bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early detection of SARS-CoV-2 P.1 variant in Southern Brazil and reinfection of the same patient by P.2
Authors: Silva Mariana Soares da , Demoliner Meriane , Hansen Alana Witt , Gularte Juliana Schons , Silveira Flávio , Heldt Fágner Henrique , Filippi Micheli , Silva Francini Pereira da , Mallmann Larissa , Fink Pietra , Silva Luana Letícia da , Weber Matheus Nunes , Almeida Paula Rodrigues de , Fleck Juliane Deise , Spilki Fernando Rosado
Published: April 2021

Multiple variants of Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are constantly reported across the world. B.1.1.28 lineage has been evolving in Brazil since February 2020 and originated P.1 (VOC) and P.2 (VOI). Here we describe an early case of P.1 primary infection in Southern Brazil in late November 2020, soon after the emergence of the variant in Manaus, Northern Brazil. The same patient suffered a reinfection case by another B1.1.28 variant, namely P.2, in March, 2021. Genomic analysis showed genetically significant differences between the viruses recovered in both infections. P.1 lineage at the first episode and P.2 at the reinfection. We also have investigated the circulation of P.1 in the same region by differential RT-qPCR, showing that this was an isolated case of P.1 at the time of detection, whereas the variant disseminated and became prominent from late January 2021 to the end of March 2021.
Mechanism of miR-590-3p carried by tumor-derived extracellular vesicles in promoting invasion and metastasis of ovarian cancer
Authors: Zheng Yunyun , Zhu Kang , Wang Guihu
Published: April 2021

Background

Ovarian cancer (OC) remains a common gynecologic malignancy. Tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) contribute to pro-metastasis microenvironment by carrying microRNAs (miRs). This study investigated the mechanism of miR-590-3p carried by OC cell-derived EVs in OC metastasis.
Methods

miR-590-3p expression in OC tissues and cells was measured. EVs were extracted from healthy serum and the serum of patients with OC or metastatic OC. EVs were extracted from OC cells and normal OC epithelial cells in vitro. miR-590-3p expression in EVs was tested. The effect of EVs-miR-590-3p on the proliferation, migration and invasion of OC cells was measured. The target of miR-590-3p was predicted and verified. The effect of miR-590-3p targeting CPEB3 on OC cells was confirmed by functional rescue assays. Xenograft tumor experiment was performed to verify the mechanism of EVs-miR-590-3p in the tumorigenesis and metastasis of OC.
Results

miR-590-3p expression was enhanced in OC, and correlated with OC metastasis. miR-590-3p was elevated in OC cell-derived EVs and could be transferred to other OC cells by EVs. OC cell-derived EVs facilitated proliferation, invasion and migration of OC cells by transferring miR-590-3p. miR-590-3p targeted CPEB3. Overexpressing CPEB3 repressed the promoting effect of EVs-miR-590-3p on OC cells. In vivo experiment confirmed that EVs-miR-590-3p facilitated tumorigenesis and metastasis of OC cells by targeting CPEB3.
Conclusion

OC cell-derived EVs facilitated progression and metastasis of OC via the miR-590-3p/CPEB3 axis.
Alterations of Autonomic Nervous System Activity in Children with Spina Bifida: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Kim Sang Woon , Franco Israel , Lee Yong Seung , Han Sang Won
Published: April 2021

We compared heart rate variability parameters of patients with spina bifida with those of a control group during urodynamic study to evaluate the autonomic nervous system dysfunction of spina bifida. Continuous heart rate variability parameters were recorded during 3 successive periods (P0: 2 minutes before the start of filling; P1: start of filling to the first desire to void; P2: P1 to the end of filling or the start of voiding). Children with vesicoureteral reflux who underwent video-urodynamic study were established as a control group. We included 11 patients with spina bifida and 9 controls. At baseline, patients with spina bifida had lower values of RMSSD, pNN50, and HF, while LF/HF ratio was increased (5.04 ± 4.75 vs 0.67 ± 0.42, p = 0.014). During bladder filling, LF/HF values increased in the control group (P0 0.67 ± 0.42 vs P1 0.89 ± 0.34 vs P2 1.21 ± 0.64, p = 0.018) while it was decreased in spina bifida patients (P0 5.04 ± 4.75 vs P1 3.96 ± 4.35 vs P2 3.26 ± 4.03, p < 0.001). HF were significantly increased in spina bifida children during bladder filling (p = 0.002). In time domain, SDNN was increased only in control group during bladder filling. Parasympathetic activity domains were decreased in children with spina bifida at baseline. During the bladder filling phase, parasympathetic activity increased with fixed sympathetic activity in spina bifida group while the control group demonstrated a shifted balance toward sympathetic preponderance at the end of bladder filling. These findings may be related to the pathophysiology of neurogenic bladder in spina bifida.
Numerical and experimental study on the flow characteristics and the erosive ability of magnetorheological jet
Authors: Lv Zhe , Hou Rongguo , Lu Ping , Wang Xiangtian
Published: April 2021

