bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can a Robot Be a Person? De-Facing Personhood and Finding It Again with Lévinas
Authors: Dell'Oro Roberto
Published: April 2022

The question “Can a robot be a person?” has emerged of late in the field of bioethics. The paper addresses the question in dialogue with Emmanuel Levinas. It begins with something like an archeological reconstruction of personhood in modernity, in order to locate the context out of which the question posed, “can a robot be a person?” might take on meaning. Descartes, Hume and Kant are the most important exponents of the story, their position emerging in direct contradiction with the classical metaphysics of the person, such as one finds in Thomas Aquinas. Levinas rejects the rationalist perspective of a bodiless mind, a person reduced to her cognitive capacities, no less than the empirical version of a mindless body, both understandings of personhood being de facto prevalent in contemporary bioethics, especially in the Anglo-American version of it. On the other hand, as Levinas suggests, to be a person is to be “manifested in the exteriority of the face, which is not the disclosure of an impersonal Neuter. If so, a robot cannot be a person. The paper tries to show why this is the case.
The Vatican and Artificial Intelligence: An Interview with Bishop Paul Tighe
Authors: Green Brian Patrick
Published: April 2022

For several years, Vatican officials have been involved in discussions regarding AI. In this interview, Bishop Paul Tighe, Secretary of the Pontifical Council for Culture, tells about this history, the various people and organizations involved in the discussions, some of the topics, and why the Vatican cares about the social impacts of technology, especially AI. The Vatican’s convening power, interest in protecting human dignity, and neutrality when it comes to commercial interests in technology, combined with its long tradition of reflecting on human nature both theologically and philosophically, give it a unique ability to host important conversations about creating a more humane future for AI and technology more broadly.
The Development and User Acceptance Survey of Astaxanthin Infused Topical Moisturizer
Authors: Rahim Nur Izzati , Rusmidi Muhamad Helmi Husaini , Radzun Khairul Adzfa
Published: April 2022

Astaxanthin was a beneficial carotenoid in the nutraceutical, food, cosmetics, and feed industries. The new astaxanthin infused topical moisturizer was developed using astaxanthin, Manuka honey, and Neutrogena Hydro Boost gel moisturizer. The astaxanthin was extracted from Haematococcus pluvialis subjected to the in-house astaxanthin extraction procedure developed by the Microalgae Research Laboratory, UiTM Puncak Alam, Selangor. Fifteen topical moisturizer samples were developed via Box-Behnken Design. The moisturizer properties were significantly influenced by astaxanthin, Neutrogena Hydro Boost gel moisturizer, and Manuka honey content based on the User Acceptance Survey done on 250 respondents. This study observed response surface regression, analysis of variance, and response optimization for appearance, aroma/smell, and texture. The optimum levels of the three factors were astaxanthin is at 1 ml, Neutrogena Hydro Boost gel moisturizer is at 20 ml, and Manuka honey must be less than 10 g which is at 0.9192g, as 69% of respondents like the composition.
PAEDIATRIC THROMBOSIS: A FIVE-YEAR EXPERIENCE FROM A TERTIARY CARE CENTER OF PAKISTAN
Authors: Rashid Anila , Mansoori Huma , Ali Sidra Asad , Nasir Nabeel
Published: April 2022

Background: Advances in imaging techniques and longer survival of chronic medical conditions contribute to the increase in paediatric thrombosis. We aim to determine the incidence, underlying risk factors, management and clinical outcome of paediatric thrombosis at a multidisciplinary facility of Pakistan. Methods: A retrospectively analysis of the medical records of patients in the paediatric age group admitted at the Aga Khan University hospital from January 2013-September 2018 was performed. Site of thrombosis, associated risks factors, management options and outcome of thrombotic event were evaluated. Results: Of the 22,320 paediatric hospitalization, 35 paediatric patients were diagnosed with thrombosis (15 cases per 10,000 admissions). The median age of the study group was 15 years and twenty patients (57%) were male. The commonest site of thrombosis was in lower limb venous 11 (31%), followed by upper limb venous thrombosis 6 (17%), abdominal vein thrombosis 7 (20%), cerebral venous thrombosis 5 (14%), pulmonary embolism and arterial thrombosis 3(9% each). Eighty three percent had underlying clinical condition including central venous catheter [CVC] (26%), malignancy and infection (14% each), antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (9%), inherited thrombophilia (9%), congenital heart disease (6%), while thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and autoimmune disorder (3% each). 12 (34%) patients were treated with heparin only, 8 (23%) received heparin followed by warfarin while warfarin as a single agent was given in 2 (5.7%) patients. One patient died of pulmonary embolism while 9(25%) had persistence or recurrence of thrombosis. Conclusion: Incidence of paediatric thrombosis was 0.15%. CVC placement was the most common associated risk factor. Warfarin and heparin both were found to be safe anticoagulation option. Recurrence rate was found to be high
FREQUENCY OF HASHIMOTO THYROIDITIS IN PAPILLARY THYROID CANCER PATIENTS AND ITS IMPACT ON THEIR OUTCOME
Authors: Batool Sumera , Das Bhagwan , Arif Muhammad , Islam Najmul
Published: April 2022

