bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Dimensions of Regional Migration
Authors: Bălan Mariana , Bilan Svitlana
Published: January 2021

Objective: The purpose of this article is to make an analysis of the size and structure of migratory flows at regional and sub-regional level.

Methodology: Descriptive statistical analysis was mainly used to visualize and synthesize information about the evolution of the structure and size of migratory flows in major regions of the world.

Findings: The importance of contemporary migration is related not only to the number of migrants, but also to the fact that the migratory phenomenon has become global and takes on more and more diverse forms. People travel for various periods of time, but shorter. They adopt a pattern of circulatory migration, continue to maintain strong connections with where they left from or practice unregulated migration. Migration has become a defining feature of the modern global economy, and the main factors underlying its expansion are the processes of globalization, technical progress, the new economic order, etc. In 2019, the number of l migrants at world level reached 271.6 million, well above the values forecast by international bodies in recent years. In the last three decades, more developed regions have received 69 million international migrants, while less developed regions have received only 50 million. The highest migratory flows were recorded in high-income countries (98 million persons), and middle and low-income countries added only about 20 million persons to migrants’ stock (17 million and 3 million, respectively).

Value Added: The paper presents an analysis of the size and structure of migratory flows at the regional level, providing a more detailed picture of migration, and presenting a different but complementary perspective of migrants and movements from different parts of the world. A comparative analysis of migrant flows at regional level and on large migration corridors is performed, but also of the structure by age groups and gender of regional migrants.

Recommendations: The analysis of data on regional migration shows significant differences in migration patterns between regions. Greater recognition of regional migration patterns, variations and complexities can help shape strategic and sustainable responses of the migration policies. It is also necessary to pay attention to the regional dimensions and variations of international migration that may have critical implications for debates and regulations, especially (but not only) globally.
Risk in Carsharing – Identification and Assessment
Authors: Hanusik Andrzej
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this article is identification of risks in carsharing and their latter assessment in terms of probability of occurrence, impact on customer relationships, importance of a given category and cost they generate. A way of aggregating various categories of risks into one synthetic indicator in order to prioritize them was proposed. Methodology of the process was based on a methodological triangulation which is based on the following studies – analysis and criticism of literature which helps to place discussed research problem on theoretical basis, qualitative research and observations allowing to identify individual categories of risks and quantitative research enabling the description of given categories of risks by appropriate variables on which further risk modelling is performed. Such research may be a basis to subsequent analysis and be an impulse to an academic debate. Also it may contribute to creation of further studies dealing with the problem of assessment of the risk in concepts related to sharing economy.
Reliability and Operational Analysis of an Electronic Security System Taking into Account the Impact of Strong Electromagnetic Pulses
Authors: Paś Jacek , Rosiński Adam , Szulim Marek , Łukasiak Jarosław
Published: January 2021

In this article, the authors presented a short historical overview of the visual monitoring systems’ development. Attention was also drawn to the features distinguishing the solutions within this group from other electronic systems. Further, the authors conducted a reliability analysis of selected, sample segments of a CCTV system, at the same out highlighting that such a system – considered globally – is distinguished by a mixed reliability structure. The authors suggested a reliability and operational model for a video surveillance system, which takes into account the impact of strong electromagnetic pulses on a fragment of its transmission channel and the mechanical properties of transmission media.
Possibilities of Using the Type Bypass Air Bleed in a Single-Flow Jet Engine
Authors: Kowalski Mirosław , Sarnecki Jarosław , Stężycki Paweł , Ćwik Dariusz
Published: January 2021

The paper outlines the analysis dedicated to possibilities of using the type Bypass air bleed in a single-flow jet engine. Attention is focused on development of formulas for key operational parameters of the engine, such as overall work of the thermal cycle, unit thrust and unit consumption of fuel. Simulation and modelling a single-flow jet engine were carried out for the K-15 engine of a Polish make where an air bleeding of that kind is applied. It was confirmed that such engines offer some slight benefits, in particular in terms of cost-efficiency, and such benefits increase in pace with growth of the mass air flow intensity through the bypass channel.
Assessment of Changes in Microstructure and Hardness of Bearing Steel for Operation at a High Temperature Caused by Short-Term Overheating
Authors: Łęczycki Krzysztof , Gronek Sebastian
Published: January 2021

The paper presented research results of the impact of short-term overheating of samples collected from the outer bearing ring suitable for the operation at elevated temperature installed in the turbine engine on the microstructure and hardness of the material. The samples were annealed at the following temperatures: 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 and 1000°C; and then cooled in still air. Microstructure examinations were conducted under metallographic microscope and transmission electron microscope.
Evaluation of the Impact of Glycol Antifreeze on the Surfaces of Typical Construction Materials of Heat Exchangers
Authors: Turlej Anna , Skolniak Marta , Giemza Bolesław
Published: January 2021

