bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
El astrólogo y su gabinete. Autoría, ciencia y representación en los almanaques del siglo XVIII
Authors: Álvarez Barrientos Joaquín
Published: December 2020

RESUMENEn estas páginas se estudian los almanaques desde su perspectiva textual e iconográfica, se atiende al marco científico de la época, al público; al sentido y valor de los instrumentos que aparecen en los frontispicios y a su tipología; a las formas de componer los pronósticos, es decir, a las estrategias y a la conciencia autoral que muestran; al papel que la melancolía desempeña en el retrato de los autores, y, finalmente, se centran en el espacio del astrólogo, su gabinete al aire libre, entendido como lugar simbólico de estudio, representación y autoridad.PALABRAS CLAVEAlmanaque, pronóstico, gabinete, autoría, astrología, ciencia, figura, siglo XVIII. TITLEAlmanac figures. Authorship, science and representation of the astrologer in the forecasts of the eighteenth centuryABSTRACTThe almanacs are studied in these pages from their textual and iconographic perspective. The scientific framework of the time, the public; the meaning and value of the instruments that appear in the frontispieces and their typology; the ways of composing the almanacs, the strategies and the authorial conscience that they show; to the role that melancholy plays in the portrait of the authors, and, finally, the space of the astrologer, his open-air cabinet, understood as a symbolic place of study, representation and authority are attended to.KEYWORDSAlmanac, forecast, cabinet, authorship, science, figure, XVIII century.
Application of Faith and Learning
Authors: Harrison Theresa , Weigel Dottie , Smith Melinda
Published: December 2020

Higher education institutions face many competing priorities and are still expected to serve the public good. Faith-based institutions, in particular, aim to meet a faith-inspired calling and serve the communities in which they are situated while guiding students in their faith formation by integrating service and academic priorities. In this paper, the authors explore, through a case study methodology, the unique positionality of Messiah University, a faith-based university located near the capital city of Harrisburg, PA. Specifically, this study explores the impact of a community engaged course with an urban nonprofit agency.
Enacting Truth and Reconciliation Through Community-University Partnerships
Authors: James Anthony , Kaur-Colbert Simran , Hannah Hannah , Hicks Nytasia , Robinson Valerie
Published: December 2020

Truth and reconciliation efforts around the world demonstrate distinctive cultural approaches, motivations, and outcomes. Utilizing four international cases of truth and reconciliation in Canada, South Africa, Germany and South Korea, we first establish common processes in national or macro-level truth and reconciliation as a result of past atrocities. In the U.S., 4000+ documented racial terror lynchings took place between the years 1870-1950.  In the absence of a national truth and reconciliation commission for racial terror lynchings in the U.S., we developed and applied a micro-level model and practices outlined by the Equal Justice Initiative to advance truth and reconciliation at the grassroots level, fueled by community-university partnerships. In this paper we detail components of our community-university partnership model that might allow communities across the United States to advance grassroots efforts in their own local context. We note that truth and reconciliation is an ongoing process that includes both macro (national) and micro (grassroots) level approaches rather than an outcome that will satisfy all stakeholders effected by the events.
Protective Factors using the Life Course Perspective in Maternal and Child Health
Authors: Salinas-Miranda Abraham , King Lindsey , Salihu Hamisu , Wilson Roneé , Nash Susan , Collins Sarah , Berry Estrellita , Austin Deborah , Scarborough Kenneth , Best Evangeline , Cox Lillian , King Georgette , Hepburn Carrie , Burpee Conchita , Briscoe Richard , Baldwin Julie
Published: December 2020

The life course perspective, a valuable theoretical framework for investigating racial disparities in birth outcomes, examines the cumulative exposure of risk and protective factors throughout the life span. Although risk and protective exposures are equally vital to health, most studies have focused solely on the risk factor exposures faced by vulnerable populations. In clear contrast to the traditional public health approach which emphasizes a deficit model, strengths-based approaches can elucidate pathways on protective factors that foster resilience. Such positive perspectives represent a paradigm shift that views communities as valuable assets that have the capacity to fully engage themselves and their residents to achieve optimal health. Participatory action research methods are well-suited to apply a strengths-based approach to understand health disparities. Our study aimed to explore maternal and child health protective factors, from community residents’ perspective. We conducted 10 community-based participatory focus groups with community residents Tampa, Florida guided by the life course perspective. A total of 78 residents participated in ten focus groups. Perceived protective factors during pregnancy included self-esteem, spirituality, pregnancy support, good nutrition, prenatal care, and community resources. Protective factors for non-pregnant women were self-esteem, spirituality, social support, health literacy, community support and community resources, and societal factors. For children and adolescents, relevant protective factors were self-esteem, positive role models, nutrition and physical activity, and community support. The identified factors are community assets or strengths that mitigate or eliminate maternal and child health risks in families and communities residing in low-income neighborhoods, which must be considered in developing effective maternal and child health interventions.
Marcos legales estadísticos en América Latina: Realidades, mejores prácticas y recomendaciones
Authors: Clark Ximena , Zaror Danielle , Mejía-Guerra José Antonio
Published: December 2020

