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Background: BMP signaling is involved in myriad metazoan developmental processes, and study of this pathway in Drosophila has contributed greatly to our understanding of its molecular and genetic mechanisms. These studies have benefited not only from Drosophila's advanced genetic tools, but from complimentary in vitro culture systems. However, the commonly-used S2 cell line is not intrinsically sensitive to the major BMP ligand Dpp and must therefore be augmented with exogenous pathway components for most experiments. Results: Herein we identify and characterize the responses of Drosophila ML-DmD17-c3 cells, which are sensitive to Dpp stimulation and exhibit characteristic regulation of BMP target genes including Dad and brk. Dpp signaling in ML-DmD17-c3 cells is primarily mediated by the receptors Put and Tkv, with additional contributions from Wit and Sax. Furthermore, we report complex regulatory feedback on core pathway genes in this system. Conclusions: Native ML-DmD17-c3 cells exhibit robust transcriptional responses to BMP pathway induction. We propose that ML-DmD17-c3 cells are well-suited for future BMP pathway analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Microphthalmia-associated Transcription Factor (MITF) governs numerous cellular and developmental processes. In mice, it promotes specification and differentiation of the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE), and in humans, some mutations in MITF induce congenital eye malformations. Herein, we explore the function and regulation of Mitf in Drosophila eye development and uncover two roles. We find that knockdown of Mitf results in retinal displacement (RDis), a phenotype associated with abnormal eye formation. Mitf functions in the peripodial epithelium (PE), a retinal support tissue akin to the RPE, to suppress RDis, via the Hippo pathway effector Yorkie (Yki). Yki physically interacts with Mitf and can modify its transcriptional activity in vitro. Severe loss of Mitf, instead, results in the de-repression of retinogenesis in the PE, precluding its development. This activity of Mitf requires the protein phosphatase 2 A holoenzyme STRIPAK-PP2A, but not Yki; Mitf transcriptional activity is potentiated by STRIPAK-PP2A in vitro and in vivo. Knockdown of STRIPAK-PP2A results in cytoplasmic retention of Mitf in vivo and in its decreased stability in vitro , highlighting two potential mechanisms for the control of Mitf function by STRIPAK-PP2A. Thus, Mitf functions in a context-dependent manner as a key determinant of form and fate in the Drosophila eye progenitor epithelium. [Display omitted] • Mitf works with Yki to preserve eye disc epithelium morphology during eye morphogenesis. • Mitf is a selector factor that promotes peripodial (PE) fate over retinal fate. • Ectopic expression of Mitf blocks retinogenesis. • Mitf works with STRIPAK-PP2A but not Yki in PE development and retina suppression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: plexus brachialis is a network of nerves, which is responsible for the transmission of nerve impulses from the brain to the muscles of the upper extremities Aim: to present a very rare case of schwannoma of brachial plexus. Case report: a 29-year-old female patient was presented with a mass on the posteromedial side of the left upper arm. It was a localized mass with distal paresthesia of the upper arm, firm on palpation. MRI scan showed an expansive mass along with the medial head of the triceps brachial muscle, measuring 25x48x31mm. This mass radiologically showed as Schwannoma which affected the ulnar, radial, and musculocutaneous nerve. During resection, firstly brachial artery and vein were detached from a tumor. Musculo-cutaneal and ulnar nerves were completely separated. The radial nerve was infiltrated with a clear origin and preserved fibers were successfully dissected. Implantation of a sural graft wasn't used, because more than 50% of the radial nerve fibers were preserved. Results: postoperatively, the patient had limited dorsiflexion of the left palm. After physical treatment, the patient made full recovery. Conclusion: schwannoma is a rare tumor that can successfully be removed, and it has a very good prognosis with the possibility of full recovery from neurological deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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.

