Trnava Region Research Articles

MACROBIOGENIC ELEMENTS IN PACKAGED AND GROUNDWATER WATERS FROM VARIOUS SLOVAK AND FOREIGN REGIONS

In the work, the contents of macrobiogenic elements (Na, K, Ca, Mg) in 20 randomly selected samples of bottled water sold in commercial networks in the Slovak Republic were investigated, and these values ​​were compared with our analyses of the same macroelements in 8 groundwater samples. The aim of the work was, except of determining the contents of the elements in the waters, also finding the existence of a mutual correlation between their contents and indirectly analysing of the geochemical composition of the rocks that are in contact with these waters. Bottled water samples obtained from retail chains originated from the Slovak Republic and also from abroad: from the Czech Republic, Austria, France and Hungary - all these monitored regions belong to the Alpine-Himalayan system from a geomorphological point of view. The highest contents of calcium and magnesium were assessed in bottled waters Gemerka (Banská Bystrica region), Salvator and Baldovská (Prešov region). High content values of sodium were determined in bottled waters Budiš and Fatra (Žilina region) and high contents of potassium in bottled waters Budiš (Žilina region) and Salvator (Prešov region). In contrary, the lowest contents of calcium and magnesium were determined in bottled waters Oravská (Žilina region) and in bottled water Aro from Czech republic. In bottled waters Zlatá studňa Jasenovo, Rajec (Žilina region), Lucka (Trnava region), Mitická and Tesco (Trenčín region) and Evian from France the low contents of sodium and potassium were determined.The analyses of 8 samples taken from subsurface water, where 4 samples were from Nitra town and its district, another 3 samples were taken from the vicinity of Vrbovce municipality and one sample from the border area with Czech republic showed following composition of all selected elements: the contents of calcium were in range 102.40 ‒ 193.7 mg/L, the contents of magnesium were in range 10.10 ‒ 46.30 mg/L, the contents of sodium were in range 4.10 ‒ 37.50 mg/L and the contents of potassium 0.50 ‒ 18.10 mg/L . In the samples of bottled waters found in stores the data for descriptive characterization were processed with the parametres of functions quantifying the mutual correlation. Strong correlation dependance between the calcium and magnesium contents that could be described by linear linear and square function was identified in analysed waters. The presence of mid strong existency correlation defined by square and non-linear function was evaluated by contents of calcium and sodium in mentioned waters by mathematical program.

Data collection for assessment of the natural capital at the regional level: case study of LTSER Trnava region

ContextThe landscape provides not only a living space for all life forms, including humans, but also a spatial base and set of resources for the implementation of individual human activities. Inappropriate implementation of human activities, disrespecting the properties of the landscape's natural resources, causes the degradation of natural resources and, consequently, the human living.ObjectivesThe aim of this paper is to develop new methodological procedures and algorithms for effective assessment of natural capital based on the geosystem approach.MethodsEach territorial unit (geosystem) represents a unique combination of natural assets that create a certain potential for the development of individual activities and eco-stabilization functions. In this study, we developed a new approach and algorithms to assess the natural capital of landscapes for sustainable use. This involves selecting indicators and their functional interpretation, as well as collecting available spatial data and statistics for GIS analysis, synthesis, and modeling.ResultsThe methodological procedure consists of the determination of indicators for natural capital assessment, the determination of their functional values and weighting coefficients, the determination of the suitability of the geosystem for the implementation of individual activities based on the value of natural capital, and the determination of restrictions and limiting factors. The set of data on landscape assets can be categorized into abiotic, land cover and biotic, and socio-economic indicators, which can either support human activities or limit them. Options for sustainable use of natural capital were split into two groups of potential activities: (I) natural capital for landscape planning activities and (II) specific activities or functions (e.g., natural capital for energy use, recreation, regulation services). The modeling of eco-stabilizing natural capital in Trnava LTSER pointed to low spatial ecological stability, mainly in the central part of the district.DiscussionDiscussion pointed to strength, novelty and opportunities of implementing methodological approach to natural capital assessment.ConclusionsAs an output of this methodological approach, a comprehensive digital spatial database of landscape-ecological data for the assessment of natural capital and the suitability of its use for socio-economic activities has been created in Slovakia. The database represents a set of consistent spatial information on natural capital assets and other indicators, including land cover and socio-ecological indicators. The methodological approach can be applicable to any territory on the basis of a modification.