Este trabajo hace un análisis comparativo de los marcos legales que rigen las Oficinas Nacionales de Estadística (ONEs) de 18 países de América Latina, contrastándolos con las recomendaciones internacionales existentes. Concluye que los marcos son en muchos casos obsoletos, debilitando la institucionalidad y el nivel técnico de las oficinas e impidiendo su habilidad para comunicar sus productos. En casi todos los países, el marco no reúne por lo menos una de las condiciones necesarias para facilitar la producción, el intercambio y la difusión de información, la transparencia, la confidencialidad y protección de datos, o contener las presiones externas que busquen influir en la información producida por la ONE. Un marco legal obsoleto puede ser el canal de conducción de políticas de debilitamiento institucional. No hay leyes perfectas y la legislación requiere ser actualizada para ajustarse a los tiempos, pero está claro que la estabilidad institucional de una ONE no puede estar sujeta a usos y costumbres, sino que debe estar propiamente legislada. El documento identifica áreas de oportunidad y mejores prácticas, y ofrece propuestas concretas en la forma de una ley modelo alineada con las recomendaciones internacionales. La investigación también explora la interacción de la legislación estadística con las legislaciones de acceso a la información pública y de protección de datos personales.
Electric Power Grid Disruptions: A Time Series Examination
Authors: Harte Brian K. , Kumar Umesh
Published: December 2020

It is important to empirically assess both the viability and defensibility of the national electric grid, which is becoming more complex with increasingly interdependent components. Moreover, the nation's critical infrastructure would quickly become degraded with prolonged grid outages that impact electrical power production and distribution.

This study examines time series data for 2,825 cases involving power outages in the U.S. over a 20‐year (246‐month) period, from January 2000 through June 2020. Data was acquired from the U.S. Department of Energy. Severe weather caused the majority of power outages recorded, but human factors accounted for a significant number of incidents. We found that 46% of electrical power outage causes relate to natural or weather‐related events, 28% to grid system operations or failures, and 25% to human interactions. Further, we found that cyber‐attack data was less forthcoming than other types of grid outage reporting. Based on these data, the number of power outages and energy loss attributable to outages continues to rise, while the duration of electric outages and the number of customers affected are declining.
Design and Analysis of Suspension Strut in Automobile Vehicles
Authors: Seelam Anil Babu , Kumaran Monish Senthil , Sachidananda Krishnamurthy H.
Published: December 2020

This research paper discusses about the design and analysis of suspension strut used in automotive industries. The main objective of this research is to study the suspension strut by modelling using solid works and then analysis have been performed using ANSYS by considering structural steel, carbon fiber and E-Glass material. Based on the results obtained from the analysis, comparison have been made for above materials to reduce the weight of the suspension strut to improve the life of the model. From the analysis results it can be concluded that it is possible to reduce the weight of suspension strut using composite materials. From the above study it can be concluded that glass fiber has performed well as compared to other materials which in turn increases the life of the suspension strut.
Optimization of the Conditions for Determining 2,4-D and Deltamethrin by HPLC
Authors:   Lipetsk State Technical University, Melikhova Elena V. , Farafonova Olga V. ,   Lipetsk State Technical University
Published: December 2020

The paper presents the results of optimizing the conditions for the chromatographic determination of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and deltamethrin for two capillary columns (Supelcosil LC-18, Kromasil C-18). The modes of individual chromatography of pesticides were selected. The use of the isocratic elution mode in the joint presence of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and deltamethrin was shown and experimentally proved to be invalid. Three options were proposed for the conditions of the gradient mode of the separate detection of analytes in a mixture. The developed technique for the chromatographic separate determination of 2,4-D and deltamethrin with their joint presence was tested via analysis of river water and potato samples.
Biological Features of Gladiolus hybridus in Connection with the Adaptation of the Siberian Region
Authors:   Central Siberian Botanical garden of the Siberian branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Sedelnikova Lyudmila L. , Vorobyova Irina G. ,   Central Siberian Botanical garden of the Siberian branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: December 2020