Fluid jet machining has been widely used in machining of hard-brittle materials. However, the diffusion of jet flow significantly affects the erosion capacity. Magnetorheological fluid has been considered to take the role of pure water for carrying abrasive particles, due to its better concentration when the external magnetic field is applied. The present investigation focuses on the flow characteristics of magnetorheological jet, which are involved in the basic aspects of erosion mechanism. Numerical models of excitation coil and jet flow field were established to investigate the fluid pressure distribution on the target surface and the trajectories of laden particles. Experiments were also conducted to verify the simulation results and evaluate the feasibility of MR jet on surface finishing. The results indicated that the utilization of high magnetic intensity can effectively improve the concentration of jet flow and the processing quality of workpiece surface.
Decreasing Trend of Plasmodium Falciparum and Vivax Transmission in Mojo Health Center, East Shoa Oromia Region, Ethiopia: a Retrospective Study
Authors: Abate Andargie , Golassa Lemu
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Malaria continues to strike hardest against the public health and economic development in Ethiopia. Its transmission tends to be highly heterogeneous within or between years, and from area to area which need understanding of the contextual diversity of malaria prevalence within each site to deliver optimal intervention according to the site specific situation of the disease. Thus, this study was aimed to determine the trend prevalence of malaria in Mojo health center, East Shoa Zone, Ethiopia. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in Mojo health center, East Shoa zone, Ethiopia from February to March, 2021. Malaria cases and related data reported 2016-2020 were carefully reviewed from laboratory registration logbooks. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS 25 software.Results: A total of 19, 106 blood films were examined from malaria suspected patients. The overall microscopically confirmed prevalence of malaria was 4.2%. P. vivax was the predominant species accounting 76.2% of positive samples. Malaria cases declined from 259 in 2016 to 77 in 2020. The proportion of malaria was higher among males (64.8%) than females (35.2%) in all five years. Higher malaria cases was observed from the age group 15-24 years old followed by the age group of 25-34. Malaria cases were at a peak level from September-November and lowest from December-February.Conclusion: Although the declining trend of malaria prevalence was observed, malaria still remains a public health burden in the area. The high burden of malaria among reproductive age group, males, and during cultivation season reflects its impact on health and economic development. Shifting of P. falciparum to P.vivax related malaria should get an attention during prevention and control strategies for the successful progress of malaria elimination programme.
Green Synthesis of Cobalt and Iron Incorporated Citric Acid/β-cyclodextrin Composites: Efficient H2O2 Scavengers
Authors: Pirouzmand Mahtab , Kojanag Behnaz Nikzad , Hosseini-Yazdi Seyed Abolfazl , Aghabeigy Nasrin
Published: April 2021

Sonochemical procedure was used to synthesize Co/β-cyclodextrin complex. For the first time Fe/β-cyclodextrin complex was also synthesized in alkaline media. Moreover, β-cyclodextrin was modified by citric acid (CA) and reacted with metal salts under ultrasonic irradiation. The prepared catalysts were characterized by using EDX, UV-vis and FTIR analytical techniques. The highest incorporation of metal into β-cyclodextrin was observed in the citric acid cross linked β-CD. The catalase like activity (peroxide scavenging) of Co/β-CD and Fe/β-CD complexes and composites was evaluated by UV–visible spectrophotometer and their superoxide scavenging capacity were measured using the pyrogallol method. The Co3/CA-β-CD complex showed the best catalase mimetic activity (93.2%) even in comparison to catalase enzyme extracted from potato. By contrast Fe3/CA-βCD complex had stronger capability to eliminate superoxide anion radicals.
Student Satisfaction Survey: A Key for Quality Improvement in the Higher Education Institution
Authors: Kanwar Anita
Published: April 2021

