The resulting shift in load and generation profiles on the low voltage (LV) network poses new risks for distribution system operators (DSOs), including issues like congestion and power quality. To address these risks, two approaches are considered: traditional grid reinforcement or flexibility services. An emerging solution for harnessing flexibility is the development of local markets. This paper is focused on defining scenarios for testing the local market, considering different network conditions (load profiles, available capacity limits in the lines), different market clearing mechanisms, and bids. The LV network under study is a real Slovenian LV network in Luče, currently featuring 9 flexible households and one community battery, as part of the X-FLEX project (Horizon 2020, grant agreement n°863927). The second part involves testing these scenarios and conducting an analysis of the results, ensuring network constraints compliance through power flow simulation (using OpenDSS), and performing a technical analysis of the market design based on these results.

Previous investigations result with issues regarding insulators premature aging and degradation process. Recent case of an outage in power plant showed unusual pattern of insulator failure. Insulators operating under various adverse conditions including presence of water, fog, dew and other contaminants are affected by these factors in a way that field enhancement that leads to flashover activity is generated. To identify the root cause of the insulator failure, the service conditions of a polymer rod type 110 kV insulator were simulated using COMSOL Multiphysics (Mph). Simulations relate to presence of water droplets, uniform and non-uniform pollution layer on the insulator surface, and formation of dry band areas. In order to simulate various types of pollutants present on the insulator surface, the pollution layer is modeled as a conductive layer for different values of conductivity. The provided results in the paper, pointing out critical weakened spots due to presence of various contaminants, should be used as a detection tool to determine whether this type of stresses could have contributed to the unusual mechanism of insulator failure. Deeper understanding and knowledge of the failure mechanism may be useful in order to prevent early failures of insulating systems in general.

With the increase in the need to maintain uninterrupted power supply, due to sensitive devices in modern industry, more and more attention is paid to the protection of distribution lines in atypical construction conditions. Taking into account that lightning strikes are a frequent and main cause of power interruptions, it is necessary to take into account all the factors that can affect the improvement of the performance of distribution lines. This paper introduces a novel approach by incorporating tower grounding resistance, height, type, surge arrester, and flashover models in conditions of high soil resistance without physical protection. The proposed modelling procedure is validated through simulations on the 35 kV line "Kotor - Lovćen" in Montenegro, characterized by inadequate protection and high soil resistance, using the EMTP software and adhering to IEEE 1410 - 2004 standards.

AIMS: The aim of the study was to investigate the prognostic value of Ki-67 and histological grade in patients with estrogen receptor (ER) positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) negative early breast cancer. Although the proliferation activity of different tumors assessed with antigen Ki-67 was extensively studied in the last decade and showed that Ki67 expression was a useful prognostic factor in breast cancer, there is still a controversy about the utility value of Ki-67. METHODS: The retrospective study covered the period from 2016 to 2022. Year included 106 patients from Brcko District, with early estrogen-positive and HER2 receptors-negative breast cancer. The average patients’ age was 62.37 ± 11.65 years. Patients were divided into groups with high/low Ki-67 and high/low histological grade. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed for disease relapse and mortality. RESULTS: Patients with high Ki-67 were more frequent postmenopausal, had higher histological grade, cancer ˂2 cm, more frequent lymph nodes’ metastases, more frequently underwent to axillary surgery, and had a higher mortality rate. Patients with high histological grade were older, more frequent postmenopausal, had more frequent metastases to the lymph nodes, more frequent occurrence of high Ki-67, more frequent relapse of disease, and more frequent of death. CONCLUSION: Combination of high Ki-67 with high histological grade in ER positive and HER2-negative early breast cancer is an important prognostic factor.

The development of more complex inverter-based resources (IBRs) control is becoming essential as a result of the growing share of renewable energy sources in power systems. Given the diverse range of control schemes, grid operators are typically provided with black-box models of IBRs from various equipment manufacturers. As such, they are integrated into simulation models of the entire power system for analysis, and due to their nature, they can only be simulated in the time domain. Other system analysis approaches, like eigenvalue analysis, cannot be applied, making the comprehensive analysis of defined systems more challenging. This work introduces an approach for identification of three-phase IBR models for grid-forming and grid-following inverters using Hammerstein-Wiener models. To this end, we define a simulation framework for the identification process, and select suitable evaluation metrics for the results. Finally, we evaluate the approach on generic grid-forming and grid-following inverter models showing good identification results.

