bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE INFORMATION AGE IN COMMUNICATIONS AND ITS IMPACT ON CONSUMER BEHAVIOR IN THE TOURISM BUSINESS
Authors: Rizova Teodora , Dimova Nadezhda
Published: July 2024

In recent years, there has been an increased development of information technologies, which have a significant impact on the economic and social sphere worldwide and, in particular, on communications between consumers and companies. Dynamic changes in the global aspect of the economy and changes in consumer tastes and preferences are only part of the factors for the creation and integration of new modern technologies. It is the application of various technologies that is of key importance for communications with consumers in the tourism business.; Attesting to the relationship between customer satisfaction and the success of a company's experience generation strategy is complex. Consumers may be very satisfied but completely unmotivated to make additional trips or recommend the company to others. It is precisely in this process and the resolution of various challenges that information technology is essential.
APPLICATION OF A GENERALIZED NET MODEL IN THE COMMUNICATION OF TWO INDEPENDENT TRAFFIC IN FACULTY OF TECHNICAL SCIENCES AT KONSTANTIN PRESLAVSKI UNIVERSITY OF SHUMEN
Authors: Tsankov Tsvetoslav , Staneva Liliya , Vardev Ivelina , Iliev Dimitar
Published: July 2024

In this paper, а generalized net model providing secure communication of two independent network traffic through ISP1 and ISP2 is presented. Also, a generalized net model modelling the communication process in the computer network of the Faculty of Technical Sciences was developed. The aim of the present study is to improve the Faculty network with generalized net model by providing it with greater efficiency and greater flexibility. The main methods in our research are the method of analysis and synthesis and the method of simulation. The application of generalized net in various fields/aspects of science show the possibilities of the mathematical apparatus for modelling various processes. The indexed matrices used provide flexibility for describing and representing the current states of the cores in the positions they fall into.
DIGITIZATION AND INTELLIGENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS IN TRANSPORT: AN OVERVIEW OF PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS
Authors: Dimitrov Dimitar
Published: July 2024

The implementation of intelligent transport systems /ITS - Intelligent Transport/ in the transport sector is one of the first tasks in the development of information and communication technologies /Information and Communication Technologies - ICT/. In essence, it is an actual task and means creating and processing the information flows and data in real time to locate and manage the vehicles, infrastructure and traffic in order to improve the mobility and the quality of the transport services offered. This article aims to give a modern view of digitalization of technological and business processes, as well as the development of ITS in the field of the transport sector. Special emphasis is given to modern problems and solutions in the digitization and implementation of these information systems. with a view to their effective and safe use, traffic and mobility management, improving the efficiency and quality of the service, as well as the impact on the ecology, etc.
APPLICATION OF GAMIFICATION IN HIGHER EDUCATION: TRAINING OF EARLY CHILDHOOD AND PRIMARY EDUCATION TEACHERS IN UKRAINE
Authors: Koval Tetiana , Оliinyk Nataliia , Kryvosheya Tetiana , Khilya Anna
Published: July 2024

Over the past five years, the issue of gamification of education in Ukraine has been actively discussed in academic community, expanding through the practice of innovative teachers, and the availability of online courses using various platforms and applications. But still, in some cases, the issue of gamification is reduced to the question of preparation for interaction during a traditional game. That is why we have addressed several issues in this scientific review. First, what is the difference between gamification of education and the use of games in the educational process. Secondly, we decided to analyse the gaming interests and preferences of young people who plan to work in educational institutions. This allowed us to outline not only the range of interests, but also to highlight the levels of student readiness to use gamification through the existing offer and develop their own game complexes for work in preschool or elementary schools. Thirdly, we analysed the market offer for primary and preschool education in terms of online exercises and applications that are comprehensive. This helped us to identify (from our point of view) a list of quality platforms and applications that are effective for development. They can be used in training as training examples for future teachers when studying teaching methods of various subjects, or used for school preparation, etc. In addition, we have partially repeated the reasons for confusion in terms and risks associated with the implementation of international experience in the practice of Ukrainian education due to the economic, social and military-political situation. We believe that such a comprehensive view of gamification in higher education in Ukraine will allow us to expand the scope of understanding and implementation of appropriate training for use by teachers and comprehensive multi-component social development of educational game content for preschool and primary education.
DETERMINE THE LOCATION OF NODES IN WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORK BY USING GENETIC ALGORITHM
Authors: Simeonov Milen , Marinov Marin
Published: July 2024

