bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tunnelling the Peninsula of Trolls: A Case Study of Road Infrastructure Improvement and Demographic Dynamics in Northern Iceland
Authors: Bjarnason Thoroddur
Published: July 2021

Geographical isolation is closely associated with rural population decline and policies for regional and rural development frequently emphasize better transportation infrastructure improvements. Although poor access to jobs and services may lead to negative rates of net migration and skewed age and gender distribution in rural and remote areas, research on the association of road infrastructure improvement with rural demographic dynamics remains sparse. The current study adds to the understanding of these issues by examining the effects of a large-scale road tunnel project in Northern Iceland. The results suggest that improved road infrastructure coincides with a break in long-term population decline through parity in net migration and positive changes in the composition of the population of sparsely populated areas.
Prevalence, Antibiogram and Biofilm Production of Listeria Monocytogenes from Faeces and Foetuses of Slaughtered Pregnant Cows: Environmental and Public Health Implications
Authors: Adesokan H. K. , Kehinde E. G.
Published: July 2021

The indiscriminate slaughter of pregnant animals which characterizes most developing countries poses increasing environmental and public health risks from Listeria monocytogenes infections which are endemic in such settings. The available reports show increasing trends of Listeria monocytogenes infections in both humans and animals in Nigeria. This study examined the prevalence, antibiogram and biofilm production of L. monocytogenes from faeces and foetuses of slaughtered pregnant cows in Ibadan Central Abattoir, Nigeria. Faecal (n = 118) and foetal (n = 118) swabs were cultured and isolates tested for antibiotic susceptibility by Kirby-Bauer assay, while biofilm production was quantified following the standard procedures. The data were analysed using the Chi Square and Student’s t-test at P < 0.05. Listeria monocytogenes were isolated from five (4.2 %) and three (2.5 %) faeces and foetus swabs, respectively, without significant association with sample type (P = 0.50). The isolates were resistant to all the antibiotics tested except gentamicin; with significantly higher production of biofilm by those from foetal samples (P = 0.012). The detection of widespread antibiotic-resistant L. monocytogenes from faeces and foetuses has important environmental and public health implications, given the risk of contamination through faecal shedding and foetal handling. The biofilm production by the pathogen connotes its ability to persist in the environment, suggestive of the challenging effects to its control. Campaigns against indiscriminate slaughter of pregnant animals, and proper hygiene are advocated to ultimately safeguard human and animal health.
Exterior Evaluation of Selected Breeds of Pigeons: Owls and Frills
Authors: Adamčík M. , Zigo F. , Kolenič P. , Ondrašovičová S.
Published: July 2021

Owl and frill pigeons are considered one of the oldest breeds of domestic pigeons and for breeders they mean the embodiment of beauty, pride, elegance and temperament. The common feature of the whole group of owl and frill pigeons is the presence of vertically growing feather adornment—frill and a significant refinement of exterior features on the head. The main goal of this study was to record the current situation in the exhibition sector and to compare the exterior of selected breeds of owl and frill pigeons with the relevant European standard at top breeder’s exhibitions. Altogether 722 short-beaked owl and frill pigeons (Oriental frill, African owl and Turbit) raised by breeders from seventeen European countries were evaluated at five important exhibitions in Europe. The examination of the exterior showed that the most common exterior faults on the body of oriental frills were defects in colour pattern or lacing, poorly developed frill, faults in figure as well as defects in positioning and body posture. Exterior faults observed on the heads of oriental frill included: short top or forehead, defects in shape or length of the beak, as well as defects in its line. In addition to the faults in the oriental frills, there were observed imperfections in the rounding of the head and in the length of the wings and tail in the African owls. Turbits frequently exhibited deficiencies with respect to the length of the top or forehead. The exterior evaluation of owl and frill pigeons for breeders in the future shows the need for systematic elimination of deviations from physiological and physical development with culling of individuals transmitting morphological defects.
Contamination of Slovak Bilberry (Vaccinium Myrtillus L.) with Radiocaesium 137Cs in Selected Slovak Locations
Authors: Beňová K. , Gašpareková I. , Dvořák P. , Havelková A.
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study was to determine the activity of post-Chernobyl 137Cs in Slovak bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) from selected locations of Slovakia depending upon: the season, location and the soil-plant transfer factor (TF). The 137Cs activity was determined in samples of forest soil and bilberry bushes (stems, leaves and fruits) growing on the soil in three locations: Arboretum Mlyňany (1), Hodruša-Hámre (2) and Javorníky (3). Altogether we collected 35 samples; namely 15 samples from Arboretum Mlyňany, 10 samples from Hodruša-Hámre and 10 from Javorníky. The samples of soil were examined also for the activity of 40K. The samples were collected in the spring, summer and autumn in the years 2019 and 2020 and were analysed by a gamma-ray spectrometry method. The highest levels of 137Cs activity concentrations were determined in Hodruša-Hámre in September where they reached 161 ± 13 Bq.kg−1 in the soil, 3.95 ± 1.07 Bq.kg−1 in the stems and 14.7 ± 4.26 Bq.kg−1 in the leaves. The lowest levels were determined in the Arboretum Mlyňany in October where the 137Cs activity in the soil reached 13.1 ± 1 15 Bq.kg−1, while in the stems, leaves and fruits it was lower than the minimum detectable level. In the latter location, we also determined the highest activity of 40K, the radioactive isotope physiologically and metabolically similar to 137Cs. The mass activity of 137Cs in all samples of bilberries were lower than the minimum detectable activity (MDA). The comparison of the results obtained in this study with the limit for total mass activity of radiocaesium (134Cs + 137Cs) in the food (600 Bq.kg−1) allowed us to conclude that the fruits, stems and leaves of Slovak bil-berries present neither health nor environmental risk.
Glutathione Content and Glutathione Peroxidase Activity of Sperm in Males with Unexplained Infertility
Authors: Martinov Danail I. , Ayvazova Nina P. , Konova Emiliana I. , Atanasova Milena A.
Published: July 2021