Glycol-based antifreeze liquids are used in two main areas: ICECS and HVAC. The standard research methods and requirements were developed to control the quality of fluids for the internal combustion engine cooling systems. Irrespective of the intended use, fluid tests are conducted with the same methods. This manuscript aims to study two types of antifreeze with standard methods. Then, the analysis was deepened to include microscopic techniques to identify the potential pitting corrosion centres on the surface of the selected metals. It was demonstrated that the application of microscopic techniques could significantly increase the chance to detect potential corrosion centres.
Risk Assessment for the Selected Surface Water Intake
Authors: Szpak Dawid , Rak Janusz R. , Boryczko Krzysztof , Piegdoń Izabela , Żywiec Jakub
Published: January 2021

The purpose of the work is to analyze the risk for surface water intake, taking into account factors affecting the water quality. A three-parameter risk definition was proposed. It was found that the analyzed water intake has an efficient system that protects consumers against drinking water of inadequate quality (multibarier system). The task of the water supply company is to maintain its security measures (including a caution and warning station, biomonitoring) in a state of efficiency.
Issues of Railway Traffic Control Devices Availability in the Exploitation Process
Authors: Drózd Paweł , Rosiński Adam
Published: January 2021

This article focuses exclusively on the issues of railway traffic control devices availability in traffic management. One of the factors affecting this availability are tests conducted during maintenance or repair works. A review of the literature in the field of test determination methods was conducted. Next, the railway traffic control system was described and the elements influencing availability were defined. Assumptions and an algorithm of the procedure were presented and the method of determining the tests was proposed.
Corrosion Monitoring of Aircraft Based on the Corrosion Prognostic Health Management (CPHM) System
Authors: Ciężak Patryk , Rdzanek Adam
Published: January 2021

The article presents methods to monitor the actual state of aircraft’s airframe, in particular, the onset of corrosion. The greatest emphasis is put on the “Corrosion Prognostic Health Management” CPHM system. Authors discuss corrosion detection using NDT methods as well as the possibilities of forecasting methods for estimating the onset of corrosion basing on the data gathered by means corrosion sensors. Based on the results of the previous research and analyses, authors focus on monitoring the internal microclimate and the factors causing corrosion in the aspect of damage tolerance operation of the aircraft. The results of the preliminary studies giving credibility to the concepts of predicting corrosion onset in the aircraft structure are presented. Preliminary results of tests carried out in supervised flights are also presented. The final part of the article presents the concept of modernizing the corrosion field site in order to use it in hermetic and non-hermetic tests of aircraft spaces.
Optimization of the Regulated Maintenance Periodicity on Military Equipment Products Operated According to their Technical Condition
Authors: Mirnenko Volodymyr , Dyptan Valentyn , Pustovyi Serhii , Radko Oleg , Yablonskyi Petro
Published: January 2021

The article is dedicated to the optimization problem of the regulated maintenance periodicity for military products operated according to their technical condition. The analytical method of optimization for the exponential law of the time distribution between failures and the numerical optimization method for the diffusion-monotonic law are taken into consideration. The search for the extreme value of the regulated maintenance periodicity for the diffusion-monotonic distribution law was conducted with the use of the numerical method applying Mathcad 15.0. The dependencies of both the technical utilization factor and its derivative on the regulated maintenance periodicity at certain values of the model parameters were obtained.
Cyber security as a foundation for the security of critical infrastructure in the context of modern threats
Authors: Dygnatowski Sławomir
Published: January 2021

The article’s goal is to outline the most characteristic features of the problem of the growing role and predominance of cybersecurity as a key element in the functioning of critical infrastructure and the possibilities of the best solutions. Due to the fact that from all systems of critical infrastructure, the most important for the proper functioning of the economy and society is the system of energy and fuel supply. The article will analyze past, present and future threats and evolution of tools to combat them. Particular emphasis will be placed on the characteristics of these threats, especially cyberattacks, as well as the most effective ways of counter-actions. The article might be an element of the debate on the critical impact of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, which has a direct impact on national security.
Legal basis of cybersecurity on the background of polish and UE legislation
Authors: Dygnatowski Sławomir , Dygnatowski Włodzimierz
Published: January 2021