In India there are many higher education institutions and with growing population the number is incrementing day by day. Before taking admission in an institution student analyse the facilities and standard of the institution from the website and by taking peer opinions. Student contentment and feedback is gaining larger importance with mushrooming higher education institutions in India. This paper illustrates a method to analyse student feedback obtained from undergraduate and postgraduate students to assess the Student Satisfaction Index. The feedback is taken on overall infrastructure facilities, academic environment, services offered by the college, additional activities for overall development, quality of experiences and outcomes. This paper gives detailed information about the methodology, calculation and outcome of the exercise utilizing Likert scale analysis. With the recent emerging trends, this innovative method offers flexibility to integrate more parameters, group certain parameters to get feedback on a particular issue and transmute the type of questions with changing environment and structure. The analysis is done using a statistical method. The sample result directly highlights the importance and flexibility of method to evaluate overall satisfaction, satisfaction cognate to a single parameter and satisfaction for questions grouped together underlining some paramount aspects of higher education.
"Effect of Market-Driven Strategies on The Competitive Growth of SMEs in Lesotho".
Authors: Amadasun Donald Edes Osakpamwan , Mutezo Ashley T
Published: April 2021

Background : This paper established some market-driven strategies that influence the competitive growth of small and medium-sized enterprises in Lesotho. The paper identified the following factors; market orientation, competitive intensity, and technological dynamics as variables that influence SMEs’ competitive growth. The investigation insight shows that these critical factors of market-driven strategies are significant market facets in the enterprise that could capacitate SME entrepreneurs and managers to attain competitive growth. Findings: The results indicated that the market-driven strategic factors influence SMEs capacity to attaining competitive growth in the business environment. More specifically, the independent variables of market orientation, competitive intensity and technological dynamics are seen as key tenets of market-driven strategies that influence small and medium-sized enterprises’ competitive growth. Conclusions: From the analyses, this paper recommended that market-driven strategic constructs of market orientation, competitive intensity and technological dynamics are inimitable and tangible significant resources if harnessed in the enterprises, could serve as critical operational factors that influence SMEs competitive growth in Lesotho.
Blended Coatings from Polyaniline (PANI) and Chemically Doped Sodium Docecyl Benzene Sulphonate (SDBS)/SiO2 Nanocomposites: Influence on Corrosion Protection of Mild Steel
Authors: Raj N.Dhana , Mohanty Smita , (Self-nomination) Sanjay Nayak
Published: April 2021

In this work, investigation on corrosion protection performance of chemically synthesized polyaniline (PANI) / SiO2nanocomposite coatings has been carried out on Mild Steel (MS). Sodium docecyl benzene sulphonate (SDBS) doped conducting PANI / SiO2at different ratios was synthesized by employing in -situ polymerization technique. The developed coatings were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Contact angle, Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and corrosion analysis. The FTIR analysis indicates the strong interaction between PANI and SiO2 nanoparticles. The contact angle study reveals the hydophillicity character of the nanocomposite coatings with a water contact angle of 74.9°. Corrosion resistanceof uncoated mild steel and the coated sample in 3.5 % NaCl aqueous solution has been evaluated using weight loss methods. Additionally the Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) studies have been also conducted to evaluate the coorision protection characteristics of the coatings. PANI containing SiO2 (PSC III) coating showed excellent resistance after immersion in 3.5 % NaCl solution for 1 month time period.
Ceramide Levels and Covid-19 Respiratory Distress, a Causal Relationship
Authors: Khodadoust Mehran
Published: April 2021

A causal relationship between plasma ceramide concentration and Covid-19 patients with respiratory distress symptoms is presented. Hence, monitoring of plasma ceramide concentration, targeting ceramide synthesis, its salvage and its regulatory mechanisms, are validated approach towards enhancing survival from Covid-19 respiratory distress. In this study, plasma samples of 52 individuals infected with Covid-19 were utilized in a lipidomic analysis. Lipids belonging to ceramide class exhibited a 400-fold increase in total plasma concentration in infected patients. Further analysis lead to demonstration of concentration dependency, for severe Covid-19 respiratory symptoms, in a subclass of ceramides. The subclasses Cer(d18:0/24:1), Cer(d18:1/24:1), and Cer(d18:1/22:0) are shown to be increased by 48, 40, and 33–folds respectively in infected plasma samples, and to 116, 91 and 50-folds in plasma samples with respiratory distress.
How Does Environmental Regulations Effect Pattern of Carbon Emission and Energy Efficiency: A Provincial Level Analysis of Chinese Energy-Intensive Industries?
Authors: Ngo Thanh Quang
Published: April 2021