VIKTIMIZÁCIA ŽIAKOV PROSTREDNÍCTVOM KYBERŠIKANOVANIA AKO VÝCHOVNÝ PROBLÉM

VICTIMIZATION OF PUPILS THROUGH CYBER BULLYING AS AN EDUCATIONAL PROBLEM The aim of the presented study is to analyze the prevalence of cyberbullying with an emphasis on selected demographic variables (gender, grade, self-governing region) among pupils from the 6th to the 9th grade in the conditions of Slovak primary schools. The goal is also the possibility of preventing cyberbullying in the school environment. In the intentions of empirical research, we implemented the monitoring of cyberbullying through the questionnaire method. We identified 322 (11.63%) victims in the research group of 2768 pupils. In the group of victims, we did not find significant differences in terms of gender (p=0.189), although boys (AM=2.02; Me=1.78) achieved slightly higher score than girls (AM=1.88; Me = 1.72). Significant differences were not confirmed even in the inferential analysis of other variables, such as grade (p=0.216) or self-governing region (p=0.261). In the scale for measuring victimization through cyberbullying, the 9th grade pupils scored the highest (AM=2.06; Me=1.83), as for the self-governing regions, we recorded the highest among pupils in Košice (AM=2.40; Me = 1.72) and the Trnava region (AM=2.21; Me = 2.00).

Leitha limestone from St. Margarethen (Austria) and Fertőrákos (Hungary) used in Slovakia as a natural stone

In Western Slovakia, especially in the Bratislava region and Trnava region, Leitha limestone of the Badenian (Langhian – early Serravalian) age from St. Margarethen in Austria was widely used for architectural articles and sculptures (200 realizations), alternatively a similar limestone from Fertőrákos in Hungary. 380 tombstones were identified only in Bratislava cemeteries. From the second half of the 17th century to the first half of the 20th century, the limestones were one of the most used in Slovakia due to their light dressing and relatively homogeneous appearance. The strongly porous coarse-grained to medium-grained the Leitha limestone has the appearance of sandstone and is composed of a predominance of red algae nodules over foraminifers, sea urchin, moss and shell fragments. The rhodoliths, pectenoids and oysters are scattered in the Leitha limestones up to a few cm size, which distinguish the limestone type from other the Leitha limestones and similar Sarmatian limestones. The limestone is dominated by rhodolithes in the St. Margarethen quarry and by bivalves and macroscopic quartz in Fertőrákos quarry. Porous limestones are exposed to weathering outdoors, leading to mass loss, flaking, sulphate efflorescence, black crusts from microscopic organisms and the colonization by lichens and mosses. The peak of limestone use for public buildings and sculptures was the years 1745 to 1780 (reign of Maria Theresa), and about 1880 to 1915, when there was relative prosperity and machine production began. The tombstones made of the Leitha limestones shifts to a peak between 1905 and 1925. In the 20th century, the Leitha limestones gave way to a competition from Czech decorative stones.

Analysis of regional development in the Slovak Republic using selected methods of measuring regional disparities

The aim of the paper is to assess regional disparities within the Slovak Republic with focus on the market concentration that is used to determine the competitiveness of the market. Following the main research aim the regional structure of Slovakia in the light of the selected socio-economic indicators was examined. The most relevant indicator in terms of research carried out is the GDP/capita, the appropriate indicator of socio-economic development in the region. Following step presents the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI), a measure of market concentration, examining the GDP of regions. The paper focuses on the application of 3 methods used for measuring regional disparities such as variance, standard deviation and coefficient of variation. In accordance with the gained results based on the analysis of RGDP in Slovakia, it can be concluded that the regional disparities between the regions of Slovakia and Bratislava region are gradually disappearing. The obtained data shows that disparities among regions are decreasing, while the decrease was faster during certain years. In 2016 a divergence of disparities can be observed. This year shows a significant divergence, e.g. Trnava region (-0,7217), Nitra region (-0,6243), Banská Bystrica region (-0,2565), Prešov region (-0,4498), which reflects deepening regional disparities compared to Bratislava region. However 2018 recorded values expressing the relationship m>1 (gradual elimination of regional disparities) between the regions - region of Trnava, region of Trenčín, region of Prešov.

