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Right-wing extremism is a form of political extremism. In recent years, strengthening far-right forces has been an unnoticeable trend and a global problem. The main aim of the study will be to find out whether and to what extent the inclination of the respondents living in the territory of the Prešov and Košice regions is related to the views and attitudes of the extreme right in Slovakia in the context of the above-mentioned socio-political developments related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In addition to the theoretical definition of the basic terminological background, the paper includes the interpretation of the results of quantitative research aimed at determining the degree of acceptance of right-wing radicalism and extremism and identifying the manifestations of covert and overt support for these phenomena in eastern Slovakia in the context of the war in Ukraine. The article uses analytical and descriptive methods and a representative survey by a questionnaire.

Our goal was to analyse the effects of performance funding in the specific conditions of Czech and Slovak institutions of higher education, based on the assumption that the key motive for introducing performance funding is to increase accountability. The article confirms that NPM tools still co-exist with other reform trajectories and framings and provides a detailed explanation of how performance funding schemes work in financing higher education-based science in selected transition countries. Finally, we observe that the effects of performance funding on accountability differ depending on the funding parameters and context. We also identified forms of adaptation not previously reported in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the economic impacts of the energy crisis (2022-2023) on local governments in the Slovak Republic and the Czech Republic, specifically analyzing the budgets of the Trenčín and Zlín self-governing regions. Topics include the extent of budget limitations faced by local governments, the suspension of development activities due to high energy prices, and the effectiveness of governmental support in mitigating these impacts.

Tetrahedrite-(Cu), Cu12Sb4S13, has been approved as a new mineral species (IMA2022–078) from the Bankov magnesite deposit near Košice, Slovak Republic where it occurs as anhedral grains, up to 0.4 mm across, associated with skinnerite, chalcostibite, famatinite, tetrahedrite-(Fe) and zoned aggregates of tennantite-(Cu) to tennantite-(Fe). Tetrahedrite-(Cu) is steel-grey, with a metallic lustre. Mohs hardness is ca. 3½–4 and calculated density is 5.029 g.cm–3. In reflected light, tetrahedrite-(Cu) is isotropic and grey with a bluish shade. Reflectance data for the four COM wavelengths in air are [λ (nm): R (%)]: 470: 31.1; 546: 30.1; 589: 29.9; and 650: 28.1. The empirical formula, based on electron-microprobe data (mean of 17 spot analyses), is Cu11.42Zn0.26Fe0.19(Sb4.06As0.08)Σ4.14S12.99. The ideal formula is Cu6(Cu4Cu2)Sb4S13, which requires (in wt.%) Cu 45.76, Sb 29.23 and S 25.01, total 100.00. Tetrahedrite-(Cu) is cubic, I $\bar{4}$ 3 m , with unit-cell parameters a = 10.3296(15) Å, V = 1102.2(5) Å3 and Z = 2. Its crystal structure was refined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction data to a final R 1 = 0.0347 on the basis of 261 unique reflections with F o > 4σ(F o) and 22 refined parameters. Tetrahedrite-(Cu) is isotypic with other tetrahedrite-group minerals. Previous findings of tetrahedrite-(Cu) are reported and some nomenclature issues, related to the Fe and Cu oxidation states, are discussed. At the Bankov deposit, tetrahedrite-(Cu) is related to hydrothermal, most probably Alpine, solutions strongly enriched in Cu, Sb and S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supporting the competitiveness of farms is one of the main priorities of the European Union's Common Agricultural Policy. Therefore, the analysis of transfer efficiency is an important element in the policy evaluation process. The primary aim of this partial research was to evaluate the development of farms' competitiveness in Slovakia, considering the financial support from the European Union and focusing on the legal form perspective. We assessed farm competitiveness using the Recourse Cost Ratio coefficient, which compares costs and revenues of entities in Slovakia's agricultural sector from 2004 to 2019. The analysis revealed statistically significant differences in competitiveness among farms based on their legal forms. From these findings, it is recommended that effective farm management is crucial for enhancing competitiveness, productivity, and profitability across all farms. Despite the specifics of individual legal forms of business, it is important to clarify that it is often the skills and abilities of the management of each enterprise that contribute to better acquisition of financial resources and also strengthen the competitive position of the farm in the market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to estimate the secondary attack rate in unvaccinated members of households of two regions in the Slovak Republic for the period November 2020 -- April 2021. INTRODUCTION: SARS-CoV-2 infection poses a high risk of transmission in close-contact indoor settings, such as households. The household transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 varies widely across countries. METHODS: We included 278 households for SARS-CoV-2 transmission analysis. We calculated the secondary attack rate (SAR). We assessed sex, level of disease severity and means of isolation during infection of index cases as determinants of disease transmissibility RESULTS: The secondary attack rate in 278 households was estimated at 63.7% (95%CI: 58.2-66.7%). The SARs were different by sex (60.2% in females, 67.5% in males). The highest SAR was observed in the households of asymptomatic cases (77.8%), followed by moderate severity (66.5%), hospital admissions (63.2%) and mild disease (58.2%). CONCLUSION: We found a high household secondary attack rate in two regions of Slovakia in the period when Alpha variant (B.1.1.7) of SARS-CoV-2 was dominant in the country. The results highlight the importance of monitoring transmission dynamics [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of the paper is to characterize how the time for training employees in individual thematic areas is related to the outcomes and changes, facilitated by individual educational activities. Methods: The questionnaire method and interviewing methods were applied for obtaining data from respondents. The starting-point of empirical research was the knowledge and needs of the company, which perceives education as an investment. The respondent sample included 370 lectors/instructors and managers from three countries. The research was conducted in selected companies of section C − Manufacturing, Statistical Classification of Economic Activities. Basic variables include the number of training hours and results of the changes after training activities. Three groups of employee education are analysed: general training, performance-oriented training and digital training. Findings: Our division of educational activities into three groups enables the fulfilment of the basic European Commission targets for the 2021−2027 programme. Recommendations: Invest in developing new skills through future corporate training in the context of innovative transformation of the economy for a smarter Europe. Create conditions for better utilisation of human potential by eliminating the discrepancy between offered and required skills. Novelty of the paper:international comparison of educational activities, focus on the smart Europe and transformation to Industry 4.0. Doi: 10.28991/ESJ-2024-SIED1-04 Full Text: PDF

Pervasive poverty is an important global problem that seriously affects the quality of life of individuals and families. According to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the fight against poverty is one of the key tasks for ensuring social justice and economic development. Each country has a responsibility to ensure the well-being of its citizens, including protection from social and material deprivation.In the Slovak Republic, there is an increase in poverty, which is due to the influence of various negative factors and events that affect the social structure of society. This article is devoted to the analysis of the subsistence minimum as a key tool of social assistance in the conditions of changes that have taken place in recent years, with a special emphasis on the election periods of 2016-2020 and 2020-2023. It examines the importance of a living wage in the context of the fight against poverty, which is necessary to ensure basic human rights. The article also defines the factors that should be given special attention in order to improve the subsistence minimum system. Particular emphasis is placed on clarifying the essence and objectives of the last major amendment in the field of living wage, which entered into force in April 2023 in the Slovak Republic. Some political changes in certain election periods are also discussed from the point of view of their influence on the development of the state social assistance system, which includes the institution of the living wage. This article aims to deepen the understanding of the complex interrelationships between poverty, social policy and economic development, with the aim of improving the lives of the citizens of the Slovak Republic and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in the field of poverty reduction. This work reflects the importance of strengthening social security and ensuring inclusive economic growth, which is critical for the sustainable development of society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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On January 1, 1993, as a result of the breakup of the Czech and Slovak Federative Republics, a new state was created on the political map of Europe: the Slovak Republic. The article deals with the foreign policy determinants of this state at the threshold of its establishment. An analysis is made of those determinants that had a key impact on the shape of foreign policy: the geographical environment, historical factors, the population factor, foreign service and diplomacy, and external conditions. Of greatest importance were historical factors, especially in the context of relations with Hungary, the deficit in foreign service and diplomatic personnel, which was of great significance in the context of creating foreign policy from scratch, and the multinational nature of the country. The article uses a comparative method and factor analysis.

