bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic review of studies on writing in elementary school
Authors: Karakuş Gülçin
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a systematic literature review of studies about writing in elementary schools. A systematic search of databases was conducted to select studies. The aim was to identify and categorize difficulties and suggestions. A total of 52 articles published in peer-reviewed journals over the past 21 years were reviewed and analyzed using a well-established systematic literature review methodology, in academic-based research databases, after carefully reviewing the available literature and utilizing relevant sources. This review revealed that the studies mainly emphasize the relation between reading and writing, using technology in teaching writing, acquisition of writing and a method/approach or strategy suggestion, and structure/grammar in writing. Additionally, feedback, affective domain, and teaching writing at an early age are the focus points of other studies. The findings of this literature review allow teachers, administrators, and policy makers to employ and explore efficient writing activities to improve student engagement, motivation, and performance.
Protection of carbon steel from wear by quenching with nanotechnology to use it in dies parts
Authors: Abdulhussein Hafedh , Khalil Ibrahim , Ibrahim Razooqi , Mohammed Malik , Alalwan Hayder
Published: July 2023

Adding nanomaterials to quenching media is an innovative method to alter alloys' mechanical properties and enhance their resistance to wear. In this work, TiO2 nanoparticles were added to the oil as a quenching media in different mass percentages (0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6%) to identify the impact of adding TiO2 nanoparticles on wear resistance (dry sliding) and mechanical properties by microstructure analysis of carbon steel CK45 before and after the addition of nanofluid. The results reveal the critical role of adding nanomaterials in altering steel's mechanical properties and increasing its resistance to wear. Specifically, increasing the TiO2 nanoparticle percentage improves the wear resistance value under different loads (20, 30, and 40 N). Also, the homogenous microstructure and mechanical properties were enhanced after using nanotechnology. That means the nanotechnology can protect CK45 from wear to be used for dies structure parts by quenching process.
Physical, chemical, optical and insulating properties of alkyl benzoic acid derivatives liquid crystal due to extension alkyl chain (CNH2N+1) length: A DFT study
Authors: Mishra Mirtunjai , Kumar Narinder , Thapa Khem , Rawat B.S. , Dhyani Reena , Singh Devendra , Kumar Devesh
Published: July 2023

The aim of this paper was to analyze the structure, vibrations and to do global analyses of molecules of p-n-alkyl benzoic acid (nBAC). The energy, IR, and Homo-Lumo optimised parameters were calculated using a density functional method. The global reactivity descriptors of molecules, including electro-negativity, electron affinity, ionisation potential, global softness, chemical potential, and energy gaps is further shown by band gap value drops. It offers important details on the stability of nBAC molecules (n=4,5,6,7,8,9). It has been demonstrated that the molecular series displays the energy of an isolated molecule as the length of the alkyl chain rises. The molecular series is useful for insulating applications since it also has a high band gap.
Separation of propranolol enantiomers using chiral HPLC
Authors: Turković Nemanja , Savić Jasna , Ivković Branka , Ivković Aleksandar
Published: July 2023

Enantiomers of pharmaceuticals may exhibit different effects because the organism serves as a chiral selector. Enantiomers can now be identified and separated using analytical techniques such as gas chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. The nonselective b-adrenergic blocker propranolol is used as a racemate in therapy, but only the S(-) isomer has been shown to be active. The aim of this study was to determine the mobile phase composition that would achieve optimal retention and satisfactory resolution between enantiomers and to confirm the order of elution of the enantiomers. The enantioseparation was tested in the n-heptane/ethanol/ammonia, n-heptane/ethanol/diethylamine, n-heptane/isopropanol/ ammonia and n-heptane/isopropanol/diethylamine systems. Optimal separation of enantiomers (t1=4,708; t2=5.264; Rs=1.75) was achieved with the mobile phase n-heptane/ethanol/diethylamine 80/20/0.1. The elution order was based on the retention time of the pure S(-)isomer. It was confirmed that the R(+) isomer shows higher retention.
Dinuclear silver(I) complexes with phthalazine: DNA/BSA binding and in vivo toxicity study
Authors: Ašanin Darko , Andrejević Tina , Milivojević Dušan , Stevanović Nevena , Glišić Biljana
Published: July 2023

The present study reports the synthesis and spectroscopic characterization of dinuclear silver(I) complexes, {[Ag(X-O)(phtz-N)]2(µ-phtz-N,N')2} (X = NO3 - (Ag1) and CF3SO3 - (Ag2), and phtz is phthalazine). The interaction of these two complexes with calf thymus DNA (ct-DNA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) was investigated to assess their binding affinity to these biomolecules. The binding constants of complexes Ag1 and Ag2 to BSA are found to be higher than those for ct-DNA, being in accordance with their higher affinity toward the studied protein. The values of partition coefficient (logP) for the investigated complexes indicate higher cellular uptake efficiency of Ag1 than Ag2. The in vivo toxicity of the complexes Ag1 and Ag2 against the model organism, Caenorhabditis elegans, was studied to check their therapeutic potential.
The physicochemical characteristics of honey and quantification of some anti-microbial agents in honey from different Serbian regions as a quality assessment tool
Authors: Kaljević Vesna , Matović Kazimir , Pejović Lidija , Kartalović Brankica , Stanić Zorka
Published: July 2023

