ISSN 2538-9017 (print) / ISSN 2538-9025 (online) Research papers in the field of technology, medical and health, nature, social sciences, as well as interdisciplinary scientific articles analyzing problems and their solutions related to the formation of a diverse human environment, are getting published in the Scientific Journal “Development of Sustainable Environment” (earlier - Formation of Urban Green Areas ISSN 1822-9778 (print) / ISSN 2029-4549 (online) ). The journal publishes original research papers and other scientific information in Lithuanian, English and Russian languages.
Individual articles are published Open Access under the Creative Commons Licence CC-BY 4.0, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. Authors retain copyright in their articles, but grant Klaipėdos valstybinė kolegija the right of the first publication.
Increasing Adoptive Capacities of Innovative Health Technologies in the Global Health Care System
AI usage in healthcare is still in its infancy and has not yet reached its potential to make the global healthcare system more equitable and safe. There is a substantial gap between AI promises and its actual delivery in healthcare settings. AI is a social-technical system and AI technology alone cannot solve our health equity issue. This is the research question: What social, political, and economic elements in the global health system must be addressed such that the capacities of AI can be optimized? The paper employs qualitative research to seek expert opinions, investigate the success cases of implementing particular AI devices in Hong Kong and Singapore, and integrate the lessons learned from the adoption of 87 AI-technology initiatives in a large Canadian hospital. The author recommends how the supply side increases their trustworthiness and the demand side grows trust. The supply side includes technology providers, legal, policy, and professional organizations, venture capitalists, and academic research institutions need to provide responsible AI and govern AI for long-term benefits. Increasing trust from healthcare organizations, including the presence of champions, organization alignments, funding mechanisms, new professional identities, patients' digital and health literacy capabilities, and supportive organization culture, is recommended. The same AI devices should be interoperable among the healthcare systems in and outside their countries. Standardized data quality assessment, benchmarking datasets, funding mechanisms, and agreement on model and clinical performance measures need to be used to facilitate comparison across products and settings. Investment in supporting digital infrastructure in low and middle-income countries is essential for the effective operation of AI devices. Various stakeholders must continuously demystify AI and participate in the collaborative work with those who have less power in the system.
Copyright (c) 2025 Maria Lai-Ling Lam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Dietary Supplement Needs of Athletes for Body Composition Correction
The article aims to determine which dietary supplements athletes choose to correct body composition. The study analyzes the motivation and supplement choices of athletes who visit dietary supplement stores to improve body composition. The study draws attention to the significant influence of social media networks and peers on supplement use, indicating the need for evidence-based information campaigns promoting science-based choices among athletes.
Copyright (c) 2025 Laimutė Kardelienė, Sigutė Ežerskienė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comparative Analysis of Road Freight Transport Indicators of Lithuanian Counties
The paper analyses the road freight transport indicators for Lithuanian counties in the period 2020-2024 in order to assess their distribution and impact on regional economies. Based on statistical data, the study applies a comparative analysis, where statistical indicators are converted into relative indicators and evaluated. The aim of the paper is to compare the performance of road freight transport in Lithuania by county. The study analyses the change in the number of road freight transport operators, the vehicle fleet, the road network as part of the transport infrastructure and trends in local freight transport. The paper highlights the underlying causes of regional disparities. The main influences on counties are the density of transport undertakings and their activity intensity, which depends on the volume of freight loaded, as well as the accessibility of the road network and the development of infrastructure. In regions where the concentration of freight transport enterprises and the number of vehicles are higher, the transport sector represents an important part of the economy of a given county, with a positive impact on employment and business development.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jolanta Turbienė, Irina Briuchoveckaja, Danutė Puodžiukienė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Quantitative Comparison of Vitamin C in Citrus Fruits Found in Lithuania Markets
This paper presents the latest scientific information on the importance of vitamin C for the body and the results of a quantitative study on vitamin C in citrus fruits. The aim of the study was to compare the vitamin C content of citrus fruits commercially available on Lithuanian marketplaces. The citrus fruits used for the study (oranges, mandarins, grapefruit, lemons) were purchased from different supermarkets in February and were imported from different countries. The high-performance liquid chromatography method was used for the determination of vitamin C. The highest levels of vitamin C were found in mandarins and grapefruits, the average – in oranges and the lowest – in lemons, but the levels of vitamin C in the same type of fruit varied, suggesting that they depend more on the country of origin of the fruit, the variety of the conditions of transport, storage and other factors.