The adaptive possibilities of the varietal diversity of Gladiolus hybridus in the forest-steppe zone of Western Siberia are analyzed. Morphobiological features of shoot formation are shown. Long-term (1999–2019) results of seasonal development of plants in generative age state are presented. The specificity of the terms of flowering varies from different groups of the sum of positive temperatures. Flowering in Novosibirsk occurs in early varieties with the sum of positive temperatures >1462° C, medium >1558° C, late >1711° C. It was determined that in the prewinter the cone of growth of the shoot of renewal forms rudimentary vegetative organs, which corresponds to the second stage of organogenesis. Differentiation of the cone of growth of escape to generative organs begins during the period of intensive growth of escape in June. During the period from 60–73 days, the cone of growth of the shoot passes intrarenal development from III to VIII stages of organogenesis. IX–XII stages of organogenesis correspond to the phenological stages from flowering to fruiting. Flowering duration is 10–25 days, seasonal development 118–123 days. There was a decrease in the coefficient of vegetative reproduction in varieties from 2015 to 2018 of 2–12 times. The main ecological niche of the pathogen Fusarium rot of gladiolus (of vosb. Fusarium oxysporum f. gladioli) are underground organs (roots, corms), and also-above-ground organs of plants. Comparison of the degree of resistance of gladiolus to Fusarium showed a different reaction of varieties during the growing season and storage of corms.
Chlorophyllin Inhibits Chemiluminescence That Accompanies a Quasi-Hypoxygenase Reaction Catalyzed by the Cytochrome c-Cardiolipin Complex
Authors:   Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology – MVA named after K. I. Skryabin, Romodin Leonid A.
Published: December 2020

Lipid peroxidation is a key factor in programmed cell death of various etiologies. This process also occurs when ionizing radiation acts on biological systems. It is the essence of the theory of lipid radiotoxins, which is part of the structural and metabolic theory of the biological action of ionizing radiation. Non-enzymatic lipid peroxidation eventually leads to death by the mechanism of ferroptosis, while enzymatic lipid peroxidation, catalyzed by the cytochrome c-cardiolipin complex, triggers apoptosis along the mitochondrial pathway. According to the results of research conducted over the past 10 years, it has been established that drugs based on chlorophyll are effective as radioprotectors. The only mechanism of their action may be the inhibition of radical reactions involving lipids. Therefore, drugs based on chlorophyll can be used as the antioxidants in the prevention and treatment of various pathologies caused by free radical lipid oxidation. In the present study, using the method of activated coumarin-334 (quinolysidine[5,6,7-gh]3-acetylcoumarin) chemiluminescence, we have established the suppression of the reaction of radical lipid oxidation caused by the quasilipoxygenase activity of the cytochrome c-cardiolipin complex. This conclusion was arrived at on the basis of reliable suppression of chemiluminescence by sodium chlorophyllin at concentrations of 1.56 μm and higher. The obtained result shows the relevance of further multi-faceted research of the possibility of effective use of various chlorophyll derivatives in the treatment and prevention of pathological conditions caused by oxidative stress.
The Features of Growth of the Primary Root System of Triticum durum Desf. Varieties of the Saratov Breeding
Authors:   Saratov State University, Hachaturov Eduard G. , Korobko Valeria V. ,   Saratov State University
Published: December 2020

The objects of the study were plants of 14 varieties of durum wheat Triticum durum Desf. Cultivation was carried out in a climatic chamber at a temperature of 18 ± 1°C under the conditions of a sixteen-hour photoperiod. To study the growth characteristics of the root system of seedlings, the length of the main root and the length of the adventitious roots of the upper and lower tiers were measured; thus, the growth rate of the root system was determined. The cultivars, the seedlings of which are characterized by the longest root system, have been identified – Luch 25, Saratovskaya 59 and Saratovskaya zolotistaya. The varietal characteristics of the growth of the main embryonic root were revealed, the growth rate of which significantly varies among the objects of study. The length of the adventitious roots of the lower layer in plants of the studied varieties ranged from 208 mm (Elizavetinskaya) to 278 mm (Saratovskaya 57 and Annushka); the upper layer – from 105 mm (Nikolasha) to 216 mm (Luch 25). The root-to-shoot ratio was calculated. In 5-day-old seedlings of the studied varieties, this varies from 0,92 to 1,89 rel. units; the degree of variation of the trait is average. In 12-day-old seedlings, the root supply index decreases, amounting to 0,42–1,29 relative units; the degree of variation of the trait is significant (with the exception of variety Luch 25).
Vegetation of the Bog Brekhovo (Ulyanovsk Region). Recommendations for Regime Security and Use
Authors:   Ulyanovsk State University, Blagovetshenskiy Ivan V.
Published: December 2020