Healthy, organic, high-calorie and very tasty - these attributes are often associated with natural products such as honey. The aim of this study is to characterize the 135 honey samples collected in seven regions of central Serbia in terms of their physicochemical parameters (electrical conductivity, moisture, free acids, insoluble matter and reducing sugars, hydroxymethylfurfural, and diastase activity), the possible presence of tetracycline, sulfonamide and pesticide residues, and finally to perform a quality assessment for consumer protection. Considering the physicochemical parameters, it was found that almost all honey samples complied with the European Legislation (EC Directive 2001/110: THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, 2001) for the parameters studied. From the point of view of antimicrobial agents, the commercial quality was considered good, and all samples were found to be free of harmful agents such as bacteriostatic, antibiotic and pesticide residues through analysis.
B-glucan content variability in seed of barley cultivars
Authors: Leković Suzana , Marković Stefan , Minić Đorđe , Todosijević Jovana , Torbica Aleksandra , Đukić Nevena
Published: July 2023

Barley is an important source of b-glucans because they have a positive influence on human health and potential application in the food industry. The aim of this manuscript was to determine the variability of ten barley cultivars based on b-glucan content. The percentage of b-glucan varied in the range of 4.44% to 8.17%, with a mean value of 6.57%. Based on b-glucan content, the degree of cultivar similarity was determined by the dendrogram. Among analyzed barley cultivars, the highest concentration of b-glucan was found in the cultivar Lav and Ukras, while the lowest concentration was observed in the cultivar Vihor (4.44%). Compared with all the other cultivars mentioned, a pair of cultivars expressed the greatest distance. Statistical analysis showed that there is a significant difference between analyzed barley cultivars. The analysis of b-glucans in varieties of barley in two growing seasons aims to develop an agricultural strategy and develop barley varieties with higher b-glucans content.
Histological, ultrastructural and stereological analyses of pancreatic islets in glucocorticoid-treated rats
Authors: Glišić Radmila , Čakić-Milošević Maja , Ukropina Mirela , Mitrovski-Bogdanović Ana , Stanković Vesna
Published: July 2023

Dexamethasone is a synthetic glucocorticoid commonly used in both human and veterinary medicine. Prolonged treatment with dexamethasone can lead to serious metabolic side effects such as insulin resistance and diabetes. In this study, the morphological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural changes in the rat pancreatic islets were investigated after dexamethasone treatment (2 mg/kg, intraperitoneally for 12 days). The results showed that the volume density, mean diameter and profile area of islets were significantly increased in dexamethasone-treated animals. The volume density, profile area and mass of B-cells increased, whereas the volume density of A-and D-cells decreased, as did the number of A-cells per mm 2 of islet. Mild insulin immunopositivity of the centrally located B-cells together with altered ultrastructural features indicated their loss of function. The results of the present study suggest adverse effects of dexamethasone on pancreatic endocrine function that may ultimately seriously affect glucose homeostasis.
Gastrin-producing G cells of gastric mucosa in Dexamethasone-treated rats
Authors: Glišić Radmila , Čakić-Milošević Maja , Ukropina Mirela , Marković Stefan , Marin Marija , Stanković Vesna
Published: July 2023

The systemic administration of glucocorticoids has not only strong beneficial anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects but also numerous adverse health effects. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the stereological and ultrastructural characteristics and distribution of gastrin-producing G cells in rat antral mucosa after 12 days of intraperitoneal administration of 2 mg/kg dexamethasone (DEX). In both groups of rats (DEX and control), the G cells were located at the base of the antral mucosal crypts, but in the DEX-treated rats, they were also found near the gastric lumen and showed an altered morphology compared to the basal cells. There were significant differences in the number of G cells per unit area and unit volume of antral mucosa between the groups studied. In the DEX-treated rats, the modified morphology and position of the antral G cells within the gastric units indicate their modified activity and possible impaired regulation of gastric acid production.
Different extracts and isolated substances from the root of Onosma visianii Clem. as antifungal agents
Authors: Radojević Ivana , Marković Katarina , Grujović Mirjana , Vukić Milena , Vuković Nenad
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study was to determine the antifungal activity of extracts and isolated substances from the root of Onosma visianii Clem. (Boraginaceae) by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC). The results show that antifungal activity depends on species of microorganism and the type of substances or extracts. All tested substances showed selective and moderate antifungal activity. MIC and MFC values for the extracts ranged from <0.015 to 15 mg/ml, while those for substances ranged from 0.04 to 5 mg/ml. Among all tested extracts, petroleum ether and methylene chloride in proportion 1:1 (against Penicillium expansum) and acetone extract (against Saccharomyces boulardii) showed the strongest antifungal activity. Among the isolated substances, the most significant was the effect of 5,8-O-dimethyl deoxyshikonin against P. expansum. The results of this study show that both extracts, and the isolated substances can be potentially used in pharmacology, biotechnology, or agriculture.
Wild raspberry from ecologicaly significant areas of Serbia: Phenotypic variability
Authors: Veljković Bojana , Stanković Milan , Petrović Mirjana , Rančić Dragana , Dajić-Stevanović Zora
Published: July 2023