The Microphthalmia-associated Transcription Factor (MITF) governs numerous cellular and developmental processes. In mice, it promotes specification and differentiation of the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE), and in humans, some mutations in MITF induce congenital eye malformations. Herein, we explore the function and regulation of Mitf in Drosophila eye development and uncover two roles. We find that knockdown of Mitf results in retinal displacement (RDis), a phenotype associated with abnormal eye formation. Mitf functions in the peripodial epithelium (PE), a retinal support tissue akin to the RPE, to suppress RDis, via the Hippo pathway effector Yorkie (Yki). Yki physically interacts with Mitf and can modify its transcriptional activity in vitro. Severe loss of Mitf, instead, results in the de-repression of retinogenesis in the PE, precluding its development. This activity of Mitf requires the protein phosphatase 2 A holoenzyme STRIPAK-PP2A, but not Yki; Mitf transcriptional activity is potentiated by STRIPAK-PP2A in vitro and in vivo. Knockdown of STRIPAK-PP2A results in cytoplasmic retention of Mitf in vivo and in its decreased stability in vitro, highlighting two potential mechanisms for the control of Mitf function by STRIPAK-PP2A. Thus, Mitf functions in a context-dependent manner as a key determinant of form and fate in the Drosophila eye progenitor epithelium.

The scientific paper explores women as perpetrators of criminal acts and their penal treatment, providing insights into the specifics and challenges they face during incarceration. Traditionally, prisons were primarily oriented towards men, but today there are specific prison units and facilities exclusively for female inmates. In the introduction, we address the history and development of the prison system for women, including the creation of specialized units and a gender-sensitive approach to imprisonment. The second part investigates the specifics of women’s incarceration, including healthcare needs, education, vocational training, challenges of motherhood and childcare in prison, as well as psychological aspects of women’s imprisonment. The third part examines the issues and challenges women encounter during incarceration, such as prison system overcrowding, gender discrimination, and violence against women in prison. Additionally, we explore the application of alternative punishment measures for women, including home confinement, rehabilitation and reintegration programs, and harm reduction measures for women with special needs.

Aim To analyse potential clinical implications of the distance between large retroperitoneal vessels and lower segment of the lumbar spine in the supine and prone position. Methods Prospective, non-randomised study included 40 patients of different age and gender. For all patients magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine was performed in supine and prone position. The level of aortal bifurcation, common iliac vein con- fluence, the distance from the anterior and posterior aspect of the annulus to the posterior wall of the large retroperitoneal vessels were analysed. Results The study included 40 patients, 22 (55%) males and 18 (45%) females. The level of aortal bifurcation was higher in prone compared to supine position (Χ² = 29.88571; p<0.05). In supine and prone positions, the common iliac veins confluence was most commonly at the level of the lower third of the L4 vertebra (p>0.05). There was a statistically significant difference between the distance from the left common iliac artery to the anterior contour of L4/L5 intervertebral disc (p<0.05). Conclusion Knowledge of the anatomic relationship between iliac vessels and structures of the lower segment of the lumbar spine is very important in the prevention of a potentially severe complication, such as artificial common iliac vessels rupture. Our study showed that the risk of lesions of the common left iliac artery was lesser in the prone position. [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.

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]

In recent years, cyberspace has emerged as a prominent realm for young people, perceived by them as at least as important as real life. Cyberspace has become a field for the satisfaction of many psychological needs and has brought to life novel factors that influence development among children and youth. As a consequence, the educational sphere has been dramatically affected by the changes in the psychological functions, behaviors, and habits of students, who are becoming increasingly different from what educators were trained for only a few decades ago. Causal connections are yet to be examined experimentally, and longitudinal research takes more time. In the meantime, based on theoretical assumptions in psychology and educational sciences, some of the changes that affect the motivation and behavior of students in the classroom can be assumed. With this being said, the following article, using the perspective of self-determination theory, is aimed at understanding changes in students’ motivation, engagement, and behavior caused by cyber-psychological factors. How are the attention and habits of new generations different? How does this affect their involvement and motivation to learn in the classroom? How do students’ emotional experiences that potentially permeate classrooms reflect their increased immersion in the digital world? What are the most important lessons from cyberpsychology that educational professionals need to be aware of to maximize the benefits of their teaching to students? This article attempts to provide some answers and recommendations regarding these vital issues.