The study aimed to investigate glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and glutathione (GSH) levels in the sperm of patients with unexplained infertility. The sperm samples were collected from subjects with normal semen parameters divided into fertile and infertile groups. Sperm analysis was performed according to the 2010 WHO criteria. Measurement of the GPx activity and GSH were performed by enzymatic assay kits. The higher enzymatic activity recorded in spermatozoa and seminal plasma in the infertile group was close to the significant one – p=0.054 for seminal plasma andp= 0.086 for the spermatozoa.GSH levels were higher in the fertile group in the seminal plasma (p=0.045). Defining the causes of unexplained infertility requires the addition of oxidative stress. In patients with unexplained infertility, the level of glutathione is reduced, and the activity of one of the significant enzyme antioxidants GPx is not changed significantly and even shows a tendency to rise.
Can You See How it Smells? What Eye Tracking Can Tell us about the Shelf Management of Luxury Perfumes
Authors: Krajina Anida , Husić-Mehmedović Melika , Koštrebić Kemal
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this paper is to advance the theory and contribute to the practice of luxury perfumes’ shelf management by decoding the relationship between attention on the shelf, purchase decision-making, and brand recall. It employs an eye-tracking experiment to analyze attention spans and fixations, which is combined with a questionnaire to uncover recall and purchase intent. The research identifies attention patterns and the influence of attention on recall and purchase intention. It further reveals the main factors that influence attention on the shelf in the luxury perfume industry. This is a milestone for further elaboration on the benefits of the fashion mainstream for luxury perfumes and the debate regarding whether luxury perfumes should be treated similar to mainstream fashion or similar to any other product in basic shelf management rules. This study enables shelf managers and marketers to place the perfumes both on the shelf and in consumer minds to maintain a top-of-the-mind brand position. Managerial implications are significant and address perfume industry packaging as well as shelf positioning.
Digital or Innovative: understanding “Digital Literacy – Practice – Innovative Work Behavior” Chain
Authors: Pilav-Velić Amila , Černe Matej , Trkman Peter , Wong Sut I , Abaz Anela Kadić
Published: July 2021

Digital transformation has put tremendous pressure on employees to innovate with the use of information technology (IT). This paper explores the extent to which digital literacy and personal innovativeness contribute to individual’s innovative work behavior (IWB). To test our hypotheses, we apply double bootstrapping chained mediation analyses paired with relative importance analysis on a dataset collected from employees (N = 167) in a pharmaceutical company. The results showed the existence of a double-mediation chain whereby digital practices and attitude toward digitalized innovation mediate the positive relationship between digital literacy and IWB. Surprisingly, said chain was not supported for personally innovative individuals, indicating that digital literacy plays a relatively more important role in stimulating attitudes toward digitalized innovation and IWB. Our findings add further specificity to research on digital natives and may help organizations understand the role of digital literacy and personal innovativeness in organizationally-relevant outcomes, such as IWB.
Technological Trends in the Manufacturing and Service Sectors. The Case of Montenegro
Authors: Vujanović Nina
Published: July 2021

Technological efficiency is one of the main factors of economic growth in modern history. Technologies have traditionally been important for manufacturing sector, but the age of digitalization has also made service sector increasingly rely on modern technologies. There are not many studies measuring the technological trends of these two sectors. This study uses the micro approach of the dynamic panel to measure productivity of the manufacturing and service sectors in Montenegro during 2010 to 2019, between the two global economic crises, using firm level data. The results indicate a clear upward technological trend in manufacturing but not in the service sector. Divergent technological trends are found amongst the manufacturing and service industries that require different level of technologies and knowledge in their production processes. The study concludes that there is a room for further technological improvements in both sectors and proposes concrete policy measures for further development.
The Characteristics of the Romanian Infantry Tactics during the Interwar Period
Authors: Halip Ionel
Published: July 2021