Inter-population differentiation of the species Rubus idaeus was analyzed based on the morpho-anatomical variability of its seven populations from the mountain regions of southwestern and southeastern Serbia. Results of the morphological analysis showed that the highest average height (123.40 cm) had individuals from the P3 study locality on Mt. Goč, while the lowest (77.00 cm) was from Mt. Kopaonik P5 locality. The longest and the widest leaves had representatives of the P1 population (9.25 and 9.20 cm). The smallest leaves had representatives from the Mt. Kopaonik P5 population (length 6,32 cm; width 5.11 cm). The height of the individual is influenced by ecological factors. PCA showed that the Mt. Golija P4 population is distinguished based on all the tested anatomical characters. In these individuals, the higher values for almost all anatomical examined characters were observed. The analysis of bioclimatic data shows that the highest annual amount of precipitation was recorded exactly for this population. It can be assumed that climate factors greatly contributed to shown morpho-anatomical traits. Observed variability could be explained as an adaptive response to different geographical and recent environmental factors.
Ethnobotanical knowledge and traditional practice in the frame of urban ecosystem services on the example of the city of Kragujevac (Serbia)
Authors: Luković Milica , Dajić-Stevanović Zora , Veljović Sonja
Published: July 2023

The ethnobotanical studies provide a generalized survey of ethnobotanical knowledge, traditional practices, and plant species utilization using by humans a range of provisioning ecosystem services, referring dominantly to rural and less to urban settlements. This study aims to answer the question of whether traditional ethnobotanical knowledge is applied in urban areas in the context of the selection and utilization of medicinal, aromatic, and wild edible plant species. The research was conducted in the urban area of the city of Kragujevac (central Serbia) in the period from May to October 2021. Data collection was performed "in situ" using semi-structured ethnobotanical face-to-face interviews with 43 respondents. The total number of finally selected plant species reported by respondents was 24. They were classified according to their purpose of use as medicinal, food, and ornamental. Herein, the analyzed urban population mostly utilized plant species for edible purposes.
New finding of Cordulegaster insignis Schneider, 1845 (odonata: cordulegastridae) in Serbia
Authors: Đurđević Aca , Popović Miloš , Medenica Ivan , Nikolić Marko
Published: July 2023

During a field survey in 2021 in Southern Serbia, near the village of Strezovac, two specimens of Cordulegaster insignis Schneider, 1845 were found. This species is extremely rare in Serbia. The findings are located on the western border of its areal.
The composition and structure of the microcrustacean zooplankton of the artificial reservoir Grliško in Eastern Serbia
Authors: Ninić Ljiljana , Nikolić Vera , Đikanović Vesna , Miličić Dragana
Published: July 2023

This paper provides an overview of the qualitative composition and structure of the microcrustacean of the Grliško reservoir based on field research conducted from 11 June 2019 to 9 July 2019. Sampling was carried out every seven days at sub-sites with different macrofauna, using the standard hydrobiological methodology. A total of 18 zooplankton taxa were recorded, belonging to the following groups: Rotifera (1 taxon), Cladocera (12 taxa), and Copepoda (5 taxa). The largest number of taxa was found in June. The total number of taxa was almost the same in the sub-areas with a lot of macrovegetation and without vegetation but differed in the qualitative composition of zooplankton species, spatially and temporally. Since the main purpose of the Grliško reservoir is to provide water for the population, it is necessary to constantly monitor the zooplankton, as it can be an important indicator of the state of this aquatic ecosystem.
Digital skills in tourism and hospitality as a precondition for the sector resilient growth: The case of Serbia
Authors: Lazić Milena , Bradić-Martinović Aleksandra , Banović Jelena
Published: July 2023

Advanced digital solutions, modern technologies and artificial intelligence have fundamentally transformed the pace of change and existing business models in the tourism and hospitality (T&H) sector. Implementing advanced digital solutions through new and improved tourism products and services can transform the customer experience while increasing the sector's productivity and resilience. However, in order to adequately leverage advanced digital technologies, the T&H sector's workforce must have a sufficient level of digital skills, competencies, and capabilities. Accordingly, this paper aims to assess the digital skills of the T&H sector employees in Serbia and identify the key factors that influence their level. The findings suggest that the digital skills of employees in the T&H sector in Serbia should be improved through formal and informal education in order for the sector to reposition itself in a more resilient and sustainable manner and in line with the 2030 Agenda.
System for water collection that gravities into the old bed of the river Čehotina
Authors: Doderović Aleksandar , Stanić Nikola , Gomilanović Miljan , Stepanović Saša
Published: July 2023