The Brechovo mire is a natural monument of the Ulyanovsk region, it is a stratigraphic standard of the Holocene period, the place where rare and medicinal plant species grow and has significant reserves of a valuable natural resource – peat. Currently, it is exposed to a number of anthropogenic factors, which causes concern for the safety of its natural complexes. The article is based on the description of trial plots (total 96 descriptions). Field geobotanical studies (area descriptions and geobotanical mapping) were carried out according to generally accepted methods. For the classification of vegetation, the ecological-floral approach of Brown-Blanke was applied. It is established that the vegetation of the Brechovo swamp is represented by 10 associations: Frangulo-Salicetum cinereae Malcuit 1929; Phragmitetum australis Koch 1926; Caricetum ripariae Soó 1928 em. Knapp et Staff. 1962; Caricetum atheroidis (Prokopjev 1990) Taran 1995; Caricetum atheroidis (Prokopjev 1990) Taran 1995; Carici cespitosae-Deschampsietum cespitosae Mirkin in Denisova et al. 1986; Carici vulpinae-Deschampsietum cespitosae Mirkin ex Grigorjev et al. 2002; Polemonio caeruleae-Caricetum cespitosae Grigorjev et al. 2002; Caricetum acutiformis Sauer 1937; Lysimachio vulgaris-Filipenduletum ulmariae Bal.-Tul. 1978. The native vegetation has been preserved only on the part of the Brechovo swamp territory, and many plant communities have a secondary character, so the syntaxonomic structure is very diverse. In a number of communities, valuable resources of valuable medicinal plants are significant.
Patterns in Natural Halophytic Grasslands at the Border of Forest-Steppe and Steppe Zones of South Ural
Authors:   South Ural State Humanitarian Pedagogical University, Nazarenko Nazar N. , Malaev Aleksandr V. ,   South Ural State Humanitarian Pedagogical University, Pirozhenkova Alla V. ,   South Ural State Humanitarian Pedagogical University, Bayda Natalya A. ,   South Ural State Humanitarian Pedagogical University
Published: December 2020

The patterns (mosaicity) in natural halophytic grasslands at the border of Forest-steppe and Steppe zones of South Ural were characterized by the hierarchical continuum concept theory for the Troitskiy state natural complex preserve example. It was established, that the grass canopy is fragmented by salinization impact, the individual’s random distribution is typical of halophytes and salttolerant steppe species form patterns. Only the micro-patterns (0,8 m) level is statistically significant, parcels (8 m) and coenotics (12 m) are fuzzy and fragmentation of mosaicity is observed. There are two coenotics series defined for parcels – halophytic and steppe, relating to the distribution of halophytes and steppe grasses respectively. There is clear coenosis. Separation is observed by phytodiversity and biotopes descriptions. The intracoenotic interactions between species, soil moistening variability, soil aeration and acidity (alkalinity) and soil mineralization increase (decrease) are significant for parcels and coenosis forming.
Las sociedades cooperativas y su obligatoriedad ante el Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social
Authors: Beristain Apreza Araceli del Carmen
Published: December 2020

Como la economía de toda nación depende de aquellos que constituyen su fuerza de trabajo o mano de obra, es dable atribuir que parte de ella se conforma a través de las sociedades cooperativas, agrupaciones que en su naturaleza tienen como fin la satisfacción de necesidades tanto individuales, como colectivas, mismas que se hacen alcanzables a través de la realización de actividades económicas de producción, distribución y consumo, de bienes y servicios. De ahí la inquietud por analizar primeramente, el marco constitucional y legal de la rectoría económica del Estado mexicano de la cual participan desde luego las Sociedades Cooperativas; en segundo término, el marco legal de las Sociedades Cooperativas, a través de un estudio de su carácter mercantil; y finalmente, en un tercer apartado, el marco jurídico de los esquemas de seguridad y previsión social de la que participan estas agrupaciones.

Recibido: 16 octubre 2020Aceptado: 25 noviembre 2020
A Mixed-Method Study of How Instructors Design for Learning in Online and Distance Education
Authors: Nguyen Quan , Rienties Bart , Whitelock Denise
Published: December 2020

The use of analytical methods from learning analytics (LA) research combined with visualizations of learning activities using learning design (LD) tools and frameworks has provided important insight into how instructors design for learning. Nonetheless, there are many subtle nuances in instructors’ design decisions that might not easily be captured using LA tools. Therefore, this study sets out to explore how and why instructors design for learning in an online and distance higher education setting by employing a mixed-method approach, which combined semi-structured interviews of 12 instructors with network analyses of their LDs. Our findings uncovered several underlying factors that influenced how instructors designed their modules and highlighted some discrepancies between instructors’ pedagogical beliefs and their actual LD as captured by the Open University Learning Design Initiative (OULDI). This study showcases the potential of combining LA with qualitative insights for a better understanding of the complex design process in online distance higher education.
Integration of Generation Z in the Professional Environment
Authors:   “Valahia” University, Târgovişte, Doctoral School of Economics and Humanities, Management Field, Bucharest, Romania, Manghiuc Iulia , Petrescu Ciprian ,   “Valahia” University, Târgovişte, Doctoral School of Economics and Humanities, Management Field, Bucharest, Romania
Published: December 2020