The last decades have brought about the rapid development of information technology, which was reflected in all areas of social life and economic. Unfortunately, the ongoing digitization and the presence of individuals, private entities as well as countries in the network makes them exposed to new types of threats that have never been seen before. The perpetrators of these threats may be individuals, organized criminal groups or foreign country interviews. Threats and vectors of attacks has many forms, and their evolution continues all along with the progressive development of broadly understood cyberspace. In order to be able to effectively fight with the increasing threats in cyberspace, not only technical and organizational measures are needed, but also the formal and legal framework to combat cyber-attacks. In this article, the authors discuss the legal comparison of the basics of cyber security against the Polish background and EU legislation.
Development of early literacy skills: A Comparison of two early literacy programmes
Authors: Petrová Zuzana , Zápotočná Oľga , Urban Kamila , Urban Marek
Published: January 2021

The aim of the present study is to monitor the effectiveness of a new conception of early literacy curriculum (in force since September 2016) which provides – unlike the previous one – a wide range of purposeful literacy practices and literacy events. The study compares graduates of previous early childhood literacy curriculum (tested in June 2016) with children who attended kindergarten in the years 2016-2019. Several indications of early literacy development were selected especially those that are culturally more sensitive, i.e. are significantly shaped by the social environment offering the broad spectrum of reading experiences. Results show statistically significant relationship of story listening comprehension with comprehension monitoring and narrative production, especially at the level of understanding the implicit meaning. The most profound group differences were found again in narratives and implicit meaning comprehension. On the other hand, no differences were found in indicators of phonemic awareness, comprehension monitoring and understanding the explicit meaning. The results are discussed in terms of their implications to educational practice.
On the current problems of education for democracy
Authors: Strouhal Martin
Published: January 2021

The aim of the text is to formulate certain problems and dangers in relation to education for democratic citizenship. The core of these considerations points to the problem of neglecting the fundamental motive of the problem of democracy, which is the relation to truth. The text defines four problem areas that cause reductive understanding of education for democracy, namely: 1. Our understanding of democracy has been reduced to securing the distribution of power in a state and defence of freedom of speech which eliminates the contradictions in the concept of democracy and leaves only its legal-political aspects. 2. The key condition of democracy, which is respect for human rights, has become complicated by the constant proliferation of human rights, oftentimes with individual needs being confused with human rights. 3. We have resigned upon addressing the important issue of balance between equality and outstandingness resulting in consequences for culture as well as education, i. e. loss of identity and absence of footing to base it on. 4. Democracy is closely linked to the ability to think and make decisions according to truth and not on the basis of immediate interests as democracy primarily has to do with an ideal that we look up to.

The text also tries to show that education for democracy cannot be satisfactorily ensured by development of partial competences for co-operation and diversity acknowledgement since democracy does not only consist in system and rules but ideas and relation to Truth in the first place.
Formulas for calculating ice cover thickness on selected spring lakes on the upper Radunia (Kashubian Lakeland, northern Poland)
Authors: Barańczu Katarzyna , Barańczuk Jacek
Published: January 2021

This publication is to confirm the existence of a correlation between lakes under hydrometric supervision and unmonitored lakes using formulas for calculating thickness of ice cover observed on lakes located within the same physico-geographical unit. The article presented herein covers lakes located on the upper Radunia River in the central part of the Kashubian Lakeland. Lake Raduńskie Górne has been under constant hydrometric supervision of the Limnological Station of Gdańsk University for over 60 years. The study covers three spring lakes: Stężyckie, Bukrzyno Małe and Lubowisko. The cover thickness was measured during the period of 2003-2006 and in 2016. Analysing the measurement data gathered during field research and the data obtained from the station allowed formulas for calculating ice cover thickness to be established. The formulas were tested in 2016 with the use of the fieldwork data. The result confirmed that the formulas can be used to calculate thickness of ice cover with considerable accuracy.
Evolution of primary production and its drivers on the Lebanese coast between 1986 and 2013
Authors: Fadel Ali , Salameh Lama , Kanj Malak , Kobaissi Ahmad
Published: January 2021

Physical-biogeochemical models help us to understand the dynamics and the controlling factors of primary production. In this study, the outputs of a validated hydrodynamic and biogeochemical model were used to elucidate the primary production dynamics between 1992 and 2012 for three studied sites on the Lebanese coast: Naqoura, Beirut, and Tripoli. The results showed that primary production presents a homogeneous spatial distribution along the Lebanese coastline. The phytoplankton community has a low optimal temperature. The thermocline develops in March, with maximum stratification in August and fades in October. Chlorophyll, dissolved oxygen and salinity were positively correlated throughout the water column. A significant increasing trend of sea surface temperature was found on the Lebanese coast over 27 years, between 1986 and 2013. Annual averages increased from 22°C in 1986 to 23.1°C in 2013 with the highest recorded average temperature of 23.7 °C in 2010.
Fifty years of limnology (1969-2019) at Mahoney Lake, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Heinrichs Markus L. , Walker Ian R. , Hall Ken J. , Overmann Jörg , O’Beirne Molly D.
Published: January 2021