Energy has a huge environmental and economic implications in the modern community. Despite the rapid economic growth of China in the past two decades, it can further improve through sustainable green energy with more energy-efficient industries, so as to maintain a good balance between economic and social development. The performances of energy and carbon dioxide emissions are the critical indicators. On this basis, this work measures the impact of environmental regulations on energy efficiency based on 2008-17 panel data from 30 provinces in China. The total factor energy efficiency index (TFEEI) is calculated by the non-radial distance function (NDDF). In order to study the nonlinear relationship between environmental regulations and TFEEI, the dynamic threshold panel model is used under different environmental regulations, which can solve effectively endogenous problems and regional heterogeneity. The results show that, for energy-intensive industries, the overall average TFEEI level is still very low, with average values of 0.55 and 0.58, which are well below the ideal value (i.e., 1). Further, the dynamic panel data model findings showed a U-shaped significant relationship between China's TFEEI and environmental regulation. The findings reveal that environmental regulation effect on TFEI rises steadily as the values of Market-Based Environmental Regulations (MERs) and Command and control Environmental Regulations (CCERs) and surpass the corresponding thresholds. This research can help policymakers understand the effectiveness of various levels of environmental legislation to make more informed decisions.
Exercise stress assessed by automated measurements of salivary testosterone and cortisol levels and testosterone/cortisol ratio within circadian rhythms in male long-distance runners
Authors: Martha Larasati , Tsunekawa Katsuhiko , Ushiki Kazumi , Shoho Yoshifumi , Yanagawa Yoshimaro , Hase Koji , Shimoda Nozomi , Murata Mai , Aoki Tomoyuki , Yoshida Akihiro , Nakajima Kiyomi , Kimura Takao , Murakami Masami
Published: April 2021

Background: Exercise stress promoted cortisol and testosterone secretions that have their own circadian rhythms. It is necessary that the testosterone, cortisol and testosterone/cortisol ratio (T/C ratio) are measured through their rhythms for use in monitoring exercise-induced stress in athletes. Automated measurement has not been applied to salivary testosterone, which requires passive drooling difficult to collect sufficient saliva rapidly. This study aimed to verify whether automated measurements of the testosterone and cortisol concentrations and T/C ratio using saliva collected sequentially can effectively assess exercise intensity differences within circadian rhythms in male athletes.Methods: We investigated the correlations of testosterone and cortisol concentrations measured by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) between saliva and sera collected from 20 male long-distance runners. We collected the runners' saliva sequentially by passive drooling on two consecutive days involving different intensity trainings in the morning and evening; salivary testosterone and cortisol concentrations were measured by ECLIA. Each exercise intensity was measured by running distances, velocities, Borg scale score and maximum pulse rate during exercise.Results: The salivary testosterone and cortisol concentrations were positively correlated with the respective total serum hormone concentrations. The runners were divided into low-intensity exercise group (n = 8) and high-intensity exercise group (n = 7), in which five runners were excluded because measurable saliva samples could not be obtained due to low volume and high-viscosity. Sequential saliva collection and automated measurements detected the runners' circadian rhythms of testosterone, cortisol and T/C ratio. The rate of change in the salivary cortisol concentrations were significantly higher and that in the T/C ratio was significantly lower in the evening interval training on day 1 in the high-intensity exercise group which had significantly higher running velocity, Borg scale score, and maximum pulse rate values; this relationship was not shown for salivary testosterone.Conclusions: Automated measurements of the salivary cortisol concentration and the T/C ratio reflected different exercise intensities may be useful for creating appropriate exercise programs for athletes. Conversely, the automated measurements of salivary testosterone and T/C ratio, which require passive drooling to collect saliva, may be less suitable for practical use with athletes than the salivary cortisol-only measurement
Detection of isoprene traces in exhaled breath by using photonic crystals as a biomarker for chronic liver fibrosis disease
Authors: Mehaney Ahmed , Elsayed Hussein A. , Ahmed Ashour M.
Published: April 2021

Detection of blood-carried volatile organic compounds (VOCs) existing in the exhaled breath of human is an attractive research point for noninvasive diagnosis of diseases. In this research, we introduce a novel application of photonic crystals (PCs) for the detection of isoprene traces in the exhaled breath as a biomarker for liver fibrosis. This idea is introduced for the first time according to the best of our knowledge. The proposed sensor structure is a one-dimensional (1D) PC constructed from a multilayer stack of two dielectric materials covered with an air cavity layer filled with the dry exhaled breath (DEB) and a thin metallic layer of Au is attached on the top surface. Hence, the proposed sensor is configured as, [prism/Au/air cavity/(GaN/SiO2)10]. The transfer matrix method and the Drude model are adopted to calculate the numerical simulations and reflection spectra of the design. The essential key for sensing isoprene levels is the resonant optical Tamm plasmon (TP) states within the photonic bandgap. The obtained numerical results are promising such as high sensitivity (S) of 0.321 nm/ppm or 278720 nm/RIU. This technique can be reducing the risk of infection during the taking of blood samples by syringe. Also, it can prevent the pain of patients. Finally, this work opens the door for the detection of many diseases by analyzing the breaths of patients based on photonic crystals.
Manipulative techniques of the media as a tool for managing the masses
Authors:   Transbaikal State University, Pomanova I.
Published: April 2021