Background: Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) is an autoimmune disorder of thyroid gland and is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. Its association with thyroid lymphoma is well established but with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), the studies have shown inconsistent results. Methods: It is a retrospective review of papillary thyroid cancer patients and 213 participants were included for final analysis. They were divided in two groups, based on presence or absence of Hashimoto thyroiditis. We noted their demographic details, histopathological diagnosis, presence of thyroid autoantibodies, TNM staging, outcome and duration of follow up. Results: The frequency of Hashimoto thyroiditis in papillary thyroid cancer patients was found to be 34.27% (73). In Hashimoto thyroiditis and PTC patients, more patients were in T1 and T2 stage i.e., 27.4% and 38.4% as compared to PTC alone group, who had more patients with T3 and T4 disease 44.3% and 5% respectively. Although lymph node metastasis was more common in PTC with Hashimoto thyroiditis 56.2%, but distant metastasis was observed more in isolated PTC group 14.3%.  Cure was observed in 75.3% and 47.1% in PTC patients with and without Hashimoto thyroiditis respectively. While 22.9% patients having isolated PTC had persistent disease as compared to 6.8% when PTC was accompanied with Hashimoto thyroiditis. Conclusion: The papillary thyroid cancer patient who had concomitant Hashimoto thyroiditis, had a less aggressive disease in terms of T stage and distant metastasis and they had a better outcome in terms of higher cure rate and less persistent disease as compared to the papillary thyroid cancer without Hashimoto thyroiditis.
COMPARISON OF EFFICACY OF YOGURT VERSUS PROBIOTICS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE DIARRHOEA
Authors: Anjum Bilal Ali , Hussain Maqbool , Iqbal Muhammad Bilal , Zafar Sehrish , Haider Nighat , Nawab Izza
Published: April 2022

Background: The advantages of probiotic administration for acute diarrhoea are mainly shorter duration of symptoms as well as reduced number of stools per day while use of traditional yogurt has similar results. So, this study was conducted to compare the efficacy of yogurt with probiotic in children with acute gastroenteritis. Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted at department of Pediatrics, Children Hospital, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad over 1 year. A total of nine hundred and thirty (930) children between 1–5 years of age presenting with acute diarrhoea were enrolled and equally randomized to Group-A (yogurt) and Group-B (lactobacillus rhamnosus) with ORS. The primary outcome was mean frequency of diarrhoea in first 24 hours after initiation of treatment in both the groups. Results: Gender distribution revealed that out of 930 patients, 643 (69.1%) were male and 287 (30.9%) were female while the mean age was 3.14±1.18 years. Mean duration of disease was 4.23±2.02 days. Mean no. of stools in first 24 hours after treatment in Group-A (yogurt) was 3.25±1.64 and 3.29±1.74 in Group-B (probiotics). Student t-test for independent samples was applied and no significant difference was found between the two groups (p=0.713). Conclusions: Mean frequency of diarrhoea in first 24 hours after treatment with traditional yogurt and commercially available probiotics was not statistically significant in this study.
DIFFERENT SHAPES OF MEGAKARYOCYTES IN ESSENTIAL THROMBOCYTHEMIA
Authors: Faraz Maria , Mansoori Huma , Ali Maria , Asad Ali Sidra
Published: April 2022

Essential thrombocytopenia is the myeloproliferative neoplasm associated with the JAK2/CALR/MPL mutation. It is characterized by an increase in thrombocytes and abnormal megakaryocytes. WHO established the diagnostic criteria for diagnosing the myeloproliferative disorder, which is the combination of molecular, clinical, and histological findings. The appearance of megakaryocytes on bone marrow biopsy is the distinguishing feature to identify myeloproliferative neoplasm, and this short review would like to emphasize the presentation of megakaryocytes in bone marrow biopsy.
PREVALENCE OF GUSTATORY AND OLFACTORY IMPAIRMENT IN DIFFERENT STAGES OF SARS-COV-2 INFECTED PATEINTS IN ISOLATION WARD
Authors: Shar Mor Khan , Pirwani Faheem Ahmed , Rana Zahoor Ahmed , Mirza Hamza Hassan , Rush Ahsan Ullah , Jalbani Bashir Ahmed
Published: April 2022

