bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LONG TERMS AND READABILITY OF PHYSICS SCHOOL TEXT
Authors: Ĺ korecovĂˇ Ivana , Teleki Aba , ZelenickĂ˝ Ä˝ubomĂ­r
Published: October 2017

This article presents a comparison of two physics school texts from the perspective of readability and use of specific terms. The study uses the survival function to associate the readability of physics school text to the length of terms used in the text. First, the study compares the survival functions of two full texts and that of the terms in these texts, and then analyzes the associated relative readability. Next, the results of two cloze tests involving 150 students are compared. The last step investigates the randomness of the differences between the results. The results show a strong correlation between the test scores and the probability distributions of terms used in the school texts. The difference between the probability distribution of the compared texts corresponds with the differences between the appropriate survival functions, where random fluctuations in the frequency of terms are suppressed.
THE PARTICULARITIES OF (SELF-)EDUCATION OF 'LEARNING TO LEARN' IN A PRESCHOOL INSTITUTION
Authors: StonkuvienÄ— Goda
Published: October 2017

This article discusses (self-)education of â€learning to learnâ€™ in a preschool institution. It emphasizes the particularities of this (self-)education in the context of pedagoguesâ€™ experiences. The (selfâ€‘)education of learning how to learn at a preschool age is an essential foundation for lifelong learning, defined not only in documents of the European Union but also in those of Lithuania and ones regulating preschool education since 2014. This pilot research reveals pedagoguesâ€™ experiences in applied education practice, as well as features of the childrenâ€™s (self-)education in â€learning to learnâ€™ in a preschool institution. Interviews provide an understanding of pedagoguesâ€™ approaches to the structure, planning, and development of the â€learning to learnâ€™ concept. They also reveal results on how to manage (selfâ€‘)education, as determined by the childrenâ€™s individual learning, experiences and abilities, learning topics initiated by them, and the significance of their educational environment. Pedagoguesâ€™ preparedness to develop childrenâ€™s â€learning to learnâ€™ is expressed by the need for help necessary for them, to strive towards a more successful (self-)education of childrenâ€™s â€learning to learnâ€™ in the preschool institution.
MATH AND ART CONVERGENCE FOR EDUCATION
Authors: Tramonti Michela , Paneva-Marinova Desislava , Pavlov Radoslav
Published: October 2017

According to worldwide surveys (such as PISA and TIMSS), European students often lack both mathematical and key basic competencies in science and technology. The mean scores for mathematics obtained by students are below the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development average (OECD). The learning of the mathematics literacy enables students to contribute effectively in actual society, enhancing their employment prospects. This paper intends to describe an innovative learning and teaching approach, actually in the development phase, in the field of mathematics for 14-16 years old students through the combination of current approaches used in Europe (such as inquiry based learning and technology-enhanced learning) and the Asian one, the Singaporeâ€™s method based on three phases, concrete-pictorial-abstract, through the use of artworks. This intends to allow the development of a more effective educational and training environment for teachers and their students who will benefit from the use of more attractive and fun pedagogical tools in the study of mathematics.
UNDERGRADUATE HEALTHCARE STUDENTSâ€™ ATTITUDE TO E-LEARNING AT MEDICAL UNIVERSITY - PLOVDIV
Authors: Tsokova Yordanka , Taneva Tanya , Tornyova Biyanka , Cherkezov Todor
Published: October 2017

E-learning is seen as a possible solution to the problem of modernization of the university education in response to the changing needs of the society. In undergraduate healthcare training, e-learning is implemented predominantly as blended learning in addition to the traditional classroom teaching. A major factor in the success of e-learning are learnersâ€™ attitudes, beliefs and concerns. The aim of the present study was to investigate undergraduate healthcare studentsâ€™ attitude to e-learning at Medical University â€“ Plovdiv. In this case, e-learning is considered to be electronic educational resources organized as an interactive e-learning unit or course, provided through a learning content management system. The survey was carried out in 2016 through a self-reported questionnaire among 270 first year students from ten healthcare specialties. Participants were asked to express a degree of agreement with nine statements on a five point Likert scale. The influence of gender, age, specialty and previous e-learning experience on the opinion of students was investigated. The results showed that studentsâ€™ attitudes towards e-learning were positive, but learners were not enthusiastic about it. Genders have different views about e-learning implementation â€“ women are more likely to accept it. The experience first year students had did not allow them to judge if e-learning supports better time-management or life-long learning skills. Students agreed that implementation of e-learning depends on the subjects and there are disciplines that can be provided as distant courses within the learning management system.
INTERCULTURAL HERMENEUTIC DIALOGUE BETWEEN CHILD AND ADULT IN DIVERSE EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENTS: THEORETICAL INSIGHTS
Authors: VietienÄ— Inesa
Published: October 2017