The greatest minds of antiquity laid the foundation for the science of persuasion, that is, an ability to persuade the listener to a given point of view. The sophists were particularly successful in this. The works of the classics show how complex the process of persuasion is. To convince means to make you believe that you are right. The relevance of the study of this topic is due to the rapidly increasing influence of the media on the modern society formation and management of the masses. Taking into account a fairly large number of publications, the problem is not studied in detail, despite the fact that technologies are rapidly developing. The steady interest of researchers in this problem is determined by its significance in society. The object of the study is manipulation in management. The subject of the study is media techniques as a tool for mass management. Method of argumentation is citation of references. The objectives of the study are to characterize the manipulative techniques of the media; describe management technologies; classify manipulation tools. The purpose of the study is to scientifically substantiate the effectiveness of using manipulative media technologies as a management tools and to consider the practical implementation’s forms of this phenomenon. The research methodology is based on the principle of objectivity, universal connection and development. Research methods. The research was based on traditional general scientific methods; methods of induction, deduction, and interpretation have been actively used. Conclusion. Manipulation appears as a socio-psychological phenomenon aimed at a person. At the same time, the tools of manipulation are ideas, forms, techniques, and methods. Manipulative influence in the framework of mass communication takes the form of commercial and political propaganda. The media sets the tone in public discussions and disputes. The influence of mass media on the modern society functioning is rapidly increasing. Manipulative technologies used to influence public consciousness are very diverse. They provide a great variety of opportunities for the formation and strengthening of values, attitudes, and behaviors. For the purposes of communicative influence, the media actively use traditional technologies and create new ones that allow opening up great opportunities for manipulation. This phenomenon is the object of the scientists’ close attention. It is concluded that the media use a wide range of manipulative technologies: both traditional and innovative. They allow you to influence both the individual and the society as a whole in order to control the public consciousness and introduction of specified behaviors into it. The development of manipulative media techniques allows the authorities to introduce the necessary attitudes to the masses
Modern Trends in the Production of Renewable Energy: the Cost Benefit Approach
Authors: Melnyk Leonid Hr. , Shaulska Larysa V. , Matsenko Olena I. , Piven Vladyslav S. , Konoplov Vladyslav V.
Published: April 2021

In the article modern trends in the production of renewable energy were analyzed. It was determined that renewable energy sources have many undeniable advantages. First of all, they are much more environmentally friendly than traditional methods of generating energy based on the combustion of fossil fuels. Another advantage of renewable energy sources is their distribution. Unlike traditional energy fuel sources that units possess, renewable energy sources are available to most of the world's inhabitants. It was considered that today in the country there are a number of motivational tools that stimulate the development of green energy. It was proved that the ways of sustainization of the energy sector are associated with three main areas of energy use: electricity generation; heating and cooling of premises; driving vehicles. A system of subsidies for primary investments (purchase and installation of equipment), as well as the commercialization of «green» electricity (costs of entering the market, partial insurance of risks), is applied. It was determined that a separate page in the formation of alternative energy is the rivalry of two directions of its development, based on the creation of concentrated and deconcentrated (distributed) power plants. The first focuses on the concentration of production energy units (solar panels or wind turbines) in one area. The second direction is associated with the deconcentrating of energy sources, that is, the dispersal of individual capacities both across the territory and by forms of ownership. The transition to renewable energy sources is critical for most countries. This is one of the most important steps towards ensuring their energy independence and further restructuring of economic systems towards the formation of a «green» economy. It is gratifying that, along with other countries, Ukraine is making its efforts in this.
Business Process Model for Monitoring the Automatic Payments in the "Client-Bank" System
Authors: Kuzmenko Olha V. , Mynenko Serhii V. , Lyeonov Serhii V. , Kwilinski Aleksy S.
Published: April 2021