Copyright (c) 2025 Vijolė Bradauskienė, Lina Lapotinskytė, Rita Kasparavičiūtė, Margarita Kušnerova https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Boosting Durability and Sustainability in Reinforced Concrete Bridges Through the Optimization of the Concrete Cover
Transportation systems play a pivotal role in the economic progress of communities. Within these systems, bridges are crucial for linking regions, facilitating the crossing of obstacles such as rivers and valleys. These structures, however, demand significant human and monetary investments. In the realm of civil engineering, rein-forced concrete bridges stand as monumental feats of design and function. A critical factor in the longevity and eco-friendliness of these structures lies in the concrete cover that protects the reinforcing steel. In this paper, we explore the multifaceted role of concrete cover in not only extending the lifespan of these bridges but also in advancing their sustainability. Properly managing such an infrastructure, including reinforced concrete (RC) road bridges, aligns with multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Goal #9 focuses on establishing robust infrastructure, encouraging inclusive and sustainable industrial growth, and spurring innovation. Con-versely, subpar and inefficient planning could impede the realization of goal #15, dedicated to the preservation of land ecosystems. Acknowledging the inevitable corrosion issues in reinforced concrete bridges, this paper introduces a sensitivity analysis of the cover protective layer of the reinforcement. A case study of a Portuguese concrete bridge belonging to the A25 highway is presented. A deterioration model is applied for the quantifica-tion of the lifetime and correspondent users’ costs of the reinforced concrete bridge of different solutions of rein-forced concrete cover. The sensibility analysis was performed for concrete thickness of 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm, 40 mm and 45 mm. Based on the findings of the research it can be concluded that adopting solutions, or materials that provide wider lifespan, of the concrete bridges, will decrease significatively the total costs and environmen-tal impact of the construction of bridges.
Copyright (c) 2025 José Almeida https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Oral Hygienists' Knowledge About Systemic Diseases and Their Relationship with Oral Health
Oral health is an integral part of overall health. Systemic diseases and conditions can influence the risk of developing oral diseases. Dental hygienists can play an important role in the early detection of signs of systemic diseases and in coordinating patient care. Research findings indicate that dental hygienists recognize the connections between oral health and various systemic diseases.
Copyright (c) 2025 Aušra Rudžianskienė, Monika Balčytienė, Viktorija Paulauskienė, Jovita Beržinė, Snaigė Luganeckaitė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The aging population is one of the key features of modern demographic processes, shaping future projections and serving as an essential basis for defining healthcare objectives. This phenomenon impacts not only economic indicators but also sets new healthcare goals, with a primary focus on ensuring healthy aging to mitigate the effects of an aging society. Given the rapidly aging population and the growing number of patients with complex needs, it is crucial to highlight the role of nurses as vital healthcare professionals who contribute to dignified and healthy aging. The continuous increase in the number of older individuals necessitates the expansion of medical treatment, nursing, caregiving, and disease prevention services. Therefore, it is particularly important today to discuss healthy aging and analyze the role that nursing plays in this field.