Background: To evaluate the prevalence of gustatory and olfactory impairment and its correlation with the severity of SARS-Cov-2 infection as per WHO guidelines. Methods: A total of 241 patients of both gender having age from 15–80 years were included in the study. It was cross Sectional study conducted at SARS-COV-2 Isolation wards of Pakistan institute of medical science Islamabad from 15thSeptember 2020 to 15th January 2021. Convenient sampling technique was used to collect data. A proforma was designed for this purpose. Participants were divided into 3 groups on the basis of age. Group-1 (15–30 years), group-2 (31–50 years) and group 3 (51–80 years). Further the participants were graded into mild, moderate and severe stages of Sars-Cov-2 infection according to WHO guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS version 20. Results: In this study 66% were male and 34% population were the female. Regarding the age groups 72% population were from the group-3. Results of study shows 47% in mild stage, 45% in moderate stage and 8% severe stage. The results regarding the Gustatory and Olfactory impairment showed that 126 had gustatory impairment while 130 patients had olfactory impairment. Conclusion: We found strong relationship of olfactory and gustatory changes associated with SARS-COV-2 patients. It is premature to conclude that taste and smell changes are strongly linked to SARS-COV-2 diagnosis. Further multi center researches are required to find out possible pathophysiological mechanism
EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF INTRAVENOUS IRON IN CHILDREN WITH IRON DEFICIENCY ANAEMIA POORLY COMPLIANT TO ORAL IRON THERAPY
Authors: Baig Mirza Muhammad Ahsan , Batool Samina , Aslam Taiba , Rafique Muhammad , Batool Sadia , Anwaar Osama , Zahid Saman
Published: April 2022

Background: Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide. Common causes of IDA in children are excessive consumption of cow’s milk and prolonged breast feeding with delayed and poor weaning. Oral iron is the first line of treatment in children with IDA but occasionally there is inadequate response due to poor compliance. The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness and safety of intravenous iron in children with IDA, poorly compliant to oral iron therapy. Methods: This study consisted of 90 children from 12–60 months with IDA who were not responding adequately to oral iron therapy. Total iron requirement was calculated and given intravenously (IV) in two divided doses over two consecutive days. Participants were followed up at 2 and 4 weeks to assess the rise in haemoglobin level. Any adverse event was also noted. SPSS version 25 was used for statistical analysis. Results: Of the 90 enrolled children the mean age was 23.1±10.7 months, 47 (52.2%) were males and 43(47.8%) were females. The mean ferritin level before IV iron therapy was 3.75±2.53 ng/ml and mean haemoglobin was 5.9±1.3 g/dL. After IV iron therapy the haemoglobin level was raised to 8.38±1.09 g/dl and 9.74±0.88 g/dl at 2 and 4 weeks respectively which was statistically significant (p<0.05). The adverse events were fever in 3 (3.3%) and urticaria in 2 (2.2%) patients. Conclusion: Intravenous iron therapy is effective and safe to raise the haemoglobin levels in children with IDA who are poorly compliant to oral iron therapy.
LIMBERG FLAP TECHNIQUE FOR PILONIDAL SINUS DISEASE TREATMENT: AN EXPERIENCE OF HAMDARD UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL
Authors: Zubair Rabbia , Channa Muhammad Ali
Published: April 2022

Background: Pilonidal sinus disease (PNSD) is considered as the challenging disease for surgeons since decades. The term pilo-nidal is derived from Latin meaning “nest of hair”. It is a commonly occurring disease usually involved young male adults.  It is considered as an acquired condition with unidentified aetiology and pathogenesis. The objective was to observe the results of Limberg’s flap operation in patients with Pilonidal sinus disease. Methods: We performed an observational study at Hamdard University Hospital from 1st January 2016 to 31st December 2019 on patients who came to the outpatient department for the treatment of pilonidal sinus diseases and underwent surgery (Limberg’s flap) after consent. The patient’s presentation varied from single sinus and dry, multiple sinuses and dry, single sinus with serous discharge, single sinus with pus discharge, and pilonidal abscess. Forty-six patients were selected after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria and operated by Limberg’s flap technique. Result: Results were observed for postoperative seroma, hematoma, wound infection, persistent pain, and recurrence. Out of 46 patients, 30 (65.21%) were male and 16 (34.7%) were female. 28 patients (60.8%) were between 31–40 years of age and 12 patients (26.08%) were between 41–50 years of age. After performing Limberg’s flap procedure, 35 patients (76%) had no complications at all. 2 patients (4.3%) had seroma formation. 4 patients had Hematoma formation (8.6%). Two patients (4.3%) patients developed superficial wound infection. 2 patients (4.3%) had persistent pain after 3 months of the procedure. One patient (2.1%) had recurrence during the follow-up period of 12 months. Conclusion: Limberg’s flap operation is associated with low recurrence as well as a low rate of other complications such as seroma or hematoma formation, wound infection, and persistent pain irrespective of the presentation of the pilonidal sinus.
QUANTIFICATION OF THROMBUS BURDEN AS AN INDEPENDENT PREDICTOR OF INTRA-PROCEDURAL NO-REFLOW IN PATIENTS WITH ST-SEGMENT ELEVATION MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION UNDERGOING PRIMARY PERCUTANEOUS CORONARY REVASCULARIZATION
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Khan Kamran Ahmed , Shah Jehangir Ali , Ammar Ali , Kumar Dileep , Khowaja Sanam , Sial Jawaid Akbar , Kazmi Samra , Murtaza Muhammad , Karim Musa
Published: April 2022