The innovative development of banking presupposes modernization in the approaches to anti-money laundering. The article considers the issue of financial monitoring of banking operations without bank employees’ participation through the "Client-Bank" system. Two models for monitoring the automatic payments in the "Client-Bank" system are identified. The list of functions performed by the "Client-Bank" system in terms of types of clients: individuals and legal entities (including individuals-entrepreneurs) was determined. The first model describes general indicators of transactions that have the risk of money laundering. The second model focuses on the specific features of the "Client-Bank" system functionality for legal entities or individual entrepreneurs. Several criteria for the riskiness of the operation in terms of money laundering are considered. The developed business process model takes into account the verification of the participant's affiliation to countries that do not implement or improperly implement the recommendations of intergovernmental organizations, the participant's affiliation to politically significant or related persons and the withdrawal of capital abroad, including offshore areas . In addition, checks of financial condition of counterparties, regularity of receipts of payments and cash withdrawals, circulation of foreign currency, loan repayment, receipt of a significant amount of cash, ip-address of the client and description of the transaction are included. A feature of the business model for legal entities is the verification of NACE compliance, analysis of the number of contractors, analysis of the timeliness of tax payments. Directions for further development of this study identify the possibility of intellectualizing the financial monitoring system and improving the regulatory framework in the system "Client-Bank" to enhance the system of anti-money laundering in banking institutions.
Crowdfunding as a way of the monetary and financial ecologies
Authors: Loucanova Erika , Olsiakova Miriam
Published: April 2021

This paper deals with crowdfunding as a new innovative form of financing projects that implement innovations focusing on a modern, up-to-date phenomenon in the field of innovation projects. Literary sources and approaches systematization for solving crowdfunding issues indicates that crowdfunding could be understood as a new, popular and innovative way of financing innovative projects around the world. It spread in developed countries in 2008 in response to the financial crisis. Besides, the rapid expansion of the Internet and mobile Internet access provoked its expansion in developing countries. The authors described crowdfunding as a current way of financing representing an individual form of innovative projects financing. Investigation of crowdfunding is based on cluster analysis of variables such as the funds' amount collected by crowdfunding, the number of crowdfunding contributors and the average amount of contributions of individual contributors to crowdfunding. The research objects are EU-28 countries. The output of the process of object distances clustering was displayed in the form of a dendrogram. It demonstrated the graphical grouping of related objects into clusters. The interpretation of the whole analysis and its further application depends on choosing the right number level of resulting clusters. The cluster analysis findings identified four clusters of objects set on several relatively homogeneous subsets of clusters. Objects belonging to the same cluster were similar, while objects originating from different clusters - dissimilar. The authors noted that despite the innovativeness and trendiness of crowdfunding, the analysis results point to its diverse position in the EU countries. Besides, it was confirmed by the results of the applied analysis. Presented clusters point to the different number of contributors and the average value of funds spent on innovation through crowdfunding at various average contributions from one contributor. Therefore, the countries successfully applying this innovative way of innovative projects financing were the United Kingdom, France and Germany, and EU countries that realized this way of financing to a lesser extent.
Marketing of an academic program: case study of an engineering program
Authors: Kuzior Aleksandra , Grebski Michalene , Grebski Wes
Published: April 2021

The main purpose of this research was the development of an effective marketing strategy for academic programs. The nature of academic programs has significantly changed. The curriculum at those programs as well as the methods for recruiting students were very traditional and rigid. In recent decades many private universities were created and started competing with established public universities. At the same time, public universities started competing among themselves. Recently many people view university education as an investment which provides a return in the form of well-paid employment after the completion of their formal education. The recruitment strategy needs to be adjusted to the changing conditions. Every academic program is trying to compete for the best highly-motivated high school students. Academic programs are operating in a similar mode to traditional businesses by selling educational services. The article presents a marketing approach to offering educational services in universities using the example of an Engineering Program at The Pennsylvania State University Hazleton (USA). The authors, using the case study method, place their considerations in a broader context of issues related to the marketing and communication strategy of universities. They indicate the need to use the 7-element marketing mix using the broader context of relationship marketing and feedback as well as building the brand of the university to skillfully meet the challenges of the dynamically developing world and the constantly evolving labour market, while not giving up the intellectualization of the educational processes and shaping the personality of the students. The methodology used in this study was a case study of the marketing of an Engineering program at The Pennsylvania State University (USA). This is a public university successfully competing with many private universities in the United States (USA). A theoretical analysis of the marketing strategy based on the best and most effective practices is being presented in the article. The paper also contains practical suggestions and recommendations that can be used by both private and state universities.
Artificial Intelligence for marketing plan: the case for e-marketing companies
Authors: Fayed Abeer Elsayed
Published: April 2021