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are widely used in the modern world. An important requirement for the optimal operation of the network is the determination of the location of the sensor nodes. When building the network, various positioning methods are used, providing the necessary level of accuracy in determining the location of the sensor nodes. It makes it possible to adjust the transmission power of the nodes, to determine which sensors should be in standby mode and which ones to be in working mode, and also to determine the best route for transmitting information. The Angle of Arrival (AoA) method is a method of positioning with respect to the location of the mobile station, which is determined by triangulation of received information collected at multiple access points. The Time of Arrival (ToA) method, also known as the telemetry method, provides one-way measurements of the time difference of signal propagation from the exact time the signal is sent by the transmitter and the exact time the signal is received at the receiver. The Time Difference of Arrival (TDoA) method is based on the concept that a mobile station transmits a message that has been received by at least three access points that are synchronized with other access points. Most of these methods involve approximation and/or linearization, which introduce additional errors. In the present work, an algorithm is proposed for calculating the location of the sensor nodes by the ToA method using a genetic algorithm (GA). An objective function is derived, based on the distances from the reference nodes and the mobile sensor node whose location is sought. This objective function is minimized using a GA, resulting in the desired node coordinates. Investigations of the accuracy of determining the location of the sensor nodes at different accuracy of distance measurement have been made.
INNOVATIVE TRENDS IN THE FIELD OF MODERN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE METHODOLOGY
Authors: Yarovyi Anatolii , Yarovyi Andrii , Kizim Svitlana , Ozeranskyi Volodymyr
Published: July 2024

The article justifies the necessity of introducing methodological innovations in the modern field of artificial intelligence (AI), which precede and actively determine technological innovations. The authors of the article analyse the existing AI conceptual structure and point out its insufficiency and introduce significant improvements, including the figurative component. This addition was not made arbitrarily but in accordance with the structure of human natural intelligence, where the rational (symbolic) is directly related to the figurative and interacts with it. The figurative is not identical to the rational (symbolic); there are significant differences in their epistemological content. This difference results from the epistemological differences in their basic (primary) structures - the concept and the image. This, accordingly, means that the figurative (image) is always a reflection of the singular (individual), which is always brought to the sensory-specific, while the rational (concept) is always a reflection of the general (typical), which reaches the level of the systematic. This analysis of the peculiarities of the epistemological and methodological content of figurative and rational thinking becomes important not only in terms of studying the essence of an individual's natural thinking. These features are of great methodological importance in the modeling of artificial intelligence, especially when the question is raised about the creation of a new generation of artificial intelligent systems. Considering all of the above, artificial intelligence combines rational (logical) and figurative components, with priority given to the figurative structure as more information-intensive and heuristically powerful. It is the figurative component of artificial intelligence that defines and ensures the object's multidimensional representation, while the rational component chooses one of the dimensions provided by the figurative one and fills it with logical content. In the concept of functioning of a real artificial intelligence system, its figurative component initially functions, transforming into rational transformations, which, in turn, are later returned and included in more voluminous figurative architectures. The article proposes schemes that present new approaches to depicting the modern AI conceptual structure. The suggested innovations are not implemented arbitrarily, they are determined and correspond to the real structure and functioning of human natural intelligence.
WHAT MOTIVATES THE CREATIVITY OF GENERATION Z EMPLOYEES? THE INFLUENCE OF EXTRINSIC AND INCRISTIC MOTIVATING FACTORS ON THE EXAMPLE OF IT SPECIALISTS FROM EU COUNTRIES
Authors: Gribanova Svetlana
Published: July 2024

Generation Z is entering the labor market. Like the previous generation, Generation Z has its own specific characteristics, values and expectations. This creates new challenges for managers and organizers of work processes in companies. The object of this study is IT professionals belonging to generation Z. Managing of creative employees is in itself, a complex task. Combined  with the characteristics of the new generation, this task becomes especially important and difficult. Currently, there is a dearth of research in the academic literature regarding work motivation and work expectations for Generation Z, as this generation is just beginning its work life. This study seeks to clarify these issues. Empirical data for the study was collected through an online survey of Generation Z IT professionals from EU countries. The sample size is 2153 individuals. The study used intrinsic and extrinsic motivation theory and social motivation theory as the theoretical framework. The results of the study show that for IT professionals of generation Z it is primarily important to have a job where their professional skills are valued and conditions for the development of these skills are created, as well as their contribution to labor results is fairly evaluated.    For IT professionals of this generation, it is important to work among people who share their values and beliefs, to have time for personal life and the opportunity to participate in socially important projects. Their creativity is enhanced when it is necessary to do a very important job that will bring respect to the team. They are not afraid of losing their jobs and are willing to take risks.
EDUCATION IN THE ERA OF SMART CITIES: TRANSFORMATION AND OPPORTUNITIES
Authors: Dimitrova Vihra , Nikolov Nikolay , Gospodinov Todor
Published: July 2024