This article examines the main tactical characteristics of the Romanian infantry during the interwar period under the influence of the French principles, in the context in which the First World War proved the need to consider providing the units with a variety of technical equipment for a greater firepower on the battlefield. This article presents the basic forms of warfare according to the regulations of the time, defining the tactical rules of the battalion, presenting the new concepts that have emerged in the infantry tactics after the great world conflagration. It also presents aspects of subunit training, as well as the main technical characteristics of the infantry weaponry compared to that of the French army. On the other hand, it identifies the difficulties encountered in adapting the tactical principles of the French Regulations to the specificities of the Romanian infantry which had to take into account the physiognomy of a possible war, the troops available, but also the differences in army industry development.
Genesis and Evolution of Military Strategy
Authors: Mituleţu Ion , Hogea Marian
Published: July 2021

It cannot be a strategy without technical determinations. Technique is the most dynamic element of the action. In general, the technical component answers a sharp question: with what? The ancient warrior used the spear, the bow and arrow, the sword and the shield. These means allowed nothing but close combat and, eventually, hitting the enemy from a distance with an arrow or a spear. The historical evolution of peoples was obviously based on the art of political-military leadership. In the distant past, there was no theoretical system of general notions, principles and laws of this art, although, intuitively, great army commanders, some of them true geniuses of war politics, masterfully applied it.
Reflections on the Context of the Change of War
Authors: Neag Mihai Marcel , Ispas Lucian
Published: July 2021

In order to understand and explain the changes of war in a very complex operational environment and in a continuous transformation, we must anticipate, render in an abstract form and create solutions for successful decisions. The estimates of this communication resulted from a combined analysis of the conditions of war without winners and losers, given that humanity has evolved towards modernity from the perspective of changing the forms of consciousness, reshaping relationships and social structures, technological developments, or reporting the individual to the environment around him. In this context, identifying the relationships between the phenomenon of war and the other aspects (domains) of social life becomes a real challenge.
Translation Support Model of the Ukrainian Armed Forces under the Ongoing Hybrid Russian Warfare
Authors: Nevmerzhytskyi Ivan , Karpenko Veronika , Povoroznyuk Roksolana
Published: July 2021

The article explores the specifics of translation and interpretation components in the framework of the Translation Support Model of the Ukrainian Armed Forces (the Model) in the context of ongoing hybrid Russian warfare against Ukraine. The functional-interpretive approach of modelling the translation process is reviewed as a theoretical basis for the Model. Translation Component of the Model is implemented primarily through the Translation Project Management (TPM), and consists of the Organizational and Instructional components, implemented with such principles as circularity, continuity and fluency. Translation Workflow as well as Roles and Functions are the constituents of the Organizational component within TPM concept. The first one is described via the following stages: Acquisition of the original text (OT) from the Client, Organization and planning, Preparation of the OT for translation, Pre-translation analysis, Uploading the Project into the CAT software, Translation, Editing, Proofreading, and Finalization. The Instructional component facilitates the effective use of the translation resources (Translation Memories and Terminology Bases), categorized according to the NATO functional classes (J-structure). The interpretation component of the Model is mainly regarded through the prism of risk mitigation strategy, being the crucial aspect in the hybrid warfare setting.
The Relevance of the Berlin Plus Agreements for the Planning Phase of the Military Operation Eufor Althea
Authors: Pricopi Marius , Baboş Alexandru
Published: July 2021

Conducted in Bosnia and Herzegovina since 2004, EUFOR Althea still remains the most significant military operation of the European Union. Using the document analysis as a qualitative research tool, this paper examines the usefulness and viability of the Berlin Plus Agreements (established between NATO and the EU) in the initial planning phase of EUFOR Althea.
The Effectiveness of Infantry Squad Combat and Pre-Combat Formations for Warfighting
Authors: Rak Ludek , Zahranicek Pavel , Polach Miroslav
Published: July 2021

