Introduction/Objectives: Patient-centered communication is essential in oncology care, where healthcare professionals often manage emotionally demanding conversations, uncertainty, complex decisions, and patient involvement in care. However, the relationship between communication knowledge, empathic listening, and practical communication skills remains insufficiently examined. This study aimed to examine the associations between communication knowledge, empathic listening, and interpersonal communication skills among healthcare professionals involved in oncology care. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Croatia from May to November 2025 on a convenience sample of 138 healthcare professionals involved in oncology care. Communication knowledge was assessed using a study-specific questionnaire, empathic listening using an adapted Active Empathic Listening Scale, and interpersonal communication skills using an adapted Interpersonal Communication Skills Inventory. Because the instruments were adapted to the oncology care context, their dimensions were examined using exploratory factor analysis and interpreted as sample-specific exploratory constructs. Descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and multiple linear regression analyses were performed. Results: Clear message delivery and assertiveness had the highest self-reported score, whereas emotional interaction management had the lowest. Communication knowledge was not an independent predictor of communication skills dimensions. Processing and responding positively predicted clear message delivery and assertiveness (β = 0.361; p = 0.001; R2 = 13.4%), while noticing emotional and nonverbal cues negatively predicted emotional interaction management (β = −0.234; p = 0.032; R2 = 7.6%). The explained variance of the models was low. Conclusions: The findings suggest limited but potentially relevant associations between selected dimensions of empathic listening and self-reported communication skills in oncology care. Communication knowledge, measured using a study-specific exploratory instrument, was not independently associated with communication skills. Because of the exploratory design, self-report measures, adapted instruments, and convenience sampling, the results should be interpreted with caution.

This study explores the drivers of social network site (SNS) users’ purchase intentions for products recommended by influencers. Drawing on social cognitive theory (SCT) and the cognition-affection-behavior (CAB) model, it investigates the factors influencing users’ decisions to follow social media influencers (SMIs) and their affective commitment toward these influencers, which in turn impacts purchase intentions. Specifically, this study examines the roles of social interaction ties, social norms, personal outcome expectations and trust in shaping users’ emotional attachment to influencers. By empirically testing the conceptual framework, this research identifies affective commitment as a key mediator between cognition and purchase intentions. Specifically, the findings show that cognitive evaluations (concretely, trust and personal outcome expectations) significantly drive affective commitment, which in turn strengthens purchase intentions. This evidence underscores the sequential role of cognitive and affective mechanisms in explaining influencer marketing effectiveness. This research contributes to the influencer marketing literature and provides practical insights for selecting influencers who can effectively drive purchase intentions, offering valuable input for brands, influencers, and policymakers in the rapidly growing digital marketing landscape.

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate whether global longitudinal strain (GLS), early systolic lengthening (ESL), and postsystolic shortening (PSS), individually and combined, predict anatomical disease severity and significant coronary artery stenosis in non–ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Materials and Methods: We prospectively enrolled 112 NSTE-ACS patients with preserved LVEF and no regional wall motion abnormalities. GLS, ESL, and PSS were measured using two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography. Significant coronary artery disease (CAD) was defined as ≥90% stenosis in at least one major epicardial artery, and anatomical burden was quantified using the SYNTAX score. Linear and logistic regression, receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, DeLong comparison, and internal validation were performed. Results: GLS and PSS were significant predictors of SYNTAX score in univariate linear regression. In the multivariable model, only GLS remained independently associated with SYNTAX (P < 0.001), explaining 26.2% of variance (adjusted R² =0.24; variance inflation factor <5). Significant stenosis was present in 70 patients (62%). ESL (P = 0.028) and PSS (P = 0.001) predicted ≥ 90% stenosis in univariate analysis, whereas GLS reached significance only in multivariable analysis (odds ratio 1.28, 95% confidence interval 1.09–1.51, P = 0.003). The multimarker model (GLS + ESL + PSS) had the highest ROC area under the curve (AUC) (0.726) but did not significantly outperform GLS alone (AUC 0.707; P = 0.390). Model-predicted probabilities correlated with SYNTAX (ρ =0.480, P < 0.001). Conclusions: GLS is the strongest strain-derived predictor of both significant stenosis and anatomical CAD burden in NSTE-ACS with preserved LVEF. Strain-based analysis may aid early, noninvasive risk stratification in this population.