Background: Aim of this study was to perform quantitative evaluation of high thrombus burden (Grade ≥4) as an independent predictor of slow/no reflow phenomenon during primary percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Methods: In this analytical cross-sectional study we included consecutive patients who have undergone primary PCI for STEMI at a tertiary care cardiac center of the Pakistan. High thrombus burden was defined as angiographic thrombus grade ≥ 4. The thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow rate < III was defined as slow/no reflow phenomenon. Results of multivariate logistic regression analysis for slow/no reflow phenomenon were reported as odds ratio (OR). Results: This analysis included 747 patients, 78.2% (584) patients were male and mean age was 55.82±11.54 years. High thrombus burden was observed in 68.1% (509) of the patients. Slow/no reflow phenomenon was observed in 33.6% (251) which was more common among patients in high thrombus burden group, 39.7% (202/509) vs. 20.6% (49/238); p<0.001. Adjusted OR of thrombus Grade ≥ 4 was 2.33 [1.6 -3.39]; p<0.001. Other significant variables were female gender (1.51 [1.01 -2.27]; p=0.045), left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) ≥20 mmHg (2.34 [1.69 -3.26]; p<0.001), total lesion length ≥ 20 cm (1.54 [1.09-2.16]; p=0.014), and neutrophil count ≥ 8.8 cells/µL (1.72 [1.22 -2.43]; p=0.002). Conclusion: High thrombus burden (Grade ≥ 4) is a significant and an independent predictor of the slow/no reflow phenomenon. While predicting slow/no reflow phenomenon, thrombus burden should be given due importance along with other significant factors such as gender, LVEDP, lesion length, and neutrophil counts.
ESTABLISHMENT OF VIRTUAL FRACTURE CLINIC IN PRINCESS ROYAL HOSPITAL TELFORD: EXPERIENCE AND RECOMMENDATIONS DURING THE FIRST 9 MONTHS
Authors: Khaleeq Tahir , Lancaster Patrick , Fakoya Keji , Black Martin , Littlehales Julie , Ferreira Pedro , Ahmed Usman
Published: April 2022

Background: Virtual fracture clinics (VFC) have been shown to be a safe and cost-effective way of managing outpatient referrals to the orthopaedic department. During the coronavirus pandemic there has been a push to reduce unnecessary patient contact whilst maintaining patient safety. Methods: A protocol was developed by the clinical team in collaboration with Advanced Physiotherapy Practitioners (APP) on how to manage common musculoskeletal presentations to A&E prior to COVID as part of routine service development. Patients broadly triaged into 4 categories; discharge with advice, referral to VFC, referral to face to face clinic or discussion with on call team. The first 9 months of data were analysed to assess types of injury seen and outcomes. Results: In total 2489 patients were referred to VFC from internal and external sources. Seven hundred and thirty-four patients were discharged without follow-up and 182 patients were discharged for physiotherapy review. Only 3 patients required admission. Regarding follow-ups, 431 patients had a virtual follow-up while 1036 of patients required further face to face follow up. Eighty-seven patients were triaged into subspecialty clinics. Thirty-seven patients were felt to have been referred inappropriately. Discussion: British Orthopaedic Association guidelines suggest all patients need to be reviewed within 72 hours of their orthopaedic injury. Implementation of a VFC allows this target to be achieved and at the same time reduce patient contact. Almost half the patients were discharged following VFC review, the remaining patients were appropriately followed up. This is especially relevant in the current pandemic where reducing unnecessary trips to hospital will benefit the patient as well as make the most of the resources available.
Twee bewinden tegelijk is soms te veel
Authors: ter Haar J.H.M.
Published: April 2022

Twee bewinden tegelijk is soms te veel

In de praktijk kan soms een testamentair bewind zijn ingesteld over een verkrijging van een rechthebbende, die zelf vertegenwoordigd wordt door een ouder, voogd, curator of meerderjarigenbewindvoerder. Er is dan sprake van een samenloop van bewind. Deze situatie kan soms ingewikkeld worden als de testamentair bewindvoerder en de ouder, voogd, curator of meerderjarigenbewindvoerder dezelfde persoon zijn. De vraag is dan in hoeverre een testamentair bewind nog gewenst is en welke mogelijkheden er zijn om het testamentair bewind te beëindigen. Mede aan de hand van actuele uitspraken wordt getracht een antwoord op deze vragen te geven.
Fiscal Responsability: An Investigation into the Credibility of Brazilian Tax Policy after the LRF
Authors: Azevedo Côrtes Claudia , Maria Nocko Larissa , Cardoso de Barros Filho Luciano
Published: April 2022

The Fiscal Responsibility Law (LRF) promulgation in 2000 was a milestone in the establishment of fiscal rules nationwide. The balance of public accounts and debt sustainability are necessary conditions for prolonged economic growth and, through the expectations of private agents, affect the economy's investment rate. The objective of the research was to verify whether, during the 20 years of the LRF, there is a perception of credibility in the Brazilian fiscal policy. For this, the VAR model was used to ascertain the behavior of private agents' expectations in relation to public debt and the primary result, obtained in the Focus report of the Central Bank (BACEN). As an additional contribution, it analyzed the effects of the expectations of these fiscal indicators on the investment rate. The results showed that these effects are relevant and suggest a compromise in the credibility of private agents in national fiscal policy in the analyzed period.
Feminine Self-Confliction in Asdawun min Alalam Divan (Echoes of Pain) for the Algerian Poet Fatima Alzahraa bin ʿaddu
Authors: Abd alla Mohammed Dr. Elmoukashfi Ibrahim
Published: April 2022