The article aims to describe experimental research into infantry squad pre-combat formations. It focuses on the most used formations, and addresses their advantages and suitability for various tactical situations. A highlighted feature of the experiment is the involvement of units with varying degrees of training as research subjects: from novices through to professional soldiers, from combat squads to instructors of the elite course of the ACR ground forces. The synthesized results can therefore be perceived as having universal validity. For broad-spectrum research of their properties and usability, each formation is evaluated in different terrains and different tactical situations. The presented data are usable in practice for training infantry, motorized airborne units, and in certain cases mechanized forces and combat support units. Research into this area of small-unit tactics is now even more progressive, since a significant number of tasks in conducting combat operations are being transferred to small units. This is at the expense of large troop formations, which are increasingly difficult to use in times of high-precision weapons and hybrid warfare. In certain situations even a small unit can perform tasks with operational ramifications. Moreover, in this area of tactics publications are very rare due to the low scientific interest and the inclusion of information falling under the ‘classified information’ of individual armies. The data presented in the article are set in their broader context, commented upon by the authors of the training, and described with the intention their inclusion in the training of troops.
Employment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Different Periods of Anti-Terrorist Operation in Eastern Ukraine (2014–2018)
Authors: Skriabin Oleksandr , Popkov Boris , Vanovska Inna
Published: July 2021

The article reviews issues related to the use of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the anti-terrorist operation (ATO) in eastern Ukraine (2014-2018), which became a form of repel and deterrence of Russian aggression, began in Crimea in February 2014 and subsequently continued in eastern regions of Ukraine. According to the nature and consequences of hostilities, the Russian-Ukrainian armed conflict is divided into initial and two main periods, within which a number of stages are defined, distinguished qualitatively in the nature and content of hostilities. The article shows how this affected the change of forms of the Armed Forces of Ukraine employment in the anti-terrorist operation. During the initial (Crimean) period, units and subdivisions of the Ukrainian army were not actually used to repel hybrid aggression of the Russian Federation, but later, when the Russian leadership began using a similar scenario of aggression in the eastern regions of Ukraine, the state responded with the armed fight. The authors believe that despite the swiftness of the first period, its events were characterized by frequent changes in the use of the Armed Forces of Ukraine - from patrolling and guarding important facilities to offensive, raid and search operations. The second period, according to the authors, was characterized by the conduct of the Ukrainian army’s defensive actions with the active use of maneuvers in various dangerous areas.
The Praetorian Guard, Rome’s Intelligence Service
Authors: Strechie Mădălina
Published: July 2021

Rome was a kingdom, then a republic, and culminated in a militaristic empire. For this, the city of Mars invented, perfected and organized efficient institutions to carry out its plans, which extended it from the Italic Peninsula throughout the world on which Rome had a say. One of the most efficient institutions, the essence of the Roman executive power, was not thePrinceps, but thePraetorian Guard, a military and police institution, at the same time political, economic, but especially with the powers of a secret service, being one of the forerunners of European secret services, surpassing all that had existed until its functioning, not being matched to this day in terms of efficiency and impact in the life of a civilization. When founding the Principate, the Praetorian Guard was the one which transformed the imperial dream of Rome into a historical reality. The “wings of the Roman eagle” that spread over the world conquered by the Romans were Praetorian, if we consider that this institution was coordinated byordo equester, the tagma of Rome’s career officers, its headquarters, but also the government of Rome, the praetorian prefect also fulfilling the function which today we would call prime minister, the second man in the hierarchy of the Roman state, of course after theprinceps(the first of the citizens).Although as a military structure, the Praetorian Guard appeared with the professional Roman army, it reached its peak with the Principate, initially having a guard function for the Roman military commander, it became in time the most effective secret service of classical Antiquity. This success was due to the fact that the Romans were inspired by the Spartans (especially the Ephorian magistrates), but also by the Persians (from the administrative organization of the satrapies, the 10,000 immortals, and especially the royal postal service of Persia), the Roman creation being the most complete, therefore the etymology of the word “information” is Latin.From a military perspective, the Praetorian Guard was organized at all levels of a global society, such as Rome, covering informatively, politically, militarily, economically, but also diplomatically all Roman interests in the world controlled by Rome, being a true intelligence service. It was the first informative outpost in non-Roman territories, which had to be transformed into Roman territories, as was the case of Dacia.
Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Social Development and its Implications for the Transition to Sustainable Development
Authors: Bucăţa George , Rizescu Alexandru-Marius
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 crisis has revealed the vulnerability of people, societies and economies and has forced a rethinking of the economic and social activities of an organization. The crisis requires strong responses based on solidarity, cooperation and responsibility. Socio-economic organizations (associations, cooperatives, alliances, and social enterprises) whose business models are based on these principles can help reshape economies and societies after the crisis.
Knowledge Management in Military Organizations. A Seci Model Perspective
Authors: Șandor Andrei , Tonţ Gabriela
Published: July 2021