This research was undertaken to investigate the criteria that motivate individuals to progress in their careers. To accomplish this, research was conducted with employees from the University of Zadar. The study aimed to identify the criteria that affect career advancement within the context of a higher education institution. A total of 15 employees participated, evaluating 15 specific factors to determine the primary elements that promote career progression, using a rating scale from 1 to 10. The significance of these factors was assessed through the SWARA (Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis) method. The findings of this study indicated that motivation and persistence are crucial elements in networking and professional relationships, while expertise and skills also contribute significantly. Nevertheless, a unique aspect of advancement in higher education is that work experience does not significantly enhance employee motivation. The research advances the thesis that motivation and professional networking are the dominant factors in academic career progression. This research offers insights into the factors that affect career development for employees within higher education institutions.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate perineal length and thickness during labor and to assess their association with any spontaneous perineal tear. STUDY DESIGN This prospective study included 221 women with term singleton pregnancies and cephalic presentation. Perineal length and thickness were measured in early labor (≤4 cm cervical dilatation) and reassessed in the second stage (full dilatation). The primary outcome was any spontaneous perineal tear, including grades I-IV. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess these associations, adjusting for parity, body mass index and birth weight. RESULTS Spontaneous perineal tears occurred in 31 women (14.0%). In multivariable analysis, shorter perineal length in the first stage of labor was independently associated with higher odds of spontaneous tear (OR 0.42; 95% CI 0.20-0.86; p = 0.018). In the second-stage model, greater perineal thickness was independently associated with higher odds of spontaneous tear (OR 2.34; 95% CI 1.08-5.05; p = 0.031). BMI, parity, and neonatal birth weight were not independently associated with the outcome. In sensitivity analyses with additional adjustment for episiotomy, perineal morphometric characteristics were no longer statistically significant. CONCLUSION Shorter perineal length in early labor and greater perineal thickness at full dilatation were associated with any spontaneous perineal tear in primary multivariable analyses. However, after additional adjustment for episiotomy in sensitivity analyses, these associations were no longer statistically significant. These findings suggest an association between perineal morphometry and spontaneous perineal tears, but do not support using perineal measurements as standalone markers.

Clinical research continually shows a considerable decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) levels when phytosterols are consumed. This study aimed to show the phytosterols' presence in blackthorn extracts through various techniques. Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa L.) extracts from three regions of Bosnia and Herzegovina (Borije, Trnovo, and Vareš) obtained by Soxhlet extraction were evaluated using thin layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. By comparing the Furrier Transformed Infrared spectra of the extract samples with the standards of β-sitosterol and stigmasterol the corresponding peaks were found. In accordance with the traditional use of blackthorn in the treatment of prostate diseases, the antiproliferative activity of two human prostate cancer cells, PC-3 and Du145, was established. The obtained results showed that the tested blackthorn extracts exhibit dose-dependent antiproliferative activity against the tested malignant cells in vitro. The dichloromethane extract from Trnovo showed the best cytotoxic activity against PC-3 cells, while the n-hexane extract from the same locality showed the best activity against Du145 cells. This study indicates the possibility of using blackthorn fruit extracts as a supplementary remedy as well as an addition to some pharmaceutical formulations in order to achieve a more efficient antiproliferative activity.