Copyright (c) 2025 Olga Kalugina, Lina Gedrimė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Digital Transformation and Organizational Change: A Literature Based Framework
Digital transformation is changing the way organizations are structured and operate, but many of its impacts remain unclear. In this article, we break digital transformation into three key components: digitization and full-scale transformation. We then present an integrated framework that addresses not only technological changes, but also shifts in organizational structure and culture. By reviewing literature from 2018 to 2024 and examining real-world examples, from the successes of companies like Amazon and GE to the struggles seen in cases like Blockbuster and Nokia, we show that digital transformation can lead to flatter hierarchies and more agile, data-driven decision-making processes. However, challenges remain, such as cultural resistance and the difficulties of integrating legacy systems. Our findings show that successful transformation requires careful alignment of technology, culture and strategy. Moreover, we propose a diagnostic tool designed to assess an organization's digital maturity and emphasize that digital transformation is not a one-time event but a continuous strategic journey aimed at maintaining competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving digital environment.
Copyright (c) 2025 Murat Mehmet Koska, Cemal Akturk, Ceren Cubukcu Cerasi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Two Publications Dealing with the Invasiveness of Alien Woody Plants: Feedback About Them or a Drop of Kerosene on the Bonfire of Discussion
Two professional publications, admittedly no longer new, but relevant, determining positions in the protection of ecosystems, set the stage for serious, reasoned conversations. One of them, published in 2020, is the scientific study of Lina Straigytė and Gintautas Činga, foresters of the Academy of Agriculture of VMU, Possibilities and limitations of growing non-natives tree species in the forests of Lithuania and European Union countries (Kaunas, VMU publishing house, 124 p.; called MK in the text). The second publication was prepared by the collective of authors (editors Zigmantas Gudžinskas, Valerijus Rašomavičius), the book Invasive and alien species in Lithuania was published at the end 2023 (Vilnius, Nature Research Centre, 312 p.; called GK in the text). The invasiveness of the plant can be “resisted” by proper maintenance, by controlling the possibilities of its spread by technological means other than indiscriminate removal from urban greenery or historic greenery and the use of chemical preparations as indicated in the book of naturalists (GK, pp. 261–264). Well, the specified order of priorities for the destruction of populations of invasive organisms (GK, p. 164) only confirms the one-sided projection of the “science box” view, without understanding where one or another plant “reaches” first and why.
Copyright (c) 2025 Steponas Deveikis https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Digital modeling of kinematic parameters of a coulisse mechanism
The article reviews scientific and technical problems related to digital modeling in the field of mechanical engineering. The development and improvement of machines is no longer possible without automated design systems that allow engineers to visualise, analyse and optimise prototypes before their manufacture. The object of research is the modeling and visualisation of kinematic parameters of link mechanisms using the SolidWorks Motion Analysis tool of the computer-aided design program. After creating a digital motion analysis model of the Scotch Yoke mechanism, diagrams of kinematic parameters were generated. The results obtained confirmed the accuracy, high speed and direct applicability of digital modeling in mechanical engineering studies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tytas Savickas, Sigutė Savickienė, Jūratė Vaitekonienė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The author of the article analyses the provisions of the Vilnius City Greening and Plantation Maintenance Standard – a new (2024) publication of the Vilnius City Municipality. It is called the Second Standard because the First standard, which regulates the maintenance and landscaping of city streets, Vilnius City Municipality Street Infrastructure Standard was published earlier, in 2021. Critical notes are provided for both publications. Both, the First “green” Vilnius Street Infrastructure Standard (2021) and the Second, new Vilnius City Greening and Maintenance of Plantations Standard (2024) will guide and encourage the wise, scientific user to think critically and act independently. Blind, literal following of these documents will hardly lead to a green, sustainable city, because there are many unfinished, debatable details. And as it has already been repeated many times, this Second Standard (2024) and its graphic expression should receive corrections in the administration of the Vilnius city municipality. We should once again return to his formulations, relying on the penetrating eye and wisdom of editors and specialists, scientific and practical knowledge, correct them, edit them – in other words, rebalance the degree of greenness maturity and sustainability.