The concept of the smart cities is closely related to the opportunities of smart education that reflects how advanced technology enables learners to acquire knowledge and skills more effectively, efficiently, and conveniently. The role of smart education is to support learners in the 21st century to meet and successfully cope with the challenges of a digitalized society, including developing problem-solving skills. The aim of the paper is to examine the role of the education in modern smart cities, from the quadruple helix model perspective. Smart education has become an important strategy for building a smart society, as an essential part of the model, including collaborative innovation and interaction among government, academia, business and society. By the use of technologies and innovation, the modern educational institutions could promote not only student satisfaction with the learning process, but also support the development of sustainable smart and knowledge-based cities.
ENHANCING STUDENTS' LISTENING COMPREHENSION SKILLS THROUGH AI-BASED PODCAST ACTIVITIES: A STUDY IN SELF-STUDY MODE
Authors: Chaikovska Olha , Stoliarenko Olha , Hlushkovetska Nataliia , Semenyshena Iryna
Published: July 2024

The increased number of learning hours for students’ self-study in university ESP courses, on the one hand, and the high requirements for future engineers in the world labour market, on the other hand, confirm the necessity to foster students’ ESP skills in a self-study mode. Thanks to the rapid development of educational technologies, studying any discipline can be made interesting and effective. Our study suggests that utilizing AI tools in engineering podcast activities can improve engineering students’ listening comprehension skills in self-study mode. The post-study test designed with the help of the YT Class platform which generates assessment tests for video content, is compared across the control and experimental groups (52 third-year engineering students). The participants of both groups had experience using Ted podcasts in ESP learning and previous research proved the efficacy of implementing such activities in ESP classrooms with the first-year students of the Engineering and Technology Department. The final test based on the results of the processed podcasts was evaluated at 100 points, where the high score level was set at 60 points. In the experimental group, 15 students scored more than 60 points, in the control group, 8 students received more than 60 points. To confirm or refute the hypothesis that the proportion of students who received more than 60 points in the experimental group is higher than in the control group, the Fisher criterion was used. The progress of the students in the experimental group was statistically proven. AI-based podcast listening activities of engineering students outside the classroom prove to be a significant tool for improving students’ listening comprehension skills and inspiring curiosity and motivation to further development.
READINESS OF THE FUTURE PRESCHOOL AND PRIMARY EDUCATION SPECIALISTS TO FORM THE FOUNDATIONS OF CHILDREN’S CYBER SECURITY
Authors: Shykyrynska Oleksandra , Liapunova Valentyna , Melnykova Olha , Mnyshenko Kateryna , Petryshyna Tetiana
Published: July 2024

In connection with the digitization of the educational process, the need for the development of critical thinking of children of senior preschool and junior school age, the development of the ability to use information in any form, to communicate, and to be aware of the consequences of interaction in the digital world is increasing. The article found out that the training of the future preschool and primary education specialists should include the formation and development of methodological competence of students in order to develop in children of preschool and junior school age the ability to protect themselves, their information and privacy on the Internet, the ability to be friendly and brave on the Internet, formation of serious attitude to privacy and security. The experimental research has been conducted, the respondents of which were bachelor’s degree students of the specialty 012 Preschool Education and 013 Primary Education of Vinnytsia Mykhailo Kotsiubynskyi State Pedagogical University. The following approaches and technologies for forming the ability of the future preschool and primary education specialists to form the basics of cyber security for preschool and primary school children have been highlighted: the problem-based approach, BYOD technology (“bring your own device”), the method of “flipped learning”. The results of the approbation with bachelor’s degree students of the speciality 012 Preschool Education and 013 Primary Education of the educational guide on children’s security on the Internet, developed by Google in cooperation with The Net Safety Collaborative and the Internet Keep Safe Coalition and evaluated by the Scientific Center “Crimes Against Children” of the University of New Hampshire, have been given.
ORGANISING PERSONALISED LEARNING IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE CLASSROOM: COMPUTER ENGINEERING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY UNDERGRADUATES PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Malykhin Oleksandr , Aristova Nataliia , Dybkova Liudmyla
Published: July 2024

The more rapidly the area of information technologies develops, the higher are the requirements for training Computer Engineering and Information Technology students. Computer Engineering and Information Technology students training should be aimed at equipping them with subject-specific knowledge, on the one hand, and skills of the 21st century including strong communication skills in English, on the other hand. As practice shows good communication skills in English may lead to better job opportunities, more stable and prosperous future. The desire to succeed in mastering communication skills in English is directly related to Computer Engineering and Information Technology students’ attitudes towards both English as a discipline and activities used in the English language classroom. Computer Engineering and Information Technology students show interest and enjoy learning only when it becomes personally meaningful to them. The research aim is to find out Computer Engineering and Information Technology undergraduates’ opinions on organising personalised learning in the English language classroom aimed at developing their communication skills. The researchers used a convenience sampling technique to select the research population. The research population comprised 273 Computer Engineering and Information Technology first and second year students from Kyiv National Economic University named after Vadym Hetman and Kyiv National University of Technologies and Design. To collect statistical data on Computer Engineering and Information Technology undergraduates’ opinions on organising personalised learning in the English language classroom the team of researchers developed a questionnaire and data collection took place in September-December 2023.
TRANSVERSAL SKILLS THAT MATTER TO COMPUTER ENGINEERING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY UNDERGRADUATES AND STRATEGIES FOR THEIR DEVELOPMENT IN ENGLISH CLASSROOM
Authors: Aristova Nataliia , Malykhin Oleksandr , Dybkova Liudmyla
Published: July 2024

