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Numerous archaeological sites in Bosnia and Herzegovina represent a historical heritage and testify to the rich cultural, social, and political life of medieval Bosnia. Bobovac, the capital of the Bosnian Kingdom after King Tvrtko I's coronation in 1377, featured a royal complex with a palace, church, and fortification. Recent molecular-genetic research on skeletal remains from Bobovac aims to uncover medieval ancestors' customs and genetic origins. Fifteen well-preserved teeth samples from Bobovac were processed. STR amplification employed PowerPlex® Fusion and Investigator® 24plex QS Kits, with Y-STR profiles generated using the PowerPlex® Y23 System. Fourteen partial autosomal STR profiles were obtained, enabling sex determination and kinship analysis. STR amplification success varied due to ancient DNA degradation, with larger loci showing lower amplification rates. Kinship analysis confirmed appropriate marker selection, demonstrating high reliability for determining close relationships. Integrating aDNA analysis with archaeological research enhances our understanding of historical populations, connecting archaeology and forensic genetics to contribute to the broader narrative of human history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hearing in infants is essential for brain development, acquisition of verbal language skills, and development of social interactions. Therefore, it is important to diagnose hearing loss soon after birth so that interventions can be provided as early as possible. Most newborns in the United States are screened for hearing deficits and commercially available next‐generation sequencing hearing loss panels often can identify the causative gene, which may also identify congenital defects in other organs. One of the most prevalent autosomal dominant congenital hearing loss syndromes is branchio‐oto‐renal syndrome (BOR), which also presents with defects in craniofacial structures and the kidney. Currently, mutations in three genes, SIX1, SIX5, and EYA1, are known to be causative in about half of the BOR patients that have been tested. To uncover new candidate genes that could be added to congenital hearing loss genetic screens, we have combined the power of Drosophila mutants and protein biochemical assays with the embryological advantages of Xenopus, a key aquatic animal model with a high level of genomic similarity to human, to identify potential Six1 transcriptional targets and interacting proteins that play a role during otic development. We review our transcriptomic, yeast 2‐hybrid, and proteomic approaches that have revealed a large number of new candidates. We also discuss how we have begun to identify how Six1 and co‐factors interact to direct developmental events necessary for normal otic development. Research Highlights: Branchio‐oto‐renal patients have hearing loss and kidney defects.Mutations in SIX1, SIX5, and EYA1 are causative in about half of cases.To uncover putative new candidate genes, we used Xenopus and identified novel transcriptional targets and interacting proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Educa is the property of Dzemal Bijedic University of Mostar, Teacher Training Faculty and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency of the automated DNA extraction method using the EZ2 Connect Fx instrument (QIAGEN), showcasing its ability to achieve swift and reliable results from bone samples. Genomic DNA extraction from 16 archaelogical and recent bone samples was performed with a commercial EZ1&2® DNA Investigator® Kit (QIAGEN). Prior to PCR amplification, DNA concentration was quantified using Qubit™ Fluorometer (Thermo Fisher Scientific). Amplification was carried out with the Investigator 24plex Kit (QIAGEN). DNA profiles were generated using 3500 Genetic Analyzer (Applied Biosystems) and analysed with GeneMapper™ ID-X 1.6 Software (Applied Biosystems). For nine archaeological dental samples, eight exhibited partial profiles, and one showed no amplified loci. Among the seven recent femoral bone samples, one exhibited a partial profile, while six presented complete DNA profiles. In this study, we investigated the benefits of automated DNA extraction, particularly its ability to generate timely and reliable results. Additionally, this method reduces pipette and tip usage, almost completely minimising the risk of human error, exogenous DNA contamination and cross-contamination. Such efficiency is of paramount importance, especially when working with skeletal remains, namely archaeological skeletal remains that pose a challenge for molecular genetic analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review assesses current molecular targeted therapies for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a challenging condition with limited treatment options. Using PRISMA methodology, 166 eligible studies, involving 2526 patients (61.49% male, 38.51% female, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.59/1), were analyzed. In laboratory studies, 52.52% primarily used human glioblastoma cell cultures (HCC), and 43.17% employed animal samples (mainly mice). Clinical participants ranged from 18 to 100 years, with 60.2% using combined therapies