As economic, social, and political conditions are rapidly changing in modern society and the development of information and communication technologies is constantly in progress, attitudes toward children and their education are also transforming. Childhood education takes place in various environments through intercultural dialogue between child and adult, which is often interpreted in the context of communication theory. A dialogue between child and adult is also supplemented and enriched by hermeneutics in various environments. This dialogue enables the disclosure and understanding of the diversity of experiences of child and adult, learner and educator. Hermeneutics provides circumstances for childhood education to be perceived as a multidimensional and unique process. From the hermeneutic perspective, the intercultural dialogue between child and adult focuses on the problem of understanding in which the awareness of the whole, rather than participation and interaction, has particular importance in interpreting oneâ€™s own experience and perception.
DETERMINATION OF SOME ELEMENT CONCENTRATIONS OF FIRST INFANT MILK FORMULA AND HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT
Authors: Demir Funda , Yildirim Meral , Mermer Nevin Karamahmut , Derun Emek Moroydor
Published: October 2017

Breast milk is suggested as the best method for baby nourishment by The World Health Organization (WHO, 2003). However, in some cases, breastfeeding is not possible due to different metabolic reasons. In such cases, an infant formula that is similar to the breast milk content is designed to meet infant nourishment requirements during the first 6 months after birth. It is important to know the content of infant milk formula for a babyâ€™s health. The purpose of this presented study is to determine the elemental (Fe, Cu, Al, Cd, As, Ni, Ba) contents of the four different brands of first infant milk formula sold in the Turkish markets. Elemental contents of samples were identified by Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometer (ICP-OES) after a microwave digestion process. Target hazard quotients (THQ) of analyzed elements were calculated and risk analyses were conducted. According to the results, the hazard indexes (HI) of infant milk formula samples were founded as less than 1 and all samples were included in the low risk group.
HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG DISPENSARY OBSERVATION PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC ILLNESS IN BULGARIA
Authors: Dimcheva Teodora , Levterova Boryana , Bakova Desislava , Mateva Nonka
Published: October 2017

Introduction: The prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) worldwide acquires epidemic dimensions. In Europe, five nosological groups (diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and mental disabilities) constitute 77% of NCDs and cause about 86% of deaths in the region.Objectives: This study aimed to assess the quality of life in patients with chronic non-communicable diseases under dispensary observation.Methods: The pilot cross-sectional study was performed among adult with chronic diseases in primary care practices in the Plovdiv district (the second largest in Bulgaria) from May to June 2013.Results: A total of 200 adults with chronic diseases participated in the study. The mean age was 55.6 years (range 25â€“95, standard deviation (SD) 16.9). The most common chronic diseases in our study were cardiovascular 51% (ischemic heart disease, hypertension, etc.), followed by endocrinology diseases (23%). There was statistically significant differences in the assessments of "general health" in different groups of participants by gender (Ď‡2 = 16.65, P <0.002), age (Ď‡2 = 12.57, P <0.05) and social status (Ď‡2 = 28.54, P <0.0001).Conclusion: The subjective assessment of health is a factor that has a strong impact on the quality of life of patients and is an important component in evaluating the effectiveness of provided health care for patients with chronic non-communicable diseases.
COMMUNICATION BETWEEN NURSES AND DEAF PEOPLE IN HEALTH INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Ljubicic Marija , Zubcic Sanda , Sare Sonja
Published: October 2017