Aim To investigate the presence, type and distribution of spontaneous brain and arachnoid herniation into the dural venous sinuses as well as a clinical significance of these herniations. Methods This retrospective - prospective, non-randomised anatomical and clinical study included 990 patients who were referred to Magnetic Resonance Imaging at the Department of Radiology of the Cantonal Hospital in Zenica in the period from January to December 2016. The T1 and T2 sequences in axial, sagittal, and coronary section were used for brain or arachnoid herniation analysis. In all patients with intra-sinusal herniation health records were analysed and symptoms and reasons to refer for MRI examination were evaluated . Results In 26 (2.6%) patients (19 females; 73.08%) the arachnoid or brain herniation was found. Average age of patients was 40.269±16.496 years. Arachnoid herniation was presented in 15 (57.69%) and brain herniation in 11 (42.31%) patients. Statistical significance in relation to type of herniation was not found (p=11.070). Statistical significance between the symptoms and localisation of herniation (except for nausea and vomiting and posterior fossa herniations) (p=0.05) as well us between symptoms and type of herniation was not found (p>0.05). Conclusion The results suggest that there is a possibility of interconnection between arachnoid or/and brain herniations and some clinical symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impulse characteristic represents the response of the gas insulation to the impulse load. There is no rational way to determine it, since it must include all pulse shapes and all probability quantiles of a random breakdown event. Near Paschen minimum is the operating point of gas surge arresters. For this reason, the results presented in this paper are important for the coordination of insulation at the low-voltage level. The semi-empirical algorithm derived in this paper is simple and allows obtaining impulse characteristics based on a small number of measurements. The paper presents two variants of the derived algorithm. One with and one without taking into account the thermoionization time of the streamer channel. Both variants were experimentally verified in well-controlled laboratory conditions and good results were obtained from the point of view of engineering practice. Of course, the algorithm which includes the thermoionization time of the spark channel gave more exact results. However, even in that case, an improvement can be made by observing the thermoionization process as a stochastic phenomenon. In this sense, suggestions for further improvement of the proposed algorithm are given. • Impulse characteristic determination for any probability quantile and voltage shape. • Derived algorithm is simple and requires small number of measurements. • With and without taking into account thermoionization time of the streamer channel. • Both variants were experimentally verified. • Inclusion of formative time improves obtained results about 10%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To examine a correlation of demographic characteristics of patients, preoperative modality of conservative therapy and timing on the postoperative outcome of patients six months after the operation. Methods A retrospective, non-randomized, clinical study involved 48 patients of different age and gender with a verified diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome (CES). The inclusion criteria were patients with CES caused by discus hernia. Observed research variables were age, gender, affected vertebral level, conservative modalities of perioperative therapy (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - NSAIDs and physiotherapy), duration of symptoms, and outcome parameters (motor and sensory function, sphincter function of the urinary bladder and bowel). Results A statistically significant negative correlation was found between age and postoperative outcome (p<0.05). The affected vertebral level was positively correlated with the motor and sensory outcome (p<0.05). A positive correlation between the use of NSAIDs and the outcome was found (R=0.570; p<0.001), as well as a negative correlation with perioperative physiotherapy (R=- 0.201; p= 0.001). Postponement of surgery was negatively correlated with outcome variables (p<0.001). Conclusion The results of the study bring new conclusions that were not previously observed. Possible new characteristics associated with the outcome of cauda equina syndrome were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To emphasize the importance of early recognition, diagnostic processing and emergent surgical treatment of spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (SSEH). Methods A 39-year-old female presented with sudden onset of severe pain between the shoulder blades followed by paraparesis and alerted sensibility in the lower extremities. An hour later she developed paraplegia with sensory deficits below ThIV level, absence of patellar reflex, ankle jerk reflex and sphincter dysfunction. Results Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated acute extensive epidural mass of thoracic spinal segments (ThI-ThIII). The patient underwent emergent decompressive laminectomy ThI-ThIII with epidural hematoma evacuation within 24 hours of symptoms onset. After the surgical treatment, because of suspicion on spinal arteriovenous malformation, complete diagnostic evaluation with spinal angiography was done and no form of vascular malformation was found. Idiopathic SSEH was diagnosed. Two months later the patient reached complete neurological improvement. Conclusion The SSEH is a rare condition that should be kept in mind in patients presenting with neurological deficit and a sudden onset of back pain like it was in our case. For early diagnosis, immediate MRI is essential. Prompt surgical decompression such as laminectomy is an absolute surgical indication widely accepted for patients with progressive neurological deficit. The SSEH should be considered as one of the important differential diagnoses in patients who have developed acute myelopathy. Cilj Naglasiti važnost ranog prepoznavanja, dijagnostičke obrade i urgencije hirurškog tretmana spontanog spinalnog epiduralnog hematoma (SSEH). Metode 39-godišnja ženska osoba javila se na neurološki Odjel zbog iznenadne boli između lopatica, praćene paraperezom i poremećajem senzibiliteta u donjim ekstremitetima. Sat vremena kasnije došlo je do produbljivanja motornog deficita i do paraplegije, praćene senzornim poremećajem ispod ThIV nivoa, odsutnosti pateralnog refleksa, refleksa Ahilove tetive, kao i sfinkterijalnom disfunkcijom. Rezultati Magnentna rezonanca (MR) kičmenog kanala pokazala je opsežnu akutnu epiduralnu masu torakalnog segmenta kičme (ThI-ThIII). Pacijentica je podvrgnuta hitnoj dekompresivnoj laminektomiji nivoa ThI-ThIII, uz evakuaciju epiduralne kolekcije unutar 24 sata od pojave simptoma. Nakon hirurškog liječenja, zbog sumnje na moguću spinalnu arteriovensku malformaciju, urađena je dijagnostička obrada spinalnom angiografijom koja nije pokazala bilo kakav oblik vaskularne malformacije. Dijagnosticiran je idiopatski spontani epiduralni hematom. Dva mjeseca kasnije pacijentica je postigla potpuni neurološki oporavak. Zaključak Spontani spinalni epiduralni hematom (SSEH) je rijetko stanje koje treba imati na umu kod pacijenata s neurološkim deficitom i naglim nastupom bola u leđima, kao što je bio u našem slučaju. Za ranu dijagnozu, neposredni MRI je esencijalan. Promptna hirurška dekompresija, u vidu laminektomije, apsolutna je hirurška indikacija, široko prihvaćena za pacijente s progresivnim neurološkim deficitom. SSEH treba uzeti u obzir kao jedan od diferencijalno dijagnostičkih oblika u bolesnika s akutnom mijelopatijom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study considers the impact of the environmental contamination by the electromagnetic radiation of electron beam generator and high-energy radioactive source on the memory components. Electron beam generator can be used for injecting particle energy into the plasma of the fusion system based on a Marx generator, while radioactive source as a simulator of high-energy ionizing radiation that can be caused by the neutron-induced activation of plasma surrounding structures or released from deuterium-tritium fusion reaction. The effects of gamma radiation of high-energy radioactive source and electric field of the electron beam generator on EPROM and EEPROM semiconductor computer memory, were investigated. An older memory types were deliberately chosen for the reason that their more robust construction will better protect them from the effects of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. The results obtained under well-controlled conditions show a high degree of non-resistance of the semiconductor technology to the expected electromagnetic pollution of the electron beam generator and high-energy radioactive source. This conclusion raises doubts on the possibility of simultaneous application of electron beam generator, consequently fusion system and nanotechnologies with the increasing need for miniaturization of electronic components. [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.

