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Plėsti įtaką už žemynų ribų: Lietuvos skaitmeninė viešoji diplomatija Japonijos atžvilgiu.
No full textPublic diplomacy, particularly through digital means, has become an essential tool for advancing national interests, especially for small states with limited resources. Lithuania, in response to rising security concerns from Russia, faces needs to effectively employ digital diplomacy to strengthen its global influence, including in the Indo-Pacific region. This paper examines how Lithuania’s Ambassador to Japan, Aurelijus Zykas, utilized the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to engage Japanese audiences and promote bilateral relations. The study analyzes the Ambassador’s social media posts, revealing that topics such as personal life, culture, and embassy affairs, issues in Central-Eastern European region were highlighted as well as garnered significant engagement. These posts demonstrate how Lithuania utilized digital diplomacy to set agendas, expand its presence, and foster interactive dialogue with Japanese digital publics. The study confirmed these posts stressed Lithuania as an independent and freedom-lasting country while they also contained transparency, self-disclosure, and respect for local culture. This study underscores the potential of digital public diplomacy for small states like Lithuania, illustrating how they can leverage social media to enhance soft power
Strateginės kultūros pokytis po Rusijos invazijos į Ukrainą 2022 m. Vokietijos ir Suomijos atvejai.
No full textThe title of the master’s thesis - The Change of Strategic Cultures After the Russian Invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The Cases of Germany and Finland. After the Russian invasion to Ukraine, significant changes to German and Finnish strategic cultures were made that influenced their foreign and security policies. The need to analyse the changes and how it was reflected in states’ policymaking became apparent. Research problem: European states, including Germany and Finland, formulated their foreign and security policies based on their historical experiences were World War II had major influence. It resulted in cautious German policy, especially on the military topic which includes defence expenditures. In the case of Finland, the state continued its neutrality policy based on the Cold War period agreement. On the 24th of February, 2022 when Russia attacked Ukraine states began to change their views on security policy which featured increased defence expenditures and new energy security policy for Germany, and membership in NATO for Finland. Research question: what were the main changes of strategic cultures of Germany and Finland, and whether they were profound or superficial? To answer the question these tasks were formulated: 1. To provide theoretical background for the research of this thesis using the strategic culture theory and explain how it applies to the research topic. 2. To conduct a comprehensive case study of Germany’s strategic culture prior to 2022 and compare it with the policy after the Zeitenwende speech by doing discourse analysis and documents analysis. 3. To conduct a case study on Finland’s strategic culture before the Russian invasion of 2022, and afterwards by performing discourse analysis and document analysis. The turning point is chosen to be a decision to apply for membership in NATO. 4. To determine if the changes in the strategic culture of Germany and Finland were formal or practical and had real effects on the security policies of the mentioned states. In order to analyse the change and the reasons behind it, strategic culture theory was used. Relying on the theory, historical context has been determined and its influence on strategic culture. The contribution of individual government representatives and recent events to the formation of strategic culture was further investigated. The work used 3 generations of strategic culture theory, analysing different stages. Comprehensive case studies of German and Finnish strategic cultures prior 2022 indicate that historical experiences made major impact on foreign and security policies. In the case of Germany, it was expressed in a refusal to contribute to allied missions in armed conflicts (unless the case raised a theme of fascism), low military expenditures and energy dependence. In the case of Finland, historical experience formulated neutrality policy, which did not allow membership in military alliances like NATO. After the invasion in 2022 German chancellor Olaf Scholz announced the Zeitenwende, the turn of security policy, which features increased defence financing, strengthening of the Bundeswehr, its participation in NATO initiatives, and energy independence. Finland announced its decision to join NATO this way ending neutrality and non-alignment policy period. These changes are reflected in foreign and security policy documents that were analysed in the thesis. Comprehensive case studies, discourse and document analyses, and interview results confirm the defended statement that Russian invasion to Ukraine in 2022 prompted strategic culture changes in Germany and Finland
Maisto produktų tinkamumo vartoti termino ir numanomos rizikos poveikis ketinimui pirkti produktus.