Introduction:: Upon arrival into a health institution, a deaf person is exposed to a higher stress level. They are at risk of receiving inadequate health care and health-related information due to limitations in communication between the deaf person and the health care workers. Despite the awareness of the presence of communication difficulties, research about the ways of communication between nurses and deaf people hasnâ€™t been sufficiently presented. This article focuses on the ways in which nurses and deaf people communicate, the difficulties in communication arising from that; emotional reactions and nursesâ€™ interest in the manual alphabet and sign language, and the perception about the need for an interpreter of sign language in a health institution. Objectives: The primary objective of this cross-sectional study is to examine the difficulties in communication upon a deaf personâ€™s arrival into a health institution.Methods: The original paper-and-pencil questionnaire for nurses includes questions about the communication problems upon the arrival of deaf people into health institutions. Differences between study variables were assessed for significance using the Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis test. The associations between variables were explored using Spearman rank correlation coefficients.Results: The results show that 65% of the nurses think that the communication problem is strongly pronounced as the problem is the inability of deaf people to respond when called (65%) and difficulties in understanding (40%). The interest of nurses for problems of deaf people affects the manifestation of difficulties and the understanding of messages. The most frequent way of communication is showing (95.1%) and writing (62.5%). There is no significant difference in relation to age (p=0.103), sex (p=0.473), level of education (p=0.901) and the length of service (p=0.062).Conclusion: The obtained results show how pronounced the communication difficulties between nurses and deaf people are. An interpreter in a health institution is necessary for effective communication. There is a high priority need for quality education of nurses about the ways of communicating with deaf people.
KNOWLEDGE OF HEATLH EFFECTS OF DIETARY FIBRE AMONG NURSES AND THE GENERAL POPULATION IN CROATIA: COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
Authors: Ljubicic Marija , Saric Marijana Matek , Curin Katja , Guine Raquel P. F.
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Nurses play diverse roles in educating patients about a healthy diet and in promoting healthy eating habits, through their conversations with patients and families and through their work providing enteral and parenteral feeding to critically ill patients. Given the position of nurses as key providers of dietary guidance, and given the health benefits of dietary fibre, we wanted to assess the level of fibre-related knowledge among nurses in Croatia.Objectives: The primary objective of this cross-sectional s tudy was to compare knowledge between nurses and the general population from Croatia about the health importance of consuming dietary fibre.Methods: Knowledge from 369 nurses and 727 residents from the general population about fibre was assessed using a validated survey developed by the CI&DETS Polytechnic Institute, Viseu, Portugal. Differences between nurses and the general population were assessed for significance using the Mann-Whitney U test and the Kruskal-Wallis test, while associations between study variables and knowledge were explored using Spearman rank correlation coefficients.Results: The level of knowledge among nurses and the general population in Croatia about dietary fibre varies from Â«undecidedÂ» to Â«partial knowledgeÂ». No association was observed between nurse education level and either general knowledge about fibre or knowledge about the health benefits of fibre intake. No significant differences were observed between nurses and the general population in general knowledge (p = 0.894) or in health-related knowledge (p = 0.578).Conclusion: The results suggest the need for updating and expanding nursing curricula. The similar level of knowledge between nurses and the general population about dietary fibre indicates the need to strengthen nurse education and training in the areas of diet and diet therapy in Croatia. Given the role of nurses as diet educators and advisors, this may help improve the quality of health care.
PROGNOSTIC VALUE OF PRO-ADRENOMEDULLIN, PROCALCITONIN AND C-REACTIVE PROTEIN IN COMMUNITY ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA
Authors: Miteva Darina , Radkov Yordan , Ivanova Lilyia , Chervenkov Trifon , Kostadinova Vanya
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Various biomarkers are used to evaluate the severity and prognosis of community acquired pneumonia (CAP).Objectives: To study and compare the prognostic value of MR-proADM, Đ ĐˇĐ˘ and CRP in predicting the severity and outcome of CAP.Methods: A prospective cohort study of 92 patients hospitalized with CAP in the Clinic of Pneumology and Phthisiatrics of MHAT â€śSaint Marinaâ€ťâ€“Varna in 2015 was conducted. The biomarkers were measured on admission. Midregional pro-adrenomedullin (MR-proADM) and procalcitonin (Đ ĐˇĐ˘) were measured by standard ELISA, and C-reactive protein (CRP) was determined by latex-enhanced immunoturbidimetric assay. CAP severity was assessed by CURB-65.Results: Patients were on average 59.2Â±16.8 years of age; 68.5% of them were male. The in-hospital mortality rate was 7.6%. The three biomarkers MR-proADM, Đ ĐˇĐ˘ and CRP were significantly higher in non-survivors compared to survivors (0.918Â±0.045 ng/ml vs. 0.397Â±0.269ng/ml, Ń€<0.001; 2.14Â±0.60ng/ml vs. 1.12Â±0.68ng/ml, Ń€<0.001 and 215.12Â±96.39 mg/L vs.175.74Â±221.5mg/L, p<0.05 respectively). In patients who needed intensive care, the biomarkers were also significantly higher than those in patients treated in the general hospital unit (0.509Â±0.336ng/ml vs. 0.414Â±0.28ng/ml, Ń€<0.05; 1.92Â±0.76 ng/ml vs. 1.15Â±0.70ng/ml, p<0.05 and 221.98Â±100.34 mg/L vs. 165.31Â±122.84 mg/L, p<0.05 resp.). MR-proADM and Đ ĐˇĐ˘ showed a moderate correlation with the CURB-65 (r=0.33, p<0.01 and r=0.30, p<0.05 respectively). CRP did not correlate with the CURB-65 (r=0.10, p>0.05).Conclusion: MR-proADM, Đ ĐˇĐ˘ and CRP were significantly higher in non-survivors and in patients treated in the intensive care unit. MR-proADM and Đ ĐˇĐ˘ showed a moderate correlation with the CURB-65, while the correlation coefficient for MR-proADM was higher. CRP did not correlate with the CURB-65.
PREVENTION OF RISK FACTORS OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IN NURSING
Authors: NovysedlĂˇkovĂˇ MĂˇria , Ĺ eliga RĂłbert
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease, in terms of its frequency, the severity of organ damage, and the consequences for the health of the population constitutes one of the most pressing problems of our population. The prevention of subsequent coronary events and the maintenance of physical functioning in such patients are a major challenge in preventive care. However, many patients opt for a change in their lifestyle, some with the support of a health professional.Objective: This empirical survey focuses on the knowledge of respondents about preventing cardiovascular disease. Statistical methods determine the differences between males and females in attending preventive check-ups, understanding and observing risk factors in their lifestyle, and having an interest in changing their lifestyle.Methods: The survey uses a non-standardized questionnaire. Apart from demographic data, the questionnaire had 10 items assessing the respondentâ€™s knowledge of risk factors for cardiovascular disease, 10 on lifestyle and attitudes to the change in lifestyle, and five regarding their interest in education about the subject. Exploratory data includes answers from 70 respondents, who were outpatients in a general practitionerâ€™s department. Of these, 32 are males (46.0%) and 38 are females (54.0%). Results of the survey are analyzed using the Chi-Squared test. Results: Fifty-four of the 70 respondents (55.7%; 20 males and 34 females) undertake preventive check-ups at the general practitionerâ€™s department at least once in two years. No significant differences present between males and females in attending preventive check-ups (Ď‡2 = 3.455; df = 1; P = 0.05) and in showing a willingness for a lifestyle change (Ď‡2 = 1.789; P = 0.05). However, based on the given data, a significant difference presents between males and females regarding proper regime observance (Ď‡2 = 18.651; df = 1; P = 0.05). For example, females know the observance of a healthy diet is necessary for preventing ischemic heart disease (Ď‡2 = 20.124; df = 1; P = 0.05).Conclusion: The study shows that the difference between males and females is significant regarding their understanding of risk factors related to lifestyle and proper regime observance. Thus, education could lead to reducing or eliminating such risk factors. Prevention of risk factors is complex and lifelong. Under conditions of the Slovak health service, registered nurses are responsible for the education of patients.
PAIN MANAGEMENT IN GERIATRIC PATIENTS AND THE ROLE OF THE NURSE
Authors: Paskaleva Diana , Semerdjieva Maria , Tufkova Stoilka
Published: October 2017

