University of East Sarajevo

Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) are filter feeders that can accumulate bacteria, including Escherichia coli, presenting potential health risks. This study assesses the microbiological safety of mussels from offshore farms in Cala Iris Bay, Northern Morocco. The objectives were to evaluate E. coli levels and detect Salmonella in mussels, ensure compliance with Moroccan sanitary regulations, and develop a predictive model for E. coli survival to inform management decisions. A total of 72 mussel samples were collected from three stations in Cala Iris Bay over a 12-month period, covering all seasons. Standard microbiological methods were used to enumerate E. coli and detect Salmonella. Two models, the classical primary model and the Weibull model, were used to predict E. coli survival. Model performance was evaluated using root mean square error (RMSE), adjusted correlation coefficient (R2 adj), and Akaike Information Criterion (AIC). 80.5% of the samples met the safety standards defined by Moroccan Circular Number 1508/12, while 19.5% required further treatment. The Weibull model provided a more accurate prediction of E. coli survival compared to the classical primary model. The study underscores the necessity of continuous monitoring and effective modeling in ensuring the microbiological safety of mussels. The Weibull model proved to be a valuable tool for predicting E. coli survival, aiding in the management of aquaculture practices. This research contributes to the broader field of food safety and aquaculture management, offering insights that can guide decision-making and enhance public health standards in seafood production.

Red mud, a voluminous industrial waste produced during the Bayer process in the alumina industry, has numerous application possibilities across various fields. Its potential uses are diverse, ranging from the construction industry and metallurgy to environmental protection and agriculture. There are three main aspects of red mud utilization. First, it can be analyzed from the point of view of resource utilization, where it could be applied as raw material mostly in the construction industry. Second, it could be a useful source of valuable components, such as rare earths and metals, especially iron. Third, red mud could have different environmental applications, in wastewater treatment, soil remediation, etc.The paper summarizes current data on red mud utilization methods and aims to emphasize the potential for red mud utilization in various fields.

Background Research involves the systematic collection and analysis of data to enhance understanding of a particular phenomenon. Participation in medical research is crucial for advancing healthcare practices. However, there has been limited focus on understanding the factors that motivate medical students to engage in research. Additionally, in the era of e-learning, the easy accessibility of online resources has contributed to a widespread ‘copy-paste culture’ among digital-native students, which is recognized in academia as plagiarism. Existing studies suggest that a contributing factor to the increasing prevalence of plagiarism is students’ limited understanding of this act. The purpose of this study was to assess medical students’ attitudes toward research and plagiarism, and to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Attitudes Toward Research (ATR) and Attitudes Toward Plagiarism (ATP) questionnaires. Methods This was a multicenter study conducted among medical undergraduate and postgraduate students attending the three medical universities who were involved in research. Students’ attitudes toward research and plagiarism were assessed using the ATR and ATP questionnaires. The research instruments underwent translation and cultural adaptation in accordance with internationally accepted methodology. The psychometric properties of the ATR and ATP, including validity and reliability, were assessed. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the model’s fit to the data. Results The ATR and ATP questionnaires were completed by 793 medical students who were involved in research (647 undergraduates and 146 PhD students). Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of 0.917 and 0.822 indicated excellent and good scale reliability for the ATR and ATP questionnaires, respectively. The five-and three- factor structures of ATR and ATP have been validated with maximum likelihood confirmatory analysis, and the results demonstrated an adequate level of model fit (TLI = 0.930, CFI = 0.942 and TLI = 0.924, CFI = 0.943, respectively). Medical students showed a high degree of positive attitudes toward research and favorable scores across all three domains of attitudes toward plagiarism. In multivariate regression models, age was found to be positively associated with favorable attitudes of research usefulness, positive attitudes, relevance to life subscales and total ATR scale (p < 0.001), while PhD study level was related to research anxiety (p < 0.001) and favorable attitudes across all three ATP domains (p < 0.001). Conclusion Medical students who were involved in research showed a high degree of favorable attitudes toward research and plagiarism. Adjusting medical school curricula to include research courses would broaden the students’ interest in scientific research and maximize their impact on the full preservation of research ethics and integrity.