No full textSHAHID KHAN Effect of Shelf Life of Food Products and perceived Risks on intention to buy X Products Final Master Thesis Academic supervisor: Assoc. prof. Elze Rudienė Vilnius University, Business School Digital Marketing Vilnius, 2025 Size: 64 pages, 30 figures + graphs, 28 tables, 1 appendixes This study explores the impact of shelf life and perceived risks on consumer purchase intentions in the food industry, specifically online and traditional retail settings. The research addresses the growing consumer concerns regarding food safety, quality, and sustainability, which are influenced by shelf-life information. It also examines how perceived risks, such as spoilage, contamination, and delivery issues, affect consumer trust and behavior. A quantitative approach was adopted, and structured surveys were administered to 390 respondents who had experience in purchasing perishable food products. Key constructs such as shelf-life perception, perceived risks, and purchase intentions were measured using validated scales. Statistical methods, including regression analysis and moderation testing, were applied to examine the relationships among these variables. Consumer purchasing intentions are very much influenced by shelf life through improved perceptions on product quality, safety, and environmental sustainability. Perceived risk significantly depresses purchase intent, especially where the lack of physical contact further exacerbates anxiety in online contexts. Clear shelf-life information would also moderate perceived risk, which means that consumer trust and confidence may be built accordingly
Vaizdinio dėmesio įtaka prekės ženklo požiūriui socialiniuose tinkluose, naudojant akių stebėjimo metodą.
No full textThe master's thesis analyzes the influence of visual attention on brand attitudes on social media using eye tracking technology. The study examines how visual elements of online marketing content affect consumers. It also provides recommendations on how to optimize social media marketing strategies in the B2C segment. The main problem addressed in this study is to understand how visual attention to cosmetic product affects brand attitudes in social media. The aim of the master's thesis is to investigate the relationship between visual attention and brand attitudes towards cosmetics products, providing a detailed analysis of how visual elements influence consumer behavior. To analyze this, several objectives are set: to analyze existing theories and literature in order to create a solid theoretical foundation, to identify the most effective visual elements that help attract attention, to evaluate their influence on brand attitudes, and to provide recommendations on how to optimize marketing strategies based on empirical findings. In order to fully explore this topic, the study used a mixed method approach, conducting an eye-tracking study with software IMotion to measure visual attention patterns. This experiment was complemented by interviews and content analysis to assess the effectiveness of demonstrative and informative visual elements in marketing content. The interviews provided deeper insights into the participants’ perceptions and preferences, which allowed for a comprehensive analysis of visual attention and brand attitudes. The study found that visual attention is a significant factor in shaping consumer attitudes towards brands on social media. Demonstrative visuals are ideal for creating emotional connections and capturing initial attention, while informative images are essential for building trust and providing a rational basis for decisions. Combining these types of visuals together and adapting them to the appropriate stage of the consumer’s buying journey can ensure maximum marketing effectiveness. In addition, the inclusion of clear and reliable information based on reliable facts strengthens brand trust, which ultimately leads to purchase intentions. The results of this master's thesis are intended for publication in academic journals specializing in digital marketing and consumer behavior. In addition, the findings will be adapted for professional articles and presentations for marketing professionals, focusing on the practical application of eye tracking technology in social media marketing strategies
The use of blockchain in human resource management.
No full textBlockchain is a relatively new and extensively studied technology with significant potential for application. However, there is a lack of detailed scientific research and case studies on its use in human resource management. This paper explores the possibilities of using blockchain technology in human resource management. A review of the literature has identified that blockchain technology can be successfully applied in areas such as recruitment and selection, management of employment contracts and payroll, monitoring of work performance and results, ensuring audit and compliance, management of training and qualification records, employee payments, verification of identity and competencies, and more. The literature review highlighted key challenges encountered in projects utilizing blockchain technology. The purpose of the developed prototype for a project accounting system is to practically demonstrate the application of blockchain in the human resource management process. While evaluating blockchain usage in the prototype, the following advantages of blockchain technology were identified: decentralization, transparency, immutability, and process automation capabilities. Certain disadvantages of blockchain were identified that affect the efficiency of its application. The main drawbacks include high transaction costs, limited scalability, and slow transaction confirmation times
Organizing non- formal education: improving access to services.