Introduction: The role of the nurse for pain management in geriatric patients is not only for the administration of painkillers prescribed by a doctor. It also includes timely information about it, accurate assessment of its extent, which facilitates the physician's diagnostic actions, rapid intervention and control of the syndrome, in order to achieve the ultimate goal of improving the quality of life of geriatric patients.Purpose: We set a goal to investigate the opinion of geriatric patients, and if the pain syndrome is positively affected by the nurses in inpatient care.Materials and methods: The study includes an anonymous survey of 392 patients aged over 65 years who received treatment in the inpatient department.Results: It was determined that sex factorial signs P<0,01 (Ď‡2 = 10,63) and age P <0,001 (Ď‡2 = 18,29) are expressed according to the management of pain during hospitalization.
LASER STOKES-POLARIMETRY OF THE ERYTHROCYTES SUSPENSION AT COMORBID COURSE OF CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE, DIABETES MELLITUS TYPE 2 AND ANEMIA
Authors: Pavlyukovich Nataliia , Pavlyukovich Oleksandr , Garazdiuk Marta , Wanchuliak Oleg , Garazdiuk Oleksandr
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Investigation of the rheological properties of the erythrocytes is one of the crucial issues in the pathogenesis of most diseases of internal organs. Changes in the morphological structure of the red blood cell membrane serve as an early diagnostic criterion of coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus type 2 and anaemia, thus a search for modern methods of investigation which can be used for early detection of erythrocytes membrane disorders is of great importance. Methods of laser polarimetry of the erythrocytes suspension smear are crucial in this area.Objectives: Investigation of the possible structural changes of the erythrocytes membranes in patients with coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus type 2 and anaemia of different degrees of severity.Methods: For the objective assessment of the structural state of erythrocytes membrane laser polarimetry of the red cell suspension smear was applied. Set of the statistical points of the 1st-4th grades was calculated and their effectiveness in the early pre-clinical detection of the erythrocytes membrane disorder was established.Results: Images of the erythrocytes suspension samples, registered in the co-axial and crossed planes of the polarizer and analyser transmissions, regardless of the investigated group, are coordinating heterogeneous. However, obvious signs of the changes of the images structure depending on the presence and type of pathology are not visually detected. As the basis of an objective approach, a statistical analysis with histograms of the coordinate distributions of the random variables and a statistical calculation of the statistical points of the 1st-4th grades should be used. All statistical points, which describe the coordinate distributions of the various parameters of the Stokes vector, have individual sets of values and may be used for the differential diagnosis of the coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus type 2 and anaemia.Conclusions: Interconnections between the values of the sets of the statistical points of the 1st-4th grades, which characterized coordinate distributions of the intensity, azimuth and ellipticity of the polarization of the erythrocytes suspension laser images of the elderly and senile patients with comorbidity were established by means of laser polarimetry. The most sensitive were asymmetry and kurtosis, which can be used for early detection of the erythrocytes membrane disorder when routine methods of its visualization and estimation still are not able to be applied.
A CAMERA-BASED MEASUREMENT SYSTEM FOR OPTIMIZATION OF DIFFERENTIAL-ALGEBRAIC ECOTOXICOLOGICAL MODELS
Authors: DrÄ…g PaweĹ‚ , StyczeĹ„ Krystyn , Matyja Konrad
Published: October 2017