The importance of transversal skills for employees who work in the field of computer science is undeniable as transversal skills complement technical computer science skills and play a key role in their professional development and success. It means that while studying at higher educational institutions Computer Engineering and Information Technology undergraduates should have all the opportunities to develop these skills. And the English language classroom is not an exception since English teachers can use a wide range of strategies for developing transversal skills among Computer Engineering and Information Technology undergraduates. The research is aimed at finding out Computer Engineering and Information Technology undergraduates’ points of view on the importance of transversal skills for their future work and identifying effective strategies for their development in the English language classroom. 217 Computer Engineering and Information Technology undergraduates were participants in the research conducted by the team of researchers. To find out Computer Engineering and Information Technology undergraduates’ points of view of the importance of transversal skills for their future work and to identify effective strategies for their developing in the English language classroom, the researchers developed a questionnaire which consisted of close-ended and open-ended questions and items on a 5-Likert scale. The study may contribute to the improvement of Computer Engineering and Information Technology undergraduates’ training by identifying effective strategies for the development of transversal skills in the English language classroom.
THE APPLICATION OF PROCESS SIMULATION SOFTWARE FLEXSIM IN TEXTILE STUDY PROGRAM
Authors: Strazdiene Eugenija , Laiskonyte Aiste
Published: July 2024

Nowadays simulation is becoming a common tool for various processes analysis, whether it is a video game, local weather forecast, or any other area of daily life. FlexSim software provides virtual environment with the ability to simulate any process with as much information as the user needs. FlexSim simulations are commonly applied in areas such as manufacturing, warehousing, distribution of goods and products, materials processing etc. The aim of this presentation is to show how FlexSim software can be integrated into textile orientated study programs and to illustrate its application possibilities in the analysis of garment production process. Also, to take measures to increase the efficiency of production flow by eliminating its bottlenecks.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE RESULTSOF AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY WITH BASIC EQUIPMENT AND A SPECIALLY MADE ONE TOTHE INSIZE ISR - C002 ROUGHNESS TESTER
Authors: Georgiev Kliment , Katsarova Pavlina
Published: July 2024

The present research presents a comparative analysis between experiments conducted with basic equipment for a portable INSIZE ISR - C002 roughness tester and a specially made for the purpose attachment to the device. An analysis is made of the proposed basic device for working with a portable roughness tester INSIZE ISR - C002, and its shortcomings have been determined. In order to facilitate the operator's work with the device and obtain more accurate results, a special device is developed. It is designed using CAD/CAM products and manufactured using additive printing (3D printing). The additive printing technology used reduces its cost. The manufactured device is analyzed and its advantages and disadvantages are determined. Experiments are conducted with both devices and a comparative analysis of the obtained results is made. An analysis of the measurement system (MSA) is made, through which the results of the conducted experiments were analyzed. The comparative analysis shows a number of advantages of the new device compared to the basic one, which provide a basis for the formulated conclusions and recommendations.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF TURBULENCE IN THE TEST SECTION OF WIND TUNNEL
Authors: Panayotov Hristian , Penchev Stanimir , Zikyamov Martin
Published: July 2024

The given report presents an experimental study using PIV methods (Particle Image Velocimetry) of the relative turbulence in the test section of the wind tunnel ULAK-1, located in the Laboratory of Autonomous Aircraft Aerodynamics in the Plovdiv Branch of the Technical University of Sofia. By means of the turbulence sphere method and by analysis of the flow in the test section in two perpendicular planes (parallel to the free-stream velocity and Trefftz plane), the turbulence factor and the relative turbulence were determined. The obtained results are important characteristics of the wind tunnel and will be used in future experimental studies. The same are compared with previous ones obtained by hot-wire anemometry measurements.
TECHNICAL OBSTACLES TO SPEECH INTELLIGIBILITY
Authors: Stanchev Georgi
Published: July 2024