This study highlights the assimilation of generation Z in the professional environment and its adaptation to the requirements of the organization it is part of. The candidates who have advanced knowledge in the field of technology are the target audience that will generate personalized education over time, but also interesting opportunities, who are growing in an environment relying only on technology and will be much more flexible in thinking and decision making, being those who grew up online. Born during the digital age, they will prefer an independent brand at the expense of a traditional / experienced brand. The intersection method used by combining the quantitative and qualitative approach will seek to identify the components of an effective professional integration system. The results obtained also highlight the fact that this process plays a key role in creating a convenient environment where the members of generation Z can explore their native creativity. The whole integration process will consist of a series of challenges that organizations will be facing in attracting and keeping the members of this generation, but also of methods used for its capitalization. The conclusions highlight the importance of this reference process for any member of Generation Z.
The Analysis of Push Factors in Case of Physicians Migration from Romania
Authors:   Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Institute of National Economy, Bucharest, Romania, Apostu Simona-Andreea , Vasile Valentina ,   Institute of National Economy, Bucharest, Romania, Chivu Ruxandra ,   Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania
Published: December 2020

Romania is facing the phenomenon of migration, including brain drain, registering losses regarding the specialized human capital. A very significant loss of specialists is present in the health sector, this loss being reflected in the population health, but also in the efficiency of the health system. Therefore, the push factors in case of physicians migration must be known and analyzed, in order to take measures to reduce this phenomenon. In this sense, indicators refering to the economic situation of the destination countries in case of physicians from Romania and the number of Current Professional Certificates were analyzed, assuming that it reflects the number of physicians who intend to migrate from Romania. The data source is represented by Eurostat and the Romanian College of Physicians, and the analysis was performed using SAS software.
Economic Instruments for WEEE Recycling in Romania
Authors:   Institute of National Economy, Bucharest, Romania, Platon Victor , Frone Simona ,   Institute of National Economy, Bucharest, Romania, Constantinescu Andreea ,   Institute of National Economy, Bucharest, Romania, Jurist Sorina ,   Institute of National Economy, Bucharest, Romania
Published: December 2020

The management of waste electrical and electronic equipment – WEEE, or e-waste represents one of the areas with significant potential for the implementation of economic instruments and it is higly regulated at EU level. Due to their physical characteristics, WEEE is suitable for development of recovery, repair and recycling policies, extension of their life cycle for as long as possible being an objective pursued by the specific mechanisms of circular economy. In this paper, we will look at how Romania manages economic instruments for e-waste recycling, their implementation and potential benefits. We chose for detail the economic instrument known as "The Green Stamp". This fee is assumed by all manufacturers and retailers of EEE. The amounts thus collected are administered by the Romanian Association for Recycling (RoRec) which deals with the collection, dismantling and recycling of WEEE. The ratio between the amounts collected through the green stamp duty and the amounts invested in e-waste reduction activities is a sensitive topic at national level. The exact quantification of WEEE is very difficult: the quantities of electronic products sold at national level (POM- put on market) are very different from the quantity of WEEE registered. The WEEE collection target set at European level is 4 kg / inhabitant and Romania, with only 2.19 kg / inhabitant at the level of 2016 (Eurostat), is far from reaching it.
Durable Development, in the Context of 2014-2020 ESI Funds
Authors:   PhD., National Institute for Economic Research “Costin C. Kiritescu” (INCE), Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania, Diaconescu Florin
Published: December 2020

The theme of the sustainable development, one of the current fundamental paradigms, in which the future is forecast and planned as a balance between economic growth, social equity and environmental protection, is increasingly in vogue nowadays and in the Romanian space as a result, mainly, of the fund of European and international regulations. Used daily by all of us, in its narrow sense, the concept of development has in its series synonymous terms such as: progress, evolution, growth, enhancement, expansion, advancement, propagation etc., as well as meanings covering the complex meanings, economic development, mental, social, sustainable development and so on. With regard to the concept of sustainable development, we underline the existence, in the Romanian language, of two relatively similar concepts: sustainable development and sustainability, which we will present in comparison below. So the research started due to the need to identify an answer to the global question what to do... give up development and stop progress? This paper aims to present the existing inter-conditions between elements such as: Sustainable Development and 2014-2020 ESI Funds in response to this question. Therefore, further, we will operationally define the specific concepts, in relation to the European and national context, and we will present the benefits conferred on sustainable development by the European funds. Last but not least, we will present the potential of projects, funded by 2014-2020 ESI funds, to support Romania's sustainable development.
Entrepreneurial Perspectives on Some Bootlast Stems from the Collections of the Museum of the Lower Danube – Călăraşi
Authors:   “Valahia” University-I.O.S.U.D./S.D.S.I., Targoviste, Romania, Păun (Parnic) Loredana-Andreea , Năstase Mihai-Claudiu ,   “Valahia” University-I.O.S.U.D./S.D.S.I., Targoviste, Romania, Mitru Alexandru ,   “Valahia” University-I.O.S.U.D./S.D.S.I., Targoviste, Romania
Published: December 2020