Background: The aim of the research is to explore the relationship between psychological factors and nutritional status in adolescence. The issue of adolescent nutrition is related to several psychological problems, as well as to developmental changes during this period. Research on body image dissatisfaction has confirmed that most adolescents are dissatisfied with their bodies. Developmentally oriented scientists are unique in their approach to explaining the problem of body image, focusing on multiple aspects and attempting to understand the intrapersonal and interpersonal factors that are important for the formation of body image. Methods: The sample included 260 adolescents aged 11 to 15. The assessment of sociodemographic factors, emotional states, physical activity levels, and eating habits was included in the questionnaires filled out by the parents (DASS-21 and the Physical Activity & Nutrition Behaviors Monitoring Form questionnaire). Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated based on information about the height and weight of the adolescents. Results: The results of the correlation between psychological characteristics and BMI indicate a negative low correlation with all psychological aspects: depression (r = −0.25; p < 0.05), anxiety (r = −0.30; p < 0.05), and stress (r = −0.28; p < 0.05). Over 70% of adolescents are classified in the category of normal BMI. Conclusions: The results indicate that subjects who are of normal weight experience less pronounced depression, anxiety, and stress.

Lung cancer is among the lethal and most prevalent oncological diseases globally. It is known that two types of mutations, namely anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene rearrangement and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene mutation, are responsible for the development of lung adenocarcinoma. The present study aimed to investigate the differences in the frequency of clinical, cytomorphological and histomorphological features of ALK and EGFR-positive lung adenocarcinomas. The present retrospective study comprised 101 patients diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma. Based on the molecular findings, the patients were categorized into three groups as follows: The ALK-rearranged group (n=28), the EGFR group (n=42) and the negative group (n=31). The clinical features analyzed included sex, age, smoking status and disease stage. The cytomorphological and histomorphological features examined encompassed the following: Cell cluster size, the arrangement of tumor cells, the size of nuclei, nuclear atypia, the visibility of nucleoli, the presence of necrosis, intracytoplasmic vacuoles, signet ring cells, stromal characteristics and the presence of inflammatory infiltrate presence. The results indicated that the female sex was more prevalent in the EGFR group, but statistically significant differences (P<0.05) were observed between the EGFR and negative group. A significantly greater percentage of non-smokers was identified in the EGFR group compared with the ALK group (P<0.01). The majority of patients with confirmed ALK or EGFR mutations received onco-specific treatment. Focal and abundant necrosis was significantly less common in cytological samples in the EGFR group than in the other groups (21.43 vs. 57.14 and 51.61%, combined, P<0.01). No significant differences were observed in other cytomorphological features between the groups. Intracytoplasmic vacuoles, signet ring cells and cells with visible nucleoli were significantly more frequent in histological specimens of the ALK group (P<0.01). The predictive model composed of these features or combined with sex and smoking habits exhibited statistically significant differences for mutation status as a criterion (P<0.01). Collectively, the findings of the present study confirmed that, in addition to clinical characteristics, certain cytological and histological features of lung adenocarcinoma are associated with the mutational status of the tumor.

Background/Objectives: The aim of this research was to determine the differences in physical fitness according to the level of physical activity (PA) during physical education classes in 10-year-old school children. Methods: The research included 315 primary school children (age 10 ± 1.3 years), divided into three groups by level of PA: low, moderate and high. A Eurofit test battery was used to evaluate the physical fitness of children. Physical activity (volume (number of steps) and intensity) was measured using a Coach Gear pedometer and a Suunto Memory Belt heart rate monitor. Results: Presented results indicate that there are significant differences between groups of children of both genders in relation to the level of PA. Group of boys with low PA showed lower values in sit and reach (p = 0.01), standing long jump (p = 0.02), bent arm hang (p = 0.04) and polygon backwards (p = 0.01) compared to the remaining two groups. Girls with low physical activity showed significant differences in sit and reach (p = 0.01) and bent arm hang (p = 0.01) compared to the other two groups, while in hand tapping, the high PA group showed better results compared to the other two groups (p = 0.03). Conclusions: The results reported in this research support the significant effects of PA level on physical fitness in school children. Less active children generally showed poorer physical fitness in both genders.