As voice communication increasingly rely on technological devices, understanding the intricate relationship between equipment properties and communication outcomes becomes imperative. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of technical condition of communication equipment on the intelligibility of voice communications. To achieve this goal, methods and results of a qualitative analysis of the voice signals were used, as well as statistical methods for establishing the relevant dependencies. The importance of technical characteristics of voice signals for speech intelligibility was considered. The influence of the technical parameters of electronic communication equipment and the working environment on the technical characteristics of voice signals and thus on the intelligibility of speech was discussed. On the basis of the research, conclusions were drawn highlighting the serious influence of the communication equipment characteristics and the expertise of the service personnel on speech intelligibility.
RECYCLING OF TEXTILE WASTE INTO SOUND-ABSORBING ACOUSTIC PLATES
Authors: Siltumens Kristaps , Grinfelde Inga , Znots Ginters , Golubovs Rudolfs , Brencis Raitis
Published: July 2024

The textile waste problem is a significant concern both in Latvia and globally. The textile industry, particularly the fashion industry, is considered one of the most polluting industries, generating a substantial amount of waste. Worldwide, the production of textiles has been on the rise due to population growth and increased consumption, leading to a significant increase in textile waste generation. The management of textile waste is crucial for ensuring sustainability and minimizing environmental impacts. Recycling and reusing textile waste are essential strategies for implementing a circular economy model and reducing the environmental hazards associated with textile production and disposal. One way we can reduce the amount of textile waste in landfills is to create new products from this waste by intercepting it before it ends up in landfills. The aim of this study is to develop sound-absorbing acoustic plates using textile waste. Experiments with textile waste started in January 2024, beginning with the acquisition of textile waste. The textile obtained for the experiment was sourced from the waste management company in Latvia's North Vidzeme, which collects clean textile waste from residents. In the next stages, textile waste was shredded, and slabs were formed using a compactor. Textile processing into a finer fraction was carried out using an industrial shredding machine. A mixture of water-based glue, an isotonic solution (containing boric acid and sodium borate), PVA glue, and sodium bicarbonate was used as a binder for making the plates. The created plates were tested for acoustic properties in the laboratory. The absorption coefficient of the acoustic plate at the best performance level (1250 - 3500 Hz) ranged from 1.14 to 1.6. This is consistent with the fact that non-separated textiles were used.
DEVELOPMENT OF ORGANISATIONAL COMPETENCIES DURING TRANSITION AND ADAPTATION TO INDUSTRY 4.0.
Authors: Bohashko Iryna , Bohashko Oleksandr
Published: July 2024

Competencies that enable organizations to effectively implement digital technologies and provide them with the ability to adapt to changes in the digital environment can be classified as organizational competencies in the context of digital transformation. During the transition to Industry 4.0, organizations find themselves in conditions of a high level of uncertainty and complexity, which requires them to adapt to the new context. A key factor in this process is competencies that ensure high competitiveness and innovative potential. However, the scientific literature does not sufficiently disclose their content, classification levels, and development opportunities under digitalization conditions. This article attempts to fill this gap by analyzing the impact of new technologies on organizational competencies. A conceptual model is presented, which is based on the assumption that the degree of digitalization strengthens the interaction of higher-level competencies - strategic flexibility and ambidexterity.
TECHNOLOGICAL PROJECT FOR VERTICAL AQUACULTURE PRODUCTION
Authors: Nikolova Neli
Published: July 2024

In this report, a technological project is proposed for an ecological greenhouse designed for the cultivation of leafy vegetables, root fruits, spices and aquaculture based on aquaponics. The cycle of sowing, growing, picking the finished product, packaging and shipping is isolated from the external environment and the technology implies optimization of energy resources, seed material, production costs, etc. This ecosystem is innovating the vertical farming industry with high-tech control systems to produce quality and clean produce, reducing costs and making it an attractive option for farmers today.
ASSESSING DAILY INTAKE OF INDOOR AIR POLLUTANTS FROM 3D PRINTING
Authors: Laicāns Ivars , Ķibilda Elīza , Žvagiņa Krista , Martinsone Žanna , Pavlovska Ilona
Published: July 2024