and 39.8% monotherapies. Mechanistic categories included Protein Kinase Phosphorylation (41.6%), Cell Cycle-Related Mechanisms (18.1%), Microenvironmental Targets (19.9%), Immunological Targets (4.2%), and Other Mechanisms (16.3%). Key molecular targets included Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) (10.8%), Mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) (7.2%), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) (6.6%), and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MEK) (5.4%). This review provides a comprehensive assessment of molecular therapies for GBM, highlighting their varied efficacy in clinical and laboratory settings, ultimately impacting overall and progression-free survival in GBM management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Cranial defects pose significant challenges in low and middle-income countries (LIMCs), necessitating innovative and cost-effective craniofacial reconstruction strategies. The purpose of this study was to present the Bosnia and Herzegovina model, showcasing the potential of a multidisciplinary team and 3D-based technologies, particularly PMMA implants, to address cranial defects in a resource-limited setting. Materials and Methods: An observational, non-experimental prospective investigation involved three cases of cranioplasty at the Department of Neurosurgery, Cantonal Hospital Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, between 2019 and 2023. The technical process included 3D imaging and modeling with MIMICS software (version 10.01), 3D printing of the prototype, mold construction and intraoperative modification for precise implant fitting. Results: The Bosnia and Herzegovina model demonstrated successful outcomes in cranioplasty, with PMMA implants proving cost-effective and efficient in addressing cranial defects. Intraoperative modification contributed to reduced costs and potential complications, while the multidisciplinary approach and 3D-based technologies facilitated accurate reconstruction. Conclusions: The Bosnia and Herzegovina model showcases a cost-effective and efficient approach for craniofacial reconstruction in LIMICs. Collaborative efforts, 3D-based technologies, and PMMA implants contribute to successful outcomes. Further research is needed to validate sustained benefits and enhance craniofacial reconstruction strategies in resource-constrained settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intraorbital and transorbital injuries are included in the group of head injuries with low frequency. In particular, such injuries rarely result in infectious processes in the brain parenchyma. This case presents a case where a 57-year-old man reported to the neurosurgery department that he had sustained an injury to the conjunctiva of the upper eyelid a month earlier. The patient was injured by a tree branch, which he removed on his own initiative. After persistent eye abduction palsy, an MRI was performed, which showed a compressive mass in the frontal lobe of the brain. A surgical procedure was indicated, which found a piece of twig 3 mm long inside the abscess. Surgical intervention and antibiotic therapy led to the complete recovery of the patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Social & Technical Research / Drustvena i tehnicka istrazivanja is the property of University College, CEPS - Center for Business Studies, Kiseljak and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Nuclear Technology & Radiation Protection is the property of Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Nuclear Technology & Radiation Protection is the property of Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Social Sciences & Humanities Studies / Društvene i Humanističke Studije (DHS) is the property of Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences, University of Tuzla and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The study examines the effect of neutron and gamma radiation on commercial gas surge arresters. The research is of experimental-theoretical nature. The experimental part of the research was performed un-der well-controlled laboratory conditions. The combined measurement uncertainty was about 5%. The experimental system is specially designed for the observed problem and has certain original solutions. The test procedure was fully automated and had software support in the experiment management and also for data collection and statistical processing. The obtained results show that neutron and gamma ra-diation improves the functional characteristics of gas surge arresters with a memory effect. The obtained results are explained in accordance with the theory of interaction of neutron and gamma fields with ma-terial and with the theory of electric discharge in gases. The results presented in this study are important for the design of surge protection in systems that can be found in the field of neutron and gamma radia-tion because they can achieve a positive synergistic effect of protection in hybrid schemes with other components for surge protection whose characteristics spoil this radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Nuclear Technology & Radiation Protection is the property of Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The