Sorption of Co2+, Zn2+, Cd2+ and Cs+ ions by activated sludge of sewage treatment plant

Sludges are byproducts of sewage treatment process. Land application of sewage sludge is one of the final steps of waste water treatment, but solubilization of toxic metals restricts this method of sludge disposal. In our paper cobalt, zinc, cadmium and cesium sorption by suspension of non-treated activated sewage sludge (14 g/dm3, dry wt.) from waste water spiked with 60CoCl2, 65ZnCl2, 109CdCl2 or 137CsCl were determined in laboratory experiments at 20°C. Activated sludge supplied by the municipal sewage treatment plant in Zeleneč (Trnava region, Slovakia) showed high efficiency to sorb Co2+, Zn2+, Cd2+ and Cs+ ions from waste water pH 6-7. The process can be characterized by the concentration equilibrium (Csolid/Cliquid) typical for sorption processes. Efficiency of the sorption increased in the order Cs < Co < Zn < Cd. Metal sorption process was not inhibited by pretreatment of the sludge with 0.2% formaldehyde or thermal inactivation at 60°C, what confirms that the process was not dependent on metabolic activity of the sludge. Cobalt, zinc, cadmium and cesium were easily removable from the
 sludge by washing with diluted HCl, EDTA or water solutions of the corresponding metal ions, but with low efficiency by deionized water.

DECENTRALIZATION IN SLOVAKIA: PERSPECTIVES FROM THE TRNAVA REGION

Decentralization is the priority reform in the post-socialist countries of Central Europe. Slovakia’s accession to the European Union has accelerated decentralization, which is being implemented at the political, fiscal and administrative levels. Based on the example of the Trnava region, located in Western Slovakia, it was determined that administrative-territorial decentralization is prioritized in the region. Slovakia’s accession to the European Union and the political situation have little effect on decentralization, and municipal utilities improvements are still issues of concern in the region. The level of decentralization effectiveness in Slovakia is determined as 60–70%, and in the Trnava region – 70–80%.

Technical Infrastructure as an Element of Sustainable Development of Rural Regions in Małopolskie Voivodeship in Poland and Trnava Region in Slovakia

The work discusses issues of the infrastructure, its instruments, and specifics of infrastructure in Polish and Slovak rural areas. The aim of this article is to analyze the level of technical infrastructure development in rural regions of the Małopolskie Voivodeship in Poland and the west part of Slovakia—Trnava self-governing region (Trnava region) as two regions with a similar position regarding regional competitiveness index. Following the topic, after identification of strengths and weaknesses of mentioned regions, the opportunities, and threats of sustainable development of infrastructure in rural areas have been analyzed using the SWOT method. The development of sustainable, reliable, and functional infrastructure does not only refer to the chosen regions of Poland and Slovakia but also other regions in the European Union. Sustainable infrastructure is a factor stimulating social and economic progress as one of the most important determinants of sustainable development and regional competitiveness. The authors notice a particular lack in the sustainable development of infrastructure in the field of water and sewerage management together with the supply of water. Therefore, this article tries to complete the gap in research focusing on the concept of a more systematic approach to technical infrastructure improvement in the context of sustainable development, and strategy of cooperation.

Globalization and its Impacts on Communication in Self-Government

Research background: Globalization has significantly affected the way a territory communicates its offer. Only public administration, which is innovative and at the same time effective in its activities, can adapt and respond to the ever-changing conditions and requirements of today’s society and its members. Innovation and its activities, research and development are the result of proliferation and they are considered to be the driving force behind the growth of the economy, in the form of new knowledge. Those regions that have spent more money and effort on innovation activities in the past are now at a more advanced level. These are the main reasons to focus on this topic and bring the results of our research. Purpose of the article: The aim of the article is to present the findings which show the level of communication between the municipality and the public and the possibilities of using communication tools towards their more effective usage. Methods: It presents the results of a questionnaire survey realized at the level of local governments in the Trnava region. The results of the questionnaire survey with a description and explanation are shown graphically. The offices we asked were the following: Trnava City Office, Trnava Self-Governing Region Office, Trnava District Office. Findings and value added: The article presents the findings of a survey that was carried out for the purpose of the dissertation which deals with regional marketing communications. The outcome of the survey specified the direction of the main research in our dissertation.