Sir Patrick Geddes (1854–1932) and His Followers: The Origins and Tradition of Ecological Town Planning – An Outline of Analysis
The article presents and analyses the development of the idea and tradition of ecological planning and design in town planning and landscape architecture, emphasizing the creative contributions of Patrick Geddes (1854–1932), Ian Lennox McHarg (1920–2001), John Ormsbee Simonds (1913–2005) and others to this field. The aspects of urban planning in harmony with nature, the scientific and methodical activities of these masterminds, which were and remain significant and relevant for the development of Lithuanian urban planning and landscape architecture, are analysed.
Copyright (c) 2025 Steponas Deveikis, Vaiva Deveikienė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Changes in Agricultural Land Areas from 2004 to 2024 and Their Causes in Klaipeda County
Studies on agricultural land area changes are crucial for ensuring food security, promoting sustainable land use, protecting the environment, supporting economic growth, monitoring climate change impacts, and guiding policy development. They help identify challenges and plan long-term solutions to balance food production, environmental conservation, and economic development. The change in agricultural land use is influenced by several key factors: economic (market fluctuations, subsidies, farm modernization), demographic and social changes (emigration, aging farmers, farm consolidation), natural factors (climate change, soil degradation), and urbanization (urban expansion, infrastructure development). Environmental policy also has a significant impact, promoting the restoration of natural ecosystems and reducing the agricultural impact on the environment. After analyzing the changes in agricultural land areas in Klaipėda County between 2004 and 2024, it was determined that the area of agricultural land decreased by 9,775.89 ha or 3.46%. During this period, arable land decreased by 5,367.78 ha or 2.28%, orchard areas decreased by 4,240.15 ha or 83.89%, and the area of meadows and natural pastures also decreased by 167.96 ha or 0.41%. Between 2004 and 2024, agricultural land in most municipalities of Klaipėda County has decreased. Notably, Klaipėda and Palanga municipalities saw the most significant declines, with reductions of 22.45% and 13.41%, respectively.
causes of changes in agricultural land use areas
Copyright (c) 2025 Giedrė Ivavičiūtė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The The Development in the Area of the Anthropogenic Landscape and Its Components in Klaipėda County
In recent decades, with the intensification of human activities and accompanying urbanization, research on landscape change, with a focus on the balance between urbanized and natural areas, has become increasingly relevant. The aim of this article is to analyze the anthropogenic landscape of Klaipėda County and its municipalities from 2011 to 2024. In preparing the article, the following research methods were employed: literature review, assessment of the current situation, grouping, comparison, analytical and statistical analysis, logical analysis, and graphical methods. The analysis showed that the anthropogenic landscape of Klaipėda County increased by 9,782.82 hectares or 38.05 percent. In 2011, the anthropogenic landscape in Klaipėda County accounted for 4.94%, while in 2024, it accounted for 6.80%. After analyzing the changes in the areas of landscape components in Klaipėda County, it was determined that the area of built-up land increased by 10,704.50 hectares or 79.42% over a 13-year period. During the same period, road areas decreased by 1,340.81 hectares or 13.32%. At the same time, the area of degraded land increased by 419.20 hectares or 19.35%. The study shows that rapid urbanization is occurring in Klaipėda County, making it essential to implement environmental protection measures to prevent the degradation of the natural landscape and its components.
Sustainability in the Digital Age: Mobile Apps' Role in Food Waste Management
The purpose of the review is to introduce to the latest scientific research about food waste arising and summarize digital technologies and mobile applications’ (apps’) impact on sustainability and how it can be used to minimize food waste throughout consumption stage.