This study aimed at defining the term of selfness and its association with poetry, then discussing feminine self-confliction in the poetic collection of Asdawun min Alalam as to unveil what the poet had encountered of pains and sufferings as well as her attitudes toward her Arab society during the second half of the twentieth century. Moreover, it aimed at understanding dimensions and nature of conflict between man and women in the East generally.       The researcher adopted the descriptive analytical method in this study. The study came to a number of findings, the most important of which are: first, man in Asdawun min Alalam Divan is used as an indication to injustice and selfishness; he deprived woman from her freedom, value and dignity. Then, the reality of the Eastern community confuses between love, friendship, and marriage as well as between attraction and admiration. In addition, the Eastern manly brain is controlled by masculinity and virility, and those brains are - more or less - sex slaves as well as an animal of the modern civilization. Finally, there is an urgent necessity for a revolution that would take down this falling and shaky structure of the dominant masculine heritage.
The Features of Simile in the Novel of (Bandar Shaa/Daw al- beit) Written by Tayeb Salih
Authors: Abdalla Mohammed Dr. Elmoukashfi Ibrahim
Published: April 2022

The study aimed to highlight the features of simile in the novel Bandar Shaa (Daw-al-beit) written by Tayeb Salih. The purpose of the study is to report to what extent the novel is in harmony with what it describes and the effect of that on the portrait of characters and the description of their environments, reveal the pictorial capacity of Tayeb Salih to convey the meanings he wishes, and to investigate the sources of his artistic portrait. The researcher employed a descriptive method, and after the study research, the study revealed several findings. The most important of them is the capacity of the writer to elicit the features of simile from the environment to convey meanings better than thousands of words can do. The features of simile have combined the beauty of simile and the strength of meaning. Results indicated the ability of the writer to elicit his similes and make them relevant to the meanings and explain them in ingenious details that reveal their attractions. The features of simile have revealed many meanings that signify the fears of the writer, such as the disorder of lifestyle and the acceleration of its course (Wad Hamid) and its precipice to the change, which may blow constant values and roots; this is the matter that the writer apprehends to occur at one time. The features of simile have played a significant role in transforming the character of “Daw-al-beit” into a legend and icon, through which the writer expresses the meanings he wishes. Most of the features of simile were sensual, principally in the aspect of the likened character.
Making Friends and Playing the Game
Authors: Schou Pallesen Cecil Marie
Published: April 2022

Bribery relations are a way to cope with the uncertainties of everyday life for many people living in Tanzania. For members of the Tanzanian Indian communities, the uncertainties not only count the faltering bureaucratic systems and a state lacking legitimacy. Being members of a resourceful yet marginalized ethnic group within a nation that has not been willing or able to offer them protection also puts Tanzanian Indian communities in a vulnerable position. Bribery friends, as this article shows, are relations that despite, or perhaps owing to, their uncertain nature create a level of certainty and protection. ‘Playing the game’, meaning to accept and engage in bribery, becomes a way for the Tanzanian Indians to control and claim both distance and belonging to a nation that never really accepted them as true citizens. Investigating the moral economy of bribery among Tanzanian Indians, the article argues that the experiences and logics of bribery help us to get a deeper understanding of Tanzanian Indians’ perception of the state and their role in it, which is, above all, ambiguous.
Is Existence an Ontologically Sound Term?
Authors: Livadas Stathis ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: April 2022

This article deals with the question of existence by considering the way in which phenomenology has faced this issue. To provide an argument against the ontological certainties typical of idealism and realism, I try to show the possibility of a subjective reduction of the question of existence and to highlight the way in which the concept of existence may be “undermined” by this reduction. A prominent place is given to the concept of infinity for radically reassessing the content and scope of the concept of existence. I try to integrate some of the main themes of Husserlian phenomenology without being restrictively committed to it. I include some discussion of foundational mathematics and of quantum physics.
The importance of communication for business success of companies in the conditions of globalization
Authors: Đelošević Ivana , Spasojević Branka
Published: April 2022

Globalization is a social phenomenon with broad implications. It changes the appearance of the world, and also the way we look at the world. It leads us, whether we like it or not, to live more radically, faster, more openly and to constantly adapt to the changing environment. Achieving the superior business performance in the global environment is related to respecting and adapting to new challenges and trends. It is quite clear and certain that it depends to some extent on good communication and negotiating skills whether the company will achieve business growth. Numerous activities in the modern business system are based exclusively on good communication, where the parties involved in the communication process must know the business skills, market, desires and style of behavior. Business cooperation begins and ends with communication. It is the basis for the growth and development of the company.
Brand and legal protection as a prerequisite for successful business
Authors: Kostadinović Svetolik , Kostadinović Ivan , Krasić Danijela
Published: April 2022