Research purpose. Cultural heritage in movable or immovable form contributes with its tools to the creation of a coherent and inclusive society. The cultural direction of the society should be built on the basic principles of inclusion, equality, participation and availability with the help of marketing and marketing communication. The aim of the contribution is, on the basis of the data database of culture, which is implemented by institutions under the authority of the Ministry of Culture of the Slovak Republic, to determine the use and sustainability of non-periodical publications registered in libraries in the Slovak Republic, which should lead to the creation and maintenance of mutual understanding between them and the public with the ultimate goal of supporting knowledge the society's potential.

The Slovakia’s national primary energy system relies on external energy imports. The key contributors to electricity generation within the country are hydro, nuclear, and natural gas. Notably, nuclear fuel and natural gas sourced from Russia play a significant role in the production of electricity. The country prioritizes a focus on renewable energy sector, however, a national energy policy still has uncertainties regarding strategies, preferences, and targets for specific renewable energy technologies, either wind, solar, or biomass. Therefore, to reach secure and climate neutral energy system requires scenario-based quantitative and qualitative analysis of current and future national energy systems and their technical, environmental, and economic consequences. This paper aims to demonstrate how reducing or increasing solar, wind power, and biomass (the most promising renewables) in the Slovak Republic’s 2030, 2040 and 2050 energy scenarios impact on energy supply, environmental progress or regress, and total economic cost. This paper uses the input and output software engineering model with data distribution entitled EnergyPLAN for the electricity sector to explore and compare the impact of different 2020, 2030, 2040 and 2050 energy scenarios. The result demonstrates that in 2020 primary energy and electricity consumption of the Slovak Republic was 177.1 and 28.6 terawatt-hour per year, respectively; carbon emission from the energy sector was 34.80 million tons; and the total annual energy cost was 20.12 million euro. However, future scenarios demonstrate a continued electricity demand increase to 40.84 terawatt-hour by 2050. Therefore, it is expected to include additional renewable capacities from wind, solar, and biomass with total capacitates 3.6, 1.8, and 3.0 gigawatt by 2050, respectively. Such an energy profile scenario reduces a total primary energy consumption to 58 terawatt-hour by 2050, a carbon emission to 16.28 million tons, and a total annual energy cost to 9.80 million euro. The result and data of the model presented in this paper are for further use to design suitable low-carbon strategies for providing secure and climate neutral energy system.

Supporting the competitiveness of farms is one of the main priorities of the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy. Therefore, the analysis of transfer efficiency is an important element in the policy evaluation process. The primary aim of this partial research was to evaluate the development of farms’ competitiveness in Slovakia, considering the financial support from the European Union and focusing on the legal form perspective. We assessed farm competitiveness using the Recourse Cost Ratio coefficient, which compares costs and revenues of entities in Slovakia’s agricultural sector from 2004 to 2019. The analysis revealed statistically significant differences in competitiveness among farms based on their legal forms. From these findings, it is recommended that effective farm management is crucial for enhancing competitiveness, productivity, and profitability across all farms. Despite the specifics of individual legal forms of business, it is important to clarify that it is often the skills and abilities of the management of each enterprise that contribute to better acquisition of financial resources and also strengthen the competitive position of the farm in the market.