Dimensions and Evaluation of Social Capital and Its Regional Distribution in the Slovak Republic

The paper deals with the dimensions of social capital in the Slovak Republic. The aim is to assess how social capital is distributed socially among the citizens of the Slovak Republic and geographically among the regions of the country. Social capital is evaluated on a basis of the three dimensions, where networks, trust and civism belong. The paper analyses the data from the European Values Study survey, especially the 2008 wave. The results of this study show that social capital has kept a decreasing tendency in the Slovak Republic throughout the period from the year 1991 to the year 2008. The reasons behind this may lie in the historical development of the country – the transformation of the economy and the dissolution of the Czech and Slovak Federative Republic. With respect to a social distribution, social capital is generally higher among more educated, right-wing Slovaks with higher earnings. In the terms of a geographical distribution, the Trnava Region and the Trencin Region appear to have less developed social capital compared to the other regions in Slovak Republic.

Spatial analysis of alcohol-related mortality in Slovakia.

The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between alcohol-related mortality in Slovak regions, as represented by Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics (NUTS) III level. We used data from mortality reports spanning 1996-2017 in the Slovak Republic. Data was provided by the National Health Information Centre in Slovakia. We applied two-dimensional correspondence analysis where the dimensions are regions and selected alcohol-related deaths diagnoses are classified by the International Classification of Diseases. Analysis revealed a relationship between the Prešov region and diagnoses I42 - Cardiomyopathy and K29 - Alcoholic gastritis. Furthermore, the Banská Bystrica and Žilina regions correspond to G31 - Degeneration of nervous system due to alcohol and K86 - Alcohol-induced chronic pancreatitis. In the case of K70 - Alcoholic liver disease - the Banská Bystrica, Trenčín and Nitra regions are identified as regions which have an intermediate relationship with this diagnosis. The Trnava region corresponds to F10 - Acute alcohol intoxication. The Trenčín and Nitra regions correspond closely to G62 - Alcoholic polyneuropathy. Perfect correspondence can be seen between the Košice region and K73 - Chronic hepatitis, not elsewhere classified. K74 - Fibrosis and cirrhosis of liver diagnosis also corresponds with the Košice region. The results of this analysis provide valuable insights for national and regional health policymakers in the process of preparing high-quality health regional plans, as well as retrospectively assessing the success of existing health policies and interventions in this area. Facts presented in the study justify the need for specialised health care, which is part of the process of building an Integrated Health Care Centre in Slovakia.

Model of the Representative Geoecosystem at Regional Level

Abstract The paper is aimed at the presentation of the new conception of nature protection. The new conception is based on the creation and protection of the representative geoecosystems. The strategic aim of defining the representative geo-ecosystem is: to determine a representative geo-ecosystem for each territorial unit on the given hierarchical level - the regional principle, to determine a representative occurrence for each type of the geo-ecosystem – the typological principle. The list of types of representative geo-ecosystems should serve as an ecologically based systematic framework for new protected areas (according to the analysis of unsufficiently protected representative geo-ecosystems) designations, as well as for methodical proposals of biocentres of the territorial system of ecological stability. The new approach to nature conservation is based not only on the protection of life forms but also on the protection of living conditions. The paper presents an example of the creation of representative geoecosystems on the regional level–Trnava region.

Lead contamination of fruit spirits intended for own consumption as a potential overlooked public health issue? A pilot study.