Mahoney Lake is a small, meromictic saline lake in south-central British Columbia noted for its unique layer of purple sulfur bacteria. First examined in 1969, this lake has undergone physical, chemical, biological, and pre-historical research to generate an understanding of how the lake and its biota function have developed through time. Advances in understanding the sulfur transformations and bacterial nutrient cycling over the last fifty years have been prolific, resulting in the description of several new taxa. Mahoney Lake is exceptional in its limnological characteristics and is an ideal site for training future limnologists.
The measurement of muccessful management via a net profit maximization model with ten factors and financial accounting disclosure policy- case of vinamilk in F&B industry in Vietnam
Authors: Nga Le , Lan Nguyen , Yen Ly , Huy Dinh , Thuy Do
Published: January 2021

When a firm has better disclosure policy of financial accounting information it will attract more investment. Many factors affecting accounting information disclosure policy include firm size, leverage, industry characteristics, investor types, etc. And good financial accounting data disclosure will help to reduce risk level of firms. At micro level, cost and net sale factors will affect net profit while at macro levels, risk free rate and exchange rate will impact. According to Nikkei Asian Review, Vinamilk (VNM) is the only brand in F&B industry and the domestic industry leader which ranked 25th among 300 listed companies in the List of ASIA300 Power Performers. It leads the organic trend in milk industry and has made very positive contributions to the overall achievements of economic and social values. Good business management requires us to consider the impacts of multi macro and micro factors on net profit, both internal and external factors, and it contributes to promoting business plan and economic policies for economic growth and stabilizing business operation. By data collection method through statistics, analysis, synthesis, comparison, quantitative analysis to generate qualitative comments and discussion; using econometric method to perform regression equation and evaluate quantitative results, the article analyzed and evaluated the impacts of ten (10) macroeconomic factors such as: stock price, VNIndex, risk free rate, lending rate, cost, sale, inflation, GPD growth, S&P500, exchange rate, etc. on net profit of a leading milk listed company, Vinamilk (VNM) in Vietnam in the 10-year period of 2010-2019, both positive and negative sides. From that regression model and analysis, it will draw leadership features, strengths of this industrial leader. The results of quantitative research, in a ten factor model, show that the decrease in GDP growth and risk free rate, inflation and increase in net sale will have a significant effect and increase VNM net profit, with the highest impact coefficient, the second is decreasing cost. This research finding and recommended policy also can be used as reference in policy for F&B system in many developing countries.
Plans for better business performance of Sony in Japan - and suggestions for management and financial accounting transparency
Authors: Dat Nguyen , Lan Nguyen , Huy Dinh , Yen Ly , Dung Nguyen , Dat Pham
Published: January 2021

Through years Sony In Japan has shown success in bringing to the market high quality products, and via technical inventions. Today risk management is one of vital issues in Sony to maintain its reputation in global markets. The purpose of this study is to find out impacts of economic factors at macro level on net profit of a big technological giant like Sony.

We found that movement of net profit in big firms such as Sony will reflect the business health of technology system and the whole economy. The results of quantitative research, in a seven factor model, show that the increase in inflation, GDP (increasing too much) and lending rate and reducing risk free rate has a significant effect on reducing Sony net profit with the highest impact coefficient, the second is decreasing the exchange rate.

Last but not least, this study proposes risk management solutions and business management plans to lower business risks, cost and enhance its net profit.
Current situation of Bitcoin management and use: perspectives from the world and recommendations for vietnam
Authors: Hang Bui , Huy Dinh , An Phan , Ngoc Nguyen , Duyen Huynh
Published: January 2021

The research aimed to evaluate suitability of Bitcoin and its platform in emerging markets such as Vietnam. We used qualitative analysis combined with data collection method published, statistics, analysis, synthesis, comparison, to generate qualitative comments and discussion; evaluate results, the article analyzed and evaluated the impacts of Bitcoin and virtual currency on society of Vietnam, both positive and negative sides. It was found that virtual currency not accepted in Vietnam as means of payment yet, while many nations in the world accept it. We need to complete the legal framework for virtual currencies in general, Bitcoin in particular. The State should continue to have policies to improve information technology infrastructure, build and improve the capacity of the contingent of financial experts, encryption, and security experts and give warning risks in virtual currency transactions. The scientific value of paper is using experiences from previous studies in other countries to generate recommendations for conditions of Bitcoin development in merging markets. Last but not least, the research was limited to the case of Vietnam; hence, we can expand research to other Asian countries or other emerging markets.
Pro-environmental actions of agricultural farms - example of holdings from the Wielkopolska region
Authors: Grzelak Aleksander , Borychowski Michał , Staniszewski Jakub
Published: January 2021