Functioning of the drainage system has a great importance for the efficient and continuous exploitation at the open pits. Modern exploitation is realized at the open pits with increasing depth and surface, so it is of a crucial importance to accept as much water as possible before it enters the open pit contour. By this way, the loading of a drainage system inside the open pit is greatly reduced, but it also prevents the negative effects of water on the massif. This paper, using the example of the open pit Potrlica, presents how the already existing system, which fully solves all problems in a dynamic environment such as surface mining of lignite, can be improved. Timely improvement of the system can greatly relieve the existing drainage system and improve the exploitation system.
Selection the optimal truck model for transport of by-products from the TPP Pljevlja to the Maljevac landfill
Authors: Stanić Nikola , Gomilanović Miljan , Stepanović Saša , Doderović Aleksandar
Published: July 2023

This work presents an analysis of selection the optimal truck model for transport of ash, gypsum and slag from the Thermal Power Plant Pljevlja to the Maljevac landfill. The capacity of trucks for transport of byproducts was calculated applying the Talpak program package for different types of trucks, taking into account different engagement times. The analysis was done for three types of trucks: Kamaz 53605-A5 (4x2), Mercedes-Benz Actros 4141 and Volvo FMX 520 10X4, for operation in one, two and three shifts. The results of analysis were used to select the optimal type of truck.
Factors and indicators of the geological and economic assessment of the coal resources in the Republic of Srpska as the starting basis for a deposit evaluation as a function of the national and commercial profitability
Authors: Vuković Boško , Milošević Aleksej
Published: July 2023

The geological-economic evaluation of coal deposits in the Republic of Srpska includes two ways of evaluation the deposits: evaluation of coal deposits without taking the time factor into account (analysis the parameters of the static evaluation methods: economy and profit rate) and evaluation the three largest coal deposits (Gacko, Ugljevik and Stanari) with taking the time factor into account, evaluation the economic profitability (commercial and national). The following dynamic methods are used to assess the commercial profitability: Net present value, internal rate of return and cash flow discounting method for determining the return period of investments. The analysis of the economic effects of the investment project (assessment of deposit) is performed using a "cost-benefit" analysis. This analysis was performed using the following methods: NPV, IRR and DCFROI. As a part of the economic analysis, the analysis of the conditions of uncertainty is processed, i.e., sensitivity analysis of coal deposits, namely: static sensitivity analysis (determining the breaking point of profitability and critical price of a unit of mineral raw material) and dynamic sensitivity analysis, directed at the results of changes in parameters (income, costs, investments and legal obligations) to the changes in the calculated internal rate of return [2]. For the assessment of national profitability, the basic criterion of national profitability, net added value - NVA, is applied. In addition to the direct effects of coal production in the Republic of Srpska, on the national economy (financial income and expenses), the additional criteria were also analyzed: effects on employment, foreign currency inflow and international competitiveness, i.e., applying a "cost-benefit" analysis, an analysis of indirect effects is also performed (effects) of coal production on the national economy of the Republic of Srpska.
Synthesis and testing of the electro-catalytic materials for the hydrogen-peroxide reduction
Authors: Marković Snežana , Ranđelović Marjan , Čović Jelena
Published: July 2023

In this paper, the synthesis, characterization and electrochemical testing of carbon material (graphene) modified with the Pd nanoparticles in the hydrogen peroxide reduction reaction was performed. Graphene was synthesized from glucose as a precursor, using FeCl3 as a catalyst. The reduction of hydrogen peroxide on the synthesized material was studied by the cyclic voltammetry and square wave voltammetry.
The impact of the Pro12Ala genotype of the PPARG gene on the osteoporosis parameters in postmenopausal women
Authors: Beronja Branko , Filipović Tamara , Hrkalović Marija , Maksimović Nela , Perović Dijana
Published: July 2023

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disease characterized by a decrease in bone mass and disruption of the bone microarchitecture, resulting in increased fragility. DXA scan (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) is the "gold standard" for the diagnosis of osteoporosis, while different serum or urine biomarkers are used in the measurement of bone turnover. PPAR-g belongs to the family of non-steroid nuclear receptors. It is predominantly expressed in adipocytes but it could be found in osteoblasts. Both types share a common precursor cell. Recent studies have indicated the important role of PPAR-g in bone remodeling. Substitution of C to G in an exon of the gene coding for this protein (PPARG) re-sults in Pro to Ala amino acid change at position 12, leading to decreased transcriptional activity of PPARG. The aim of our research was to deter-mine the association between the genotype Pro12Ala polymorphism of the PPARG gene and the value of measured bone mineral density (BMD) as well as biochemical parameters of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. 82 patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis were included in the study. The analysis of the Pro12Ala genotype of the PPARG gene was done by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). The Pro12Ala variant (CG genotype) was found in 14 respondents (17%), while the Pro12Pro (CC genotype) was present in 68 patients (83%). There was no statistically significant difference between BMD values concerning the genotype. However, carriers of the G allele (Pro12Ala variant) had significantly higher levels of serum Beta-CTx, a biochemical marker of bone degradation (p=0.019). There was no association found between the Pro12Ala genotype of the PPARG gene and BMD in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis, but the genotype could affect serum Beta-CTx levels indicating increased bone degradation.
Situs inversus totalis: Case report
Authors: Damnjanović Milijana
Published: July 2023