The scientific community is increasingly focusing on indoor air quality (IAQ) more than ever, driven by on-going research and fresh perspectives including development of 3D technologies. Exposure dose (EDa) resulting from inhalation of indoor air pollutants emitted by 3D printers were calculated in this study. The consideration of emissions from 3D printers is based on experimental data, primarily sourced from reviewed literature. However, this research also includes some experimental values, excluding the background levels of these pollutants. Experiments were conducted using several 3D printers available (Zortrax M300 Dual) to compare the indoor air pollutants generated and their concentrations with information gathered from earlier research. In the experiments, filaments containing ABS (acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene copolymer material, commonly used for 3D printing) were utilized. EDa values of styrene, toluene, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde for 8-hour and 12-hour shifts for average and maximal (reported) concentrations were calculated based on the available experimental and literature data. The average concentrations of these pollutants were determined by calculating the arithmetic mean, which incorporated concentration values obtained from previous research and experimental data collected within this study. It was concluded that further investigation should focus on aerial concentrations of styrene generated during 3D printing. Calculated EDa for styrene from several studies exceeded the recommended guidelines for Tolerable Daily Intake (TDI) set by the World Health Organization (WHO) by at least 35%. Further exploration is imperative to incorporate additional pathways of indoor air pollutant exposure, such as skin contact and ingestion.  This comprehensive approach will provide a more thorough understanding of the overall health risks associated with indoor air quality during 3D printing.
LASER RADIATION MADE HYDROPHOBIC SURFACE ON STAINLESS STEEL FOR FOOD INDUSTRY, A REVIEW
Authors: Abolins Arturs
Published: July 2024

Main requirement in food processing industry is providing a food safety through all the production cycle. One of many procedures that guarantee food safety is cleanliness of surfaces that are in contact with food or its raw materials. Surface cleanliness could be achieved in different ways, either by regular washing with clean water and detergents or by creating surfaces, that repel water or other residues. It is important, because remaining water with residues create conditions for growth of unwanted microflora. As classic, or active, cleaning method of washing with clean water and detergents require a lot of resources and energy. But nowadays more and more self cleaning, passive, methods are used, such as hydrophobic surfaces. These surfaces are made with in different ways, where most common are water reppeling coatings, for example – wax. But there are other methods, such as laser radiation treatment, that can create hydrophobic surface on required material, such as stainless steel, which is most common used material in food processing. There are studies that show effectivnes of laser radiation created hydrophobic surface for water repelling, but unfortunately, there are no researches found, that could provide information of such surface interaction with milk. As milk by itself is water emulsion with different nutrients, its most favourable environment for microbiological growth. By examining and analyzing different scientific articles, that are linked to topic of hydrophobic surface usage in food industry, it was concluded, that laser radiation made hydrophobic surfaces on stainless steel could have large potential. Especially in dairy industry, where such surface treatment could decrease risks of microflora growth and save resources and energy that are required for active washing process.
NUMERICAL MODELING OF LASER TRANSMISSION WELDING: STATE OF THE ART
Authors: Draganov Ivo , Lazov Lyobomir
Published: July 2024

This work presents the current state of the numerical modeling of laser transmission welding. A review of publications with a similar theme was made and some aspects that remained outside the focus of the authors were highlighted. Laser transmission welding is a technological process, the physical description of which requires the consideration of several physical laws, which are discussed here. Works were reviewed in which the numerical model is based on: the law of conservation of energy, Fourier's law of heat transfer, Lambert-Beer's law of light propagation, Newton's law of convective heat transfer, Stefan-Boltzmann's law of radiant heat transfer, the Navier-Stokes equation for a fluid, the laws of mechanics for a deformable solid along with the criteria for plasticity. Since their joint solution in analytical form is not possible, the authors' approach is to single out one or several of the laws and use numerical methods to solve the differential equations that describe them. In this work, the use of several numerical methods is considered, and the finite element method is most often used for the discretization of space. The programs used by the authors for the numerical modeling of laser transmission welding are mentioned. The results obtained for the temperature field, heat affected zone and weld pool dimensions, voids, material degradation, residual stresses and weld pool flow rate are discussed. Particular attention is paid to the issues of calibration, verification and validation of numerical models. Some conclusions and directions are highlighted, emphasizing not so much the physical interpretation of the obtained results, but the essence of numerical modeling.
OBTAINING A PROMISING LASER INDUCED SURFACE NANOSTRUCTURE OF TITANIUM ALLOY FOR BIOCOMPATIBILITY
Authors: Sprudzs Edmunds , Lazov Lyubomir , Yankov Emil , Adijans Imants
Published: July 2024

Biocompatibility of materials is of paramount importance in many areas of research, engineering, medical and consumer grade product development. Biocompatibility of surfaces can be understood as resistance of the surface to harmful bacteria colonisation and subsequent biofilm creation. Traditionally, such surfaces are created by coating the base material with a different material that offers the necessary biocompatibility features. This is often not desirable, as it introduces different surface chemistry, has different physical properties than the base material, and in many cases, does not provide a lasting solution. Modification of the surface of the base material would be preferrable. In the last decade, laser ablation of surfaces to create microscale and nanoscale patterns that improve biocompatibility has been at the forefront of research in this field. This research paper provides insight into current understanding of bactericidal surface topologies and demonstrates an example of obtaining a potentially bactericidal surface of grade V titanium alloy with an industrial grade nanosecond laser.
APPLICABILITY OF JARUS SORA TO STATE UAS OPERATIONS IN DISASTER RELIEF
Authors: Stanev Hristo , Hristozov Stefan
Published: July 2024