The aim of the study was to analyse the occurrence of lead in selected samples of fruit distilled spirits for own consumptions in terms of possible contribution to the occurrence of alcohol-attributable diseases. In a pilot study, we analysed 18 samples of fruit spirits for own consumption. Most of the samples were distilled in the local growing distilleries in the Žilina Region with exception of 3 samples collected in the Trnava Region (one of them was of Hungarian origin). Sample preparation included previous mineralization with use of microwave decomposition system Multiwave 60 50 Hz. The samples were analysed by atomic absorption spectroscopy with graphic furnace (AAS GBC XplorAA 5000 with GF 5000). The average ethanol level in our samples was higher in comparison with distributed spirits. We detected lead in all samples. In two of them the concentration was lower than the limit of quantitation (LOQ). The highest lead concentrations were observed in plum spirit from Hungary (581.0 μg/l), and in grape spirit made in the Trnava Region (466.3 μg/l). Lead is a widespread contaminant of fruit spirits prepared for own consumption. Taking into consideration its common occurrence and possible multiplicative effect with ethanol, we can assume that lead can contribute to the occurrence of several alcohol-attributable chronic diseases. Due to the insufficient information in this field, our results provide significant insight into the issue and present an important starting point for further research.

ОБЩЕСТВЕННОЕ И ПОЛИТИЧЕСКОЕ ПРОСТРАНСТВО ДЕЦЕНТРАЛИЗАЦИОННЫХ ПРОЦЕССОВ В ТРНАВСКОМ КРАЕ СЛОВАКИИ

ОБЩЕСТВЕННОЕ И ПОЛИТИЧЕСКОЕ ПРОСТРАНСТВО ДЕЦЕНТРАЛИЗАЦИОННЫХ ПРОЦЕССОВ В ТРНАВСКОМ КРАЕ СЛОВАКИИ

The Role of Cross-Border Cooperation in Modernising Public Administration (Experience of the Trnava Region, Slovakia)

The former post-socialist countries have become examples of the institutional transformation of public administration systems. An indispensable element of optimising public administration is intensification of cross-border cooperation and implementation of joint sustainable development programmes in the cross-border regions.It has been found that an efficient cross-border cooperation model in Slovakia was introduced after joining the European Union. The financial support within the Interreg EU programme, implemented during 2007–2013 (Interreg IV) and 2014–2010 (Interreg V), has played an essential role. It has been proved that the most effective model is the cross-border cooperation model in Trnava Region, territorially implemented with the neighbouring regions of Austria, Hungary and the Czech Republic. It has been determined that the main directions of cross-border cooperation in the Trnava self-governing region are realization of joint socio-economic programmes (strategies of economic growth and regional employment, cultural and educational projects, transport system, etc.) as well as cooperation between municipal administrations on the issues of administrative systems optimization. It has been proved that the vast share of European financial resources (for instance, the European Regional Development Fund), aimed at the development of regional cooperation, should, above all, bridge the administrative resource gap between urban and rural areas and ensure that local communities have free and equal access to administrative resources.The traditions of effective cross-border cooperation between the Trnava self-governing region and respective cross-border regions of the Czech Republic, Austria and Hungary have been prolonged in the format of the European Interreg V Consolidation Programme for the period of 2014-2010. Cross-border projects are usually implemented for a period of 1–2 years, being aimed at fortifying intercultural ties on the neighbour territories. In Trnava Region it is strategically important to intensify cross-border cooperation in order to increase inter-institutional cooperation at the level of municipal administrations as well as strengthen cross-border ties at the level of population.The correlation of strategic goals with the outcomes of cross-border cooperation with Euroregions, while retaining substantial financial support from the EU structures, is among the priority tasks.

Assessment of National Program of Learning Regions in Slovakia – Design and Testing

Abstract In May 2007, the Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic approved the National Program for Learning Regions. It states that the long-term strategic objective for the development of Slovak regions is the gradual reduction of disparities in living standards in regions and to improve regional economic performance. One of the tools for achieving this goal is considered the learning region concept. The main aim of this article is to streamline the presentation and monitoring of the partial progress made in achieving the objectives of the National Program for Learning Regions in the Slovak Republic to policy-makers and to make this relatively complex issue accessible to a wider audience through one aggregated index and two partial indices; the PCA method was used. The results showed relatively large differences between regions. The highest value of the aggregated LR index was reached by the Trnava region, followed by the Bratislava region; these two regions seems to be in accordance with reaching the objectives of the National Program for Learning Regions. The lowest values were found in the Banská Bystrica, Prešov and Košice regions. Moreover, we found a positive correlation between aggregated and economical-innovative indices with average GDP during the years 2008–2014 at the NUTS 3 level.