Situs inversus totalis is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by the mirror-image position of abdominal and thoracic organs, and the heart compared to their normal anatomical position. The estimated prevalence of situs inversus totalis in the general population ranges from 1:6500 to 1:25000. Situs inversus totalis can be associated with primary ciliary dyskinesia, structural abnormalities of the heart, and congenital anomalies of visceral organs, and the clinical picture depends on the associated congenital anomalies. However, in most cases, individuals with situs inversus totalis do not have associated congenital anomalies and health problems and the diagnosis is usually made incidentally during a medical examination. Due to the reverse position of thoracic and abdominal organs, the clinical picture of abdominal and cardiovascular diseases in these individuals can be atypical, and knowledge of their anatomy can help avoid diagnostic errors, complications, and unfavourable outcomes. This is the case of a three-year-old boy with situs inversus totalis, without associated congenital anomalies, in whom the diagnosis was made during the investigation of fever of unknown aetiology.
Bone transplantation in orthopaedic surgery
Authors: Aleksandrić Dejan , Mičeta Lazar , Jovanović Želimir , Grupković Jovana , Dabetić Uroš , Vukomanović Boris
Published: July 2023

Osteons are the basic units of bone tissue. Four types of bone cells are responsible for building the bone matrix, maintaining it and remodeling the bone. Those are osteoprogenitor cells, osteoblasts, osteocytes, and osteoclasts. The main role of the bone is in the construction of the skeleton that provides support and enables the maintenance of a constant body shape and movement, which is achieved by a complex system of levers influenced by muscle forces at the attachment points. A fracture leads to the process of inflammation, healing and, remodeling that can restore the injured bone to its original state. Nowadays, we are more and more often faced with defects of different size and etiology, which increase the need for bone transplantation. This procedure involves a surgical technique that places a new bone or a suitable substitute between or around the fractured fragments or in the area of the defect to promote bone healing. Bone transplantation is possible because bone tissue, unlike most other tissues, has the ability to fully regenerate if it is provided with adequate conditions and the space in which it will grow. The basic biological mechanisms that justify and explain the principle and utilization of bone grafting are osteoconduction, osteoinduction, and osteogenesis, but the idea of osteopromotion is also worth mentioning. Autografts represent the "gold standard", but due to an increased need allografts from bone banks are primarily used nowadays, while the development of synthetic replacements is the primary research interest, especially the development of the form which could be applied with the use of minimally invasive techniques.
Spontaneous uterine rupture during pregnancy
Authors: Cerović-Popović Radojka , Sparić Radmila
Published: July 2023

Uterine rupture is a life-threatening complication of pregnancy which is associated with high incidence rates of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The aim of this paper is to present the risk factors, clinical picture, and diagnostic and therapeutic options for the management of uterine rupture. The paper presents the data from the papers selected by searching the PubMed database using the combination of the following keywords: uterine rupture, pregnancy, delivery, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment. In developed countries, uterine rupture is most often a complication of a previous caesarean section, and less frequently of other uterine procedures. It occurs more frequently in developing countries, and it is usually the consequence of obstructed labor or inadequate use of labor-inducing medication. A typical clinical picture of uterine rupture includes abdominal pain and hemorrhagic shock in the mother and abnormal fetal heart rate. Non-specific symptoms and signs of uterine rupture make timely diagnosis difficult. The treatment of uterine rupture depends on the extent of the rupture, age, parity, and the patient's general condition. The primary goal is to stop hemorrhage and make the patient hemodinamically stable, which is done by hysterectomy or suturing of the uterus. Due to the increasing caesarean section rate and the fact that nowadays it is the most common risk factor for uterine rupture during pregnancy and childbirth, uterine rupture is still an important complication of pregnancy. Uterine rupture should be considered in pregnant women with risk factors, especially in case of non-specific abdominal pain and cardiotocographic changes. In such situations, timely diagnosis and immediate treatment can significantly contribute to a favorable maternal and neonatal outcome.
Human immunodeficiency virus infection in pregnancy
Authors: Sparić Radmila , Pavić Aleksandra , Andrić Luka , Novković Aleksa , Tomašević Đina , Pavić Slađana
Published: July 2023