paper presents the results of stability of the characteristic of overvoltage diodes under the action of neutron and gamma radiation. Nature of this paper is both experimental and theoretical. An original measuring system of extremely low measurement uncertainty was developed for the purpose of recording characteristics. Recording of volt-ampere and volt-ohm characteristics was performed in a completely new way based on the use of a single current pulse (which allows obtaining more reliable results than the methods recommended in the literature based on the use of DC). The obtained results are useful in all areas of engineering practice when there is a danger of simultaneous occurrence of various overvoltages and nuclear radiation. Theoretical interpretation has given some new interpretations of neutron-phonon and photon-phonon interpretations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examines the effect of neutron and gamma radiation on commercial gas surge arresters. The research is of experimental-theoretical nature. The experimental part of the research was performed un-der well-controlled laboratory conditions. The combined measurement uncertainty was about 5%. The experimental system is specially designed for the observed problem and has certain original solutions. The test procedure was fully automated and had software support in the experiment management and also for data collection and statistical processing. The obtained results show that neutron and gamma ra-diation improves the functional characteristics of gas surge arresters with a memory effect. The obtained results are explained in accordance with the theory of interaction of neutron and gamma fields with ma-terial and with the theory of electric discharge in gases. The results presented in this study are important for the design of surge protection in systems that can be found in the field of neutron and gamma radia-tion because they can achieve a positive synergistic effect of protection in hybrid schemes with other components for surge protection whose characteristics spoil this radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study builds on a long-standing interest in (social) psychological outcomes of adolescent attachment styles and attachment patterns with parents. One of the outcomes I explored is in-group identification and in-group attachment, which are especially salient in the divided society of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The present cross-sectional study involved a stratified convenience sample of 735 participants (51.7 % female), aged 16 to 21 years (M= 18.72, SD=1.54). A significant positive correlation was found between current attachment style and in-group identification (r=.17, p<.01 for ethnic, and r=.13, p<.05 for religious). The present study points to further investigations and subsequent cross-field theoretical advancements regarding the possible effects of attachment on group identification and group attachment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burnout, a state of stress-induced emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion, continues to be a topic of interest across a broad array of sciences. It is because burnout not only causes psychosomatic problems, but also has an effect on job performance, which is vital in high-stake professions. Therefore, exploring the level of healthcare professionals' burnout, and understanding which work-place factors are correlated with it, is of outmost importance. For this purpose, the present correlational study explored this issue in a convenience sample of 209 MDs and nurses from primary healthcare institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including, for the first time, a comprehensive number of psychosocial factors at work. Interestingly, the majority of healthcare professionals scored low on burnout measures of MBI. Nevertheless, one fifth of participants had potential early warning signs of burnout. Compared to their colleagues in other European countries, Bosnian-Herzegovinian doctors experience lower yet comparable levels of emotional exhaustion, lower depersonalization, and higher sense of personal achievement. Furthermore, nurses show an even more beneficial trend on all three burnout dimensions. In addition, the study established some significant positive predictors of burnout dimensions pertaining to the work environment. More precisely, quantitative workload and decision-making demands were found to be positive predictors of emotional exhaustion, while the strongest predictors of depersonalization were work-place support (from colleagues and superiors) and self-esteem. Significant predictors of personal accomplishment were perception of mastery and work centrality. This suggests that burnout among healthcare professionals arises both from the immediate workplace factors and individual ones, therefore implicating institutions in its prevention and reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Social Sciences & Humanities Studies / Društvene i Humanističke Studije (DHS) is the property of Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences, University of Tuzla and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Medieval Bosnia's archaeological sites hold