We present a general framework for measurements and optimization of differential-algebraic models. Moreover, we propose an application of the considered methodology in ecotoxicology. The differential-algebraic models can be used to describe different ecotoxicological relations. One of them is the influence of the environmental pollution on the Daphnia's movement characteristics. Changes in these characteristics can be used as a tool for assessment of neurotoxicity. The camera-based measurement and optimization system enable us to obtain the differential-algebraic ecotoxicological relations in a fully automated way.
CARBON STRUCTURES AS EFFECTIVE MODIFIERS OF THE MATERIALSâ€™ BASIC PROPERTIES
Authors: Kamanina Natalia
Published: October 2017

Because of the unique energetic, refractive and photoconductive characteristics of effective nano-objects, especially carbon nanotubes, the modification of optical properties of the organic and inorganic materials can be considered as the preferable one via the use of the nanostructuration process. Emphasis has been given to the incorporation of nanoobjects directly in the materialsâ€™ body and on their surface. Under the conditions of a surface treatment of the inorganic structures, an IR-laser at the wavelength of 10.6 micrometers was used to orientate carbon nanotubes deposited in the electric field of 100-600 VĂ—cm-1. Dramatic spectral and mechanical parameters changes have been found. Refractive features of the nanostructured organics have been studied via applying the second harmonic of the pulsed Nd-laser at different spatial frequencies and under the nanoparticles sensitization doping such as fullerenes, carbon nanotubes, shungites, quantum dots, and graphenes. A drastically obtained laser-induced refractive index has been established. A prediction has been proposed to extend the area of the application of the systems considered.
AN INTEGRATED RBR FIXTURE DESIGN SYSTEM
Authors: Mihaylov Oleg , Nikolcheva Galina
Published: October 2017

Traditionally fixture design processes are costly and time-consuming when carried out manually. To try to reduce the negative features, we are creating a computer-aided fixture design system, integrated in the SolidWorksâ€™ environment. This system uses rule-based reasoning in the form of If-Then-Else rules, incorporated in its VB.NET code. This paper presents our progress in the form of an interactive add-in program for locating parts. This program generates modular fixtures for locating prismatic or cylindrical parts, using rules and mathematical equations. Its usage can shorten the time needed for determining the type and position of every module of the fixture, their assembling, and inspection.
ANALYZING WAREHOUSE ERGONOMICS USING SMART TEXTILES
Authors: Mocan Anca , Daniel Čtefan CÄlin , DrÄghici Anca
Published: October 2017

Ergonomics is well recognized as the study of the design of workplaces, equipment, machines, tools, products, the environment, and systems which takes into consideration a human being's physical, physiological, biomechanical, and psychological capabilities. Within warehouse logistics the need for ergonomic improvements is considerable, given the high level of manual labor and range of movement. Wearable technologies have the potential to improve the means through which an ergonomic study is accomplished. This paper discusses smart textiles and the ways in which they can help with ergonomic modelling by providing a faster and cheaper alternative to video capturing and subsequent computer rendering as well as how they can help in reducing the Hawthorne effect during data collection.
DEVELOPING THE READINESS FOR THE ORGANIZATIONAL ACTIVITY OF THE CADETS
Authors: Terziev Venelin , Nichev Nikolay
Published: October 2017

The tasks being solved by the military units, which are part of the Bulgarian Army, require the possession of high-level knowledge and abilities for organizational activity from the newly promoted Logistic Officers. While performing his functional obligations, the Logistic Officer must promptly and thoroughly estimate the received task, duly organize the activity of the subordinated units and personnel and organize the collaboration with the State authorities, with the business, non-governmental and further organizations.The research target is the professional military training of the future Logistic Officers, while the research subject is the developing of readiness for the organizational activity of the Logistic Officers in the course of their professional military training. The aim of the research is to outline the lines for improving the process of developing of readiness for the organizational activity of the Logistic Officers in the course of their professional military training. The research methods are: a theoretical analysis of the literature for military education and of the standard documents is made in the course of the research; analysis and synthesis of the scope and the contents of the basic definitions, being used in the elaboration; abstraction; conclusion and analogy.
HISTORIC MOLDOVA. HISTORICAL DISPARITIES, REGIONALISATION AND CROSS-BORDER INTEGRATION
Authors: Ploscaru Cristian , Nistor IonuČ›
Published: October 2017

This study proposes a theoretical approach to the idea of a platform for research and education on the historical substance of regionalization in Romania, with reference to the case of the historical province of Moldova. Furthermore, to identify the consequences, reactions, weaknesses, opportunities afforded by administrative restructuring from a post-regionalization demographic and socioeconomic viewpoint. An inter-disciplinary analysis â€“ historical, demographic, economic â€“ the traits of a Romanian society stemming from Moldova, the historical dynamics that underpin the modern Romanian state, will provide a picture of the current situation, focused mainly on its causes while trying to find explanations rooted in economic and social behaviours and attitudes which came to define and inform the subsequent development strategy of regionalization, allowing Moldova to play a central economic role in relation to other territories, similar to the role it played in the past two centuries, in the context of European integration strategies, in neighbouring parts of the continent (Republic of Moldova, Ukraine). The theoretical approach involves three components, expanding concentrically: 1) component of knowledge / research; 2) digital platform; 3) e-learning component. The research component seeks dynamic historical development of Moldova, from the time after the Union of the Romanian Principalities until today, focusing on specific regional elements. We will try to identify and analyze the specific features of Moldova, links with other areas of historical Moldavia, as the interaction between them and the Romanian public policy. Within the demographic component, we look at the historical population dynamics of Moldova, including various ethnic and religious communities, rural-urban ratios, social and professional structures. Another issue concerns the economic and comparative analysis in space and time, with respect to Moldova historical economic dynamics parameters - resources, infrastructure, industry, agriculture, trade, transport, etc. Both aspects will be analyzed in correlation with the impact of a permanent political factor, pursuing public policies promoted by the political regimes in their chronological sequence.
PROBLEMS OF IMPLEMENTING A BALANCED SCORECARD AS A MANAGEMENT TOOL IN UNIVERSITIES
Authors: Arzamastseva Maria , Khayrullina Marina
Published: October 2017