Background: Malignant pleural effusions (MPE) are a pathological build-up of fluid and cancer cells within the pleural space. Patients have a significantly impaired quality and quantity of life, as this condition usually indicates an advanced disease. Video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) pleurodesis is a minimally invasive and effective treatment modality for patients with MPE.Material and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of 60 patients with MPE treated with VATS pleurodesis. Success rates within a one-month follow-up, the intensity of dyspnea, Karnofsky and ECOG Performance Status Scales before and after the procedure, and length of hospital stay were observed. Results: VATS pleurodesis had a high success rate at the end of a one-month follow-up. A statistically significant difference was observed regarding the intensity of dyspnea, Karnofsky, and ECOG Performance Status before and after VATS pleurodesis. The average length of hospital stay was 7.5 days for these patients.Conclusion: Video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) pleurodesis is associated with low morbidity and a high success rate and is a reliable treatment modality for patients with MPE.

Connected and autonomous vehicles can potentially increase traffic safety by using various information and communication technologies (ICT). Data collected using technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) enables better traffic safety based on specific safety indicators. Modeling these indicators implies considering traditional traffic components such as driver-vehicle-road-environment. Eventually, if expressed in a suitable aggregate manner, traffic safety indicators can be presented and displayed to drivers to increase their attention and influence them to make decisions to avoid and mitigate traffic incidents. Existing driving risk assessment models usually consider a limited set of indicators related to individual drivers and their psycho-physical abilities which are important for participation in traffic. Data collected using IoT infrastructure alongside distributed computing and cloud technologies enables an expanded set of traffic safety indicators and a better assessment of driving risk. In this study, the common driver-vehicle-road-environment traffic safety indicators were considered and extended with the same indicators collected from neighboring drivers, weather conditions, surrounding awareness, and driver behavior data. We propose a novel architectural framework to provide dynamic driving risk assessment based on data collected using IoT technologies. The architectural framework provides a foundation for efficient data transmission between multiple sources and their processing, thus enabling the prediction of personal driving risk indicators.

BACKGROUND: A third of endovascularly treated patients with stroke experience incomplete reperfusion (expanded Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction [eTICI] <3), and the natural evolution of this incomplete reperfusion remains unknown. We systematically reviewed the literature and performed a meta-analysis on the natural evolution of incomplete reperfusion after endovascular therapy. METHODS: A systematic review of MEDLINE, Embase, and PubMed up until March 1, 2024, using a predefined strategy. Only full-text English-written articles reporting rates of either favorable (ie, delayed reperfusion (DR) or no new infarct) or unfavorable progression (ie, persistent perfusion deficit or new infarct) of incompletely reperfused tissue were included. The primary outcome was the rate of DR and its association with functional independence (modified Rankin Scale score, 0–2) at 90 days postintervention. Pooled odds ratios with 95% CIs were calculated using a random-effects model. RESULTS: Six studies involving 950 patients (50.7% female; median age, 71 years; interquartile range, 60–79) were included. Four studies assessed the evolution of incomplete reperfusion on magnetic resonance imaging perfusion imaging, while 2 studies used diffusion-weighted imaging and noncontrast computed tomography imaging, where new infarct was used to denote unfavorable progression. Five studies defined incomplete reperfusion as eTICI 2b50 or 2c. DR occurred in 41% (interquartile range, 33%–51%) of cases 24 hours postintervention. Achieving DR was associated with a higher likelihood of functional independence at 90 days (odds ratio, 2.5 [95% CI, 1.9–3.4]). CONCLUSIONS: Nearly half of eTICI <3 patients achieve DR, leading to favorable clinical outcomes. This subgroup may derive limited or potentially harmful effects from pursuing additional reperfusion strategies (eg, intra-arterial lytics or secondary thrombectomy). Accurately predicting the evolution of incomplete reperfusion could optimize patient selection for adjunctive reperfusion strategies at the end of an intervention. REGISTRATION: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifiers: NCT05499832.