Product labeling has been carried out since the market existed, and the two main functions from the very beginning were to show the origin of the product and guarantee quality. A trademark or symbol serves to protect manufacturers and consumers from possible false substitutions, as a sign of differentiation from the same or similar products, and is a guarantee of quality. Technologies undoubtedly bring us numerous improvements. However, numerous studies show that digital piracy and the damage it does to the economies of many countries is very great. It is estimated that almost a million victims are reported worldwide each year, or 12 victims per second, a figure that speaks to the seriousness of the problem and the need for perpetrators to be prosecuted. The abuses are massive, and the instruments are the Internet, global social and computer networks, piracy, counterfeiting brands, misuse of bank payment cards, and many others. There are many ways to fight high-tech crime and brand piracy, and top experts in the field of IT and computers, special teams and legislation are engaged in that fight.
Social capital of clusters in the function of raising competitiveness of small and medium sized enterprises
Authors: Mitrović Vladimir , Dević Željko , Mitrović Ivana
Published: April 2022

Social capital represents collective or individual value gained from connectedness in certain groups or networks. Custer is a system of connected enterprises and institutions that provide synergetic effect with their actions. Accordingly, one of very popular ways of organizing and strengthening the role of small and medium-sized enterprises is their connecting into clusters and building competitive advantage on that basis. Nowadays numerous organisations are trying to change their relationship towards social capital and divert a significant portion of their activities towards its quality management. The aim of this paper is to perceive social processes in the Serbian clusters and point out how the access to a cluster means entering a specific network of relations that can contain rich social capital. In that sense, the significance of the recognition of social capital in the clusters by small and medium-sized enterprises will be highlighted, since the relations of formal and informal connections in the networks have a strategic value for the improvement of SMEs, that are otherwise unable to make faster economic progress due to limited resources.
Comparative analysis of the significant positions of financial statements on the example of Raiffeisen Bank in the Republic of Serbia and in the Republic of Croatia
Authors: Janaćković Tanja , Georgiev Maša
Published: April 2022

The business of modern companies and lives of individuals are linked inseparably with banks and their operations. A company is referred to a bank for financial transactions and it represents the most common source for financing the foundation and development of the company from the moment of creating a business idea and the endeavor to implement it. In the focus of the paper is comparative analysis of significant items of balance sheet and income statement, on the example of Raiffeisenbankin the Republic of Serbia and in the Republic of Croatia. The aim of this paper is to point out significant trends in the operations of these banks through a comparative overview of the important financial positions.
Digital marketing an efficient means of promotion
Authors: Pavlović Nikola , Savić Marko , Milanović Miloš
Published: April 2022

The term "digital marketing" is simple to describe. There are many ways to market your organization online, according to Optimizely.com. E-mail, pop-up ads, social media, search engine optimization, Google AdWords, and other forms of internet marketing are examples. Traditional marketing focuses on promoting your company using physical flyers, billboards, television, and radio, whereas digital marketing focuses on promoting your company over the internet. On the other hand, web marketing provides far more promotion alternatives. The purpose of this thesis is to determine the significance, application, and efficacy of digital marketing in today's surroundings. In addition to this, the goal is also to identify the most effective digital promotion methods in Serbia.
Transformation of investment funds in the Republic of Srpska
Authors: Starčević Vitomir
Published: April 2022

In the process of transformation of the socialist system, the need was imposed for the development of a market way of doing business following the example of the economies of market developed countries. In this context, the Republic of Srpska is pursuing an economic transition to enable the establishment of a marketorganized economy. Privatization of state capital in companies is an indispensable precondition for the implementation of this goal. This would enable the establishment of a market economy and an open and liquid capital market. To achieve this, the key task is to establish an efficient financial system that is the most important part of the overall economic system. This imposes the need for the presence of well-trained financial institutions to operate in the newly emerging market conditions. Therefore, in the Republic of Srpska, attention is paid to the transformation of already existing financial institutions and the formation and transformation of new ones, such as investment funds. The formation and transformation of investment funds is of great importance in supporting the market economy. Consequently, the research in this article is focused on the chronological presentation of the transformation of investment funds in the Republic of Srpska and their operations in order to see to what extent they have influenced or not the development of corporate management and capital markets.
Digital assets: Creation and accounting records
Authors: Trklja Radmila , Trklja Milan , Dašić Boban
Published: April 2022

The Law on Digital Assets (here in after' the Law) entered into force at the end of 2020, but due to a six-month postponement its implementation started on 31.06.2021. In the meantime, the National Bank of Serbia and the Securities Commission (as the two main regulatory authorities established by the Law) have adopted 19 secondary legislation acts in the form of decisions and bylaws. With reference to that, the Ministry of Finance adopted amendments to the Law on Corporate Income Tax and Law on Individual Income Tax regarding taxation of digital assets transactions. In addition to regulation of the legal framework and taxation, this issue also requires regulation of the accounting method, i.e. recognition and measurement of digital assets - which is the topic of this paper.
A daily clinical challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic era: How to treat patients with pulmonary embolism and hemoptysis
Authors: Stojanović Duška , Stojanović Milovan , Marjanović Dušan , Mitrović Goran , Stalević Marko
Published: April 2022