a wealth of historical and cultural significance. Recently, some studies placed emphasis on DNA analysis of skeletal remains from various Bosnian necropolises, and this one brings information about rapid, automated DNA extraction from nine archaeological and seven recent samples. The aim of this study was to emphasize the rapid efficiency of automated DNA extraction method on the EZ2 Connect Fx device, thereby showcasing its ability to achieve swift and effective results compared to alternative methods. The genomic DNA extraction from 16 given samples was performed with a commercial EZ1&2® DNA Investigator® Kit. Final concentration of DNA was determined using Qubit™ Fluorometer*. Concerning archaeological samples, the lowest measured concentration was =0.010 ng/µL (sample A12/03-17), the highest measured concentration was 28.8 ng/µL (sample A4/05-19), and the concentration of sample A15/01-21 defied measurement. Among the recent samples, sample S1/03-16 displayed the highest concentration at 80.2 ng/µL, while sample O3/32-17 showed the lowest detected concentration at 0.010 ng/µL. Amplification of the isolated DNA was carried out with Investigator 24plex kit. DNA profiles were generated using 3500 Genetic Analyzer and further analyzed with GeneMapper™ ID-X 1.6 software. After obtaining DNA profiles of nine archaeological samples, eight of the total number were partial profiles (two samples showing less than 50% amplified loci and six displaying over 50% amplified loci), whereas sample A10/05-19 showed no amplified loci. Of the seven recent samples, two exhibited partial profiles, while five were complete profiles (all samples showed above 50% amplified loci). This study pointed to the benefits associated with automated DNA extraction, particularly the method's ability to generate results within a short timeframe. Additionally, automated DNA extraction offered the advantage of avoiding pipette and tip usage (with the exception of setting up sample incubation pre-isolation), which minimized the potential for exogenous DNA contamination and cross-contamination. High efficiency, a quality exuded by this method, holds paramount significance when working with skeletal remains, particularly archaeological skeletal remains that pose a challenge for molecular genetic analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Zbornik radova Fakulteta islamskih nauka u Sarajevu is the property of Zbornik radova Fakulteta islamskih nauka u Sarajevu and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of B&H Electrical Engineering is the property of Sciendo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Analysis of 4G/5G polymorphisms of PAI-1 gene in interaction with other genetic and external risk factors that induce development of venous thromboembolism can be used for risk assessment for development of venous thromboembolism. Research was conducted on 202 examinees of both genders, older than 18, from north-eastern Bosnia. Experimental group included 100 examinees with diagnosed DVT and 101 examinees who until the sampling procedure did not have diagnosed DVT. In DVT group, following genotype frequencies were determined: 27% of examinees had a normal genotype 5G/5G, 68% are heterozygotes and 5% are mutated homozygotes 4G/4G. In the control group, frequencies of 4G/5G polymorphisms of PAI-1 gene were: 42.6% of examinees have 5G/5G genotype, 55.4% are heterozygotes 4G/5G and 2% are 4G/4G genotype. Obtained results support the hypothesis that PAI-1 in interaction with other genetic and external risk factors probably induces the development of venous thromboembolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of B&H Electrical Engineering is the property of Sciendo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Here, we report on four cases of kinship testing among close relatives, including three "twin" cases, where we examined the type of kinship between twins' offspring - full sibship, firstdegree relationship or half sibship, and on one complex kinship case where we were primarily requested to determine the probability that two individuals have the same father. In "twin" cases, 23 individuals in total were studied, of which three pairs of monozygous twins with their spouses/partners and with a total of 11 offspring. In the fourth case, samples for DNA analysis were collected from six individuals - Mother and her two daughters/siblings Daughter1a and Daughter2a, Son whose parents are Mother and FatherB, and Daughter2aB whose mother is Daughter2a. After creating pedigree charts, genomic DNA extraction and amplification of 22 autosomal STR markers using PowerPlex®Fusion System, electropherograms for all individuals were successfully generated. In all "twin" cases, paternity testing for 11 offspring of six couples resulted in PP (Probability of Paternity) values higher than 99.9999%, having confirmed the paternity for every descendant of all twin pairs. Kinship analyses involved setting up two opposite hypotheses, comparing the loci and shared allele variants between individuals, and calculating the LR (Likelihood Ratio) and KP (Kinship Probability) values. Full siblings, who have the same parents, displayed the largest number of shared alleles, with LRs significantly higher than other degrees