Objective -- We report an unusual case of split cord malformation (SCM) associated with open spinal dysraphism and other anomalies of the central nervous system. Case report -- A male newborn was admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit immediately after birth by Caesarean delivery. Clinical examination and diagnostics (MRI) showed open spinal dysraphism in the distal part of the spine (level L5 and S1), split cord malformation type I which separated two hemicords, tethered cord and syringomyelia. Two days after birth microneurosurgery was performed. Cranial and cervical MRI showed Chiari I and corpus callosum hypoplasia. There was no hydrocephalus. Preoperatively the patient had paraparesis and discretely moved his left foot. MRI showed a dilated bladder so he may have had urinary retention. The postoperative recovery was satisfactory. The patient did not have any additional neurological deficit. The patient was followed up by a neurosurgeon, pediatric surgeon, pediatrician and physiatrist. Control MRI scans showed significant regression of the syrinx and some ascensus of the medulla. About 18 months after operation the patient had discrete paresis of the left foot. Conclusion -- Complex spina bifida is an extremely rare condition. In this paper we describe this interesting case of complex spina bifida: a split cord malformation characterized by atypical bony morphology with a dural fold into the bone septum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite advances in primary percutaneous interventions (PPCI), management of microvascular obstructions in reperfused myocardial tissue remains challenging and is a high-risk procedure. This has led to renewed interest in the coronary venous system as an alternative route of access to the myocardium. This article reviews historical data describing therapeutic options via cardiac veins as well as discussing the clinical potential and limitations of a catheter intervention: pressure controlled intermittent coronary sinus occlusion (PICSO). Collected experimental and clinical information suggest that PICSO also offers the potential for tissue regeneration beyond myocardial salvage. A meta-analysis of observer controlled pICSO application in animal studies showed a dose dependent reduction in infarct size of 29.3% (p < 0.001). Additionally, a 4-fold increase of hemeoxygenase-1 gene expression (p < 0.001) in the center of infarction and a 2.5 fold increase of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (p < 0.002) in border zones suggest that molecular pathways are initiating structural maintenance. Early clinical evidence confirmed significant salvage and event free survival in patients with acute myocardial infarction and risk reduction for event free survival 5 years after the acute event (p < 0.0001). This experimental and clinical evidence was recently corroborated using modern PICSO technology in PPCI showing a significant reduction of infarct size, when compared to matched controls (p < 0.04). PICSO enhances redistribution of flow towards deprived zones, clearing microvascular obstruction and leading to myocardial protection. Beyond salvage, augmentation of molecular regenerative networks suggests a second mechanism of PICSO involving the activation of vascular cells in cardiac veins, thus enhancing structural integrity and recovery. [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.