A new occurrence of enargite, tennantite-(Cu) and tangdanite was recently discovered at the Gápeľ copper deposit near Dobšiná, Spišsko-gemerské rudohorie Mts., Rožňava Co., Košice Region, Slovakia. Enargite is rare mineral at the studied locality and it occurs as dark-grey, metallic, prismatic crystals up 2.5 mm with perfect cleavage, developed on fractures of quartz-dolomite gangue. Its refined unit-cell parameters (for the orthorhombic space group Pmn21) are: a 7.4031(7) Å, b 6.4321(6) Å, c 6.1466(7) Å and V 292.68(4) ų. Its chemical composition corresponds to empirical formula Cu3.04As0.98S3.98. Tennantite-(Cu) forms anhedral grains and aggregates replacing crystals of enargite. Its empirical formula is Cu6.00[Cu4.00(Cu1.07Fe0.64Zn0.42)Σ2.13] As3.87S13.04. Tangdanite occurs as turquoise-blue to blue-green radial aggregates up to 3 mm with silky lustre, developed on fractures of quartz gangue with partly weathered aggregates of minerals of the tennantite series. Its chemical composition corresponds to empirical formula Ca2.12(Cu8.77Zn0.19)Σ8.96 [(AsO4)3.91(PO4)0.08(SiO4)0.01]Σ4.00(SO4)0.43(OH)9.30·9H2O. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rare mineral, stibioclaudetite, ideally AsSbO3 was discovered at the dump of the Najvyšší Štefan adit at the Zlatá Idka Ag-Au-Sb deposit near Zlatá Idka, Spišsko-gemerské rudohorie Mts., Košice-okolie Co., Košice Region, Slovakia. It occurs as colourless prismatic crystals up 5 mm with perfect cleavage, developed on fractures of quartz gangue with abundant stibnite, arsenopyrite and minor pyrite. The unit-cell parameters of stibioclaudetite from the Zlatá Idka (for the monoclinic space group P21 /n) refined from the PXRD data are: a 4.5715(17) Å, b 13.112(2) Å, c 5.4182(15) Å, β 94.97(3) and V 323.55(14) ų . Its chemical composition corresponds to the average empirical formula As1.09Sb0.91O3.00. Raman spectrum of stibioclaudetite is also given. Stibioclaudetite was formed by the in-situ weathering of primary ore minerals at the base of the supergene zone under the relatively reducing conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between politics and religion possesses significant dynamics in every society, independent of its social, cultural, historical, and geographical context. Religion can directly intervene in political processes, serve as a fundamental basis for political groups, and effectively influence the form of governance. Political actors can actively utilize religion and religious institutions to gain legitimacy and garner support. The nexus of religion and nationalism forms one facet of the relationship between religion and politics, involving a close interaction at historical, theoretical, and empirical levels. The period of the Slovak Republic (1939-45) reflects a complex process wherein the interaction between religion and nationalism significantly shaped the political and social fabric of the country. This study investigates the impact of religion on Slovak nationalism and the relationship between the Slovak Catholic Church and Slovak nationalism during the years 1939-45. Focusing on the role of religion in the development of Slovak nationalism, the nature of the relationship between Slovak national identity and Catholicism, the evolution of the religion-politics relationship, and the influence of Catholic beliefs on state policies, this research aims to shed light on an important period in Slovakia's history. Furthermore, it seeks to contribute to the limited body of academic research on Slovakia in Turkey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rainwater is a precious source of nature. It is becoming increasingly significant due to climate change. Unfortunately, without effective water retention measures in built-up areas, it typically enters the public sewage systems and becomes part of municipal wastewater. In Slovakia, the removal of municipal wastewater falls under the administration of individual water companies, which determine a special price for implementing this service. Since water retention measures minimize the flow of rainwater into the wastewater disposal system, the primary goal of our article was to determine the amount of potential savings of public finances by applying them to individual municipalities in Slovakia. Our specific example considered three buildings with different roof sizes (2,000, 3,000, and 4,000 m²) and input variables valid for 2022 (average annual rainfall, unit price for sewer). It expressed the possible amount of annual savings for the studied locations between 5,400 and 9,800 EUR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While many Western countries do legally permit homebirths under certain conditions, in the Slovak Republic they exist in a legal vacuum – they are neither permitted nor prohibited. In the present study, we aimed to explore how Slovak women who deliberately delivered at home perceive the reason for this decision and the subsequent homebirth itself. We interviewed eight women aged 21 to 36 and analysed the transcripts using the interpretative phenomenological analysis framework. The analysis revealed four major themes – (1) the sacredness of childbirth, (2) the aspiration to be the director of your childbirth, (3) homebirth as an expression of the need for intimacy, and (4) the struggle with one's social circle. Childbirth is seen as an ultimate act of nature defined by its beauty and purity, but these qualities are tainted by biomedical approach of healthcare providers. The results of this study suggest that women's needs of autonomy, relatedness, and inclusion are not properly met by Slovak health care and obstetrics. Stricter adherence to the principle of informed consent during hospital births, and legalisation and regulation of homebirths could reduce medical risks during childbirth and