This paper summarises the arguments and counterarguments within the scientific discussion on artificial intelligence (AI) in preparing a marketing plan for e-marketing organizations. This research aims to identify the extent of the contribution of AI in preparing the marketing plan. The author noted that intended to know how e-marketing companies could use AI techniques in situation analysis, analyze competitors' strategies, strategic goals, preparing marketing strategies, preparing an estimated marketing budget, and control a marketing plan. Systematization of the scientific background and approaches on preparing a marketing plan for e-marketing organizations indicates that many companies, especially small companies, marketing their products via the Internet, cannot develop a successful marketing plan. In turn, it could be solved through the use of AI techniques. The study was conducted on a group of companies that market their products via the Internet in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To gain the research goal, this study was carried out in the following logical sequence: 1) developing the stratified sample by collecting statistical information for 141 company in a variety of fields; 2) analyzing the data using SPSS; 3) predicting how AI could be used in preparing the marketing plan; 4) identifying the arrangement of the steps for preparing the marketing plan in terms of the ability of AI techniques. The methodological tools of the study were methods of the multiple regression analysis and the Friedman test. The study empirically confirms and theoretically proves that AI contributes significantly in developing marketing plans through its great contribution to environmental analysis and analysis of competitors' strategies and setting marketing goals. Besides, AI contributes to preparing the budget and appreciating the marketing plan, to its evaluation and control. The author mentioned that AI provides understanding and selecting target markets and sectors, targeting customers, and preparing appropriate marketing mix strategies for each market sector. Therefore, the study provides recommendations to online organizations to use AI in preparing their marketing plan because of its great ability to contribute to this.
Studies on competence in a multinational environment
Authors: Varga Erika , Enkhjav Tumentsetseg , Szira Zoltán
Published: April 2021

In today's multicultural world and at the age of globalization it goes without saying that possessing language skills, intercultural competence, cultural intelligence, knowledge, skills, mindset, awareness and other essential skills, attitudes and competencies for effective communication is imperative. The article introduces the basic concept of competences, supporting and emphasizing the importance of linguistic and cultural competence with examples. The aim of this paper is to describe the process of the development of sociocultural competence and its components based on the analysis of many sources in the international literature. In the first part of the study, social, cultural, and linguistic competencies, as well as their diversity are analysed. Cultural diversity is underpinned by a variety of factors, including age, disability, ethnicity, gender identity, origin, race, religion, and gender, among others. Conceptual definitions of culture are also presented. We also deal with linguistic diversity that accompanies cultural diversity. The analysis of language, culture, and communication follows a brief description of communication competence. Cultural and linguistic competence is vital, as today peoples and nations are intensely intermingled, living in the same society and interacting in the workplace, so the problem of developing socio-cultural competence is currently of particular importance. The developed socio-cultural competence guarantees effective communication between cultures, i.e. proper interaction with representatives of other cultures. At the end conclusions are drawn and recommendations are made.
Dynamics of international activity of sub-state regions
Authors:   University of Warsaw, Raś Maciej
Published: April 2021

The paradiplomatic activity of sub-state regions has become an important element of international relations. The sub-state regions are able to implement specific international programs and deal with supra-regional challenges. The ability of regions to interact internationally depends primarily on the political and legal system of a given country, but also on the economic and socio-cultural potential as well as the geographical location. The paradiplomatic actions are also influenced by processes taking place in international relations, in particular globalisation and technological development. The author examines the dynamics of international activity of sub-state regions with a particular focus on the factors and premises that encourage regional authorities to undertake paradiplomatic actions. The main research objective of the article is a diagnosis of the motivation of regional activity in the international arena. A brief analysis of the development of international activity of sub-state regions is a starting point for considerations about economic, political and socio-cultural motives to paradiplomatic actions. Democratisation, liberalisation, development and ethnic diversity are considered as having a particularly significant impact on shaping the dynamics of international activity of sub-state regions. In his deliberations, the author primarily references the literature on the subject as well as his own achievements in the field of paradiplomacy studies.
Research on juvenile delinquency in modern Russia
Authors:   Kazan Law Institute of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation, Demidova-Petrova Elizaveta V.
Published: April 2021

In this article, the developed matrix of criminologically significant information is proposed. This matrix reflects the content, structure, and methodology of the study of juvenile delinquency. The described criminological heptagonal matrix is a fairly complete structure of in formation significant for criminological science, which is implemented for the purpose of gaining the most in-depth knowledge of the modern features of juvenile delinquency. The interrelated elements of this matrix are also proposed in this work. Special attention is paid to the area of conducting, on a planned basis, criminological monitoring of juvenile delinquency. It is noted that criminological monitoring has previously been the subject of research by other authors. It is emphasized that conducting criminological monitoring of juvenile delinquency will allow for a “cross-cutting” study of this type of crime, and develop adequate, modern approaches to its prevention. The author provides the results of research on the attitude of citizens to the Internet space. A separate role is assigned to the theory of intersectionality (the theory of intersections of social spheres). The conclusion is substantiated that, based on the fact that the world of modern juveniles is structured, the application of this theory becomes an important element of cognition, study, and identification of the mutual influence of such social spheres as the real (offline) social sphere, virtual (online) social sphere with the identity of a juvenile.
Obtaining electronic information on criminal cases within the framework of international cooperation
Authors:   Moscow State Institute of International Relations (University) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Klevtsov Kirill K. , Vasyukov Vitaliy F. ,   Oryol Institute of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation named after V. V. Lukyanov
Published: April 2021