HIV infection represents one of the major global public health challenges, especially among women of reproductive age. In 2020, there were 1.3 million pregnant women infected with HIV worldwide. Untreated HIV infection in pregnancy carries an increased risk of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Perinatal transmission of HIV refers to the transmission of the virus from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or puerperium. The aim of this paper is to present the up-to-date information on diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of pregnancy in HIV-positive women, with reference to the time and mode of delivery, in order to prevent the transmission of the virus from mother to fetus. The main goals of monitoring and treating HIV infection during pregnancy are the following: preventing the transmission of the virus to the fetus, preserving the mother's health, and providing conditions for a safe delivery. The goal of treatment is to maintain the lowest level of the virus in the blood, especially at the time of delivery, in order to reduce the risk of vertical transmission. It is recommended to start treatment of HIV infection before pregnancy. Also, regular monitoring of the viral load, the CD4+ lymphocyte count, and blood count, as well as performing liver and kidney function tests, is necessary. The choice of the time and mode of delivery should not differ in pregnant women with a low viral load, as compared to healthy pregnant women, while in pregnant women with a high viral load, the pregnancy should be ended with elective caesarean section. HIV infection affects both the pregnant woman and the fetus. Therefore, antenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum monitoring is important. The decision on therapy, as well as the time and mode of delivery, should be individual, and made in accordance with the viral load, the clinical presentation of HIV infection of the mother, and the condition of the fetus.
The role of the knowledge elite in the development of cross-border cooperation and the culture of peace in the Balkans
Authors: Mitrović Dragana , Veličković Dunja , Mitrović Ljubiša
Published: July 2023

The contemporary Balkans are still an area of unfinished peace. Its pacification and development depend on a faster process of regionalization and globalization, but also on changing the transition strategy and opening up to the elites of knowledge as actors in the economic, social, and cultural development of the countries of this region. Current flows in the European integration process are predominantly dictated by geostrategic interests but not by development goals. The paper discusses the actors of cross-border cooperation in the Balkans, with special reference to the role of the knowledge elite and the new diaspora in regional development and the affirmation of the culture of peace in this fragile geopolitical space. The focus is on the problematization of the thesis on the role of the new intellectual diaspora from the Balkans, which is an integral part of the global transnational actors of social changes in modern times and whose cognitive, innovative, and social capital, through the process of return mobility (circular migrations of knowledge elites), can contribute to faster local, national, and regional development. The attachment indicates the high creative-innovative potential of the new Balkan diaspora, embodied in the elites of knowledge, innovators, managers, and entrepreneurs in the world, which can be included in the partnership program for local, national, and regional development with the new wise policy of nomenclature in the region. This requires the redefinition of the ruling strategy of dependent modernization and comprador development management and the establishment of a new autonomous policy of social development based on local wisdom ("ours and the world's"), intensive intra-regional connection and integration, and the reactualization of the value of the slogan "Balkans, Balkan peoples!" Sociological research conducted in the last twenty years shows the slowness of cross-border cooperation processes in the region, the still high degree of exchange with countries outside the region, and the fact that the identity perception of the student population is focused on national or European values while regional values are neglected. It is time to change these priorities in identification, which will be connected with real processes of cross-border cooperation and the strengthening of understanding and a culture of peace in the Balkans.
The concept of total defense in the deterrence strategy of the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Milkovski Vangel , Božić Sandra
Published: July 2023

The subject of this article refers to the examination of the convenience of the concept of total defense as a basis for designing a defense system in the function of strategic deterrence of the Republic of Serbia. The existing defense system was supposed to be based on the concept of total defense, which has not been defined, verified and generally accepted since the Republic of Serbia was founded. In accordance with the above, the question arises: whether the existing way of organizing and functioning of the defense system corresponds to the requirements of strategic deterrence. The starting point in this paper is the position that the defense system, without a previously defined and generally accepted concept of total defense, may not be fully efficient and effective in creating a credible and persuasive threat in the function of strategic deterrence. The results of the research indicate that in order to develop the necessary defenece forces capabilities and their use for strategic deterrence, it is necessary to first develop the concept of total defense. Through the development process, it is possible to achieve full agreement of all forces on their tasks, methods of engagement and associated risks. Also, with the concept of total defense, it is possible to determine measures and recommendations on changes in the existing defense system that should increase the effectiveness and efficiency of strategic deterrence. The theoretical-methodological approach used a theoretical analysis and comparison of total defense concepts in different historical and geopolitical conditions, as well as a method concept development that can meet the requirements of strategic deterrence in the conditions of a modern multidimensional strategic environment.
The military service as part of the social ideal in Serbia
Authors: Starčević Srđan , Blagojević Srđan
Published: July 2023