improve women's mental well-being during and after a pivotal moment in their life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective - The global surge in internet purchases drives economic growth and contributes significantly to developed countries' improved living standards. Methodology/Technique - This unprecedented e-commerce boom, facilitated by the convenience of round-the-clock online shopping, has reshaped consumer behavior. Within this landscape, educational level emerges as a prominent demographic determinant influencing online purchasing patterns. The Slovak Republic has experienced an upward trajectory in internet purchases across various educational segments, highlighting a growing preference for online shopping experiences. Findings – However, it is important to note that a discernible gap in online shopping behavior persists between these educational strata. Moreover, Slovakia's achievement of its convergence goal, aligning with the European Union's admission average, underscores its commitment to growth and development. This accomplishment highlights the nation's progress and reflects the pivotal role of e-commerce in shaping economic trajectories. Novelty - We analyze the trend of online shopping in Slovakia compared to the EU 27 average and top-performing countries, finding that Slovakia exhibits a steeper trend, especially among highly educated individuals. In an era where online interactions and transactions have become integral to daily life, the nexus between educational attainment, online purchasing behavior, and economic advancement demands continued research and analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Right-wing extremism is a form of political extremism. In recent years, strengthening far-right forces has been an unnoticeable trend and a global problem. The main aim of the study will be to find out whether and to what extent the inclination of the respondents living in the territory of the Prešov and Košice regions is related to the views and attitudes of the extreme right in Slovakia in the context of the above-mentioned socio-political developments related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In addition to the theoretical definition of the basic terminological background, the paper includes the interpretation of the results of quantitative research aimed at determining the degree of acceptance of right-wing radicalism and extremism and identifying the manifestations of covert and overt support for these phenomena in eastern Slovakia in the context of the war in Ukraine. The article uses analytical and descriptive methods and a representative survey by a questionnaire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on exploring sexually explicit video preferences among women in the Czech and Slovak Republics. Topics discussed include the prevalence of sexually explicit material use, the types of content sought, and the factors influencing search frequency, highlighting the need for further research on the impact of such exposure on women in the region.

The research work was aimed at the analysis of eating patterns of Slovaks under the influence of pandemic situation and comparison with this situation before pandemic. We evaluated the changes of nutrition of adult volunteers before and after lockdown respectively after home isolation and preventive safeguards avoided the propagation of COVID-19 during the first pandemic wave. Research was conducted in June - July 2020. The research sample involved 286 (79.4% women, 20.6% men) randomly selected adults (26 - 79 years, 52.4 ± 19.7 years). The online survey questionnaire method and softver Statistica verzion 10.0 (StatSoft Inc., USA) were used. Three scientific hypotheses were confirmed: H1: The pandemic lockdown changed the eating habits lead to raised ration of volunteers by increased body weight. Increase in body weight was noticed in 42.7% (44.9% women, 33.9% men) (p < 0.001). The occurrence of overweighed or obese people under pandemic raised from 29.7% up to 31.5%. H2: Volunteers with increased body weight during pandemic lockdown prefer unhealthy eating patterns (overeating, consumption of snacks, fatty food). The prevalence percentage of volunteers consumed unhealthy food (with higher content of sugar, salt, fat, snacks between meals, eating at night). It has been confirmed significant impact of consumption of unhealthy food on body weight (p < 0.001). During pandemic decrease the proportion of respondents that very rarely or never consumed unhealthy food. H3: During pandemic lockdown the proportion of people with sufficient drinking regime increased in comparison with situation before pandemic. The score in liquid intake positively increased during pandemic. It has been confirmed significant influence of isolation on liquid intake (p < 0.01). During pandemic significantly (p < 0.01) raised up the proportion of volunteers by 9.8% that intake more than 2.5 liter of liquid daily. Our research confirmed three proposed hypotheses and verified the several nutritional aspects and negative effects of pandemic on nutrition especially in group of overweighed people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research Purpose. The COVID-19 pandemic was very demanding for business entities which have to introduce new managerial tools and approaches to protect the health of employees and maintained continuity in the company's activities. Most countries worldwide have implemented policies and guidelines that protect employees from potential risks related to the Covid-19 pandemic. The study aims at identifying if any difference exists (and what these differences are) between Czech and Slovak companies in the emphasis they pay to the corporate social responsibility (abbreviated: CSR) activities connected with the COVID-19 pandemic.