With the globalization of the economy, close attention should be given to the strategic management of higher education institutions as representatives of one type of company. The main problem of university management lies in the gap between current results and ultimate goals of the university. Therefore, tools to link strategic plans to operational activities are needed for average employees. This article describes conditions and problems of implementing a balanced scorecard at different levels as a modern management tool both in foreign and Russian universities. The given study has practical value and can help to increase the efficiency of university activities.
EVOLUTION OF SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE MARKETING IN RUSSIAN SERVICE SECTOR
Authors: Barsova Oksana
Published: October 2017

Though evidence of socially responsible behavior of companies appeared to be indisputable, the most problematic for any company is to align it with the employed marketing strategy and enhance the opportunities it can provide for creating competitive advantage and further innovation. Corporate social initiatives are often disconnected and fragmented, which causes constraints to analyze their prospects to cut expenses and increase revenues. The statistical data of a period of over four years show the continual growth in Russian service sector which can provide resources for “world-positive” business initiatives. Though authorities traditionally and usually force the ways of engaging business in financing social programs, the image of a socially responsible and environmentally friendly business provides opportunities for a sustainable upturn in Russian service sector.
MODELLING OF INVESTMENT PROCESSES IN THE SPHERE OF SOCIAL HOUSE BUILDING
Authors: Seliutina Larisa , Egorova Marina , Bulgakova Kseniia
Published: October 2017

The problem of not enough public housing for low-income citizens is very urgent in the entire world. This article is dedicated to the topical question; how do we select optimal investment projects and implement successful investment programs to fund public housing projects better. We have formulated basic principles for the formation of an optimal portfolio to use as a standard for investment programs for public housing construction projects. As selection criteria, instead of profitability and risk offered in classical portfolio theory to which private investors are paying attention, we propose the use of social satisfaction survey results and amount of available funding to determine the effectiveness of the programs. We have developed several mathematical models that help aid in the selection of investment projects based on these new requirements. The application of these models in the selected projects selection within the framework of investment programs of public housing construction will allow the most effective use of funds directed to the development of the public housing
ACCOUNTING AS A 21ST CENTURY BUSINESS VALUE DRIVER
Authors: Daraban Marius Costin
Published: October 2017

Companies have focused for decades on maximizing the value creation process of direct productive business activities. The information revolution has left its mark and has started an irreversible transformation of classical business processes and activities. In the new 21st century information and data driven society, commodity is value and knowledge, making Porters value chain concept an important key factor for successful and innovative businesses. Business value creation was during the industrial revolution a topic strictly liked to direct productive activities. The increased and transformed business environment required innovative and sustainable competitive advantages for business organizations. The indirect productive business activities, and the business support services have been considered business value consuming and having no contribution towards the company value chain. 21st century accounting has evolved from the role of record keeper to a business value driver that assures and contributes to the company value chain by using its internal knowledge pool. The existing scientific publications are approaching accounting from different perspectives and support the main conclusion of the paper: accounting, in the 21st century is not a “bean counter” anymore, accounting is a certain and consistent business value driver.
ONLINE RECOMMENDATION SYSTEMS’ USAGE BY COMPANIES IN BALTIC COUNTRIES
Authors: Gaitniece Elina
Published: October 2017

Global retailers are using sophisticated online recommendation systems (ORS) which enhance customers' loyalty towards the specific site. Online markets in Baltic countries are growing fast, but Baltic e-commerce sites are not using a wide enough range of eWOM tools. The aim of this paper is – to evaluate how eWOM through ORS is perceived and used by digital marketing specialists and e-commerce players in the Baltics. Research methods used were: literature analysis on ORS’s influence on consumer purchase decisions, and an expert survey and monitoring study. The research results revealed major barriers for advanced ORS usage in the Baltics, as they discovered a gap between experts' opinion and the current reality in the Baltics. The article provides recommendations to online retailers in the Baltics on improvements that are needed
TECHNIQUES AND ANALYSIS OF MANAGEMENT AUDITS
Authors: Gallo Peter , Píchová Romana , Šenková Anna , Matušíková Daniela , Mitríková Jana
Published: October 2017