Knowledge management is a multidisciplinary domain that involves people, technology, and processes. From these three components results a series of social, technical, and other implications which influences the way knowledge is created, stored, and transmitted through organizations. One way to express these processes is through the SECI model, based on the two types of knowledge: tacit and explicit. The four dimensions of the SECI model – socialization, externalization, combination, and internalization, have particular features from organization to organization, based on the domain of activity, organizational culture and other cultural influences, type of management, processes and so on. Considering that military organization have an essential role in assuring global security and they heavily rely on knowledge, the study of knowledge management from the SECI model point of view is important as it can offer a better understating on this domain and improve it in the studied field of activity.
Theoretical Guidelines Regarding Performance Audit in the Military Organization
Authors: Milandru Marius , Floştoiu Sebastian
Published: July 2021

In the contemporary organizational environment, the internal public audit allows the management to develop its action capacity, thus ensuring that its strategy is correctly put in practice and the effects related to economy, efficiency and effectiveness are the expected ones. The implementation of the internal audit in the military organization represents a continuous and modern action that is part of the general effort to streamline the management of public institutions in Romania. The audit solutions must contribute to strengthening the stability of the military institution and to achieving its objectives, both domestically and internationally, in terms of anticipation and proper risk management, optimal use of the allocated resources and compliance with the existing legal framework.
Is De-Risking one of the Indications for an Emerging Competition between the Free Movement of Capital and the Anti-Money Laundering Regulations?
Authors: Palazov Petko
Published: July 2021

The report is dedicated to analysing the phenomenon of de-risking which may be considered as another indication for the arising competition between the regulatory effect of the anti-money laundering regulation and the deregulatory effect of the liberalization of capital movements within the European Union. The author’s attention is focused on the triggering events for both liberalization of capital movements and de-risking, definition of the phenomenon de-risking and its impact on the free movement of capital and payments.
Transforming Romania into a Knowledge Economy Through ICT - Current Developments
Authors: Tocan Mădălina , Chindriş-Văsioiu Oana , Cristea Anca , Mărginean Ileana
Published: July 2021

In a society dependent on information, knowledge seems to be the only power that guarantees socio-economic development and progress. The knowledge is considered to be the driving force of economic growth and a resource that can provide sustainable competitive advantage and for this reason generates a great interest in understanding knowledge, information, technology, learning and their role in social economic life.

In this society in which knowledge occupies an important place, information and communication technology represents an important pillar because without it the transmission of knowledge cannot be achieved. From this perspective, this paper tries to present the current stage of development of the ICT sector in Romania and to propose some solutions to improve it.
Definitions Establishing the Scope of Harmonization in the Field of Consumer Credits. Comparative Aspects
Authors: Țîrlea Mariana Rodica
Published: July 2021

The sphere of consumer loans implies protection, knowledge, anticipatory regulations, flexibility, adaptability leading to the elaboration of a modern, clear legislation and an efficient internal credit market. Clear, explicit and clear legislation contributes to increasing the trust of customers, consumers and effectively to their protection. The European Directive states that: “in order to ensure consumer confidence, it is important that the market provides them with a sufficient degree of protection” [1]. In this way, the demand and supply of loans can be achieved in optimal conditions, both for professionals who offer loans and for credit consumers. A sufficient degree of protection ensures the confidence of credit consumers. In this sense, the concept of complete harmonization, from the perspective of the European Directive is seen as necessary in order to achieve a high level of interest of consumers and professionals. Legislation easily understood by the parties involved in credit agreements, does not leave room for some interpretations. For this reason, we appreciate the fact that the presentation of the definitions, the transparency in the knowledge of their meaning represent one of the important measures of protection of the customers consuming loans.
The Dialogical Attitude. the Priviledge of Dialogue in the Digital Age
Authors: Ilie Oana-Antonia
Published: July 2021

The present paper aims to present some of the contradictions regarding the possibility of dialogue in the digital era. Communication ethics from a dialogic perspective emphasizes commitment to difference and alterity as key aspects of identity building, learning and critical thinking. A dialogical attitude is considered to be the foundation of any authentic communication, as being opposed to the monological arrogance, and as a first precondition of self-development. Despite the skepticism, internet communication can present dialogic characteristics. Social presence and media richness are two of the indicators of a dialogic digital interaction. Although some difficulties may occur, as the absent presence or the multitasking, researchers claim that difference will remain the fuel for the dialogic call of the 21th century communication, whether we will be ready to dialogically answer it or not.
Opinions on the Contribution of the Bio-Psycho-Physical Component in Military Confrontations Carried Out in Extreme Conditions
Authors: Stănciulescu Robert , Tarnu Lucian
Published: July 2021