The paper identifies the basic areas of forensic social work in the Slovak Republic. It defines the theoretical basis of forensic social work, its synonymous alternatives, and it describes actual performance in the social work practice. The aim of the paper is to report on the implemented research using an integrated research strategy in social and legal protection of children and social curatorship in the Slovak Republic. The research has identified this area as one of the most demanding in the Slovak environment through evaluating the social interventions used by forensic social workers in the forensic practice. The qualitative research focused on the identifying of other problem areas that actually happen in practice and on discovering a forensic social worker’s possibilities and needs in Slovak social work. The results of the research indicated highly rated effectiveness of social interventions in the studied area, as well as an in-depth insight into the changes proposed by social workers.

Copyright of Political Science Studies / Studia Politologiczne is the property of University of Warsaw and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Transformations in Business & Economics is the property of Vilnius University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Socioterapy / Journal Socioterapie is the property of Linguo-Cultural & Translation-Interpretation Centre of Excellence at the Faculty of Arts and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: Suicide is a serious public health problem leading to premature mortality. The aim of the present study is to describe and analyze the trends of suicide rates in the Slovak Republic in 2011–2020. Methods: Trends of age-standardized suicide rates were described and incidence rate ratios of suicide were analyzed by negative binomial regression. The age-standardized rates of death by the undetermined intent and its ratio to suicide rate were calculated. Results: The overall suicide rate for the Slovak population was 7.58 per 100,000. Age-standardized suicide rate had a declining trend in the reported period, from 10.24 in 2011 to 6.65 per 100,000 in 2020. The highest suicide rate was in the oldest age groups. The male to female ratio was 6.09. The most common method of suicide in the Slovak population was hanging. The age-standardized rate of deaths by undetermined intent increased from 15.72 in 2011 to 18.46 per 100,000 in 2020. Conclusion: We observed the overall declining annual suicide mortality trends in the Slovak Republic in 2011–2020. Further investigation is necessary to understand the exceptionally high undetermined intent mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the specific topic of assessing the negative visual impacts associated with renewable energy infrastructure that may prevent their wider deployment in energy mix. The main objective of the paper is to quantify the perception of the visual impact of renewable energy infrastructure and to estimate potential changes in the visitation of a location after the construction of power plants. The research was conducted using a questionnaire survey in which 449 respondents evaluated edited photographic materials of seven locations with a fictitious power plant. The collected data served as input for the statistical testing of eight defined hypotheses using the U-Mann–Whitney test. The results confirmed trends regarding the influence of age, educational level, and power plant proximity on the overall acceptance of renewable energy infrastructure. Landscape-forming factors affecting the acceptance rate of power plants were also defined at the local level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of Smart City represents a resonating theme in the world, which is based on the efforts of the creators of this concept to increase the quality of life in cities. In recent years, it has gradually become a phenomenon that cities around the world are trying to apply. The reason for its introduction is the added value in the form of more efficient functioning of human society, as according to the data available so far, it increases safety in the city, enables more efficient transport of goods, services, human capital, reduces the negative impact on the environment, speeds up administrative processes, increases economic development and brings financial savings. All this is happening against the background of the increased interest of city dwellers in public administration. With these facts in mind, our ambition is to identify the degree of application of the implementation of the Smart City concept in Slovakia and, based on relevant data, create a realistic picture of the possibilities and limits of the concept in our domestic environment. In order to achieve the research objective, we rely on a set of quantitative (questionnaire survey) and qualitative methods (critical analysis) that are also used in social sciences. Based on our research intention, we must draw attention to the obviously negative state of development of this strategic concept at the level of Slovak cities. Because the Smart City concept represents a challenge for the future development of self-government in our environment, it is necessary to reflect on the current starting point and proceed with the implementation of steps aimed at correctly grasping and understanding the importance of the issue by the professional public, municipal politicians and residents of self-governing units. Due to the fact that it is a relatively new topic, there are only a few works dealing with the issue of the Smart City concept or its application in our domestic conditions. Nevertheless, our research intention is open to new knowledge and interpretations by current and future