The proper management of an enterprise involves a set of complex activities that, in the current rapidly changing world, require adoption of modern market requirements. This paper describes a study concerning management audits.The study aims to identify and evaluate the specific techniques that are useful for obtaining information for audits in evaluating management, and examines modifications and applications of the model by McKinsey, ‘model 7S’, with an ‘IFE Matrix’. As practice shows, until now, the ‘model 7S’ approach is the most frequently used tool to assess the current state of management executives in business. The proposed models in the paper’s conclusion can be used individually or by combining two separate models to create a ‘two-staged adaptive model 7S’.
A LOCAL BRAND AND “FMOT” OR FIRST MOMENT OF TRUTH
Authors: Helde Aivars
Published: October 2017

This study examines the nature of an advertisement with the focus on social discourse and First Moment of Truth (FMOT) in the context of this research. This paper aims at analyzing different commercial advertisements (product/non-product ads) to investigate the intentions and techniques of consumer product companies in reaching more consumers and selling more products. First Moment of Truth (FMOT) represents the “a-ha” moment when a consumer is confronted with a product and related alternatives, assumed to take place in everyday life. This is considered to be the point when a consumer decides to buy a specific brand or product. Although commonly the First Moment of Truth as a technique, is used as online or in- store selling, this technique has a crucial role in the perception of print advertising too. “Any time a customer comes into contact with a business, however remote, they have an opportunity to form an impression,” said Jan Carlzon, president of Scandinavian Airlines, defining the Moment of Truth in business. It has now crossed over into sales and marketing as others have embraced the term to describe different customer and consumer behavior (Shep Hyken). As soon as people in Latviaare going to trust to the national brand more, it is very important to focus on the visual manifestation of a local brand. The Norman Fairclough’s 3-D model, Kress Van Leeuwen’s grammar of visual design, and the French semiotician Roland Barthes(1977) suggested theoretical and semiotic tools for analyzing and understanding advertisements are used to analyzing the data. All materials are taken from the Latvian media.
THE IMPACT OF ADVERTISEMENT ON CONSUMERâ€™S PERCEPTION
Authors: HudĂˇk Martin , MadleĹĂˇk Radovan , BrezĂˇniovĂˇ Veronika
Published: October 2017

Marketing can be described as a tool for companies to influence the consumerâ€™s perception to the desired direction. The current market situation is characterized by dynamism, growing consumer power, and intense competition. The consumer perception and behavior are changing and therefore need to be constantly monitored and measured. The aim of this article is to scan and measure consumerâ€™s perception while watching a video advertisement. During this experiment, an eye-tracking technology was used, which allows capturing a consumerâ€™s gaze. The central part of the research is to measure the brain activity of a consumer based on the EEG (Electroencephalography). EMOTIV Epoc+ is a 14-channel wireless EEG, designed for contextualized research and advanced brain computer interface applications. An advertising campaign from four different mobile operators was used for this purpose. In the conclusion of this article, consumerâ€™s perception of different advertising campaigns are compared and evaluated.
PRACTICE OF PARALLEL IMPORTING: PROTECTION OF INTERNATIONAL COMPANIES' TRADEMARKS RIGHTS IN RUSSIAN FOREIGN TRADE
Authors: Kovalev Victor , Falchenko Oksana , Vyazovskaya Veronika , Semin Alexander
Published: October 2017

The paper is devoted to the problem of the exhaustion of international companies' trademarks and other intellectual property objects rights in the foreign trade practices of Russia and other countries of the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU). The paper focuses on the problems of trade integration through the intellectual property market, since any free movement of goods should always be correlated with respect for the interests of the trademark rights owners. The aim of this paper is to explore the process of parallel importing in the aspect of international companies trademarks intellectual property rights in the Russian Federation and EEU countries and the opportunities and challenges it provides for both manufacturers and importers. The problem of importing products labeled with trademarks through parallel import channels to Russia is being considered using the schemes for the importation of counterfeit goods into Russia through EEU countries. The analysis shows that there are the problems with the application of the mechanisms of trademarks customs protection in practice. The main problem is the lack of unified legislation for intellectual property protection in EEU members.
THE IMPACT OF FISCAL DECENTRALIZATION ON PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
Authors: KubĂˇs Jozef , Ĺ tofkovĂˇ Zuzana , MiĹˇĂ­k JĂˇn
Published: October 2017

