European Union level.
Information sources on innovations and innovative activities for entrepreneurship development – views of entrepreneurs in Kurzeme region
Authors:   Ventpils University of Applied Sciences, Latvia, Stefenberga Dace , Sloka Biruta ,   University of Latvia, Rivza Baiba ,   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies
Published: February 2024

Innovations are very important condition and tool for competitive entrepreneurship. To obtain more effective approaches, researchers are devoting deepened analysis for many factors influencing innovations and innovative activities indicating that there is an important influence on different sources of information on innovations – own company, co-operation with universities and business incubators, with research organisations. Empirical research results were based on survey results of entrepreneurs and on analysis of obtained survey results by use of descriptive statistics indicators confirmed that entrepreneurs in Kurzeme region biggest inspiration get in their own company as well as from suppliers of equipment, programs and materials but they have less influence on information about innovations from universities and other higher education institutions as well as private organisations, also research organisations.
Regional analysis of performance indicators of Latvian business incubators
Authors:   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Markus Karlis , Rivza Baiba ,   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Rivza Peteris ,   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies
Published: February 2024

A regional analysis of performance indicators for Latvian business incubators provides a valuable insight into the performance of the business incubator ecosystem in various regions and helps to make future policy decisions on providing funding for the incubators that aim to support the growth and success of startups. The present research performed a regional analysis of operational programmes for two periods from 2007 to 2021. The strengths and weaknesses of Latvian business incubators across various regions of Latvia could be identified based on the analysis. This can help to make policy decisions and guide resource allocation to contribute to the development of the business incubator ecosystem in the future.
Analysis of inappropriately performed expenses of the revitalization projects of degraded areas
Authors:   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Kalnina Mairita , Rivza Peteris ,   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies
Published: February 2024

One of the most pressing problems of sustainable spatial development in Latvia is the existence of degraded areas. To address the issues of revitalization of degraded territories and to ensure sustainable development of the territory, Latvian municipalities could apply for support under the Specific Support Objective 5.6.2 (SSO 5.6.2) ‘Revitalization of territories through regeneration of degraded territories in accordance with integrated development program of municipalities’ during the European Union (EU) Structural Funds programming period 2014–2020. According to the Ministry of Finance (MF) data on project costs, it was found that during the implementation of the projects for revitalization of degraded territories, the local governments have not ensured an effective project management process in accordance with the implementation requirements of SSO 5.6.2, resulting in irregularities detected in the audits carried out on the projects, which have led to the decision on inappropriately performed expenses (IPE). Considering that the deadline for the implementation of projects under the 2014–2020 EU funds programming period is 31.12.2023, it is necessary to carry out an analysis of IPE to identify the reasons for the occurrence of IPE and to plan timely preventive actions to eliminate mistakes in the new programming period 2021–2027. The relevance and importance of the study lies in the analysis of the factors holding projects back - mistakes and irregularities and their prevention to ensure an efficient project management process.