The main aim of the article is to identify pro-environmental actions in farms in the Wielkopolska region. The article uses the results of surveys carried out in 2020 in a group of 120 agricultural holdings from Wielkopolska running agricultural accounting according to the FADN (Farm Accountancy Data Network) system. The time scope of the analyses referred to the period 2016-2019, and in the case of economic data to 2018. The issue of pro-environmental activity on farms is complex due to the integration of the economic and environmental dimensions, which requires further scientific knowledge. It was found that the investigated farms in Wielkopolska, which undertook pro-environmental actions, most often realized it in the area of land improvement. The farms which showed the highest activity in terms of undertaken pro-environmental measures were more strongly connected with the market. The managers of these farms are open to innovative ecological solutions despite their quite high age (e.g. half of them are planning to install photovoltaics). It was also found that it was easier for larger farms to carry out pro-environmental measures due to the wider possibilities of income creation. In the case of smaller farms, there is a greater need to implement measures from the area of pro-environmental investments. In turn, in larger units, measures reducing production intensity, and in all groups concerning land improvement.
Long-Term Follow-Up of Dental Rehabilitation of a Patient with Clouston Syndrome and Congenital Edentulism (Issues of Theory and Clinical Practice)
Authors: Galonsky V.G. , Tarasova N.V. , Chernov V.N. , Makarchuk M.Yu. , Gradoboev A.V.
Published: January 2021

The article presents results of a concise analysis of domestic and foreign literature addressing the problem of determining of distinctive diagnostic features in patients with Clouston syndrome as an orphan disease rarely encountered in clinical practice of dentistry. A clinical case of effective orthopaedic rehabilitation of a 10-years-old patient with Clouston syndrome and congenital edentulism using minimally invasive orthopaedic dentistry measures: removable dentures application using shape memory materials is presented. Technological peculiarities and advantages of the chosen approach to treatment are described. Photographic documents of orthopaedic dental treatment results including long-term results within the follow-up period of 10 years are presented providing strong evidence of effective aesthetic, functional and social rehabilitation of the patient. Detailed analytical conclusion is drawn according to the study results.
Analysis of the Educational Process with Application of Distance Learning Technology in Speciality 33.05.01 Pharmacy
Authors: Kharitonova E.V. , Lopatina O.L.
Published: January 2021

In the context of new coronavirus COVID-2019 infection spread, many students in numerous higher education institutions have undergone the transition to education applying distance learning technology while medical students undergo partially remote education. It is worth noting that in the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic, remote education is the best prevention measure for decrease in incidence of the new coronavirus infection among students.
An Objective Method for Assessment of Facial Expression in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease and Healthy Population
Authors: Prokopenko S.V. , Khomchenkova A.A. , Gurevich V.A. , Butenko N.A. , Kontorin V.A. , Spirin A.V.
Published: January 2021

Hypomimia is a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease. At the present time, issues related to existence of interrelations between hypomimia and manifestations of common hypokinesia remain under-investigated in aspects of both clinical manifestations and rehabilitation efficacy. An objective method for facial muscle movement diagnostics is necessary to achieve this goal. The article presents novel experience in application of a proprietary method using objective facial expression assessment video analysis on the example of a healthy female subject and a female patient with Parkinson’s disease. The Parkinson’s female patient had objective symptoms of hypomimia: a decrease in velocity and amplitude of eyebrow and mouth movement, slow winking. Therefore, application of this method creates prerequisites for more in-depth study of theoretical and clinical aspects in facial expression of Parkinson’s disease patients.
What about Time-Geography in the post-Covid-19 era?
Authors: Klapka Pavel , Ellegård Kajsa , Frantál Bohumil
Published: January 2021