Antitumor effect of new Pd( ii ) complexes having pyridine derivatives of 2.6-dicarboxamide as chelating ligand was assessed by examination of nucleophilic substitution reactions, DNA/HSA interaction, molecular docking and cytotoxic activity.

The main aim of this study was to investigate how early attitudes towards sexting and sexually permissive beliefs (measured at Time 1) predict later sexting behaviour (measured at Time 2) among adolescents. We collected data from 547 Croatian adolescents aged 15-18 who participated in an online survey at baseline (2022) and after one year. Results showed that attitudes toward sexting were not directly related to sexting behaviour but were directly and positively related to sexually permissive attitudes. Sexually permissive attitudes were associated with a higher frequency of sending and forwarding, but not receiving sexts. Considering the mediation by sexually permissive attitudes, we found that sending and forwarding sexting was associated with attitudes toward sexting via sexually permissive attitudes. The results of this study highlight the significant relationship between sending and forwarding sexting and adolescents' positive attitudes toward sexual permissiveness and underscore the need for comprehensive sexuality education as an important component of educational policy for this age group.

Background/Objectives: The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire is a widely employed self-report tool for assessing upper extremity function. The aim of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of the Serbian version of the DASH by determining its criterion and construct validity, as well as internal consistency. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with hand and wrist disabilities at the Institute for Orthopedics “Banjica”, Serbia. The psychometric properties of the Serbian version of the DASH were analyzed through an examination of its factorial structure and internal consistency. The DASH consists of 30 items, 24 of which assess function, 21 of which focus on physical function and three on social/role function. The remaining six items evaluate symptoms related to pain, tingling/numbness, weakness, and stiffness. Results: A total of 297 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 47.4 ± 16.8 years, with 50.5% males. Three models were assessed to determine the reliability and validity of the questionnaire across different domains. Model 1 examined a single-factor structure. In Model 2, the items were divided into two domains: Physical Function and Psychosocial/Symptoms. In Model 3, items were subdivided into three domains: Physical Function, Symptoms, and Psychosocial. All models demonstrated an excellent internal consistency with a Cronbach’s alpha > 0.9 for most domains. The values for the fit indices Tucker–Lewis index (TLI) and Comparative-Fit Index (CFI) were above their cut-off criteria of 0.9, while the Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) and Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR) were below the suggested value of 0.06, indicating an excellent level of models fit. Standardized factor loadings were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The present study provided the evidence for the appropriate metric properties of the Serbian version of the DASH. Results support both the unidimensional and multidimensional structures of the DASH.

Submicron and nanosized powders have gained significant attention in recent decades due to their broad applicability in various fields. This work focuses on ultrasonic spray pyrolysis , an efficient and flexible method that employs an aerosol process to synthesize titanium-based nanoparticles by transforming titanium oxy-sulfate. Various parameters are monitored to better optimize the process and obtain better results. Taking that into account, the influence of temperature on the transformation of titanium oxy-sulfate was monitored between 700 and 1000 • C. In addition to the temperature, the concentration of the starting solution was also changed, and the flow of hydrogen and argon was studied. The obtained titanium-based powders had spherical morphology with different particle sizes, from nanometer to submicron, depending on the influence of reaction parameters. The control of the oxygen content during synthesis is significant in determining the structure of the final powder.

The aim of the research was to collect and to examine the positive effects of various physical activity (PA) programs on individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This included a combination of aerobic exercises and resistance training, with varying intensities, in order to compare which approach yielded better outcomes for T2DM management; This systematic review was conducted in line with PRISMA guidelines, focusing on the period from 1991 to 2024. Studies included in this review involved both experimental procedures and questionnaire-based surveys to assess the impact of PA on T2DM patients. The primary outcome was the effect of PA on T2DM, with secondary outcomes including changes in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and glycemic control; A total of 23 studies, encompassing 1752 participants (515 men, 546 women, and 691 unspecified), met the inclusion criteria. The studies highlighted the positive effects of exercise, such as improvements in glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, and lipid profiles. Most studies recommended a combination of aerobic and resistance exercises performed 3-4 times per week for 30-60 minutes per session; This systematic review confirms that regular PA is instrumental in managing T2DM. Health care providers should integrate PA programs into treatment plans for T2DM patients to optimize glycemic control and overall health outcomes.