Copyright (c) 2024 Viktoras Liorančas, Chi-Ching Lee https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Experimental Production Technology of Medieval Two-handed Swords
This study examined the manufacturing process of the two-handed flamberge, a historic European weapon, emphasizing technical complexity, the importance of applying ergonomic principles, and the application of experimental archaeology methods. Flamberge’s production, which required the work of highly skilled craftsmen, was technically difficult due to its unique design and functional application, making this weapon elite and accessible to only a few. The length of the weapon's handle, the size of the blade, the additional crossbar, and the ricasso gave the wielder extraordinary cutting power and maneuverability on the battlefield. Despite the flamberge’s advantages, its production process also revealed certain disadvantages, such as reduced blade stiffness and greater weight, which led to the decline in popularity of this weapon at the end of the 17th century. The research methodology, which includes experimental reconstruction, design and production experiments, physical and mechanical efficiency tests, and the application of experimental metallurgy, allowed a deeper understanding of historical weaponry production technologies, material properties, and ergonomics for practical use. The study's results show that the differences in blade hardness are due to the uneven distribution of temperature across the blade, depending on its mass and thickness, which confirms that each part of the weapon requires an individual heat treatment approach. This work proves that experimental archaeology and practical reconstructions are important not only for the reconstruction of historical weapon production processes but also for promoting a deeper understanding of historical culture.
Copyright (c) 2024 Jonas Rapolas Nariūnas, Vitalijus Rudzinskas, Gintaras Valeika https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Methods to Reduce Belt Conveyor Energy Consumption
Different belt conveyors‘ modifications are operate in modern industry, this is one of the most energy efficient ways of bulk material transportation at production industries, loading and disbaund sites, bulk material digging works. Due to the increasing worldwide electricity prices, the operating costs of belt conveyors increase proportionally resulting incresed price of final product or service. After conducting study, the main factors that determine the increase in energy consumption during the operation of belt conveyors have been identified. In this article solution methods presented to help reduce energy consumption from the design stage to its operational stage. Increased energy consumption of belt conveyors has negative impact on the environment by increased emissions.
Copyright (c) 2024 Diana Šateikienė, Dmitrij Terebencev https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Hydrogen-rich Water: Benefits for the Body and Disease Prevention
The benefits of hydrogen-enriched water for the body and how it can be used to alleviate the symptoms of various diseases are analysed in this article. For the analysis, scientific literature on hydrogen-enriched water, its possible uses, and benefits for the body was reviewed. The daily use of hydrogen-enriched water slows down the aging processes of cells, has a positive effect on the appearance of the skin: it reduces UV skin damage and increases the synthesis of collagen type I in the skin. Analysis of results confirmed that hydrogen-rich water is safe for healthy individuals, while it is recommended that those with any medical conditions have to consult a doctor before using it.
Copyright (c) 2024 Vijolė Bradauskienė, Sigutė Ežerskienė, Giedrius Šilas, Reda Tamelienė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluation of the Ecological Efficiency of the Container Terminal's Technological Pattern
This article examines the ecological efficiency of a maritime container terminal's technological pattern, taking into account the requirements of the European Green Deal and goals for reducing CO2 emissions. In the context of the study, emphasis is placed on the ecological aspect, evaluating not only integrated efficiency indicators but also considering factors of sustainable development based on energy efficiency and the reduction of CO2 and other pollutant emissions. The European Green Deal obliges maritime ports to assess not only integrated efficiency indicators but also to implement measures to reduce CO2 emissions. In this context, the initiative of Klaipeda port, which is implementing a green port development plan in accordance with the directives of the European Green Deal, is highlighted. While many existing emission assessment models analyze overall annual emissions, there is a lack of well-defined models for evaluating the ecological efficiency of a specific technological pattern. During the research, an assessment of a container terminal was conducted, evaluating CO2 emissions during loading operations onto a ship using a specific cargo handling technological process. The main contribution of the study is to validate a model for assessing emitted CO2 levels in container terminals, utilizing a mode of movement based on transport type. The research provides insights that can be applied to other maritime ports, aiming for optimal technological line efficiency and compliance with environmental standards.
Copyright (c) 2024 Vilma Locaitienė, Ričardas Malkus https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Antimicrobial Role and Sensory Influence of Oregano Essential Oil on the Shelf-Life of Atlantic Cod Loins
Oregano essential oil is predominantly utilized in the application of food preservation. However, the antimicrobial activity of oregano essential oil on the Atlantic cod is still unclear. In the present study, we evaluated the antimicrobial effect of oregano essential oil on the shelf-life of Atlantic cod and sensory properties under different treatments. The study showed that the shelf life of the thawed cod loins with oregano essential oil decreased by two days compared to the untreated group. The finding of the antimicrobial activity of oregano essential oil was in agreement with previous studies, but it does not prolong the shelf life of cod loins significantly.