authors who find strength and interest in this issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new occurrence of minerals of the kobellite-tintinaite series was recently discovered at the Majerská dolina siderite-type hydrothermal ore occurrence near Čučma, Spišsko-gemerské rudohorie Mts., Rožňava Co., Košice Region, Slovakia. Minerals of the kobellite-tintinaite series occur in quartz gangue as acicular to prismatic crystals up 5 mm long, associated together with arsenopyrite, pyrite and chalcopyrite. The calculated value of N for studied samples is ranging from 1.91 to 2.00 and the Sb/(Sb+Bi) atomic ratio in three studied samples varies between 0.41 and 0.52, hence corresponding mostly to Sb-rich kobellite, with a few analyses representing Bi-rich tintinaite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of the article was to describe selected factors of hotel business in the Slovak Republic in the years 2001 to 2020 and identify the economic impacts of measures related to the pandemic crisis COVID-19 in 2020. At the same time through selected marketing tools. Paper is also focused on innovative marketing tools used in the hotel business during a pandemic time and their impact on business effectiveness. To analyze the situation in the hotel business in the Slovak Republic, we used a statistical method of comparison within the period under study. To obtain qualified answers to the stated research goals and subsequent research questions, we statistically processed available data on the number of domestic and foreign visitors, as well as the capacity of accommodation facilities in the monitored period. Subsequently, we carried out research in the hotel sector using the method of controlled structured interviews. The results were processed through exploratory factor analysis, based on which we were able to evaluate marketing tools with the most significant impact on efficiency in the hotel business in the Slovak Republic. The measures taken in connection with the coronavirus COVID-19 caused significant economic impacts on the hotel business in the Slovak Republic, as in 2020 the number of foreign visitors dropped to 20-year lows. The analysis of the environment in the hotel business for the period under study showed that the impact of measures within the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the number of visitors, the amount of revenues and the number of accommodation facilities. The research of structured interviews with accommodation facility managers showed that the use or non-use of marketing activities (websites, PPC advertising, social media) had a significant effect on the reduction of revenues. The findings of the analysis of the environment clearly show that the relaxation of the economic measures in the summer of 2020 increased the number of domestic visitors to a higher level than in the same period in 2019, but there was no increase in the number of foreign visitors. We can state that if the epidemic comes under control, there will be a massive increase in the number of visitors and thus an increase in revenues. In case, that Slovak hotel managers would use innovative marketing tools more in the future when communicating with potential customers, it is highly probable that their potential losses would be lower in the next crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human factor is still an irreplaceable element bearing a competitive advantage in the changed conditions of the wood-processing industry created by Industrial Revolution 4.0. Their sophisticated use and motivation result in the company's higher performance potential, and satisfaction is reflected in higher employee loyalty. The study aims to evaluate the level of motivation of employees working in the wood-processing industry in selected Central European countries (Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Ukraine) from the point of view of groups of motivation factors and then to compare them between countries in terms of gender and age. Differences in the mean values of the compared groups were tested, taking into account the confidence interval. The research was conducted at the beginning of 2021 when Ukraine has not been in a military conflict yet. The result of our findings is the knowledge that the most important motivation factors for Slovak employees in the wood-processing industry are those related to finance and employer-employee relationships. Czech employees also prefer the same motivation factors but place less emphasis on them. Employees of the wood-processing industry in Ukraine prefer motivation factors related to finance and career aspiration. From the point of view of motivation, the input qualitative parameters of rawwood material and its assessment in forest stands are also important. In globalization, the findings of our study can serve as insights for managers within the wood-processing industry. These insights can be particularly beneficial in enhancing the quality of human resource management, with a particular emphasis on bolstering employee motivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research background: Foreign direct investment (FDI) is usually considered as a factor that can positively influence the economy growth, but not just directly through accumulation of the capital, job opportunities, and increase of export, but also through technological improvement. Purpose of the article: Many studies have focused on the verification of the relationship of FDI and economic growth, therefore, this article is also aimed at the verification of the impact of FDI on the economic growth of a selected region of the Slovak Republic - Zilina Region - measured by the value of the gross domestic product (GDP) created