In this year, 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic has imposed new challenges for most human activities. Time-geography is a theoretical approach with great potential for analysing the consequences of the new disease and other disturbances, and this article aims at identifying possible developments of interest for the approach in the post-Covid era. The article addresses challenges that emerge for time-geographic research from the perspective of massive changes in human behaviour, regarding time-space activity patterns, caused by the globally diffusing disease. The implications of the pandemic are discussed with respect to four areas: (i) time-geographic techniques; (ii) activities and rhythms; (iii) activity spaces; and (iv) social issues and perceptions. The time-geographic concepts to be scrutinised are constraints, virtual time space and bundles, and stations and paths. In addition, the article introduces this Special Issue of the Moravian Geographical Reports on ‘Current issues, methods and applications in time-geography’, contributions which for evident reasons were written before the onset of the pandemic.
Mobile phone data in studying urban rhythms: Towards an analytical framework
Authors: Šveda Martin , Madajová Michala Sládeková , Barlík Peter , Križan František , Šuška Pavel
Published: January 2021

Mobile phone data are considered one of the most promising information sources for monitoring and measuring the spatio-temporal activities of the population. Today, large-volume mobile phone datasets are widely applied to monitor the daily life of the urban population and to examine the structuring of the urban environment. In this paper, we discuss and develop a methodological procedure that uses such data to observe temporal differences of human presence in Bratislava, Slovakia. The study is based on a large-scale dataset of hourly records of signalling exchanges (VLR data) from all major mobile network operators in Slovakia. The records of the mobile network infrastructure are used as a suitable proxy variable for complex human activity at the city level, in the sense that they capture various kinds of spatial practices, and not only some specific activities (work cycle of a given locale, shopping, and similar events). Such an approach allows the classification of urban space using diurnal logs activity curves of mobile network cells. Six temporality types in Bratislava were identified, which may be designated as examples of an urban chronopolis. The results show the potential of the proposed method for measuring place temporality in cities and monitoring the urban environment with geo-referenced mobile phone data.
Travel diaries, GPS loggers and Smartphone applications in mapping the daily mobility patterns of students in an urban environment
Authors: Kraft Stanislav , Květoň Tomáš , Blažek Vojtěch , Pojsl Lukáš , Rypl Jiří
Published: January 2021

Mapping the daily spatial mobility of university students in an urban environment is the focus of this paper. It uses the city of České Budějovice in the Czech Republic as a case study, employing three different research tools – travel diaries, GPS loggers and Smartphone applications. We focus our attention on the analysis of spatial patterns of mobility using basic mobility indicators (distance, number of daily trips, time spent mobility), travel behaviours (use of transport modes) and the detection of time-space bundles (spaces of concentration of particular time-space trajectories) within the city. We identified four main time-space bundles. Then we compare the three main research methods according to their tracking accuracy and informative value. The Smartphone applications (using the A-GPS technology) provided the best results for the spatial mobility of respondents, although the travel diaries method is still unique due to the extent of some socio-demographic and transport characteristics.
To fear or not to fear? Exploring the temporality of topophobia in urban environments
Authors: Šimáček Petr , Šerý Miloslav , Fiedor David , Brisudová Lucia
Published: January 2021

The concept of topophobia has been known in Geography for decades. Places which evoke fear in people’s minds can be found in almost every city. The perception of fear within an urban environment shows a certain spatio-temporal concentration and is often represented by fear of crime. The meaning of topophobic places, however, derived from the experience of fear of crime changes over time, and thus can alter the usual patterns of population behaviours in relation to time (in the time of the day and over longer periods) and space. A spatiotemporal understanding of these changes is therefore crucial for local decision-makers. Using data from the Czech Republic, this paper deals with the analysis of topophobic places, and is based on an empirical survey of the inhabitants of four cities, using the concept of mental mapping. In contrast to most similar geographical studies, the paper emphasises the temporal dimension of the fear of crime. The results have shown that over time there are significant differences in the meanings of topophobic places, and they have demonstrated the necessity of taking local specifics into account. The paper shows how the intensity of and the reasons for fears vary, depending on time and place. In general, the results provide support for the idea of place as a process and contain useful information for spatial planning and policy in urban areas.
When home becomes a cage: Daily activities, space-time constraints, isolation and the loneliness of older adults in urban environments
Authors: Frantál Bohumil , Klapka Pavel , Nováková Eva
Published: January 2021