Similarity of Slovak Regions in Neoplastic Mortality in the Context of Risk Factors and Access to Health Care.

Access to primary health care is highly connected to the prevention of cancer mortality, since the risk factors threatening health can be early identified. The aim of this paper is, firstly, to explore similarity within and between the regions of the Slovak Republic and cancer mortality patterns, and secondly, to reveal if similar regions are characterised by the similar access to health care or risk factors occurrence. Data on deaths by sex, type of cancer death and region from 1996 to 2014 is provided by the National Health Information Centre of Slovakia. The relationships between 8 regions and 16 cancer types are described by correspondence analysis for both sexes. The most similar cancer mortality patterns among Slovak regions are between the Nitra and Trnava regions for both sexes, and the Košice region for males. The Prešov region is showed as an outlier from other regions for females, likely due to the highest concentration of Roma marginalised communities. As for access to health care, the Trnava region as well as Nitra region report the lowest densities of physicians, 2.4 and 2.6 per 1,000 inhabitants, respectively. The most serious cancer types mortality is attributed to the digestive organs (C15-C26) in each Slovak region for both sexes with the average proportion of 35.56%. Observed high association between the Nitra region and respiratory cancer (C30-C39) in males may be confirmed by the increased incidence of radon in this region. Similarly, a tight relationship between the Bratislava region and cancer of male genital organs (C60-C63) can relate to the highest proportion of drug users in the Bratislava region. Based on the findings of similar regions in cancer mortality patterns, we recommend to set the same prevention programs in the Trnava and Nitra regions, on the other hand, different preventive interventions should be introduced in the Prešov region.

Effect of spa treatment and the epidemiology of tuberculosis in the Slovak republic in the year 201

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease characterized by specific granular inflammation and granuloma (tuberculoma) formation. In the Slovak Republic, there were 336 cases of TB in the year 2014, which signifies a prevalence of 6.20/100,000 in the total population. The TB prevalence decreased by about 1.21/100,000 population compared to the year 2013. The proportion of extra-pulmonary TB was 59 cases to 277 cases of pulmonary TB. The highest incidence of TB in women was in the age group 0 – 4 years (19 cases), and in men in the age of 50 - 54 years (27 cases). The highest prevalence of TB was in the Presov Region (13.07/100,000) and in Kosice Region (8.05/100,000), the lowest TB prevalence was in Trnava Region (3.23/100,000). The TB prevalence in childhood was 45 cases, of which 39 cases were in Roma children. The highest prevalence of TB in childhood was in the Presov Region (22.24/100,000) and Banska Bystrica Region (4.35/100,000). The Slovak Republic reached the highest percentage of successful TB treatment (85%) in newly diagnosed microscopically positive cases among European countries. The incidence of TB in Slovakia decreased over recent years, but nevertheless, more attention should be paid to looking for patients, particularly in high-risk population groups.

Corrosion Characteristics of Transit Pipeline API 5L X60

The paper deals with the determination of corrosion rate to the natural gas pipeline API 5L X60 in Trnava region. Linear polarisation resistance method (exposure time 1 hour) was used for investigation the corrosion rate of exposed samples in the environment (top, middle and lower part of soil excavation and distilled water). The corrosion rate was also determined by measuring the weight loss of the steel samples. The exposure time for the measurement method of the weight loss of metallic materials accounted 120, 288, 528 hours. These outputs helped to identify the most suitable environment for the tested metallic material. Top and middle part of soil excavation was situated in the least aggressive environment. On the other hand, the lower part of soil excavation was situated in the most aggressive environment for API 5L X60.

Vývoj a súčasný stav ekologického poľnohospodárstva v Trnavskom kraji

Vývoj a súčasný stav ekologického poľnohospodárstva v Trnavskom kraji