Introduction/Objective Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a relatively common complication of COVID-19. The results of a study published in 2022 show that 10-15% of hospitalized patients suffer from prothrombotic coagulopathy, resulting in arterial or venous thromboembolic events. We are presenting a COVID-19 patient with PE whose treatment was a challenge because he had developed hemoptysis after being treated with anticoagulant therapy. Case report. We presented a case of a young patient with COVID-19 induced pneumonia, treated with antibiotics, corticosteroids and prophylactic anticoagulant therapy. During his hospitalization, he developed PE which was why the dosage of anticoagulants was increased. Not long after that, the patient developed massive hemoptysis. A team of specialists decided that he was to continue receiving the anticoagulant therapy while simultaneously introducing a hemostatic drug. The patient responded well to the expanded therapy and was discharged from the hospital two weeks later. Conclusion. Based on all pre-COVID medical guidelines, the cornerstone of treating PE is anticoagulant therapy. However, even taking into account significant advances in creating innovative drugs and the absolute clinical necessity of prescribing such therapy, it still comes with a series of complications, the most important of which is significant bleeding. Treating patients with comorbidities, PE and hemoptysis is a complex endeavour, because what helps with one disease may worsen another and vice versa. This is why an individualized treatment approach is necessary for each patient and difficult decisions should be made by a team of specialists.
The long road to an efficient safety culture
Authors: Lučkin Amina , Pašalić Arzija , Alihodžić Almedina , Mrkulić Elmedina , Mizdrak Alma , Delić Sadžida , Mulaosmanović Zineta , Alić Nino
Published: April 2022

Introduction/Objective Patient safety is defined as the prevention of errors and adverse effects aimed at patients and associated with health care. Patient safety culture (PSC) is "the product of individual and group values, attitudes, perceptions, competencies and patterns of behaviour that determine the commitment to, and the style and proficiency of, an organization's health and safety management." Improving the perception of the PSC within the healthcare sector plays a key role in improving its overall quality, efficacy and productivity. This article aims to point out the importance of the inexhaustible and very interesting topic of safety culture as a basis for further research and strategy creation. Methods This is a qualitative research paper, based on a scientific review of the literature. Relevant articles for this review have been identified by searching digital databases: PubMed, Medline and Google Scholar. The research was retrospective and covered a timeframe of five years. Articles were selected by introducing keywords relevant to the subject. Results The results are based on the analysis and review of 12 published scientific articles from 2017 to 2021. Conclusion Patient safety must be the priority of the healthcare provider. Theoretical foundations should be combined with educational experiences following the development of knowledge, skills and attitudes for effective patient safety. Adverse event reporting should include learning from mistakes, supporting an environment that encourages reporting without blame or fear of punishment. The healthcare system needs to be made as safe as possible for both the patients and all those providing healthcare. Improving and developing the quality of healthcare requires knowledge, selection and application of specific methods and tools tailored to the capabilities of individual healthcare institutions.
Comorbidity in women addicted to alcohol
Authors: Milošević Slađana , Mihajlović Sanja , Arsić-Vulić Jovana , Arsić Nikola
Published: April 2022

Objective. The main goal of the research is to determine comorbidities in women addicted to alcohol who were treated at the Clinic for Addiction Diseases of the Institute of Mental Health Belgrade. Methods. The research was conducted in January 2018, a retrospective study collected data for research purposes by reviewing available medical documentation - discharge lists. The research sample consists of 136 women addicted to alcohol between the ages of 18 and 68 who were treated at the Clinic for Addiction Diseases in the period from 2007 to 2017. For the needs of the research, and starting from the research variables, a special matrix for content analysis was made and filled in for each patient included in the research sample. Results. Among alcohol addicts, 17.6% had depression as comorbidity, and 5.9% had suicidal ideations. and 11.8% anxiety disorder. Conclusion. The study of comorbidities has significant implications, primarily due to the possible modification of the treatment of the underlying disorder and the adjustment of the therapeutic procedure to the comorbid disorder. Accordingly, timely diagnosis and treatment of comorbid diseases affects the easier course and better prognosis of the underlying disease on the one hand, but also reduces the cost of treatment and relieves the burden on the health system, on the other hand.
Importance of retesting SARS-CoV-2 borderline-positive samples in COVID 19 diagnostics
Authors: Gospodinović Hristina , Grego Edita , Ivanović Milica , Lukić Tamara , Ivanović Jovana , Simić Nataša , Ćoćić Danica , Čabrilo Maja , Jovanović Verica , Jovanović Sofija
Published: April 2022