Fire safety in high-rise buildings represents a critical challenge in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where intensive urbanization, extreme climatic conditions, and multilayered regulatory frameworks impose unique competency demands on architects and Fire Safety Engineering (FSE) consultants. Despite this, no empirically validated competency framework exists that simultaneously addresses both professional groups and is tailored to the specificities of the UAE context. This study aimed to construct and empirically validate such a framework. A three-phase sequential exploratory mixed-method design was employed. In the first phase, a systematic literature review yielded a preliminary set of 69 competency indicators organized within a Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes (KSA) structure. In the second phase, a three-round Delphi technique with an expert panel of 18 specialists validated the set to 62 final indicators. In the third phase, importance–performance analysis (IPA) was conducted on a sample of 250 professionals actively engaged in fire safety projects across four UAE. IPA identified 16 priority competency gaps, most pronounced in digital transformation (BIM, CFD, AI; gap = 1.23), proactive client advisory competencies (gap = 1.21), and regulatory navigation and Civil Defence coordination (gap = 1.00). A counterintuitive finding emerged whereby architects systematically rated competencies higher than FSE consultants across all dimensions (all p < 0.05). Psychometric validation confirmed excellent instrument reliability (Cronbach’s Alpha > 0.95) and a theoretically consistent three-factor KSA structure explaining 70.06% of variance. The developed framework of 62 empirically validated indicators represents the first competency model of its kind for architects and FSE consultants in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. Its findings provide a direct empirical basis for curriculum reform, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programmes, and professional licencing standards in the UAE and across the GCC region. The study makes three original contributions: the first empirically validated UAE-specific competency framework for these professional groups; a methodological combination of Delphi, IPA, EFA, Mann–Whitney, and Kruskal–Wallis not previously applied in fire safety competency research; and empirical confirmation that 74% of indicators required original development or adaptation, demonstrating the limitations of generic international competency models in the UAE context.

The primary objective of this study was to analyze the frequency of alleles and genotypes of the G894T polymorphism of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene and the insertion-deletion (I/D) polymorphism of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene in relation to body mass index (BMI) and biochemical parameters. The study included 64 subjects. Analysis of genotype distribution of the eNOS G894T polymorphism in relation to BMI showed that the GT+TT genotype was present in 11 subjects with BMI ≤ 24.9 and in 25 subjects with BMI ≥ 25. For the ACE I/D polymorphism, the ID+DD genotype was detected in 10 subjects with BMI ≤ 24.9 and in 36 subjects with BMI ≥ 25. No statistically significant differences in allele or genotype frequencies were observed between BMI groups (p > 0.05). Regarding biochemical parameters, although the differences lacked statistical significance (p > 0.05), GT+TT genotypes (eNOS G894T) were more frequent in subjects with elevated glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels compared to the GG genotype. Similarly, the analysis revealed no statistically significant association between the ACE I/D polymorphism and the examined biochemical parameters (p > 0.05). A major limitation of the present study is the relatively small sample size; therefore, these findings should be considered preliminary. Nevertheless, the specific trends observed in genotype distribution represent an important indicator in investigating the potential role of these polymorphisms in the genetic background of the metabolic profile. Thus, further research on larger and more homogeneous cohorts is necessary to elucidate this potential significance.

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a rare autoimmune, demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system. Clinical manifestations include optic neuritis, longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) involving three or more vertebral segments, and, in most cases, seropositivity for anti‐aquaporin‐4 antibodies (AQP4‐IgG). Although longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) is a hallmark feature of NMOSD, it is not pathognomonic and may occur in a variety of infectious, metabolic, neoplastic, and autoimmune conditions, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here we report the case of a female patient who presented with severe tetraparesis, secondary to transverse myelitis. Serological evaluation revealed positivity for anti‐AQP4 antibodies, anti‐dsDNA antibodies, and ENA antibodies, leading to the simultaneous diagnosis of NMOSD and SLE. Nevertheless, it remained uncertain whether the transverse myelitis represented a manifestation of NMOSD or neurological involvement of SLE.

Modern lifestyles are often accompanied by increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms,which are particularly pronounced among the young adult population. Physical activity is increasinglyrecognized as an important factor in maintaining and improving mental health. The aim of this study was toexamine the effects of a structured recreational activity program on levels of depression and anxiety inyoung adult women. The study included 35 women aged 20 to 40 years. The experimental program lastedthree months, during which participants engaged in organized recreational activities twice a week, witheach session lasting one hour and conducted under professional supervision. Data were collected before thebeginning and after the completion of the experimental period using standardized measurementinstruments. Basic descriptive statistical parameters were used for data analysis. The results showed adecrease in the mean values of most variables related to depressive and anxiety symptoms in the finalmeasurement compared to the initial one. The overall depression score decreased from 5.94 to 4.86, whileanxiety scores decreased from 5.57 to 4.91. The findings indicate a positive effect of the three-monthrecreational activity program on reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety among participants. Basedon these results, it can be concluded that regular physical activity plays a significant role in maintainingmental health and can contribute to the reduction of depressive and anxiety symptoms in young adultwomen. The results emphasize the importance of incorporating organized recreational activities into dailylife as a potential means of improving psychological well-being.Keywords:young adult women, depression, anxiety, physical activity