The allocating revenue to the individual budgets of self-governments in the Slovak Republic is a highly sophisticated process. Redistribution of resources using fiscal decentralization is an effective instrument through which the government attempts to eliminate subsidizing of municipalities and self-governing regions from the state budget and thus achieve higher stability of the economy. The function of municipalities and higher territorial units is secured by so-called special purpose tax revenues, which do not go into the state budget but directly into the budgets of self-governments. This research contribution focuses on the revenue side of budgets of public administration institutions for the period of the last five concluding budget years. The analysis demonstrates the meaning and importance of tax revenues for the mentioned institutions as well as the expenditure side of the state budget. In this contribution, a comparative study identified the changes that occurred in the individual years of the presented range and subsequently, evaluated fiscal decentralization and its influence on the revenue side of budgets of municipalities.
COACHING TRENDS IN ROMANIA
Authors: Popescul Lorena Florentina , Jitaru Loredana
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this study is to determine the future coaching trends in the Romanian market in the short, medium, and long term. We conducted a qualitative analysis where we administered a semi-structured, in-depth interview with 10 coaches asking them to share their opinions about the incoming trends in the Romanian coaching market. We note that the answers provided by coaches indicate a strong tendency for future growth in coaching; the publicâ€™s awareness of this topic is estimated to increase, especially because most organizations will realize that they can no longer cope with the new waves of change in the markets and in peopleâ€™s behavior. This study can benefit experts interested in the current state of coaching, as well as decision-makers who seek to implement coaching in their organizations or in their personal lives. This work highlights valuable results that can act as starting points for additional research. This type of study is rare in Romania, and hence, this present study is important for understanding the impact of coaching trends in the Romanian market in the short, medium, and long term.
THE IMPORTANCE OF TANGIBLE FIXED-ASSETS REVALUATION: A COMPARISON BETWEEN ROMANIAN ACCOUNTING REGULATIONS AND THE IPSAS 17 â€PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENTâ€™
Authors: Matei Nicoleta Cristina , Ĺ˘ole Marin , Stroe Mihaela Andreea
Published: October 2017

The purpose of a tangible fixed-assets revaluation is to establish true values for assets and a genuine picture of the financial position and the result of public institutions. This article presents the legislation needed to implement international provisions regarding the accounting system of public institutions, especially those concerning the revaluation of tangible fixed assets. It contains a comparison between the national regulations and guidelines of the International Public Sector Accounting Standard for tangible fixed assets. It highlights the convergences and divergences regarding the accounting treatment for determining the initial value of tangible fixed assets, the setting out of the reassessed value, the accounting treatment applied to the revaluation results, and the achievement of a revaluation surplus. It also describes the manner in which the revaluation of tangible fixed assets can influence the financial and patrimonial position of a public institution
THE EVALUATION OF IMPACT OF MUNICIPALITIES' FISCAL COMPETITIVENESS ON ECONOMIC GROWTH
Authors: RuplienÄ— DovilÄ— , GarĹˇvienÄ— Lina , RudytÄ— Dalia , SkunÄŤikienÄ— Solveiga , BajorĹ«nienÄ— Roberta
Published: October 2017

The competition between municipalities is problematic due to a common misconception that rivalry is impossible because documents regulating finances are the same across all local self-governments. In contrast, scientific research shows that the livability of one municipality can differ to another because of differences in their social-economic benefits. This distinction is not conditioned by geographic location or other special features of the municipality but rather by the amount of funds assigned and allocated to social and public welfare. This article aims to reveal the factors pertaining to the municipalitiesâ€™ fiscal competitiveness that affect economic growth within the state. This has relevance as a reallocation of a municipalityâ€™s expenditure could provide new possibilities towards increasing future revenue of the municipality. For reaching the aim is examined by evaluating the effect of municipalitiesâ€™ fiscal competitiveness on Lithuaniaâ€™s economic growth using the volume and structure of expenditure in its municipalities. Results show that the major channels determining the fiscal competitiveness of a region are human resources, the business sector, and the institutional environment, and that these differ among municipalities.
TO THE QUESTION OF THE CLUSTER APPROACH IN TOURISM OF KAZAKHSTAN
Authors: Sadykova Rysty Karuevna , Madysheva Assem
Published: October 2017

In recent years, the cluster approach has become the main instrument of an effective state strategy for the development and management of tourism in countries with a high level of competitiveness. It is based on the interaction and cooperation of organizations operating in the tourism industry and government structures, without which innovation activity cannot be managed, new approaches emerge that involve an indirect impact on the development of the region within the national innovation system by creating conditions for increasing innovation activity and susceptibility of economic entities. The development of many regions is constrained by the lack of necessary conditions: inadequate material and financial resources, underdeveloped research base, inconsistent regional policies.
INCREASING THE SOCIAL EFFECTIVENESS OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Authors: Tzvetkova Svetla
Published: October 2017

: The functioning of public transport as a primarily social phenomenon leads to the realization of a significant social effect. The more deployed and high-quality the level of transportations is, the larger the social effect is. This also elevates the culture of passenger service and the use of modern environmentally friendly means of transport. The social effect has a multilateral manifestation, but the most significant one is its manifestation in the following trends: satisfying the population's various travel needs; reducing travel time and increasing free time, thus increasing the time for rest, relaxation, entertainment, educational and sport activities. The social effect is also achieved through the use of modern and environmentally friendly means of transport with reduced harmful emissions and noise impact on the population's health. The primary goal of socially effective public transport is to be accessible to everyone, to provide comfort, awareness, safety and security during passenger travel by incorporating efficient and stable urban intelligent transport systems and modern integrated environmentally friendly public transport with better emission indicators. The present report is dedicated to the main trends of increasing the social effectiveness of public transport in cities.