This paper presents two spheres of public engagement of women in the contemporary society of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH): politics and the academic community. An insight into the first sphere, the political one, provides an introductory, succinct overview of the development of societal roles and positions of women during the period of Jugloslawia (1945-1992). Afterward, it focuses on the current position of women in another public sphere, the academic community. The applied method was a test (questionnaire). The first challenge was to determine the exact number of women engaged in the teaching process at the chosen public university in BiH (University of Zenica) since it was not possible to obtain data through the official internet websites or from the relevant published documents. According to these official documents, the total number of employees based on contracts for full-time or piece-work engagements in 2017 was 520. But, these documents did not contain data on the number of men and women who are engaged as teachers. Based on data available on the internet websites of faculties of this University, there were 65 women engaged as teachers; all were full-time employees since these websites did not present persons engaged as teachers on other legal bases. Results confirmed, while women were not taking the managing positions, men were undoubtedly dominant in higher education institutions managing positions. Although women fairly successfully graduate from all three university study cycles, afterward they face the so-called „glass ceiling“, disabling them or making it very hard to officially enter the education institutions as employees, which limits any future advancement. Women who managed to become faculty members were very often faced with gender-based stigmatization and/or segregation. Further analyses should establish why women, as employees of HEIs, hesitate and decline to accept managing positions. Also, it is necessary to enhance the higher education institution’s methodology of reporting, for HEIs to provide clear data on the number of women engaged in the teaching process, and data on their status (assistants or senior assistants, and assistant, associate or full professors). When a total number of women employed as teaching, administrative and technical staff in an HEI is given, the actual state of gender equality in any of the mentioned three segments is presented. The importance of women’s participation in politics becomes also clear in this point since it is extremely important to have political awareness and readiness for solving problems and creating relevant policies for the above issues.