Introduction West Nile Virus, an emerging zoonotic pathogen, has been circulating in Serbia for over a decade, with its first detection in mosquitoes in 2010. Since then, the virus has led to increasing cases in both animals and humans, peaking in 2018 with 415 human cases and 36 fatalities. This study aimed to explore the phylogenetic relationships between previously sequenced West Nile virus strains from Serbia and those sequenced in this study, while also identifying possible virulence factors. Materials and methods Whole genome sequencing was conducted using a targeted approach on the MinION Mk1C platform, following a two-step process involving cDNA synthesis and amplification. Bioinformatics analysis included demultiplexing, primer trimming, and sequence mapping using tools such as iVar, Minimap2, and Samtools. Phylogenetic analysis was performed using MAFFT alignment and the Maximum Likelihood method with the Tamura Nei model in MEGA X software. Virulence factors were assessed in both structural and nonstructural proteins, focusing on key glycosylation motifs and specific mutations. Homology modeling of the E protein was also performed to evaluate potential structural changes due to mutations. Results Phylogenetic analysis revealed two major sublineages within the E subclade, representing the majority of strains from Western and Central Europe. These sublineages likely originated from Austria, Serbia, and Hungary between 2008 and 2012. The study also identified three distinct sublineages within the D subclade, which includes more diverse strains from Southern Europe. The E protein exhibited significant variations, particularly at the E159 site, which is crucial for virulence. The EI159T aa change has become dominant in recent years, replacing the previously prevalent EI159M. Additionally, changes in the NS1 glycoprotein and NS3 protein, both of which are involved in immune modulation and viral replication, were identified, with potential implications for the virus’s virulence. Conclusion The study’s findings highlight the Western Balkans and Central Europe as key regions for the mixing and dissemination of West Nile virus strains from both Western-Central and Southern Europe. These results underscore the importance of continuous surveillance and phylogenetic analysis to monitor the evolution and spread of West Nile virus, particularly in light of the frequent mutations observed in virulence-associated sites.

Adenotonsillar hypertrophy is the most frequent cause for obstructive sleep apnea (OSAS) in children. In patients with small tonsils and where adenoid size cannot be assessed, the indication for adenoidectomy often relies on clinical symptoms. However, data on the association of clinical parameters and adenoid hypertrophy with OSAS severity in children undergoing an adenoidectomy is sparse. To investigate the correlation of patient characteristics, adenoid hypertrophy, and clinical symptoms with OSAS severity in pediatric patients indicated for an adenoidectomy. We performed a retrospective chart review of all pediatric patients at our tertiary referral center between 2018 and 2023 who underwent polygraphy (PG) for OSAS diagnostics. Adenoid hypertrophy was assessed as adenoid-choanal ratio (AC-ratio) via nasal endoscopy and clinical symptom score (CS) via physical examination and parental survey. We included all symptomatic children with mild to severe OSAS (apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 1). Exclusion criteria were obesity according to BMI and/or the presence of systemic diseases. The patients were divided according to age in a preschool and school cohort. Patient characteristics and PG data were compared between both groups. Linear regression analysis was used to investigate the association of AC-ratio, CS and BMI with the AHI. A total of 121 patients were identified of which 81 were included in our study, resulting in 42 and 39 patients from 3–5 and 6–14 years of age, respectively. We observed a significant correlation between CS and BMI (p = 0.026) and the CS and AC-ratio (p < 0.001). Univariable regression analysis showed significant association of the AC-ratio and CS with AHI-score for the total (p < 0.001), the preschool (p < 0.001), and the school cohort (p < 0.001). In multivariable regression analysis, the significant association of AC-ratio and CS remained in the total (p = 0.014; p < 0.001), and the preschool cohort (p = 0.029; p = 0.002). However, only the CS remained as positive predictor in the school cohort. AC-ratio and clinical symptoms seem to be reliable predictors for OSAS severity in patients between 3–14 years of age. Moreover, only clinical symptoms were associated with OSAS severity in schoolchildren. Future investigation should contribute to the validation of our results