The use of modern unmanned aviation technologies when conducting search and rescue operations, respectively when overcoming the consequences of disasters is an economically justified approach to increase the effectiveness of operations, reducing the costs of their implementation. The nature of the operations implies working in an environment of high uncertainty with variety of stakeholders, which requires the implementation of additional measures to achieve the target levels of aviation safety. To tackle the risks associated with any Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) operations JARUS (Joint Authorities for Rulemaking in Unmanned Systems) has proposed a document called SORA (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) adopted as acceptable means of compliance by many civil aviation authorities. Admittedly, SORA was developed with civil use of UAS in mind. However, considering its comprehensiveness in risk assessment it is a good starting point to evaluate its applicability at disaster relief operations and adaptability to state aircraft operations. As a rule, activities to overcome the consequences of disasters are the responsibility of the state, therefore it is normal to expect that the capabilities to use UAS will be created and predetermines the relevance of the presented topic. In the current article the team analyses SORA applicability from the perspective of emergency services as state aircraft operations. Thus, the purpose of this article is to explore the possibilities and to justify the need of implementing a timely procedure and to show an example risk analysis performed for this type of operations, when operating with state unmanned aircraft. Of course, some of the conclusions drawn here for emergency services can be easily transposed to other state UAS operations.
MISSION COMMAND AND THE CHALLENGES OF THE EARLY 21-ST CENTURY
Authors: Tsvyatkov Nikolay
Published: July 2024

Mission command as a phenomenon, mission command philosophy and challenges of the Early 21-st Century. This paper presents the results of the authors' research related to mission command and its role in planning and conducting operations in the early 21st century.
TERRORISM – A BARBARIC TOOL AND ITS DISPROPORTIONATE COUNTERACTION IN THE CONFLICT BETWEEN HAMAS AND ISRAEL
Authors: Yordanova Steliana , Yotova Ralitsa , Boyanov Stoyan , Garov Stoyan
Published: July 2024

Terrorism and its means have been applied since Ancient times, and over the years the human development and technologies have transformed it into a serious threat to the civilians, societies, countries and even to the international security. The globalisation of terrorism demands new approaches for the effective counteraction, in accordance to the dynamically changing security environment of the 21st century. Meanwhile, with the escalation of the conflict between Hamas and Israel, the issue about the terrorism threat took the headlines, both in the information space and at the highest political level. The discussion focuses on the specific methods of combating terrorism and the permissible level of violence that should be applied in this fight. This paper seeks to answer important questions regarding security by presenting an analysis of some basics concerning the phenomenon of "terrorism". For this purpose, the applied methods of the research include careful examination of terrorism’s evolution throughout history, the factors that have influence over terrorists’ attitude, the motivation which fuels one’s decision to become a part of a terrorist group and its most striking recent manifestation. Furthermore, the paper puts the emphasis on the necessity of developing new counter-terrorism strategies along with incorporation of the newest technologies in the security sector.
RESEARCH OF THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A STEGANOGRAPHY ALGORITHM IN IMAGES WHEN USING DIFFERENT ALPHABET
Authors: Stoyanova Veselka
Published: July 2024

Steganography can be defined as a method of hiding data in cover media so that others are not aware of its existence. Steganographic systems play an important role in the covert transmission of information even in the presence of a steganalyser. The article deals with the steganography system which hides text inside images without losing data in components of RGB model. The secret message is hidden in the cover image using Least Significant Bit algorithm. The statistical characteristics of stego-images with the embedded information in Cyrillic and Latin are investigated. The aim of the study is to determine whether there is a change in the qualitative characteristics of the stego-image, when it is hidden the same information, but was used different alphabets. The comparative results for the proposed algorithm are very promising for Cyrillic alphabet. To evaluate steganography system properties are used the measures like Signal-to-Noise Ratio, Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio, Mean Squared Error and Structural Similarity Index for measuring.
Early prediction of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in extremely premature infants: a cohort study
Authors: Permyakova A. V. , Bakhmetyeva O. B. , Mamunts M. A. , Kuchumov A. G. , Koshechkin K. A.
Published: July 2024