The Lower Danube Museum is an important resource for cultural tourism in the lower Danube area, especially through its archeological collections. Gumelniţa culture is one of the most spectacular Chalcolithic cultures in the Balkans. During their existence on nowadays Romanian territory, these communities made a series of clay pieces that suggest a human foot, a rare form of its anthropomorphic plastic. In this study, we will discuss a type of artefact found in Gumelniţa settlements from Muntenia (Wallachia), preserved in the archaeology collection of the Lower Danube Museum from Călăraşi and its importance in the development of cultural tourism in the area. In the scientific literature, this type of piece is known as ”boot last” stem or clay stem (clay foot). Compared to other categories of clay artefacts, this type of legs discussed in this paper is rather reduced in quantity, and they are found especially in Gumelniţa settlements form the south and the southeast of Muntenia. The pieces that make the subject of our study were discovered in the settlement Măgura Cuneşti, Călăraşi county, only one of them coming from the tell Sultana-Malu Roşu. As for the methodological approach, for a clearer analysis, we will consider the more or less known context of discovery, technical data, and last but not least regards on the technological form in connection with discussing possible interpretations of these objects.
Innovative Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Development of Smart Cities
Authors:   The Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania, Petre Adrian
Published: December 2020

The main objective of this scientific article is to analyze the link between innovative entrepreneurship and the development of smart cities in Romania. In order to fulfill this objective, I studied a part of the specialized literature in the field and I determined, based on statistical data, the current stage of development of innovative and R&D activities carried out by enterprises in our country, as well as the hierarchy of smartest local cities. The main results obtained from the study of the scientific literature showed that between innovative entrepreneurship and the sustainable development of smart cities there is a link of mutual influence. This statement is partially confirmed in the case of Romania, because the results showed that the best performing regions of the country in terms of enterprises carrying out innovation and research and development are the Bucharest-Ilfov and North-West regions, while those more developed smart cities are found in the Central (Alba Iulia) and North-West (Cluj Napoca) regions. On the other hand, the research results highlighted the fact that although in our country there is a tendency to increase the share of innovative enterprises, Romania is one of the last among the Member States of the European Union in terms of companies carrying out innovation / research and development activities. The reality is all the more worrying as our country's potential to improve these indicators is quite low compared to other states. Thus, it becomes imperative that decision-makers in Romania greatly stimulate innovative entrepreneurship, so as to support the development of smart cities, increase competitiveness and reduce the gaps with other European Union Member States. The paper contributes to a clearer understanding of this two-way relationship on the concrete case of Romania and is addressed to the academic, social environment and decision makers.
Internal Audit versus Internal Control - Tools for Evaluating the Internal Management System at the level of local public entities
Authors:   Valahia University of Târgoviste, Târgoviste, Romania, Ardeleanu (Trifu) Nicoleta
Published: December 2020

This study presents the role of internal public audit organized at the level of local public administration, the interdependence between internal audit and internal control as well as the specific ways of evaluating the management system and internal managerial control. The erroneous perception of the specific objectives of the internal public audit has often led to a reluctance on the part of the decision makers. Misunderstanding the role of internal audit is a major risk in the functioning of the decision-making system. The internal audit recommendations give assurance to the general management through the periodic evaluation of the main functional systems: the financial-accounting system, the public procurement system, the decision-making system and especially the management and internal managerial control system.
Integrated Territorial Investments - ITI Dаnube Deltа
Authors:   Buchаrest University of Economic Studies, Buchаrest, Romаniа, Dumitrаche (Serbаnescu) Аnа-Mаriа , Oрrisаn Oаnа ,   University Ovidius from Constаntа, Fаculty of Economic Sciences, Constаntа, Romаniа, Condreа Elenа ,   University Ovidius from Constаntа, Fаculty of Economic Sciences, Constаntа, Romаniа
Published: December 2020