Introduction The increasing prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has created an urgent need for rapid and cost-effective methods to diagnose and monitor people at all stages of the disease. Progressive memory impairment and hippocampal atrophy are key features of the most common so-called typical variant of AD. However, studies evaluating detailed cognitive measures combined with region of interest (ROI)-based imaging markers of progression over the long term in the AD dementia (ADD) stage are rare. Method We conducted a retrospective longitudinal follow-up study in patients with mild to moderate ADD (aged 60-92 years). They underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; 3 Tesla, MPRAGE) as well as clinical and neuropsychological examination (Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease [CERAD] -Plus test battery) at baseline and at least one follow-up visit. ROI-based brain structural analysis of baseline MRIs was performed using the Computational Anatomy Toolbox (CAT) 12. Clinical dementia progression (progression index [PI]) was measured by the annual decline in the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores. MRI, demographic, and neuropsychological data were included in univariate and multiple linear regression models to predict the PI. Results 104 ADD patients (age 63 to 90 years, 73% female, mean MMSE score 22.63 ± 3.77, mean follow-up 4.27 ± 2.15 years) and 32 age- and gender-matched cognitively intact controls were included. The pattern of gray matter (GM) atrophy and the cognitive profile were consistent with the amnestic/typical variant of ADD in all patients. Deficits in word list learning together with temporal lobe GM atrophy had the highest predictive value for rapid cognitive decline in the multiple linear regression model, accounting for 25.4% of the PI variance. Discussion Our results show that temporal atrophy together with deficits in the encoding of verbal material, rather than in immediate or delayed recall, is highly predictive for rapid cognitive decline in patients with mild to moderate amnestic/typical ADD. These findings point to the relevance of combining detailed cognitive and automated structural imaging analyses to predict clinical progression in patients with ADD.

Carp edema virus disease, caused by the Carp Edema Virus (CEV), is an emerging disease affecting common carp (Cyprinus carpio). During early April 2023, Rama Lake in Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) experienced significant daily mortalities of wild common carp (Cyprinus carpio), predominantly affecting adult specimens. Despite the presence of other fish species in the lake, the mortality was exclusively observed in the common carp. The sample of 10 moribund fish was caught in a landing net and transported on ice to the Laboratory for Aquaculture of the Veterinary Institute Sarajevo. In order to examine possible viral aetiology, tissue samples were collected and DNA was extracted using standard procedures. CEV was detected by real-time PCR. All samples were real-time PCR negative for the presence of KHV and SVCV. In this study, we describe the first detection of CEVD caused by carp edema virus in wild carp in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

<p>The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and wearable technologies in healthcare is revolutionizing preventive medicine, particularly in cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention. With CVD being the leading cause of global mortality, these innovations offer transformative potential in addressing the disease through a multi-level prevention strategy. Capabilities of AI, supported by wearables, enhance data collection and analysis, allowing for tailored, patient-specific interventions. Primary prevention focuses on mitigating risk factors, while secondary prevention enables early detection through real-time monitoring, and tertiary prevention optimizes management of existing conditions to improve quality of life. This review explores the roles of AI and wearables in each level of prevention, highlighting advancements in predictive analytics, patient-centered care, and personalized treatment planning. Ethical considerations surrounding data privacy and security are also discussed, as well as the importance of accessible technology to reduce health disparities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. As AI algorithms and wearable data improve, they will become increasingly effective in proactive health management, marking a shift from reactive treatment to preventive care. The successful implementation of these technologies depends on robust ethical frameworks and interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering a future in which preventive healthcare is more personalized, accessible, and impactful.</p>

Metals in red and white wines may stem from both natural and anthropogenic sources, with their concentration serving as an important parameter influencing wine consumption. The objective of this study was to determine the metal content in available wine samples from the Bosnia and Herzegovina market. Eight samples of red wine and seven white wine samples were analysed. Cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) were determined in these samples given their potential impact on wine quality and thus human health. Metal determination was conducted using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). Limit of detection values were calculated using two methods for standard solution preparation, utilising distilled water and 10 % ethanol as blanks. Moreover, a human health risk assessment of trace elements present in wine samples was conducted. The concentrations of Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn in the samples were found to be below the maximum allowed limits according to the regulations set by the International Organization of Vine and Wine, as well as the national regulations of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the European Union and Croatia. The content of Cd, Co, Ni, and Pb in all wine samples was below the detection limit of FAAS. The data obtained indicated that consuming 250 ml of wine samples appeared to be safe regarding the health risk associated with the potentially toxic metal intake. However, consumers should remain aware of other potential risks associated with excessive wine consumption. Regarding winemakers and the wine industry, to reduce the metal content in wine, monitoring of metal content should extend beyond just the grapes to include soil, air quality at the vineyard locations, and at different stages of the winemaking process since metal content in wine has an impact on the sensory attributes and overall quality of the wine.