The adaptation of the fighter to the combat situations within the different missions, as well as the need to face any request coming up during the confrontations, imposes an extremely complex training system. Having an essential role in combat, the fighter must acquire qualities both in terms of mental, biological and physical features. Due to the threats that hang over the fighters at any time in this type of conflicts, the emphasis in their training is aimed at training in conditions as close to the existing reality as possible, with a focus on the impact that the battlefield has on his psyche and physique, so that at the same time he can adapt his systems of action of the body to the requirements of any nature imposed by each mission. The paper highlights that the process of training this type of fighters includes, among the training pillars, physical and mental training as a support for exceptional training and effective exercise of roles and missions entrusted to the military organization in peacetime, in situations of crisis and especially at war. In the economics of the formative process, physical and mental training represents the essence of a high level of acquiring the qualities specific to the successful conduct of combat, a fact for which their development has been and will always remain a priority objective throughout the continuous training of fighters.
The Role of Lobbying in the Decision-Making Process in the European Union
Authors: Stoilova Veronika
Published: July 2021

Lobbying in the modern world is becoming part of decision-making processes at the local, state, supranational and global levels. The lobbying process is characterized by the use of various techniques and tools, which is why there are many definitions. In the European Union, it is perceived as a European representation of interests, through which different groups try to influence the decision-making process in the various institutions. Lobbying is often referred to when it is necessary to describe a particular political process, event or phenomenon that has not reached the general public or has remained opaque due to its specific nature. As lobbying becomes increasingly important, this article aims to clarify what lobbying is and what its legitimate and acceptable forms are. It is not without reason that there is a general distrust of the lobbying process and, in particular, of the real intentions of lobbyists. Therefore, many people believe that such activities distort the political process in terms of transparency, integrity and influence. Given the sensitive nature of the topic of lobbying, some good practices from existing lobbying rules at European level will also be considered.
Disinformation as a Threat to the Quality of Contemporary Information
Authors: Turchenko Yuliia , Horiacheva Kira , Dzhus Oleksandr , Kolisnyk Oleh
Published: July 2021

Due to the intensification of local conflicts in the world, ensuring the quality of information is a pressing problem, which is complicated by the lack of a unified methodological framework that allows for an adequate assessment of information threats. Current methods often do not take into account the nature of the interaction of various negative factors and give an assessment only on a qualitative level. The difficulty of analyzing risks in the information sphere lies in the fact that in order to achieve adequate assessments it is necessary to take into account a large number of factors that are in a complex dependence on one another. This article describes the negative influence of disinformation on social and political processes in the state. For the study we use the experience of the United States and Great Britain during significant political events, the experience of information operations in social networks. We also agree that there are many threats to the quality of information in the modern world. One of these threats is disinformation, which inevitably manipulates reality and facts in order to cause harm or financial gain. The article states that disinformation breeds discontent, distrust of state institutions, undermines the legitimacy of power, generates unwarranted tension in the society, as well as curtails public debate and threatens the quality of information.
Modelling and Simulation as a Service – an Emergent Concept that Supports the Military Education and Training Process Continuity
Authors: Coman Marin-Marian , Bârsan Ghiță , Piele Cosmin
Published: July 2021

In the last years, the NATO Modelling and Simulation Group (NMSG) has started to develop and put into practice an emergent concept named “Modelling and Simulation as a Service” (MSaaS) with the purpose to provide a permanent service and cloud-based modelling and simulation (M&S) ecosystem to be used by NATO and partner nations. The new M&S ecosystem will help to project and expand the ways of using M&S capabilities for achieving interoperability between participating simulation systems and ensuring credibility of results. This paper presents, on one hand, the development phases of MSaaS, the benefits and steps that have to be done in the future for its implementation at NATO level, and on the other hand, it makes an extrapolation between business continuity concept and MSaaS concept in terms of ensuring the military education and training process continuity when a crisis situation occurs.
Application of Spectral and Wavelet Analysis of Stator Current to Detect Angular Misalignment in PMSM Drive Systems
Authors: Pietrzak Przemysław , Wolkiewicz Marcin
Published: July 2021

This paper deals with the selected methods of detecting angular misalignment in drive systems with a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), which are based on the analysis of the stator phase current signal, as well as their experimental verification and comparison. The proposed and compared methods are spectral analysis and wavelet analysis of the stator current, stator current envelope, stator current space vector module. Furthermore, the influence of power supply frequency and load torque on the performance of the proposed diagnostic methods is also discussed. The experimental tests were carried out for an undamaged motor and for two levels of angular misalignment. The article discusses the question of exactly what damage symptoms can be extracted from each of the methods. In the case of spectral analyses, it is demonstrated which multiplicities of the failure frequency are the most sensitive to misalignment and the least sensitive to changes in motor operating condition, which may be considered novel in the case of drive systems with permanent magnet motors. It is also proven that discrete wavelet transform (DWT) of the envelope and monitoring of the value of the relevant components allows the detection of misalignment with the availability of measuring current only in one phase in various motor operating conditions.
Acute side effects after definitive stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for patients with clinically localized or locally advanced prostate cancer: a single institution prospective study
Authors: Jorgo Kliton , Polgar Csaba , Stelczer Gabor , Major Tibor , Gesztesi Laszlo , Agoston Peter
Published: July 2021

Background

The aim of the study was to evaluate acute side effects after extremely hypofractionated intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for definitive treatment of prostate cancer patients.