The geography of ageing is addressed in this article by providing new empirical evidence about the significant role of daily activities on the perceptions of isolation and loneliness. The developed model of socio-spatial isolation is based on data from time-space diaries and questionnaires completed by older adults living in three cities in the Czech Republic. The study suggests that socio-spatial isolation is a multicomponent (consisting of passivity, isolation and loneliness components), place-dependent and gendered issue. The passivity is significantly associated with the income and leisure sport activities. The isolation can be well predicted by the age, gender and education, and the frequency of work and specific leisure activities, which are constrained by health conditions, financial opportunities and spatial mobility. Particularly trips to nature, sport activities, cultural events, get together with friends, and visits to restaurants have a positive effect on reducing isolation. Women, particularly those who raised more children, more likely feel lonely in old age when family contacts are reduced. Visits to restaurants, shopping malls and cultural events have a positive effect on reducing loneliness. A constrained mobility and higher time consumption for necessary activities also proved to be an age-related and gendered problem. In this respect, policy interventions should seek to improve flexible work opportunities, the digital skills of older people, and the accessibility and safety of public transport with regard to perceived constraints, which is gaining in importance in the Covid-19 era.
The diffusion and development of time-geography in East Asia: The academic life paths of two key scholars
Authors: Li Chunjiang , Chai Yanwei , Arai Yoshio
Published: January 2021

A summary of the diffusion and development of time-geography in East Asia, specifically in Japan and China, is presented in this article. Previous studies have provided reviews of time-geographic research and spacetime behaviour research in both countries. Few studies, however, have told the story about how and why timegeography diffused into East Asia. By showing and analysing the academic life paths of Yoshio Arai and Yanwei Chai, we conclude that the development of time-geography in Japan and China goes hand in hand with their academic progress. Moreover, the interactions within their academic life paths mark some key events that promoted time-geography significantly. The similarities and differences between their academic life paths are also analysed in this article. Both scholars shared some common research topics, such as childcare problems, urban spatial structures and socioeconomic transformations, which were also the most prominent characteristics of time-geography in East Asia. In addition, the socioeconomic backgrounds of their academic life paths are also quite similar, which reflects the close relationship between time-geography and societal needs. Finally, this article discusses the effectiveness and disadvantages of the academic life path method, as the method has proven to be an important tool in analysing the role that key scholars play in promoting a certain discipline. In conclusion, the diffusion and development of time-geography in East Asia can hardly have happened without both individual scholars’ hard work and the exchange and cooperation activities between scholars.
The Volume and Dynamics of Domestic Expenditures on Research and Development in the European Union
Authors: Baruk Jerzy
Published: January 2021

In the article, whose construction is of theoretical and empirical nature, the author attempted to achieve the following objectives: 1) identification and critical assessment of expenditures on research and development (GERD index), expressed in euro per inhabitant, incurred by statistical units concentrated in the sectors: business enterprises, government, higher education, private non-profit organizations and jointly in all sectors in countries members of the European Union. The level and dynamics of these expenditures are treated as an indirect measure of senior management’s involvement in creating R&D policy and efficient management in R&D phases; 2) an attempt to verify theses that R&D expenditures are variable and diversified in EU Member States, which indicates the lack of a rational R&D policy focused on the systematic generation of new knowledge materialized in innovations providing customers the expected value in a systemic way; 3) developing models of innovative R&D activities management. To develop the article, research methods are used, such as: critical-cognitive analysis of literature, statistical-comparative analysis of Eurostat’s empirical secondary material, projection method. The level of the GERD meter indicates a significant differentiation of R&D expenditure in individual sections of the analysis. The member states of the old EU had relatively higher outlays for this purpose compared to the new member states.
The Influence of Competence Potential of Changes in Higher Education on the Training of Specialists for Entrepreneurship
Authors: Vnukova Nataliya , Achkasova Svitlana , Us Maryna , Pyvovarov Vasyl
Published: January 2021

The paper presents the substantiation of the need to reform the higher education system of Ukraine in line with European and international standards and requirements, providing a full transition to competentive approach to learning. The essence and advantages of using competency potential for improvement of the higher education system in Ukraine are determined. A comprehensive marketing research are conducted, using the method of content analysis that helped to reveal the modern competencies needed for students and graduates of financial and legal specialties. In addition, a survey was conducted which showed that there were problems with the level and quality of the formation of professional and key competences.
Consumer Attitudes Towards Innovative Food Products Including Functional Products — Implications for Marketing in Terms of Nutrition and Health Claims
Authors: Gutkowska Krystyna , Czarnecki Jacek
Published: January 2021