of relatedness. Kinship analyses between twins' descendants showed higher possibility that they are half-siblings, rather than they are first cousins, what is in accordance with the fact that monozygous twins share an identical DNA material, and that their offspring, in genetical sense, share the same parent. Concerning the last case, kinship analysis revealed high probability that Son and Daughter2aB are half-siblings (LR=31.9329, KP=96.9635%) since they have a common father, what was previously determined through trio paternity testing (PPs over 99.99999%). Interestingly, kinship analysis carried on Daughter1a and Son showed 4,5 times higher probability that they are half-siblings contrary to probability of half sibship between Daughter2a and Son (KP=22.29477%). Finally, these results pointed up the importance of using larger number of autosomal STR loci in solving complex kinship cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous archaeological sites on the territory of modern Bosnia and Herzegovina are witness to active and continuous life in the Middle Ages. The aim of this research was to determine the Y-haplotypes and predict Y-haplogroups, as well as the frequency of Yhaplogroups in the medieval population sample. A total of 42 male samples from 13 different medieval archaeological sites in Bosnia and Herzegovina were collected. These samples were selected to ensure that there was no kinship among the individuals, which is important for genetic analysis. DNA was extracted from bones and teeth by phenol-chloroform extraction, and Y-STR analysis was performed with the PowerPlex® Y23 System. Haplotypes were determined based on the allele variants detected in the Y-STR analysis. Y-haplogroups were predicted based on the obtained haplotypes using two available online software tools. The study compared the frequency of Y-haplogroups in the medieval Bosnian population with the recent population of Bosnia and Herzegovina. 2 test based on the frequency of haplogroups was performed and the value of statistical significance is p<0.05. The most frequently detected haplogroups in the medieval Bosnian and recent B&H populations were I2a, R1a, R1b, and J2a. This suggests some continuity in the genetic composition of the region over time. Other haplogroups characteristic of European populations were also detected, albeit in slightly lower percentages. Haplogroup E1B1b is known to have a presence in various European populations and was also detected in the recent B&H population with a percentage of 12% but was not detected in the medieval population. It's assumed that the obtained results are a consequence of the insufficient number of successfully amplified Y-STR profiles, the small number of samples from the Middle Ages, as well as the possible stochastic effect. The results of the 2 test indicate the absence of significant differences between the haplogroups in the two time periods. In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights into the genetic composition of the medieval Bosnian population and its comparison with the modern population of the region. It highlights the utility of genetic analysis in studying historical populations and understanding the dynamics of genetic lineages over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Cardiac repair has steered clinical attention and remains an unmet need, because available regenerative therapies lack robust mechanistic evidence. Pressure‐controlled intermittent coronary sinus occlusion (PICSO), known to induce angiogenetic and vasoactive molecules as well as to reduce regional ischemia, may activate endogenous regenerative processes in failing myocardium. We aimed to investigate the effects of PICSO in patients with advanced heart failure undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy. Methods and results: Eight out of 32 patients were treated with PICSO, and the remainder served as controls. After electrode testing including left ventricular leads, PICSO was performed for 20 min. To test immediate molecular responses, in both patient groups, coronary venous blood samples were taken at baseline and after 20 min, the time required for the intervention. Sera were tested for microRNAs and growth factors. To test the ability of up‐regulated soluble factors on cell proliferation and expression of transcription factors [e.g. Krüppel‐like factor 4 (KLF‐4)], sera were co‐cultured with human cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts. As compared with controls, significant differential expression (differences between pre‐values and post‐values in relation to both patient cohorts) of microRNA patterns associated with cardiac development was observed with PICSO. Importantly, miR‐143 (P < 0.048) and miR‐145 (P < 0,047) increased, both targeting a network of transcription factors (including KLF‐4) that promote differentiation and repress proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells. Additionally, an increase of miR‐19b (P < 0.019) known to alleviate endothelial cell apoptosis was found, whereas disadvantageous miR‐320b (P < 0.023) suspect to impair expression of c‐myc, normally provoking cell cycle re‐entry in post‐mitotic myocytes and miR‐25 (P < 0.023), decreased, a target of anti‐miR application to