Integrаted territoriаl investments аre instruments used in the development of a territory thаt imрly a strategy focused on territorial development into an integrated manner related to а selected territory, also representing a group of implemented actions that help achieving the objectives of the territorial strategy that is designated for integrated development, and governance mechanisms. For the management of integrаted territoriаl investments. Bаsicаlly, ITIs аre sub-рrogrаms thаt include integrаted multi-dimensionаl meаsures. The key to imрlementing ITI is the integrаted аррroаch. The integrаted territoriаl аррroаch аlso involves overcoming аdministrаtive limits аnd requires greater disposition of different levels of government to cooрerаte аnd coordinаte аctions to аchieve common goаls. ITIs аre not oрerаtions or рriorities in аn oрerаtionаl рrogrаm, but аllow funding for the imрlementаtion of integrated territorial strategies across multiple axe of priority from a various number of operational programs. It should аlso be noted thаt in аddition to investments thаt suррort аn ITI-bаsed develoрment strаtegy through аn ITI, аdditionаl аctions tаrgeted аt the sаme аreа cаn be funded through the рriority аxes of аn oрerаtionаl рrogrаm or oрerаtionаl рrogrаms thаt do not раrticiраte in ITI funding - however, it is recommended thаt sectorаl investments be linked аnd аligned with integrаted territoriаl develoрment strаtegies. Unfortunаtely, аt the level of the nаtionаl territory, the only area where аn I.T.I. tyрe finаncing was аррroved. is the Dаnube Deltа. The uniqueness of The Dаnube Deltа Biosphere Reserve provides very specific functions: uncommon and sporadic population, the vulnerability of the economics and job specializations, unsаtisfаctory аccess to various services, etc. The World Bаnk, helped by the аuthorities supported the develoрment and implementation of the integrаted strаtegy within this аreа. The projects of the total operational programs are funded by The ITI Dаnube Deltа Finаnciаl Instrument, allowing investments from the CF, ERDF, ESF, EАFRD аnd EMFF.
Methods, Techniques and Sales Strategies
Authors:   Valahia University of Târgoviște, Romania, Vasciuc (Săndulescu) Cristina Gabriela , Săndulescu Dumitru ,   Valahia University of Târgoviște, Romania, Crăciun (Radu) Otilia ,   Valahia University of Târgoviște, Romania, România
Published: December 2020

The economic life implies the existence of the actors who have to satisfy their own needs, expectations, this presupposing the appearance of the choices that they must make from the multitude of products or services on the market. Since ancient times, the sale has been made for a better living, so Thales is the first wise, Solon the second founder of Athens and the mathematician Hippocrates, who were traders. Plato, the divine, sold oil, and Baruch Spinoza, philosopher, polished mirrors. Therefore, sales forces play an important role, which, through their strategies, can make a significant contribution to achieving the general and specific objectives. The art of selling tips the balance of success and failure, the relationship between the seller and the client, ending with win-win situation for both parties.
Choosing the Hotel According to the Quality Presented by Influencers on Social Networks
Authors:   Buchаrest University of Economic Studies, Buchаrest, Romаniа, Marin (Barbu) Corina Aurora , Condreа Elenа ,   Ovidius University of Constаntа, Fаculty of Economic Sciences, Constаntа, Romаniа
Published: December 2020

The tourism industry has found an incredibly fertile ground to reach potential customers with the growth of social media. With the influencers’ tendencies to share moments in their lives and especially about their travels, social networks have become one of the most powerful weapons that travel agencies and hotels use to attract as many customers as possible. The phenomenon of influencers is one in development in our country as well. New accounts are constantly appearing on social networks, promoting brands from many fields (beauty, fashion, cooking, sports and even tourism). We are witnessing a revolution in the consumption of audiovisual content, and the development of the concept of influencer confirms this. The main purpose of this paper is to explore how influencers can influence consumers’ decisions in choosing a hotel. It will focus on research on attitudes and opinions on social media and information in tourism in Romania. The data were collected through an online opinion poll and were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Research has shown a great advantage in using influencers to attract customers. However, customers who choose certain hotels through influencers come with higher expectations, which is why the quality of services must rise to the highest standards.
EU Funds Absorption: Case of Romania
Authors:   Associate Professor PhD, Valahia University of Targoviste, Romania, Marcu Laura , Kandzija Tomislav ,   Agency for Development Primorsko Goranska Zupanije, Croatia, Dorotic Jelena ,   Office of Public Procurement of Zagreb City, Croatia
Published: December 2020

Article studies the absorption of European funds in Romania for the two post-accession periods: 2007-2014 and 2014-2020 and highlight the situation in Romania regarding the amount and evolution of European funds received (in relation to its contribution to the EU budget), the structure of these funds, the evolution of the absorption during the two intervals by program type and Romanian areas of development as well as difficulties encountered and the solutions adopted to overcome them. The analysis is based on primary statistical data provided by the Romanian Government and the European Commission, as well as studies and reports on national particularities and problems of absorption of European fund in Romania. In addition, a qualitative analysis of legislative and institutional framework aims to point out weakness and causes that hindered the absorption of funds. Paper highlights the increase of funds absorption in the current financial framework compared to the previous and emphasizes weaknesses in the Romanian institutional framework. The fact that many of the difficulties manifested in the first stage after adhesion were counter through appropriate solutions, enable better management of funds, which places Romania to the EU average in terms of rate of absorption. These solutions concern the improvement of administrative capacity (information, transparency, implementation, relationship with beneficiaries).
Why Can't AI Understand Images as Man Does?
Authors:   Professor PhD, University of Art and Design of Cluj-Napoca, “Dimitrie Cantemir” Cristian University Bucharest, and Philosophy Doctoral School at “Babes-Bolyai” University, Codoban Aurel Teodor
Published: December 2020