Patients and methods

Between February 2018 and August 2019, 205 low-, intermediate- and high-risk prostate cancer patients were treated with SBRT using “CyberKnife M6” linear accelerator. In low-risk patients 7.5–8 Gy was delivered to the prostate gland by each fraction. For intermediate- and high-risk disease a dose of 7.5–8 Gy was delivered to the prostate and 6–6.5 Gy to the seminal vesicles by each fraction with a simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) technique. A total of 5 fractions (total dose 37.5–40 Gy) were given on every second working day. Acute radiotherapy-related genitourinary (GU) and gastrointestinal (GI) side effects were assessed using Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) scoring system.

Results

Of the 205 patients (28 low-, 115 intermediate-, 62 high-risk) treated with SBRT, 203 (99%) completed the radiotherapy as planned. The duration of radiation therapy was 1 week and 3 days. The frequencies of acute radiotherapy-related side effects were as follows: GU grade 0 – 17.1%, grade I – 30.7%, grade II – 50.7%, grade III – 1.5%; and GI grade 0 – 62.4%, grade I–31.7%, grade II–5.9%, grade III–0%. None of the patients developed grade ≥ 4 acute toxicity.

Conclusions

SBRT with a total dose of 37.5–40 Gy in 5 fractions appears to be a safe and well tolerated treatment option in patients with prostate cancer, associated with slight or moderate early side effects. Longer follow-up is needed to evaluate long-term toxicity and biochemical control.
Effect of Modifying Aggregates by Rap and the Simultaneous use of Adhesives for the Stabilization of a Sandy Pavement Subgrade
Authors: Khabiri Mohammad Mehdi , Ebrahimialavijeh Bahareh
Published: July 2021

The improvement, reconstruction and repair of roads in recent years have increased the content of recycled asphalt in pavements. Using these materials in road construction projects because they reduce the costs, will also be of great help in improving environmental issues. In the present study, dune sand, which can be found in most desert area soil but does not have proper strength and loading capacity for a subgrade, was used. In order to increase the strength parameters of dune sand, various contents of cement and recycled asphalt were examined in California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and compressive strength tests. The results showed that the addition of cement and recycled asphalt can increase compressive strength and bearing capacity and reduce rupture deformations. In a stabilized sample with 27.5% recycled asphalt, increasing the cement from 7.5 to 12.5% increased the compressive strength by 1.045 times, which is the highest amount of change in the samples studied. The maximum CBR and minimum rupture deformations are related to 35% of the recycled asphalt and 12.5% of the cement. The predicted functions of the compressive strength, deformation and CBR depend on two variables of the cement content; the recycled asphalt was then calculated using the response surface method
Comparative analysis of Activated Corn Cob and Bentonite Clay for the Removal of Lead and Nickel from Raw Water
Authors: Akomah Uchechi , Nwaogazie Ify Lawrence , Akaranta Onyewuchi , David Adekunle Olorunlowo
Published: July 2021

The extensive use of commercial activated carbon as an adsorbent for the purification of industrial effluent is not economical for small and medium-sized enterprises due to its high operational cost. This study was carried out to compare the adsorptive capacity of bentonite clay and activated corn cob (“BC” and “ACC”) for the removal of lead (II) and nickel (II) ions from an aqueous solution. The results obtained from the characterization of the BC and ACC are pH: 7.43 and 6.74; moisture content: 36.45kg/kg and 12.10kg/kg, and bulk density: 1.243g/ml and 1.162g/ml, respectively. Normality tests using the coefficient of skewness indicated that the set of data was not normally distributed. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) test conducted using Friedman’s 2-way ANOVA test indicated p values of 0.0253 against an alpha value of 0.05, which indicates significance. The Friedman results indicated significance with respect to the varied dosages, initial concentrations, and contact time. The effect of the adsorbent was not significant. The adsorption isotherms were analysed using the Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin isotherms. Most research studies have shown that adsorption experiments performed using most low-cost materials tend to follow the Freundlich adsorption isotherm, but the results of this experimental study proved that activated corn cob and bentonite clay performed better with the Temkin adsorption isotherm with 0.879 ≤ R2 ≤ 0.917 for the bentonite clay and 0.9572 ≤ R2 ≤ 0.99 for the activated corn cob respectively. The study revealed that these materials are good adsorbents that can be used for the removal of lead (II) and nickel (II) ions from an aqueous solution.
Aerodynamic Study of the Wind Flow in the Area of the R2 Expressway in Slovakia
Authors: Hubová Olga , Macák Marek , Grmanová Alžbeta
Published: July 2021