improve contractility in the failing heart. Co‐cultured post‐PICSO sera significantly increased cellular proliferation both in fibroblasts (P < 0.001) and adult cardiomycytes (P < 0.004) sampled from a transplant recipient as compared with controls. Adult cardiomyocytes showed a seven‐fold increase of the transcription factor KLF‐4 protein when co‐cultured with treated sera as compared with controls. Conclusions: Here, we show for the first time that PICSO, a trans‐coronary sinus catheter intervention, is associated with an increase in morphogens secreted into cardiac veins, normally present during cardiac development, and a significant induction of cell proliferation. Present findings support the notion that epigenetic modifications, that is, haemodynamic stimuli on venous vascular cells, may reverse myocardial deterioration. Further investigations are needed to decipher the maze of complex interacting molecular pathways in failing myocardium and the potential role of PICSO to reinitiate developmental processes to prevent further myocardial decay eventually reaching clinical significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Proceedings of the Islamic Pedagogical Faculty of the University of Zenica / Zbornik Radova Islamskog Pedagoškog Fakulteta u Zenici is the property of University of Zenica, Islamic Pedagogical Faculty and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Why has international investment into reforming local governance in post‐conflict societies produced mixed results? Drawing on new institutionalism, the authors expect reform outcomes, even of comprehensive assistance, to be shaped by the interaction between new and old rules, an interaction mediated by local elites. This expectation is explored in three pairs of comparable municipalities in Bosnia‐Herzegovina. Using data collected through field research and an original index of local government performance, we find that most municipalities achieved incremental improvements in performance between 2005 and 2010. Differences can be explained by the varying endurance of old informal rules that antagonistically coexist with and undermine internationally proposed rules, as well as by the varying strength of local opponents of reform. The implication is that more effective promotion of local government performance requires more attention to and a long‐term approach to minimizing the constraints posed by informal rules and local actors opposed to reform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Nuclear Technology & Radiation Protection is the property of Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Medeniyet Medical Journal is the property of Galenos Yayinevi Tic. LTD. STI and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

One of the genes considered as a risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD) is the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene. Many studies have been published regarding the relation between the ACE gene insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism and CAD. However, studies have provided controversial results. To explore this further in the population of Bosnia and Herzegovina, we compared the ACE I/D genotypes and alleles distribution between two groups: 100 CAD patients and 100 healthy control subjects. The higher distribution of DD genotype (47.0%) and D allele (65.5%) were found in CAD patients compared to controls (DD 34.0%; D allele 51.0%). Genotype odds ratio, (DD + ID) on the II, was 2.471 (1.252 - 4.876; 95% CI; p < 0.05). This leads to the conclusion that the DD genotype of the ACE I/D polymorphism affects the risk for development of coronary artery disease in Bosnian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 1691 (G>A) factor V Leiden (FVL) and 20210 (G>A) prothrombin (PT) mutations are the two most common genetic risk factors in venous thromboembolism. The 677 (C>T) methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) mutation is the most frequently mentioned as an independent genetic risk factor for venous thromboembolism. As there are limited published data on the prevalence of the 1691, 20210 and 677 mutations in our population, the aim of this study was to determine the frequencies and association of these deep vein thrombosis mutations in the Bosnian population. This study included 111 thromboembolic patients and 207 healthy subjects with absence of known risk factors for venous thromboembolism. Genotyping of the 1691, 20210 and 677 mutations was done by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), followed by restriction digestion with MnlI, HindIII and HinfI enzymes. Out of the 111 patients, 18.0% were heterozygous and 2.70% were homozygous for the 1691 mutation. Among 207 healthy controls, 3.86%, were heterozygous for the 1691 mutation. This study confirmed the association of the 1691 mutation with deep vein thrombosis in the Bosnian population odds ratio (OR) [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 6.0 (2.62-14.14); p = 0.0001). The 20210 mutation was detected in 2.70% of patients and it was totally absent in the control group. Allele and genotype frequency of 677 did not differ significantly between the cases and controls (χ2 = 1.03; p = 0.309). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 1691 (G>A) factor V Leiden (FVL) and 20210 (G>A) prothrombin (PT) mutations are the two most common genetic risk factors in venous thromboembolism. The 677 (C>T) methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) mutation is the most frequently mentioned as an independent genetic risk factor for venous thromboembolism. As there are limited published data on the prevalence of the 1691, 20210 and 677 mutations in our population, the aim of this study was to determine the frequencies and association of these deep vein thrombosis mutations in the Bosnian population. This study included 111 thromboembolic patients and 207 healthy subjects with absence of known risk factors for venous thromboembolism. Genotyping of the 1691, 20210 and 677 mutations was done by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), followed by restriction digestion with MnlI, HindIII and HinfI enzymes. Out of the 111 patients, 18.0% were heterozygous and 2.70% were homozygous for the 1691 mutation. Among 207 healthy controls, 3.86%, were heterozygous for the 1691 mutation. This study confirmed the association of the 1691 mutation with deep vein thrombosis in the Bosnian population odds ratio (OR) [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 6.0 (2.62-14.14); p = 0.0001). The 20210 mutation was detected in 2.70% of patients and it was totally absent in the control group. Allele and genotype frequency of 677 did not differ significantly between the cases and controls (χ2 = 1.03; p = 0.309). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has shown that early childhood experiences, especially those related to feelings of threat or safeness play a key role in subsequent emotional and social development. The aims of the study are to explore the relationship between early memories of warmth, safeness and attachment style in the life of adolescents and to define specificities of earliest memories with regard to the current attachment style. In order to explore relationships between earliest memories, emotional memories of warmth and safeness, and current attachment style of adolescents the research was conducted using a convenient sample of 167 public secondary school students with average age of 17,22 years. The 63.47% of the participants were females, whereas 36.53 % were males.. The questionnaire was adopted, Early Memories of Warmth and Safeness Scale (EMWSS; Richter, Gilbert & McEwan, 2009), Memory Characteristics Questionnaire (Johnson, Suenghas, Foley & Raye, 1988) and Adult Attachment Questionnaire (Hazan & Shaver, 1990). Research findings proved that emotional content of adolescents` earliest memories is predominantly of joy (41.7%), fear (23.3%), sadness (8.6%), surprise (8%), and anger (7.4%), etc. which is in line with previous research where the same or similar methodology was followed. The first memory was detected at 4.7 years of age, with no significant difference between males and females. However, females described their first memory in significantly more words than males (t=-3.77, p<0,01). Results showed that securely attached adolescents scored significantly higher on EMWSS, compared to their insecurely attached peers (t=3.27, p<0,001), while the difference between avoidant and ambivalently attached adolescents was not significant (t=1.80, p>0,05). Securely and insecurely attached individuals did not differ in dimensions of vividness of earliest memory (H=1.127), emotional valence (H=.178), and emotion intensity (H=.209, all p>0,05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Medeniyet Medical Journal is the property of Galenos Yayinevi Tic. LTD. STI and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This article explores the arguments used in parliamentary debates, in 2008, to justify the adoption of reserved seats for national minorities in local parliaments in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Content analyses of two parliamentary debates at the state level and nine municipal assembly sessions reveal two dominant frames: an ‘obligation frame’ and a ‘constituent peoples frame’. The former refers to the adoption of reserved seats for minorities as an international and legal obligation, while the latter challenges this institution, emphasizing the rights of the three constituent peoples (Bosniaks, Croats, and Serbs) to be guaranteed reserved seats in addition to, or in place of, national minorities. Interestingly, the frame based on an idea of justice and suggesting the right of minorities to political representation is absent from parliamentary debates. The article discusses the implications of these findings, with a reference to the functioning of the institution of reserved seats in the long run. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