In order to identify the attitudes of consumers towards innovative food products, including functional foods, qualitative research was carried out in 2019 to find out what are the components of these attitudes in relation to innovative food, on the example of functional food, in the conditions of the growing global tendency to care for health and convenience. As a result of the research carried out using the focus group interview (FGI) methodology, it was found that innovative food is associated with a new taste or packaging, increased nutritional value, as well as health related attributes. Often, in studies, consumers also referred to the reduction or complete elimination of allergenic ingredients and other chemical ingredients, e.g. preservatives, flavor enhancers. Consumers accept these innovations in different ways, generally showing skepticism about “improving” food by enriching it with various ingredients, while positively referring to changes related to the reduction in the content of nutrients considered harmful to health, e.g. fat, sugar or salt. It was also noted that innovativeness treated as a personality trait is accompanied by such features as: openness, tolerance, optimism, life satisfaction, while people lacking tendency to accept innovation are usually pessimistic about the world, attached to tradition or thrifty. It was also noted that consumers similarly perceive innovative and functional food, indicating that functional products are food with a specific health purpose, with a modified composition. The interviewees also indicated that it is possible to increase the interest of consumers in purchasing new food products or functional food through, inter alia, well targeted marketing messages, and it is necessary to take into account the legal regulations regarding their wording when formulating them. This applies in particular to the possibility of using nutrition and health claims in the case of products enriched with ingredients with a declared health-related effect.
The Importance of Corporate Governance of Banks Concerning the Ownership in the International Environment
Authors: Festić Mejra , Črepinko Polona , Bratina Borut
Published: January 2021

The analysis of the factors of corporate governance is divided into four thematic sections. In the first part corporate governance is defined as part of the broader economic context. The second part deals with the principles of corporate governance. In the third part, the relation between the index of corporate governance and individual indicators (an indicator of commitment, transparency, and disclosure, caring for partners, and control and audit) regarding ownership is defined. An analysis was undertaken for the countries of Central and Eastern Europe. A higher level of foreign ownership had a positive correlation with the corporate governance index. On the other hand, the correlation between state ownership and corporate governance index was not clear. The prevention of poor banking practices does not only lie in controlling functions, but also in the general corporate and risk-taking cultures, and the social perception of managerial roles, regardless of ownership structure.
Urban Population Growth and Job Opportunities: The Case of Albania
Authors: Ҫurçija Mario , Bejleri Emirjeta
Published: January 2021

Demographic change is a complex phenomenon, but it has generally been accepted that having better employment opportunities and quality of jobs are among important factors that determine people’s mobility. The purpose of this paper is to test the relationship between the increase in the number of people living in urban areas and the job opportunities in these areas in Albania. In order to do so, we performed a statistical analysis of a dataset on labor force surveys for the time period of 2007-2013. Our findings confirmed a positive correlation between the increase of individuals living in a certain area and job opportunities for specialized occupations in that area; however, a significant relationship was not found when job opportunities in general, in general, were considered.
Analysis of the Fluctuation of the Number of ISO 9001:2015 Certificates in the Republic of Croatia and Assessment of Satisfaction of Business Organisations Leadership with the Certificate
Authors: Vušković Petar
Published: January 2021

The ISO 9001:2015 certificate of quality is nowadays the most renowned quality standard in the world. Standardised quality has become an imperative competitive advantage on the market for all serious business organisations. The fluctuation of the number of certificates of quality indicates to what extent companies are willing to ensure the quality of their products and services to customers and clients, and how fast the domestic market is standardised and integrated into the global economy. This paper presents the results of two empirical studies. The first one focused on the analysis of the fluctuation in the number of ISO 9001:2015 certificates in the period from 2008 to 2018, while the second aimed to determine the satisfaction of leadership with the certificate. The study has shown that, during the observed period, the number of certificates of quality in Croatia fluctuated between – 18% and +22% annually. At the annual level, a certain number of companies lose their certificates or opt for decertification. For that reason, a study of the leadership’s level of satisfaction with the ISO 9001:2015 certificate was conducted using a sample of 296 certified business organisations. The study has proven that the leadership showed a high level of satisfaction with the certificate of quality and that they appreciate business organisations with certificates of quality. It demonstrates that the quality management certification has a bright future regardless of the annual fluctuation of the number of certificates.
The Role of a Water Canal and Secondary Forest for Migrants
Authors: Schupkégel Beáta , Bozó László , Tölgyesi Csaba
Published: January 2021

Forests have an important role during migration. They act as ecological corridors and provide resting and feeding places for birds. In our study, we sought to determine whether migratory birds prefer secondary forest or canal vegetation during migration. The study was carried out in Southeast Hungary, in an oleaster forest and in a canal. We used 12 mist nets and the ringing method. The study period lasted from August to October 2016–2018, covering approximately the entire migration period. According to our results, the canal has a significant effect on the species assemblage, as it functions as a migration corridor during migration, most likely not only for diurnal migrants, but for nocturnal migrants as well. Our results showed that the presence of both woody and berry plants had some influence on the species composition. Interestingly, the presence of berries had a positive effect on the presence of insectivorous birds.