This study was conducted on a sample comprising 60 athletes aged 13–15 years from the Tuzla Canton, including 30karate practitioners and 30 boxers. The karate participants were members of the clubs “Konjuh” (Živinice) and “DO”(Tuzla), whereas the boxers were members of the boxing clubs KBS “Banovići” (Banovići), BK “Živinice” (Živinice), KBS“Radnički” (Lukavac), BK “Grad” (Tuzla) and BK “Feniks” (Tuzla). Frontal–lateral agility in this research wasoperationalized through three separate agility variables: T-test agility (MAGTTAG), Movement in Two Triangles(MAGKDTR) and Side Steps (MAGKUST). The primary aim was to determine differences in the manifestation of frontal–lateral agility between karate athletes and boxers. An independent samples t-test for small samples was applied toevaluate inter-group differences. Inspection of the t-test results and comparison of arithmetic means indicateddifferences across all frontal–lateral agility variables (MAGTTAG, MAGKDTR and MAGKUST). However, only two of thethree variables: Movement in Two Triangles (MAGKDTR) and Side Steps (MAGKUST) showed statistically significantdifferences; the difference observed in T-test agility (MAGTTAG), although evident, did not reach statistical significance.The specific movement structure in karate, characterized by minimal oscillation of the body's center of mass, contributedto better frontal–lateral agility among the karate sample. The findings pertain to the examined groups of karatepractitioners and boxers.Keywords:karate athletes, boxers, frontal–lateral agility, differences

Functional Movement Screening (FMS) consists of seven tests that provide a simple yet reliable assessment of mobility,stability, and overall musculoskeletal function. The study included 40 girls aged 9 to 12 years, who were divided intotwo groups according to the sport they practiced karate and artistic gymnastics. The karate group consisted ofmembers of Karate Club Konjuh, while the gymnastics group included members of Gymnastics Club Salto. Allparticipants were healthy and had not sustained any injuries in the previous six months, which enabled an accurateassessment of their functional status. The aim of the study was to examine whether there were differences in thequality of fundamental movement patterns between the athletes. The tests enabled the identification of potentialasymmetries or weaknesses that may arise as a result of sport-specific training loads. The data were analyzed usingdescriptive statistics within the SPSS 26 software package. Levene’s test was used to assess the homogeneity ofvariances between the groups, while an independent samples t-test was applied to determine differences betweenthe groups. The results revealed statistically significant differences in the Active Straight Leg Raise (ASLR) and RotaryStability (ROT) tests. The findings suggest that tailored and individualized training programs may play an importantrole in improving functional movement patterns and reducing the risk of injury in young athletes.Keywords:FMS, mobility, stability, Levene’s test, T-test

The sample of entities consists of 15 winning national teams classified in the entity group "WIN" and 15 defeatednational teams classified in the entity group "DEFEAT". For this research, we used only those matches where the finalwinner was obtained after the regular part of the match, as well as the players of the winning and defeated teams whospent all 90 minutes on the field. The subject of this research refers to the analysis of team situational efficiencyparameters in women's U17 football teams participating in the European Football Championship held in Bosnia andHerzegovina. The problem of this research is to determine the differences in the parameters of team situational efficiencybetween winning and defeated teams. The data obtained within this research were processed using the followingdescriptive procedures: Modus, Median, Frequency, Valid Percent and Cumulative Percent. To determine the differencesbetween the winning and losing teams in the variables used to assess team and individual situational efficiency, we usedthe Median test. Based on the results obtained, we can say that the winning and defeated teams/representations differ inthe parameters of team situational efficiency in six variables: the total number of attempted shots on goal, the number ofgoals scored in the match, the number of shots on goal, the number of shots outside the goal, the number of assists andnumber of goals conceded.Key words:situational efficiency, notational analysis, central and dispersion parameters, differences