No full textSUMMARY Non-formal education is an important part of the education system, promoting the personal, social and professional development of students and adults and is associated with the concept of lifelong learning. Hypotheses: The involvement of non-formal education organizations in the planning and implementation of activities contributes to better organization of non-formal education. The availability of non-formal education services is higher in the city than in the district. The aim of the work: to reveal the organization of the informal education process through theoretical insights and, based on empirical research results, to identify opportunities for improving the accessibility of informal education services for different types of clients. Job objectives: 1. To analyze the theoretical aspects of non-formal education. 2. To reveal the organization of the non-formal education process, the main factors that determine the availability of services. 3. Identify the types of clients of non-formal education services. 4. Conduct qualitative and quantitative research on the availability of non-formal education services. 5. To propose options for improving the accessibility of non-formal education services. The empirical study was conducted using qualitative and quantitative research methods. Semi-structured interviews were chosen as the main qualitative research method in order to obtain deep insights and opinions of experts about the current situation of non-formal education. Quantitative research was chosen as a complementary method, allowing a more objective assessment of the attitudes of respondents – educators, pupils, TAU students – towards the accessibility and quality of non-formal education services. During the research and data collection, a total of 2 respondents from Panevėžys city and district were interviewed, who provided insights into existing problems and suggested solutions to increase the availability of services and improve the organization for different types of customers. A questionnaire survey was chosen as a quantitative research method in order to obtain statistical data on the organization and accessibility of non-formal education services. Four types of customers were identified: students living in the city and the district, and students of the University of the Third Age (TAU). The survey respondents were educators, students, and TAU students . The results of the study showed several main problem areas of non-formal education: lack of funding, limited infrastructure, challenges of human resources of educators and administration and insufficient accessibility of activities for different types of clients. It was revealed that the needs of these groups are different - educators emphasized the quality of teaching methods and organizational efficiency, students valued the diversity of activities, and TAU students emphasized social integration and opportunities to actively participate in public life. The results revealed that the effectiveness of organizing non-formal education depends on a clear strategy, resource allocation and cooperation between organizations. Qualitative analysis showed that the most important organizational factors are infrastructure development, flexible educational methods and program adaptability to different target client groups. Demographic analysis revealed that the needs of these clients are different - students valued the diversity of activities, and TAU students emphasized social integration and opportunities to actively participate in public life
Prototype of an offline air-gapped hardware bitcoin wallet.
No full textThe contemporary financial sector, particularly the cryptocurrency and Bitcoin ecosystem, is undergoing rapid transformation, driving and development of new technological solutions and financial innovations. As their adoption and value continue to grow, the need for secure and reliable storage methods has become increasingly critical. While many users still store cryptocurrencies online, there is a rising demand for solutions that offer enhanced security and greater user control. To address this need, the market has introduced various commercial hardware wallets capable of safeguarding users’ private keys by storing them offline, within the wallet, rather than on a network. However, many hardware wallets users encounter security vulnerabilities related to the collection and potential misuse of personal data, especially in the context of social engineering attacks. Supply chain attacks pose additional risks during production or logistics, as devices may be compromised with malicious software or hardware. Non-custodial wireless hardware Bitcoin wallets, operating without direct network connectivity, has emerged as an innovative and reliable solution that ensures greater security, anonymity and independence from third party control. The objective of this study was to develop a non-custodial wireless air gapped Bitcoin wallet constructed using standard, universal components that were not originally designed for the fintech or cryptocurrency markets. A prototype of the wallet was successfully developed, functioning offline and utilizing QR codes for transaction operations. The prototype, was assembled from universal and standard components and with Python base software, delivers all the basic Bitcoin wallet functionalities. Its modular architecture and use of standard components mitigate the risk with supply chain attacks, enhancing overall security. The developed wallet is non-custodial, operates offline, and effectively renders attacks such as social engineering or software-based exploits ineffective
Increasing efficiency and reducing execution fees in ethereum smart contracts using high-performance computing techniques.
No full textDecentralised smart contracts based on blockchain technology and secured by cryptographic means have been developed to address the problems of traditional - centralised - systems. As the Ethereum platform is the first and main platform for smart contracts, an analysis of smart contracts on this platform has been carried out. The analysis, including technical specifications, helped to clarify execution fees problems arising from unoptimized smart contracts code. A few high performance computing techniques, whose practical application in the context of smart contracts has not yet been extensively explored and which could help to address the optimization deficiencies in complex smart contracts, were analysed. Introduced high-performance computing techniques were discussed in the context of a sample optimisation problem - the Knapsack problem. Different Knapsack problem algorithms and their time and space complexities were compared, with further experiments being carried out with the most optimal one. Alternative solutions of cross-chain implementation using “Chainlink CCIP“ and off chain implementation using “Chainlink Functions“ were proposed. A simulated smart contract, complying with a discussed optimisation problem, was introduced for the experiment. Proposed technical solutions were implemented and deployed on the Sepolia network. Different datasets were used to compare execution fees in relation to the algorithm time complexity and the volume of data between the solutions. The results showed, that both cross-chain and off-chain solutions reduce execution fees for example smart contract. Regarding other covered aspects and limitations, integration with “Chainlink Functions“ to implement off-chain solutions was selected as a better alternative to implementing complex smart contracts solely on-chain. Using the proposed off-chain solution may not only reduce the execution fees on the Ethereum platform but may also increase its efficiency by allowing more complex smart contracts to be implemented
Approaches to planning and organizing pedagogical practices in implementing the principle of inclusion by foreign (english) language teachers in schools.