Possibilities of Using Phaseolus Vulgaris and Phaseolus Lunatus Beans in Pasta Production
In last decade, in scientific literature, various pulses dominate as raw material of new pasta development. The production of pulse pasta is complex technological process, generally based on extrusion technology. The aim of the study was to produce spaghetti-type pasta from Phaseolus vulgaris (variety unknown) and Phaseolus lunatus (variety Kontra). The recipes made with xanthan gum and corn starch as a binder, the optimal cooking time and water absorption capacity was determined. In the experiment, wheat semolina spaghetti was used as a control sample. Four types of spaghetti were prepared using a single-screw extruder, then dried in a rotary oven and stored until analysis. Pasta cooking properties have been determined. The obtained data were compared using t-test. There were significant differences between obtained spaghetti and control sample. The results confirm that beans can be used in pasta production.
Copyright (c) 2024 Elizabete Andersone-Trezina, Tatjana Kince https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Short Book on Environmental Sustainability
It is a book review of Steven Cohen, Environmentally Sustainable Growth: A Pragmatic Approach, Columbia University Press, New York 2023.
Copyright (c) 2024 Karol Dabrowski https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Dynamics and Couses of Changes in Meadow and Natural Pasture Area in Klaipeda County
The comparative investigation utilized data from the Land Fund of the Republic of Lithuania spanning the years 2003 to 2023. In 2023, these areas in Klaipeda County encompassed 41,050.04 ha, accounting for 7.86 percent of the county's area. Over the period from 2003 to 2023, there was a decline of 141.05 ha or 0.34 percent in the overall area of meadows and natural pastures. After analyzing alterations in the meadows and natural pasture areas within the municipalities of Klaipeda County, it was found that, over the span of two decades, the scrutinized areas expanded in four of the seven municipalities. Conversely, the remaining three experienced a decrease in their respective areas. Skuodas municipality experienced the most substantial decrease (1860,79 ha or 34.76 percent). In Silute municipality, the analyzed area decreased by 3,515.93 ha or 15.58 percent. The largest expansion was identified in the municipalities of Klaipeda city (754.28 ha or 159.02 percent) and Klaipeda district (4,620.13 ha or 73.37 percent).
Copyright (c) 2024 Giedrė Ivavičiūtė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Glucosinolates and Their Metabolites in Cruciferous Vegetables: Biological Activity and Health Benefits
The purpose of the article is to review the scientific literature on glucosinolates and their metabolites, their benefits for the health and the prevention of diseases. The article analyses the benefits for the human body of the active substances glucosinolates contained in cruciferous vegetables and their metabolites – sulforaphane and other isothiacyanates, their effectiveness in various conditions, preservation of biological activity through various treatments of cruciferous vegetables, and the possibilities of supplementing the diet with these substances. The article presents the possibilities of using glucosinolates as functional additives to increase the antioxidant potential of food products, as well as to prevent bacterial and fungal spoilage of food products.
Copyright (c) 2024 Vijolė Bradauskienė, Sigutė Ežerskienė, Reda Tamelienė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Using interactive tools to educate children with special educational needs
The article presents and analyses the application of interactive tools for children with special educational needs from an educational and health promotion perspective. Inclusive education, which is increasingly becoming more and more popular, requires the preparation of environments for children with special educational needs: the creation of educational sensory spaces, equipped with interactive tools. The writing approach is that the sensory space can be a key factor or tool for correcting children's developmental disabilities and for creating conditions for a better, more engaging education. Preschool and pre-primary teachers and educational pedagogic aid specialists consider that a well-equipped sensory space with interactive tools stimulates positive attitudes and emotions, also promotes the cognitive abilities of the children. There are also negative aspects of the use of interactive tools, as reported by the pre-school teachers and pedagogic aid specialists working with children with developmental disorders who participated in the study.