in this region, labour productivity and unemployment. Methods: The analysis uses data gathered from the Statistical Office of the Slovak Republic and the National Bank of Slovakia through the years 2008-2019. The verification of the impact of FDI on economic growth is provided by correlation and regression analysis using the independent variable represented by foreign direct investment that came into the Zilina Region and the dependent variable represented by the value of the gross domestic product (expressing economic growth) of the Zilina region, the labour productivity per employed person (reflecting the efficiency of selected resource consumption) and the unemployment rate. Findings & Value Added: The results of the analysis confirm that FDI have a strong influence on economic growth as well as other indicators in this region; therefore, it is necessary to prepare policies that can enhance the arrival of other foreign investors into this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On January 1, 1993, as a result of the breakup of the Czech and Slovak Federative Republics, a new state was created on the political map of Europe: the Slovak Republic. The article deals with the foreign policy determinants of this state at the threshold of its establishment. An analysis is made of those determinants that had a key impact on the shape of foreign policy: the geographical environment, historical factors, the population factor, foreign service and diplomacy, and external conditions. Of greatest importance were historical factors, especially in the context of relations with Hungary, the deficit in foreign service and diplomatic personnel, which was of great significance in the context of creating foreign policy from scratch, and the multinational nature of the country. The article uses a comparative method and factor analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this article is to contribute to a critical evaluation of the history and present of mutual relations between Czech and Slovak tramps, as well as the role of tramping in Czech and Slovak history, as this specific phenomenon significantly marked the activities of broad sections of the youth of both nations. At the same time, from the very beginning there were intensive informal and organized contacts between Czech and Slovak tramps, which still applies today. Especially after the division of Czechoslovakia, mutual friendly contacts turned into a political demonstration, completely unusual in the tramp movement, especially in the previous era of so-called normalization. The contribution pays particular attention to the Czech-Slovak and Slovak-Czech annual potlach (potlatch in English) as a manifestation of the mutuality of Czech and Slovak tramps and an expression of the cultural heritage of more than a century of existence of Czechoslovak tramping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Education, training and knowledge have always been a basic prerequisite for social and economic development. Society - economic crises, shocks in the global economy, environmental problems constantly create greater pressure on public budgets. The limited range of available resources of the public sector, the increasing financial requirements of individual sectors such as health care, social affairs, the environment, internal and external security and, on the other hand, the insufficient ability of institutions and departments to objectively formulate their financial needs require a rational and, above all, qualified approach in meeting financial needs and distribution of limited resources. In the crisis conditions of uncertainty, risk, economic imbalance, education, permanent education, practical experience and the resulting knowledge play a major role in the management of not only a private but also a public sector. In addition to being an effective tool, they are also an important external communication tool. The aim of the scientific state is to point out the importance and influence of education and knowledge in managing and achieving economic, social and social effects. The research sample consisted of a basic set of 2922 municipalities, which represents 99.83% of the total number of municipalities in the Slovak Republic. This file was divided into 10 size categories, in which 4 categories of achieved education of local government representatives were determined. Correlational regression analysis was used to analyze the influence of the achieved education of local government management and the economic results of the municipality. In the analysis of dependency in local self-government, the qualification structures of management, the size of the self-government were taken into account as independent variables, and individual performance parameters as dependent variables, namely the economic result per inhabitant as a key parameter. Chi-square test, Fisher's test, Spearman's coefficient were also used in the work. The research results refuted the published knowledge presented in foreign as well as domestic studies, which confirm the positive impact of education on economies. This relationship was not confirmed in the 2922 examined municipalities of the Slovak Republic. The output of the scientific report was to summarize the mutual influences of the pillars of social responsibility, where qualification prerequisites and required competences could contribute or influence the efficiency and responsible management of self-government. Many countries are faced with solving the question of what can and cannot be financed from public budgets and how to effectively use available public resources within individual levels and departments of the public sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]