No full textThe master's thesis examines approaches to planning and organizing pedagogical practices in implementing the principle of inclusion by foreign (English) language teachers in schools. The study explores the importance of inclusive education, its impact on the educational process, and the strategies and methods teachers apply in planning and organizing lessons. It highlights the challenges educators face in the practice of inclusive education and provides insights into potential improvement strategies. The thesis consists of two main parts: theoretical and empirical. The theoretical part discusses the concept of inclusive education, its main goals, dimensions, functions, and management models. It thoroughly analyses managerial approaches to organizing and planning education to implement the principle of inclusion in schools, emphasizing methods and strategies for organizing learning. Additionally, it delves into the management of the educational process, highlighting methods for monitoring students' achievements and progress. The empirical part aimed to analyse the approaches of planning and organizing pedagogical practices in implementing the principle of inclusion by foreign (English) language teachers. The study was conducted using a questionnaire survey, and the collected data were processed using descriptive and statistical methods. The research results revealed that the successful implementation of the inclusion principle requires effective managerial solutions to ensure teachers’ readiness and contribute to the optimization of the educational process. Teachers' organizational skills are a significant managerial resource that enables the efficient organization of the educational process. Although teachers possess theoretical knowledge about inclusive education, their applied managerial methods are not always sufficiently effective, as many still face challenges such as a shortage of special education teachers and insufficient methodological guidelines tailored to assess the needs of weaker students. The study also highlighted that, while feedback is crucial in fostering students’ progress, teachers often encounter difficulties in applying it effectively. The study confirmed the hypotheses and revealed that the approaches to planning and organizing the educational process in implementing the inclusion principle are closely related to the individualization and differentiation of the curriculum, promoting collaborative learning among students in pairs and groups, and more effective pedagogical management. Efficient planning and organization by teachers positively influence student engagement, collaboration, and achievement monitoring, thus contributing to the implementation of the inclusion principle in schools. Proper managerial skills in planning and organization ensure a more effective teaching process, contribute to better student outcomes and progress tracking, and indirectly affect behaviour management. The findings highlight the need for systematic improvement of teachers' competencies, the provision of methodological and material support, and the development of effective professional development models. The study is significant from a practical perspective, as its conclusions can be applied in developing teacher training programs and educational policy recommendations. From a scientific perspective, the research contributes to the knowledge of applying inclusive education in pedagogical practice and provides a foundation for further research in this field
Factors influencing the intention to use virtual museum tour.
No full text" Factors Influencing the intention to Use Virtual Museum Tour” Nabeel Sattar Master Thesis Marketing and integrated Communication Master Programme Faculty of Economics and Business Administration,Vilnius University Supervisor Prof. Vytautas Dikčius, Vilnius, 2025 Summary in English The research explores the factors that affect the intention of user to use virtual museum tour. The study focuses on impact of elements of technology acceptance model such as perceive ease of use, perceive usefulness and enjoyment additionally functional attributes effectiveness and vividness moreover combination of these factor with theory of planned behavior aspects is also analyzed, how these factors contribute to shape the user intention. An extensive literature analysis was done to best describe the variable moreover to achieve the objectives of study a quantitative survey was conducted among 318 respondents to assess the impact of key factors on user intentions to use virtual museum tour. Data collected through questionnaires and measured constructs are effectiveness, vividness, Immersion, engagement elements of TAM and theory of planned behavior. Statistical method consists of Linear and multivariate regression, correlation analysis. Findings reveal that immersion engagement and enjoyment significantly influence the intention of users where perceive ease of use and perceive usefulness also plays a vital role but with other potential predictors the effect proved weaker essentially effectiveness and vividness also shape the attitude towards virtual museum. Moreover if user perceive secure to use the virtual environment the result would be intense positively. This research contributes to academic and practical knowledge by exploring how virtual technologies or environment can make visit or intention, more accessible and engaging. The findings provide valuable insights for developers, museum professionals, and educators seeking to improve virtual museum platforms through immersive design and user-centric features. Importantly this study also aligned with global sustainable environment goal in terms of reduction in the need of physical travel, minimize environmental impact and preserve cultural heritage in digital format