Copyright (c) 2024 Lilija Kryževičienė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Concept of Smart Specialization as a Strategy for Sustainable Regional Development
The subject of this paper is a review of previous research on smart specialization as a concept which is one of the strategies for sustainable development of regions. Innovations are considered as one of the key drivers of growth. Recognition of innovation which was central point of strategy ‘Europe 2020’ where ‘smart specialization’ needs to make possible for the regions and countries pursue those industries in which they hold a comparative advantage and which have basis for further innovations. The main purpose of this paper is defining smart specialization and its role on the regional development. Analysis and comparison of the scientific literature and applications of smart specialization were used as methods for this paper. The main findings of this paper show that the basis of smart specialization are innovation, knowledge and research which are pillars of smart, sustainable development. Smart specialization means identifying the unique characteristics and potential of each country and region, with the aim of achieving competitive advantages and excellence. It also includes strengthening regional innovation systems, increasing knowledge exchange and spillover the benefits of innovation throughout the regional economy. By comparison method of the scientific literature this paper will contribute to the development of theoretical background of smart specialization as a strategic concept formed by a group of European Union experts with the aim of reducing the gap in competitiveness between the European Union and the United States, which arises from the lower economic and technological specialization of European countries, especially at the regional level. Also it will promote smart specialization as a concept that can contribute to strengthening regional innovation policy and regional development.
Copyright (c) 2024 Ivana Varičak https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Third Book of the Trilogy by Regimantas Pilkauskas
The last book of the three-part edition Development of Urban Green Spaces edited at the beginning of 2024 by Lithuanian landscape architect Regimantas Pilkauskas. The materials for this three-part edition have been collected by author during 60 years, working around landscape architecture: planning urban territories, designing parks and gardens, and writing articles about it, participating in competitions, conferences and giving lectures to students of many universities and higher schools.
Copyright (c) 2024 Steponas Deveikis, Vaiva Deveikienė, Saulius Sodeikis https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A Talented Master from Skauradai – on the Native Land at Border of Raguva and Troškūnai Counties.
The article is devoted to marking the 150th anniversary of the birth of the engineer architect and artist Juozapas Kamarauskas (1874–1946) and clarifying the facts of his biography.
Copyright (c) 2024 Steponas Deveikis https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Issue of the Quality of Life of Elderly People, Improving Their Psycho-emotional Health with the Help of Mobile Cosmetology Services
Old age and related changes in the quality of life are relevant in the modern world, as many countries with different cultures, including Lithuania, are facing an aging population. Scientific research shows that senior citizens often face psycho-emotional health problems, so it is necessary to find ways to help these people experience the joy of life as often as possible and feel like full members of society. One such way is the provision of mobile cosmetology services.
Copyright (c) 2024 Loreta Valatkevičienė, Zita Baužienė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
"Mobile Dental Hygienist" as an Additional Tool for Patients' Oral Health Self-Monitoring: Patients' Opinion on Advantages and Disadvantages
A qualitative study was conducted with ten informants/patients who gave their opinion on the advantages, disadvantages and improvement opportunities of the mobile app "Mobile Dental Hygienist". The subjects positively evaluated the mobile app "Mobile Dental Hygienist" as an additional tool for self-monitoring of their oral health. Essential advantage of the mobile app, according to the informants/patients, was that it provided the opportunity to communicate directly with the dental hygienist. Informants/patients identified certain disadvantages of the mobile app, such as bland design and lack of additional functions. Insights into mobile app disadvantages will help improve the mobile app to become more engaging and accessible for patient use.
Copyright (c) 2024 Eglė Žymantienė, Evelina Daugėlienė, Jurgita Andruškienė, Šarūnė Barsevičienė, Arnas Murauskas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0