Numerous commercial tests for SARS-CoV-2 detection have been developed in response to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Our laboratory uses tests from two manufacturers, 2019-nCoV from Sansure and Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 test from Cepheid. Protocols of different manufacturers list different predefined Ct (cycle threshold) values as cut-offs for a positive test. In this study, we focus on additional verification of Ct values for borderline positive samples, to confirm the results obtained. From May to November 2021, 88,708 tests were performed, of which 7,669 were positive and 224 were borderline positive. In retested borderline positive samples, positive results were obtained in 72.3% of the cases. Percentage of negative results upon retesting was 27.7%, which is almost a third of the total number of samples analysed. Based on these results, we can conclude that special attention must be paid when interpreting borderline positive results of RT-PCR tests. In the retesting process, if possible, it is particularly important to use a test with different properties.
Analysis of the operation of dialysis centres during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Atanasijević Dragana
Published: April 2022

Monitoring and assessment of the implementation of the National Program of Prevention, Treatment, Advancement and Control of Renal Insufficiency and Dialysis Development in the Republic of Serbia by 2020 has been implemented by the Institute of Public Health of Serbia "Dr Milan Jovanović Batut". As the mode of dialysis centres operation changed after the COVID-19 epidemic was proclaimed, whereby some centres started operating in the Covid-regime, while Covid-negative patients from these centres were rerouted to the closest dialysis centres with available capacities, the need for monitoring and assessing the conditions for the implementation of the chronic dialysis program was further emphasized. The purpose of this paper is to provide a retrospective analysis of the conditions for the implementation of a chronic dialysis program in healthcare institutions within, and outside of the Network Plan during the COVID-19 outbreak in the period from the beginning of the epidemic to 1 October 2021. For the purposes of this study, a special questionnaire was designed, which was filled in by dialysis centres. The questionnaire consisted of three parts pertaining to: a) implementation of infection prevention measures at the dialysis centre, b) availability of personal protection equipment and disinfectants at the dialysis centres during the COVID-19 pandemic and c) conditions for the provision of dialysis services to patients positive for, or suspected of, COVID-19 infection. In the observed period, as much as 39% of the dialysis centres were designated to receive patients from other healthcare institutions, which called for additional efforts in organising and pursuing transmission containment. Implementation of transmission prevention measures in the dialysis centres was maintained at a very high level (between 95.5 and 100%). Only 10-15% of dialysis centres reported occasional shortages of individual items from the personal protective equipment or disinfectant categories. Almost one in five dialysis centres received a higher number of patients during the outbreak than was the case in the pre-pandemic period. In that sense, it was difficult to maintain the necessary physical distance in an already limited space, and to organize work in shifts as human resources were restricted. In addition to the general documents pertaining to infectious disease transmission prevention and containment, a protocol needed to be elaborated to organize the operation of dialysis centres in an outbreak such as the one caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Drinking-water quality and sanitary conditions in small piped drinking water supply systems in rural areas in Serbia: Comparative analysis between Broad areas
Authors: Jovanović Dragana , Paunović Katarina , Spasović Katarina , Karadžić Vesna , Bijelović Sanja , Gligorijević Snežana , Ristanović-Ponjavić Ivana , Jovanović Verica
Published: April 2022

Provision of water supply service, through small-scale water supply systems (SSWS), is faced with many challenges in the entire pan-European region. This was the first comprenhensive national study that assessed drinking water quality and sanitary conditions in Serbia. This national survey was undertaken in rural areas of the Republic of Serbia in 2016 and on the basis of the WHO rapid assessment methodology. For the purpose of this study, three Broad Areas (BA) covering 26 districts were created, based on geographical and socio-economic characteristics of the districts: Vojvodina with 7 districts as BA1, West Serbia, Šumadija and Belgrade with 9 districts as BA2 and South and East Serbia and Kosovska Mitrovica with 10 districts as BA3. A total of 1168 piped water supply systems were inspected, sampled and analysed for selected microbiological and physical-chemical parameters. This study summarized the differences in compliance rate for microbiological and each physical-chemical parameter and sanitary scores between Broad Areas. This comparative analysis of small piped drinking water supply systems showed notable, significant differences in drinking water quality and identified sanitary risks between the selected areas.
Adolescents' self-rated health
Authors: Boričić Katarina
Published: April 2022

Bearing in mind the social and political events that have taken place in this country in the last decade of the 20th and at the beginning of the 21st century, health of adolescents in this country shows certain specific characteristics. Adolescent health self-assessment, as a subjective health indicator in this population group, depends primarily on how the adolescent perceives themselves, their physical appearance, their health-related behaviours as well as on their communication and relationships with others. The purpose of this review is to gain an insight into the relationship between health indicators and health self-assessment in adolescents, based on the existing literature. The literature reviewed was selected by searching the Pub Med database, for a ten-year period, for references that relate to the adolescent population, i.e., 10to 19-year-olds, in Serbia and world-wide. Studies performed thus far confirmed a statistically significant correlation between demographic data (sex, age, family structure, place of residence) and socioeconomic health determinants, and adolescent health self-assessment. A positive correlation was found related to physical activity as a protective behaviour, while evidence supporting the correlation of a poor health self-assessment with the habit of smoking and a lack of physical activity is consistent across literature. This is not the case with alcohol consumption, while no correlation was found in the majority of studies related to dietary habits. Insights gained in this literature review may be used as evidence-based facts when advocating important issues regarding the preservation and improvement of health in the adolescent population group.