Aim To examine two modalities of surgical treatment of diabetic foot based on two different approaches, classical and multidisciplinary. Methods A retrospective-prospective study including 120 consecutive patients with diabetic foot treated in the Department of Surgery, General Hospital Tešanj in the period 1999-2006. Since 2003 a new multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of diabetic foot based on a more conservative approach has been introduced. Two groups of patients were analyzed according to two treatment approaches: the first group included patients treated with classical method (in the period 1999-2002), and the second group included patients treated with multidisciplinary approach (in period 2003-2006). An age distribution, gender, local changes in the extremities, results of microbiological analysis of wound swabs, and modalities of surgical treatment of diabetic foot were analyzed. Results Duration of the disease (p=0.24), the level of blood glucose (p=0.52) and glycosylated hemoglobin (p=0.10) had no statistically significant effect to the outcome of the treatment of diabetic foot, while the level of hematocrit (p<0.006), fibrinogen (p<0.003), cholesterol (p<0.000001), and the absence of a pulse in the peripheral arteries (p<0.000002), and the outcome of surgical treatment of diabetic foot had the influence to the outcome of the treatment of diabetic foot with statistical significance. Conclusion Aggressive and appropriate medical and surgical treatment according to a grade of disease could improve the outcome and reduce the morbidity and mortality of diabetic foot. The results of this study showed the importance of proper diabetes treatment, prevention of complications and a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of diabetic foot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To investigate a potential difference in postoperative morphological changes of two-level lumbar disc surgery as compared to one level surgery. Methods The standard lateral radiographs of lumbar spine obtained preoperatively and postoperatively were used in the study. The morphological study included 60 adult patients of both sexes who had undergone the surgery in the period 2002-2006. The first group comprised patients operated on one level (L4/L5 and L5/S1), and the second included patients operated on two levels (L3/ L4/L5; L4/L5/S1 and L5/S1/S2). Using lateral radiographs, after digitalization, the height of intervertebral disc space (HD), angle between vertebral bodies (A) and translation (T) were measured. Results Comparing preoperative and postoperative values, statistically significant difference has been found for HD in the first group and HD and A in the second group. In neither groups there was statistically significant difference for T, which is one of radiological signs of segmental instability. The comparison of postoperative values for both groups has not shown any statistically significant difference. Conclusion The standard lumbar discectomy on two levels has not shown more pronounced morphological changes or changes suggesting an increased risk of segmental instability as compared to one level discectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to analyze correlation between morphological characteristics of intracranial meningiomas and Ki67 labeling index (Ki67 LI), and their influence on peritumoral brain edema (PTBE). There were 41 consecutive patients with intracranial meningiomas surgically treated at the Department of Neurosurgery, Zenica Cantonal Hospital, Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, during the period from January 2010 to December 2015. We reviewed clinical data including patient age, gender, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics of the tumor and peritumoral edema, tumor margins, intraoperative characteristics, histopathologic grade and Ki67 LI. In all cases, follow up MRI was obtained at about three months after resection and PTBE was analyzed. Our research showed the tumor volume, tumor margins, and intraoperative signs of arachnoidal and pial invasion to be associated with PTBE in intracranial meningiomas. Ki67 LI expression correlated with PTBE. This study showed the resolution of PTBE to depend on invasive behavior of meningioma and KI67 LI. PTBE, pial/cortical and arachnoidal invasion significantly influence the extent of surgical resection.

Palm oil is both the world’s most-used vegetable oil and the most criticized for its environmental impact due to the observed reduction in tropical forest areas for its cultivation over the past decades. There is, however, very little discussion on the socio-economic implications associated with the production of palm oil. To contribute to a more informed debate, we conducted an in-depth review of the existing literature addressing the various socio-economic aspects of the production of palm oil, outlining its contribution to the achievement of the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs). The outcomes, findings and conclusions from 82 studies, published from 2010 onward, were considered as positive, negative, neutral or varied, and sometimes even contradicting, with regard to the contribution of palm cultivation and/or oil production to the achievement of a set of eight SDGs, selected to be those most related to socio-economic development, differentiating when possible between sustainable and conventional production. The results show that it is difficult to draw uniform views, highlighting the nuances and varied facets of the contribution of palm oil to the eight SDGs, some of which are inevitably interconnected. In general, it emerges that palm oil plays a crucial role in boosting the economy and livelihoods of local communities in many developing producer countries, substantially contributing to poverty reduction and to food security. However, the expansion of oil palm plantations has, in some cases, exacerbated social inequalities, and the economic growth generated by the palm oil production chain is not always accompanied by decent working conditions. Against this backdrop, the achievement of some SDGs is often facilitated by the implementation of sustainability certification schemes that play a key role in improving the socio-economic and environmental performance of palm oil production. This leads enhanced socio-economic livelihoods for the people living in the production areas in terms of working conditions, infrastructure, services and wages, with a consequent reduction of poverty rates, an increase in education quality, as well as better access to food and healthcare systems.

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.

Aim To investigate clinical and morphometric characteristics of patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS).Methods This study evaluated LSS patients using clinical assessments of motor, sensory, bladder, and bowel functions, and functional disability scores from the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Swiss Spinal Stenosis Questionnaire (SSSQ). Morphometric analysis included MRI measurements of the anteroposterior diameter of the intervertebral disc and dural sac, and the modified Torg-Pavlov ratio (mTPR), with follow-up re-evaluations at 6 months.Results Of 159 patients, 49 (30.8%) had LUTS and 110 (69.2%) were in the control group. LUTS patients had a significantly higher prevalence of neurogenic claudication (100% vs. 47.3%; p

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.