Objective. To develop the model for early prediction of clinically significant bronchopulmonary dysplasia in extremely premature infants.
Materials and methods. 226 premature infants with gestational age less than 31 weeks, birth weight from 490 to 999 g, age from 0 to 7 days, and respiratory failure requiring ventilatory support (ventilator support) were included into a retrospective study conducted in the Perm Regional Perinatal Center. Machine learning algorithms such as logistic regression, support vector machine, random forest method, and gradient boosting method were used for the prognostic model building. Five variables were used: birth weight, Apgar score in the 5th minute of life, Silverman score, number of days of invasive ventilatory support, median oxygen fraction in the inhaled air measured daily during the first seven days of life.
Results. In the 36th week of postconceptional age 148 out of 182 infants (81.3%) in the study cohort developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), among them 15.4% had a mild form, 29.7% a moderate one, and in 36.3% of patient it was severe. Among the four studied prediction algorithms, logistic regression model was chosen as the final model with metrics: AUC=0.840, accuracy 0.818, sensitivity 0.972, specificity 0.666. The practical application of the modeling results was implemented in the form of a probability calculator.
Conclusions. In the early neonatal period of extremely premature infants, a combination of clinical predictors such as birth weight, Apgar score in the 5th minute of life, Silverman score, number of days of invasive ventilatory support, median oxygen fraction in the inhaled air measured during the first seven days of life can be used to predict the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. The logistic regression model shows high sensitivity that minimizes the probability of an error of second kind. Thus, its application is useful in the early prediction of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in premature infants.
Characteristics of intestinal microbiota parameters in young people with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Dushina T. S. , Klyashev S. M. , Suplotova L. A. , Dorodneva E. F. , Nikolenko M. V.
Published: July 2024

Objective. To study the features of the colon microbiota, as well as the associations of microbial representatives with anthropometric, anamnestic and biochemical parameters in young patients with metabolic syndrome.
Materials and methods. 118 young people took part in a single-center, one stage, controlled study. 87 of them were diagnosed with obesity, and 31 people with normal body weight formed the control group (“C”). 87 obese patients were divided into 2 groups: “MS-” which consisted of 43 people (49.4%), and “MS+” including 44 people (50.6%) with metabolic syndrome. When stratifying the groups, the NCEP ATP III criteria were used. Blood for biochemical test was taken from all the participants, and the condition of the colon microbiota was assessed using polymerase chain reaction («Colonoflor-16 (premium)»). The Microsoft Excel 2010 and IBM SPSS Statistics 26.0 application software package were used for statistical calculations. The results were evaluated as statistically significant at a level of p0.05.
Results. In the MS+ group Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fusobacteriaceae family) was detected statistically significantly more often than in individuals from group “C” (40.5%). Differences in the bacterial composition of the intestinal microbiota between two groups of obese people were revealed: in the “MS+” group there was a significant decrease in bacteria of the genus Bifidobacterium (Bifidobacteriaceae family), Prevotella (Prevotellaceae family) and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (Ruminococcaceae family) (p0.05). In addition, correlation patterns between the species and generic composition of the microbiota on the one hand and age, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, breastfeeding duration, indicators of carbohydrate (glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR index) and lipid (total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoproteins, very low-density lipoproteins, high-density lipoproteins) metabolism, CRP on the other hand have been established.
Conclusions. The colon microbiota in obese patients is characterized by proinflammatory changes. For the metabolically unhealthy phenotype of obesity these changes are most characteristic. It is clear that further research is needed to determine the mechanisms underlying the influence of bacterial-fungal associations on metabolism in obese individuals, as these mechanisms are likely to play a key role in the development of metabolic diseases.
The effectiveness of photodynamic therapy in pediatric practice
Authors: Osipov S. A. , Aliev M. A. , Daribaeva N. A. , Murtazin A. A. , Agaeva F. L. , Khairullina A. A. , Shalganova K. S. , Filippova A. A. , Iksanova V. V. , Zhidenko M. A. , Salatov Ya. S.
Published: July 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a relatively young but rapidly developing method of treatment. Currently, PDT is widely used in dentistry, dermatology, oncology and other fields of medicine. Cases of successful treatment of tumors of the head and neck, brain, lungs, pancreas, colon, breast, prostate, bladder, cervix and skin using PDT are described in literature. In addition, the effectiveness of PDT in the treatment of bacterial and fungal infections has been repeatedly proved. To date, there are a large number of studies on the use of PDT in various diseases in adults, but few data on this subject in children. The authors have been searching for publications in the electronic databases PubMed, Google Scholar and eLibrary by the following keywords: "PDT", "photodynamic therapy", "pediatrics", "children", "dermatology", "dentistry", "pulmonology", "ophthalmology", "oncology". The search was conducted from the moment of the foundation of the corresponding database to August 2023. PDT is an innovative method of treating neoplasms and bacterial infections. On the basis of the data obtained while conducting the study, it can be confirmed that applying PDT allows to reduce the number of surgical interventions and achieve the best treatment results. All the studies and clinical cases with the use of PDT in the treatment of various diseases in children, which are presented in this review, demonstrated that the treatment results were better than those with standard therapy. However, certain limitations must be taken into account, these include difficulties in selecting a photosensitizer and its route of administration. At present PDT is being actively studied in the pediatric population, but there are still many gaps that require additional large-scale studies.