International media assistance programs accompanied the democratic media transition in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Macedonia and Serbia with varying intensity. These countries untertook a range of media reforms to conform with accession requirements of the European Union (EU) and the standards of the Council of Europe, among others. This article explores the nexus between the democratic transformation of the media and international media assistance (IMA) as constrained by the local political conditions in the five countries of the Western Balkans. It aims to enhance the understanding of conditions and factors that influence media institution building in the region and evaluates the role of international assistance programs and conditionality mechanisms herein. The cross-national analysis concludes that the effects of IMA are highly constrained by the local context. A decade of IMA of varying intensity is not sufficient to construct media institutions when, in order to function properly, they have to outperform their local context. From today's vantage point it becomes obvious, that in the short-term scaling-up IMA does not necessarily improve outcomes. The experiences in the region suggest that imported solutions have not been sufficiently cognitive of all aspects of local conditions and international strategies have tended to be rather schematic and have lacked strategic approaches to promote media policy stability, credible media reform and implementation. To a certain extent, the loss of IMA effectiveness is also self-inflicted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analyzing the attempts by Turkish political and religious administration to intervene in the unification of two parallel Muslim religious organizations in Serbia, the author explains the complexity of relations between religious and ethnic representatives in the Balkans, and examines just how serious Turkey is in taking on the new role of mediator in this case. An overview ofthe events which led to the creation of two parallel Islamic communities in Serbia emphasizes the involvement of politics in this process by highlighting the complicated interplay of religion, politics, and nationality among Bosniaks and other Islamic minorities, not only in Serbia, but also in the region. The issue of how new Turkish foreign policy in Southeastern Europe is seen by different groups, with a special focus on Bosniak religious and ethnic authorities, is also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Democracy & Security in Southeastern Europe is the property of Atlantic Initiative and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Recent scientific findings related to the efficiency of coagulation and flocculation provide new opportunities but also impose stringent new requirements and constraints related to water quality and processes of drinking water treatment. This imposes a continuous monitoring strategy and implementation of new information, trends and opportunities in order to increase the efficiency of these processes. The paper emphasizes the importance of proper selecting the operational parameters - type and dose of chemicals, and manipulation with chemicals. It is shown methods of selecting the type and dose of chemicals and recent findings regarding the conditions of their interference in the conventional technology of drinking water preparation within public water supply. Providing and increasing the efficiency of coagulation and flocculation means the protection of human health (through the consumption of safe drinking water), environmental protection (production of sediment and water less burdened by these chemicals) and financial savings (reduced costs in procurement of chemicals). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We extend the decomposition approaches for flow lines with unreliable machines and limited buffer capacity as proposed by Gershwin and refined by Dallery, David, and Xie and by Burman by incorporating a new building block in the decomposition. This new building block is a three-machine, one buffer system which models a merging flow of material. While previous decomposition approaches led to a decomposition of the original network into virtual two-machine lines, we now use both virtual two- and three-machine lines. This requires a new set of decomposition equations for the virtual machines of the two-machine lines that surround the new building block modelling the merge. We present these equations, show how to solve them in an algorithm and present numerical results for non-cyclic networks in order to determine production rate and inventory level estimates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nerve action potentials recorded over the elbow after stimulation of the wrist were studied in patients with hand amyotrophy of different origin. In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis the amplitude of nerve action potentials does not change significantly even with extreme muscle wasting and loss of motor units.Studies of multisegmental afferent conduction velocities may demonstrate a strictly localized lesion with normal values above the compression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 10-year-old boy is described with a syndrome of adrenal insufficiency due to selective ACTH insensitivity associated with autonomic nervous system disorders. In addition to insufficient production of glucocorticoids and adrenal androgens, achalasia, defective lacrimation, anisocoria and hyperkeratosis of palms and soles we also found defective sweating, permanent cutis anserina and sensory polyneuropathy, which have not been reported previously in this rare syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]