Our calculation of wind effects was based on the specific wind situation of the planned R2 expressway. Given the topography and the prevailing wind directions, it was necessary to analyse the speeds for winds that could cause vehicles with trailers to be pushed off the roadway, as has been observed in recent years. Using a CFD simulation in the ANSYS FLUENT program, we analysed the entire section of the planned R2 expressway in order to evaluate the wind speeds at the level of the centre of gravity of truck trailers. Statistical turbulence models based on a time-averaging method, i.e., the RANS-Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes equations, of turbulent flow quantities and the time-averaging procedure of balance equations are suitable for solving the engineering tasks. In numerical simulations, the Realizable k - ε model was used in which the calculation of the turbulent dynamic viscosity in the equation for Boussinesque’s hypothesis was solved using two transport equations. Plotting and comparing the wind speeds for significant wind directions allowed us to design protection in the dangerous areas using protective walls.
Diasporas and Armed Conflicts: beyond Being “Third Party”
Authors: Loshkariov I. D.
Published: July 2021

The article discusses an essential dimension of modern diaspora research related to the functional status of diasporas in contemporary armed conflicts. The conventional point of view is that diasporas can only act as the “third party” of the conflict by either contributing to the deepening of the contradictions between the opposing parties or acting as an intermediary between them. In theoretical terms, the author relies on the concept of “new” or network wars (netwars) and tries to demonstrate that there are the prerequisites for more active involvement of diasporas in armed conflicts at the structural level of modern world political processes. To identify the structural requirements for such participation, the author turns to the analysis of two cases. The first case is the emergence and functioning of the 1st Polish Corps in 1917-1918 in Russia, which was formed when the Polish population of Russia was separated from their territory of origin as a result of the First World War. An analysis of the documents shows that the leadership of the corps quite clearly evaded political subordination to the Russian authorities and retained only military subordination, implying that the task of this unit was to participate in the restoration of Polish statehood. The second case is the genesis and evolution of the “Secret Army” of General Wang Pao in Laos in 1960-1974. This unit played an essential role in the Civil War in Laos, as it managed to restrain the onslaught of the superior forces of the Patet Lao Front and troops from North Vietnam. Such long-term participation in hostilities was made possible thanks to US special services' logistical and technical support. The two case studies allow us to conclude that there were armed units in previous historical periods with a clear diaspora component: they made a significant contribution to the overall dynamics of the confrontation between major parties to the conflict. This experience helps analyze contemporary conflicts with the diaspora component, especially in the context of the gradual erosion of power resources in world politics. The participation of diasporas in armed conflicts outside the “third party” framework is associated with the achievement of several conditions, both internal and external ones.
DIAGNOSTIC PREDICTORS OF TOLERANCE DEVELOPMENT IN THE ELIMINATION DIET IN CHILDREN WITH COW'S MILK PROTEIN ALLERGY
Authors:   Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine, Matsyura Oksana ,   Communal Nonprofit Enterprise “City Children’s Clinical Hospital of Lviv”, Lviv, Ukraine, Besh Lesya ,   Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine; Communal Nonprofit Enterprise “City Children’s Clinical Hospital of Lviv”, Lviv, Ukraine, Lukyanenko Natalia ,   Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine, Kovalska Oksana ,   Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine, Slivinska-Kurchak Khrystyna ,   Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine, Nagurna Yaryna ,   Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine
Published: July 2021

Background. Cow's milk protein allergy is a topical issue in pediatrics. This disease affects 2-3% of young children. Methods. The study included 30 children with a confirmed cow’s milk protein allergy and a prescribed milk elimination diet. The children were observed for 36 months. The molecular profile was evaluated by detecting the major components of milk (Bos d 8, Bos d 5, Bos d 4), minor (Bos d 6), and cross-reactive with serum albumin (Fel d 2, Can f 3). Results. The study group included 46.7% of boys. The mean age of the subjects was 14.5±3.18 months. Nine of the 25 analyzed factors were identified in the course of our work by the method of logistic regression with progressive selection, which in combined action affect the formation of tolerance to cow's milk proteins in allergic children. There are three clinical examples of calculating the prediction of the complete tolerance development in the elimination diet in children with cow's milk protein allergy. Conclusions. Independent predictors that reduce the likelihood of the tolerance development in the elimination diet, have identified: skin test to milk, Bos d 8, Bos d 5, Bos d 4, Bos d 6. Independent predictors of the tolerance development in the elimination diet are: milk-specific IgE, total IgE, Fel d 2, Can f 3. Low probability of tolerance development by elimination therapy is a recommendation for prescribing treatment to a patient by specific oral tolerance induction.