Among various waste‐to‐energy technologies, gasification is one of the most promising, because of high efficiency, feedstock flexibility, and carbon capture potential. This case study is focused on comprehensive analysis of integrated gasification combined cycle‐based plant with refuse‐derived fuel (RDF) as feedstock and carbon capture. As there are hardly any studies focused on simulation of waste gasification with carbon capture, most of which are lacking important process specifics, this study addresses existing research gap. Process flowsheets are developed in detail according to literature data for various process configurations and simulated in AspenPlus software, while obtained results on material and energy balance were used for estimation of plant efficiency and performance indicators. Waste generation data in Novi Sad, Serbia, were used for determination of RDF flowrate. Configurations include different syngas cleaning pathways, final products (power, heating, and hydrogen) and co‐gasification with coal. Cogeneration increases overall plant efficiency from 27%–36% (power production only) to 63%–76%. High net hydrogen efficiencies, around 58%, compensate lower power and thermal energy production in hydrogen‐based configurations. Overall, co‐gasification produces better results due to higher feedstock heating value. Obtained results will be used in further research for environmental and economic evaluation to provide multi‐level assessment of proposed processes.

Species of the genus Colletotrichum are among the most important plant pathogens globally , as they are capable of infecting many hosts-apple (Malus spp.) and other fruit and woody plant species-but also vegetable crops, cereals, legumes, and other annual and perennial herba-ceous plants. The apple (Malus spp.) is attacked by various species from the genus Colletotrichum, whereby 27 different species from this genus have been described as the causative agents of apple bitter rot (ABR) and 15 as the cause of Glomerella leaf spot (GLS). These species generally belong to one of three species complexes: Colletotrichum acutatum, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, and Colleto-trichum boninense. The largest number of apple pathogens of the genus Colletotrichum belong to the species complex C. acutatum and C. gloeosporioides. However, further data on these species and the interactions between the species complexes of the genus Colletotrichum that cause these two apple diseases is needed for the development of effective control measures, thus ensuring successful and profitable apple cultivation. To contribute to this endeavor, a comprehensive review of the causa-tive agents of ABR and GLS from the genus Colletotrichum is provided. In addition to presenting the species' current names, distribution, economic significance, and the symptoms they cause in apple, their development cycle, epidemiology, and molecular detection strategies are described, with a particular emphasis on control measures.

Morphological dimensions are reliable representations of the functioning, growth, and development of the skeletal- muscular system, defining a significant role in the sport of volleyball. In volleyball, it is imperative to identify the anthropometric constitution generated by endogenous and exogenous factors. The aim of the study was to determine the differences in morphological characteristics between junior and senior members of the BIH national team. The sample of respondents included 29 male volleyball players from the national team of BIH, divided into a subsample of seniors (n=13; Body Height = 194.77 ± 7.01 cm; Body weight = 92.92 ± 7.02 kg) and a subsample of juniors (n=16, Body Height = 197.06±4.65cm; Body weight = 83.19±5.15 kg). Thirteen (13) variables of anthropometric space were measured. Anthropometric measurements were conducted following the ISAK standard procedure guidelines. The standard metric instruments were applied: Stadiometer (SECA 213, Germany) - used for measuring body height; Body mass was measured by a digital scale (Tefal/0-160kg); Circumference measurements were measured with a foldable non-elastic tape measure and a Gullick Tape (Baseline Measurement Tape/300cm) and a Calliper measured skin folds. The T-test results revealed statistically significant differences (approximately 54%) between the senior and junior players in various anthropometric measurements, including weight (T=4.307, p<0.001), leg length (T= - 4.251, p<0.001), hand length (T=2.661, p<0.015), upper arm circumference (T= 4.514, p<0.001), forearm circumference (T=5.275, p<0.001), upper arm skinfold (T= 5.741, p<0.001), and abdominal skinfold (T= 3.098, p<0.009). The male volleyball national team of VIH's senior players displayed superior anthropometric attributes compared to their junior counterparts. Identifying discrepancies at an early stage can optimize both the training regimen and the process of selecting players at a young age.