Compulsory conscription in Serbia was established in the 19th century, and the military as a social institution rapidly became an indispensable part of the socialization process of citizens. It remained so until 2011, which lent credibility to the strategic considerations of deterrence and total defense of that time. The return of war to European soil actualizes the issue of society's readiness for defense in many European countries. Serbian society has changed significantly in the two previous decades, becoming largely described by Bauman's fluid modernity, and the capacity of citizens for armed and unarmed resistance in the event of war has significantly declined. Starting from the assumption that the suspension of the compulsory conscription remains valid, the authors examine the possibilities for increasing the interest of young people in voluntary military service, which is the subject of this paper. The aim of the paper is to show the necessity, justification and content of state incentives for young people who opt for military service, as well as to point out their probable social consequences. The theoretical framework of the work is the theory of the network society of Manuel Castells and his understanding of individuation as a cultural tendency of modern society that differs from individualism. The authors conclude that increasing interest in voluntary military service is possible by connecting individual projects of citizens with military service as part of a common, social ideal in Serbia. State incentives for voluntary military service and, subsequently, participation in the active and passive reserves, could be divided into three groups. The first would be incentives related to employment, the second would be cooperation between the state and civic initiatives and organizations, and the third would be incentives related to business and tax incentives.
Geopolitical position of Serbia after the beginning of the war in Ukraine: Neutrality and strategic deterrence in a crisis context
Authors: Gajić Aleksandar
Published: July 2023

The paper examines the contemporary geopolitical position of the Republic of Serbia after the beginning of the war in Ukraine, with the aim of confirming the hypothesis that even in the new, difficult geopolitical conditions, it is possible to maintain the current policy of military neutrality and increase its own capacities for strategic deterrence. Starting with the geopolitical position of Ukraine in the Eurasian space, the strategies and goals of "Great Powers" in this conflict and the importance that Russia's current military confrontation with the "collective West" is taking in it, the first part of the Paper examines the influence of crisis in East Europe and on Serbia's foreign policy strategy (which, before the beginning of conflict, was moving between neutrality and the "hedging strategy"). Therefore, first part of the Paper gives brief theoretical overlook on foreign policy strategies of small states and their conditioning by geopolitical factor, primarily geopolitical position. With all that taken into consideration, it is easier to have clear overview of Serbia's current geopolitical position and dilemmas. The second part of the Paper is dedicated to the description of Serbia's contemporary difficult position in the new geopolitical circumstances ("lonely and in the encirclement"), in order to better understand both the numerous challenges to which Serbia is exposed and its foreign policy moves aimed at preserving its military neutrality and the ability for strategic deterrence. On the one hand, Serbia wants to keep up its processes of accession to the EU and to continue to develop the best possible relations with the West and not to confront it and be isolated. On the other hand, Serbia wants to maintain existing relations with the Russian Federation which are of vital interest to Serbia because, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, Russia is able to prevent the accession of Kosovo and Metohija, the breakaway southern Serbian province, to the United Nations as an independent state. Serbia also wants to preserve the current supply of cheap energy resources for its internal needs from the Russian Federation, because it has no real alternative for them. While remaining military neutral, Serbia also needs to increase its deterrence capabilites: the tightening of relations with certain neighbors increases not only the conflict potential, that is, the possible threat of the use of force, but also requires approaches of using "extended deterrence" with a necessary increase in independent forms of hard, military power, that is, additional investment in increasing one's own combat capacities, which would achieve the maximum achievable deterrence effect. The final considerations in the Paper refer to the geopolitical perspectives of persistence in neutrality, that is, to the confirmation of the basic hypothesis of the Paper on the sustainability of this policy in difficult circumstances.
American struggle for global leadership and the strategic options of Serbia
Authors: Lišanin Mladen
Published: July 2023

Contemporary turbulence regarding the issue of global leadership (referred to by some authors as "primacy" or "hegemony") takes place within a specific context, manifested through a single fundamental rift: the one based on key actors' attitudes towards the necessity of structural revision of the world system, contrasted with aspirations to maintain the status quo. In other words, the struggle for global leadership not only has different goals, but also a different logic altogether, if it is observed from the aspect of a declining hegemon, or from the aspects of its challengers. At the same time, the fact that the hegemon is usually a status quo power, seeking to maintain the basic global parameters of power distribution, does not mean that it will not behave in a revisionist manner in various subsystem (regional and sub-regional) frameworks. One of the sub-regions in which the inverse logic of the actions of the global hegemon and those of its challengers on the status quo - revisionism spectrum is apparent, is the Western Balkans. Such behavior, as well as the conditions of increased complexity of foreign policy determinants from the system and regional levels, have consistently incentivized Serbia to opt for the strategy of hedging, in order to compensate the costs incurred in some areas by gains in others. The field of defence and security in the form of joint exercises and arms procurement, has been of particular importance in this regard, as Serbia has been pursuing close and dynamic relations with a wide range of partners, including the US, Russia, China, Israel, France and other European countries, NATO members and non-members alike. In terms of Serbian-American relations, NATO remains a crucial catalyst; however, the US is increasingly engaged in a more straightforward, bilateral manner - e.g. with regard to the Kosovo and Metohija issue, which is yet another motive for Serbia to maintain its hedging strategy. The trends of global primacy competition, dramatically accelerated at the beginning of the third decade of the 21st century, particularly as the war in Ukraine keeps unfolding, will remain a determinant which strategic options of Serbia largely depend upon. Hedging is most likely to remain the key feature of Serbia's strategic posture, although there is a possibility this might change in light of a potentially renewed transatlantic and intra-European political coherence.
EFEKTIVITAS IPCR UNI EROPA DALAM MENGATASI KRISIS PANDEMI COVID-19 TAHUN 2020
Authors: Shella Apriani  , De Fretes Christian Herman Johan
Published: July 2023