AI can identify images, but cannot understand them as man does. The problem of understanding the iconic signs is the analogy, which cannot be clearly operationalized. Nothing guarantees signification by analogy, because it is neither the necessary effect of a cause, as in the indicative signs, nor the obligatory consequence of a rule, as of symbols (words). But the analogy is also fundamental to the human condition because our Ego implies the presence of Other. Or, just as the images, the understanding of Other implies the analogy: he is a self like me, but another self than myself, that is, an analogous self. That is, you can understand the behavior of the other's activities and actions, even what he communicates as messages because you interpret them as if it were about yourself. Different from the human being who is an existent, in AI the essence precedes existence. Even if the algorithms of the analogy process will be infinitely perfected, that analogy will miss the interpretation that comes from the life of the existing one. AI knows digital, man understands analog; AI understands from knowledge, man knows from understanding.
The Myth of Technology and The Risks of Desecration in Digital Media Communication
Authors:   PhD Lecturer, Ștefan cel Mare University, Suceava, Romania, Cucu Marius , Lenta Oana ,   PhD Associate Lecturer, Ştefan cel Mare University, Suceava, Romania
Published: December 2020

To what extent is the contemporary world still aware of the risks of excessive technologicalization? Does the warning of the ancient Greeks who announced, through the Promethean and age myth, the danger of detachment from sacredness and the fatality of man's damnation to his own annihilation under the mirage of unbridled exploitation of nature still reach us? Is it still possible to re-evaluate the progress of modern man, in his negative, destructive aspects? Are not we currently witnessing, in the age of digital communication, the distancing of the human being from his own existential-spiritual foundations by assuming a model of machinal Super-man, technical in the operations of the mind but also of affectivity? Perhaps a reconsideration of the ontological and gnoseological position of modern man, anchored in the age of high-tech constructions and digital communications, could be inaugurated starting from the reinterpretation of the mythical-symbolic warnings of ancient meditation.
Work Motivation Efficiency in the Workplace
Authors:   PhD Student, Valahia University of Targoviste, Romania, Pârjoleanu Raluca
Published: December 2020

Employee motivation is very important for a successful organization, so any company should focus on motivating human resources if they want to stay competitive on the market and to avoid issues, such as employee retention problems that will adversely affect the business. Thus, effective motivational techniques should be implemented in any company that wants to be successful. Following the implementation of motivation methods adapted to the organization's environment and its type of employees, the satisfaction of workers will increase, and they will feel more motivated to perform at the highest standards. Studies have shown that motivating factors, such as success at work, recognition, diversification of responsibilities and career advancement, play an important role in motivating employees at work. It is important to strike a fragile balance between the level of challenges that the job brings and the resources made available to the employee. Packages that combine financial and non-monetary motivation, with coaching and mentoring activities, investing in employee development, as well as the flexibility of the work schedule, are major components of stimulating work motivation.
Creative Pedagogical Development of Students Based on the Implementation of Didactic Games
Authors:   Department of Physical Culture, Methodology and Sports, Glazov State Pedagogical Institute, Nagovitsyn Roman Sergeevich , Zamolotskikh Elena Gennadievna ,   Rectorate, Moscow Psychological and Social University, Sokolnikova Ella Ivanovna ,   Department of Pedagogy and Psychology, Moscow Social Pedagogical Institute, Rybakova Lyudmila Viktorovna ,   Department I-14 "Foreign Language for technological specialties", Moscow Aviation Institute (National Research University)
Published: December 2020

This article discusses the implementation of innovative technologies in the process of training students of a pedagogical university. The purpose of the study: to develop a set of didactic games for students - future teachers and experimentally prove the effectiveness of its implementation to enhance their creative pedagogical development. The experimental study was attended by full-time, part-time and evening students (n=286) of the Pedagogical Institute. Students of the experimental group implemented a set of special didactic games (n=14) in extracurricular activities during the school year. Didactic games were implemented by students independently on the basis of a university-wide student scientific society at the center of the council of students and student scientific initiatives. Didactic games for research and practical implementation were differentiated by target, long-term and structural features. The obtained statistical data in the study (p<0.05) proved the effectiveness of introducing a variety of didactic games in extracurricular time of students without the participation of teachers, in the mode of independent control over the process of their conduct. The didactic games implemented during the school year had a significant positive impact on creative pedagogical development through raising the level of creative well-being, communication skills and pedagogical improvisation of students. The study revealed new scientific data on the processes of increasing creative extracurricular activities of students and patterns that exist in the studied pedagogical science on this issue. This is one of the key conditions for improving the quality of professional training of future teachers.