Introduction Child abuse and neglect (CAN) are social and public health problems. Access to oral health care for abused and neglected children is a challenge. The aim of this study was to assess the attitudes and knowledge of dental students from Bosnia and Herzegovina towards CAN. Materials and Methods A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 263 dental students from two public universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The students answered 31 questions about the topic of CAN. The study population was categorised by year of study into six groups. Pearson's chi‐squared test was used to analyse differences among participants regarding the year of study. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Results The results show that 10.26% of total participants had experienced some knowledge about the topic of CAN during their studies, 17.87% had read about it in professional dental literature and 8.74% had some form of education and training on the topic. Over 50% of participants answered all of the questions about social indicators of CAN correctly. The knowledge of the study participants was found to be deficient concerning some physical signs of CAN found in the orofacial region. For a significant number of questions ‘I don't know’ was a frequent answer. Conclusion The level of knowledge of dental students from Bosnia and Herzegovina regarding the challenge of CAN is insufficient. An important strategy this to improve this is to increase the education and training of child abuse and neglect in dental curriculums.

Competitiveness is a generally accepted concept that emerges in all social and economic spheres, so understanding competitiveness in the sphere of tourism is also essential for destinations to attract a significantly larger number of tourists and increase tourism expenditure. The aim of the research in this paper is related to the verification of the applicability of the Integrated Competitiveness Model, which was created by Larry Dwyer & Lee Kim. In order to demonstrate the applicability of the Integrated Competitiveness Model using the example of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the paper established a clear methodological framework based on a questionnaire as the main research instrument, which was interpreted by applying a Likert scale, and the responses were analyzed using measures of descriptive statistics. The statistical processing of the collected responses indicates the successful applicability of the Integrated Model, according to which Bosnia and Herzegovina is a moderately competitive destination. A particular significance of the model is its precise suggestion of the multidimensionality and interdependence of competitiveness determinants, highlighting those that need improvement. The research, which utilized an innovative approach through a survey questionnaire, achieved representativeness through careful sample selection, encompassing not only tourists but also representatives of the tourism industry, resulting in original conclusions.

Wildfires pose a significant ecological, environmental, and socioeconomic challenge in southeastern Europe. The preservation of wildlands is not only essential but also a foremost priority for Montenegro, a country recognized as the world’s first ecological state. Consequently, the development of optimal methodologies and models is of paramount importance to enhance fire protection measures. With this objective in mind, this study strives to create a wildfire susceptibility model on a national scale for Montenegro. The study employed seven natural and anthropogenic causative criteria: vegetation type; aspect; slope; elevation; climate classification; distance from road; and population. The modeling process integrates both natural and anthropogenic causal criteria, employing the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (F-AHP) and Frequency Ratio (FR) within geoinformatics environment. The outcomes of the F-AHP model reveal that 72.84% of the total area is categorized as having high to very high susceptibility. Conversely, based on the FR model, only 29.07% of the area falls within these susceptibility levels. In terms of validation, the area under curvature values indicates good performance of the F-AHP model. In contrast, the FR model demonstrates poor performance. These novel findings, pertaining to Montenegro at a national scale, offer valuable insights for preemptive wildfire safeguarding efforts. Moreover, the methodologies employed, with necessary modifications, hold potential for application in geographically diverse regions.

Background: This study aims to investigate the effects of dry-needling treatment on the quality of life in athletes with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). Methods: The participants included in the study were 50 athletes (38 males and 12 females) diagnosed with MPS. The treatments were carried out in four sessions, 5/7 days apart on 55 muscles in total. A 36-item health survey (SF-36) was implemented to determine the participants’ quality of life. The chi-square test was used to determine the differences between measurements. Results: Dry-needling treatment has a positive influence on self-perspective of physical functioning (p = 0.011, on average), physical problems (p = 0.001, on average), emotional problems (p = 0.004, on average), social functioning (p = 0.001, on average), pain (p = 0.001, on average), and mental health and vitality (p = 0.001, on average) in athletes with MPS. The only quality-of-life dimension not influenced by the dry-needling treatment is the general health perception (p = 0.340, on average). Conclusions: Dry-needling therapy has positive effects on the perception of quality of life in athletes with MPS.