This article aims to analyze the effectiveness of the European Union in overcoming the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic crisis, with a case study of the Integrated Political Crisis Response (IPCR) policy in place. This article uses a qualitative research method, namely literature study to answer the research question of this article. Arild Underdal's regime effectiveness approach was then used to analyze the effectiveness of the EU in responding to the crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic through the IPCR policy, using three variables, namely dependent, independent, and regime effectiveness. This study explains that the EU's IPCR policy was not effective enough to overcome the COVID- 19 crisis in 2020 because it was faced with the national policies of member countries. Their policies posed challenges to the coordination and integration of the EU. The increase in the number of COVID-19 cases was also a new challenge in the mechanism offered by the IPCR because all member countries imposed regional restriction policies.
CHINA’S GLOBAL STRATEGY FOR THE 21ST CENTURY OF SILK ROAD: CHINA AND THE ASIA SECURITY ARCHITECTURE IN XI JINPING GOVERNMENT
Authors: Gesti Anggraini  , Adi Rio Arianto  , Pradono Budi Saputro
Published: July 2023

The 21st Century Chinese Silk Road has shown China a strong influence in the establishment of the Asia Security Architecture during the Xi Jinping Administration. As a regional power, China’s responsibility continues to grow during the formation of “the 21st Century Silk Road” to achieve “Chinese Dreams”. By using methodology of qualitative research with techniques of interviews, the results found that China succeeded in influencing regional countries and institutions through China's foreign and security policy strategy to changes Asia from conflict into harmony (kerukunan). These changes namely the policies to Embrace Uygurs and Taiwan, Asia and Trans-Asia Multilateralism, Peace on the Korean Peninsula, Sub-regional powers as the Asia Harmony Embryo, DOC and COC Policies in the South China Sea, SAAARC and Strategic Cooperation in South Asia, SCO and Joint Security in Asia and Across Asia, as well as BRICS and Strengthening of Inter-Regional Power Economies. This discussion is focused on (1) Asia security architecture before “the 21st Century of China Silk Road”, (2) Asia security architecture during “the 21st Century of China Silk Road”, (3) evolution of foreign policy strategies and national security policy of China “Open Door Policy”during Xi Jinping, (4) power polarization and strategic partnership in Asia, (5) China as regional power in Asia, and (6) The 21st Century Chinese Silk Road and Harmonious Asia. The result, China's influence is shown in the terms, namely: (1) the establishment of “Asia Bumisutera Dunia”, (2) formation of “Asia Benua Pemersatu”, (3) strengthening “Asia Benua Multi-Equilibrium”, (4) strengthening “Asia Benua Teduh”, and (5) strengthening “Asia Benua Harmoni.” The researchers believes that to understand the Asia Security Architecture is advisable use cross-paradigm, therefore the researchers briefly introduces paradigm, philosophy, and theory of Manunggalism through the Eastern World Relations Theories (WRT) and Mazhab Indonesia (Indonesian School) with the birth of the discipline of “Ilmu Antarbangsa (World Relations)” by mainstreaming the gotong royong World Relations System to challenge the Western International Relations Theories (IRT) that tends to anarchism system.
El investigador científico: un puente para develar la realidad
Authors: Campos Medina María Auxiliadora
Published: July 2023

El investigador científico es quien cruza el horizonte para encontrar la verdad del conocimiento, usando sus capacidades metacognitivas, asimilando los resultados encontrados. Por ello, debe poseer ciertas habilidades como curiosidad, comprensión, organización, destrezas de raciocinio, a objeto de aportar productos científicos que trasnformen la sociedad. Asimismo, la transversalidad de ciencias como la filosofía y la psicología ha permitido emanar diversos planteamientos ontológicos a objeto de develar el fenómeno a estudiar. No obstante, se requiere la tríada filosofía, psicología y transcomplejidad con el fin de permitir la confluencia de la multidimensionalidad y el pensamiento crítico, así, transitar nuevos caminos de hacer ciencia más humana. Este estudio tiene como  intencionalidad generar un corpus teórico como herramienta de reflexión recursiva para develar la importanciadel investigador como protagonista de un proceso cognoscente que aporta luces de avance a la sociedad del conocimiento. Es producto de una hermenéusis documental con el apoyo de la epsiteme transcompleja, y aportes teóricos de autores como: Esteban (2015), Morin (1999), Villegas (2012), Husserl ( 1999).