The explosive growth of information and communication technologies, which has affected human social communication institutions, has become commensurate with the increase in potential risks to the security and rights of citizens. The authors of the article attempt to highlight the issues of international cooperation between law enforcement agencies of the Russian Federation and other countries in the framework of obtaining electronic information that is important for proving criminal cases. Attention is paid to procedures for ensuring the collection and use of electronic data in the response to crime occurring in the current fine line of confidentiality of privacy and security. Despite the mutual agreements signed between many countries of the world, the practical implementation of regulations that ensure the provision of electronic information in the framework of international cooperation is currently fraught with certain problems. Meanwhile, in the context of countering such dangerous phenomena for the world community as terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking, weapons, and people, a single mechanism for exchanging information stored on a gigantic scale on the servers of Telecom operators and providers has not yet been developed. The actual search for data stored on mobile devices usually requires a warrant in common law countries. In situations where there is a significant risk of loss of evidence, such as when data detection and other computer forensics tools are actively used, some jurisdictions allow law enforcement agencies to perform limited searches of devices without a warrant due to alleged data vulnerability. Another problem is the retention of stored data, since different practices apply in different countries. In this regard, it is essential that investigators and prosecutors are well informed about geo-specific data mapping issues, including “embargoes” or bans on the exchange of computer information.
Nature and classification of special principles of national labour law
Authors:   Russian State University of Justice, Ershov Valentin V. , Ershova Elena A. ,   Russian State University of Justice
Published: April 2021

Most often, the principles of law in specialized literature are understood as the “initial principles”, “ideas” and “provisions” of law. It seems that such conclusions could only be made from the standpoint of legal positivism, which restricts essentially “all” law only to the norms of labour law contained in national legal acts. The article makes a different conclusion: ontologically homogeneous elements are synthesized from the position of the scientifically substantiated concept of integrative legal understanding, first of all, the principles and norms of labour law contained in a single, developing and multilevel system of forms of national and (or) international labour law implemented in the state. With this theoretical approach, the principles of law can be controversially referred to as quite vague “principles,” “ideas,” and “positions”. In support of their position, the authors of the article present several vivid examples of application of the Ruling No. 21 of the Plenary Session of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation on June 2, 2015 “On Certain Issues that Arose in the Courts when Applying Legislation Governing the Work of the Head of the Organization and Members of the Collegial Executive Body of the Organization”. The article provides an overview of ideas about the principles of law and their change in the pre-revolutionary, Soviet and modern periods. The authors emphasize that the special principles of national labour law are derived from the fundamental (general) principles of both national and international law which, by their nature, constitute undeniable law (jus cogens) binding on law-making and law-enforcement agencies as well as officials. The article advocates the position that the special principles of national labour law are the fundamental, primary elements of the labour law system that independently regulate labour relations in order to specify the norms of labour law.
Trade liberalization and trade facilitation: Two paths to one goal
Authors:   Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO University), Vorontsova Natalia A. , Klimova Irina A. ,   Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO University)
Published: April 2021

The article defines trade liberalization and trade facilitation, highlighting their characteristics, some of which are inherent to both processes, while others differ. The authors analyze the impact of transborder production in a number of South-East Asian states on the development of their economies, as well as the role of trade facilitation in these processes. The article dwells on the economic impact of trade liberalization and facilitation, their synergistic interaction and peculiarities from the point of view of legal regulation. The authors come to the conclusion that trade liberalization and facilitation generally aim to achieve a common goal of promoting world trade, which in the long run will help to address one of the global problems — an immense wealth gap between developed and least developed countries. To achieve this goal, both liberalization and trade facilitation use their own tools, a set of practical measures enshrined in international legal instruments. At the same time, implementation of these measures often involves major risks, especially for developing economies. As a result, a strategy for implementing trade liberalization and facilitation measures needs to be developed, which would define the sequence of steps for each state individually and would take into account all the potential difficulties that a state may have while opening up the market. It is also necessary to create and improve the relevant regulatory and institutional framework for trade relations and implementation of reforms.