We initiate the study of simple games from the point of view of combinatorial topology. The starting premise is that the losing coalitions of a simple game can be identified with a simplicial complex. Various topological constructions and results from the theory of simplicial complexes then carry over to the setting of simple games. Examples are cone, join, and the Alexander dual, each of which have interpretations as familiar game-theoretic objects. We also provide some new topological results about simple games, most notably in applications of homology of simplicial complexes to weighted simple games. The exposition is introductory and largely self-contained, intended to inspire further work and point to what appears to be a wealth of potentially fruitful directions of investigation bridging game theory and topology.

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Benign schwannomas are slow-growing, painless tumours originating from Schwann cells, which form the sheaths of peripheral nerves. These tumours are relatively rare, with an incidence of 1-3 cases per 100,000 individuals annually. While they are most commonly found in the head, neck, and spine, schwannomas can also occur in the extremities, particularly in the upper limbs. Tumours in the pelvis and gluteal region are less frequent but are clinically significant due to their potential to compress adjacent structures. We present a case of a 74-year-old male patient who underwent surgery for a large schwannoma in the gluteal region, extending into the pelvis at the level of the piriformis muscle and sciatic foramen. Initially misdiagnosed and treated as sciatica, this case highlights the importance of considering schwannomas in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with neurological symptoms in unusual locations. Sciatic symptoms that do not respond to conservative treatment should be further investigated, and a thorough palpation of tender and painful points should always be performed to aid in the potential diagnosis of a local soft tissue tumour.

Introduction Immunotherapy has made a significant improvement in the treatment of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It has a role in boosting the immune system, so it can fight cancer cells. Sometimes, this mechanism can lead to an overstimulation or misdirection of immune response, so it can act against the body itself. One of the organs most affected by this reaction is the thyroid gland, and there is no definitive explanation of the causes of this adverse event. Material and methods In this retrospective observational study, we enrolled 103 patients with NSCLC and high PD-L1 expression (>= 50%) who were treated in our Clinic for pulmonology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, using Pembrolizumab as the first-line therapy. Results Data analysis showed that 41 (39.81%) of 103 patients in our study had an adverse event of immunotherapy, and 21 of them had autoimmune thyroiditis (20.39%). Of all the patients, 19 of them were treated for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) before the onset of Pembrolizumab. During treatment, eight of these patients developed thyroid dysfunction. Patients with COPD were at increased risk of developing autoimmune thyroiditis compared to non-COPD patients (OR 3.9 95% CI 1.135–13.260, p = 0.0227). Conclusion Our study showed that patients dealing with COPD have a 3.9 times greater risk of developing autoimmune thyroiditis as an adverse event during Pembrolizumab treatment compared with patients without COPD.

Ixodid ticks are present throughout the Western Balkan countries, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia, with many species serving as vectors for pathogens of both veterinary and medical importance. We have conducted a thorough examination of existing literature, encompassing historical documents, to collect information on all documented non-zoonotic tick-borne pathogens found in ticks, pets, farm animals and wild animals across the Western Balkan region. A comprehensive review was necessary due to the scarcity and scattered nature of available data from this area. The tick fauna in the Western Balkans consists of 32 species across five genera: Ixodes, Haemaphysalis, Dermacentor, Rhipicephalus and Hyalomma. Various pathogens responsible for diseases in animals, including bacteria and parasites, have also been documented, many of which can cause important diseases and significant reductions in animal productivity. Initial efforts were directed towards pathogen surveillance and the characterisation of non-zoonotic tick-borne pathogens, resulting in the identification of Theileria orientalis, Anaplasma bovis and Anaplasma marginale in cattle, although significant gaps remain in the current research. Studies on small ruminants have been sparse, with confirmed cases of Anaplasma ovis and Babesia ovis in sheep, but no comprehensive and systematic research on pathogens in goats. In contrast, research on canine piroplasms has identified several species, including Babesia canis and Babesia vulpes. Studies on wild animals, however, have predominantly focused on wild canines and carnivores, with limited attention given to non-zoonotic pathogens. Notably, only one study has reported non-zoonotic tick-borne pathogens in artiodactyl species and wild felids. This review is a much needed overview of existing research on non-zoonotic tick-borne diseases in the Western Balkans, including the historical context, current data and research gaps. Given the significant impact of these diseases on animal health and productivity, as well as their potential biodiversity, further comprehensive studies and the establishment of national surveillance systems for tick-borne diseases are essential for a better understanding and mitigation of their impact.

Introduction The strategic utilization of plant growth-promoting (PGP) rhizospheric bacteria is a sustainable approach to mitigating the negative effects of anthropogenic activities and excessive nickel (Ni) accumulation in plants. Given that the specific effects of symbiotic interactions depend on the direct relationship between the plant species, bacterial strain, and heavy metals (HMs), this study aimed to investigate the effects of Paraburkholderia phytofirmans PsJN seed priming on Ni tolerance in adult Micro-Tom tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Methods Sterilized Micro-Tom seeds were bioprimed with P. phytofirmans PsJN for 24 hours and then sown into the soil. Non-primed, imbibed seeds were used as a control. After 10 days, the seedlings were transferred to a Hoagland nutrient solution. Chronic (10 μM Ni) and acute (50 μM Ni) stress conditions were induced by supplementing the Hoagland solution with Ni salt. The experiment lasted approximately 75 days, covering the complete life cycle of the plants. Various physiological and biochemical parameters were analyzed. Results Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed between non-primed and bioprimed tomato plants in terms of fruit yield. Bioprimed tomatoes exhibited higher resilience to Ni stress, particularly under acute stress conditions. Non-primed tomatoes treated with 50 μM Ni showed statistically lower concentrations of chlorophyll a and total chlorophylls compared to bioprimed tomatoes. Moreover, proline content was generally lower and more stable in bioprimed plants, indicating reduced oxidative stress.The activity of antioxidant enzymes exhibited distinct patterns between nonprimed and bioprimed tomatoes. Conclusion The findings suggest that biopriming with P. phytofirmans PsJN enhances Micro-Tom tomato resilience and growth under Ni stress. This technique appears to mitigate Ni-induced stress effects, particularly at higher Ni concentrations, making it a promising strategy for improving tomato performance in Ni-contaminated environments. Future studies should explore the underlying molecular mechanisms and field applications of this biopriming approach.

Machine learning (ML) is a crucial component of artificial intelligence that has recently attracted attention for its application in logistics. ML algorithms are used on large datasets. They create logic correlations among given data and provide predictions of specific values. This research paper aims to conduct a systematic literature review to showcase the potential applications of machine learning in urban logistics systems, specifically focusing on enhancing satisfaction for postal logistics operators and their customers. The authors used various research publication databases in this context (Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar etc). The analysis of different models provides insights into diverse aspects, such as predicting product prices and types of cargo, evaluating user satisfaction, forecasting user departures, assessing optimal geographical locations for implementing postal centres, predicting purchase times before online orders, estimating delivery times in the last phase of the logistics chain and more. The significance of this research is highlighted through the identification of shortcomings in existing literature, offering guidelines for future research in developing new machine learning model for optimal operator selection. This model aims to achieve improvements in both customer and operator satisfaction simultaneously.

BACKGROUND Aneurysms, characterized by localized dilatation involving all three layers of the vascular wall, pose significant risks, with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) being prevalent, particularly among the elderly. However, the cooccurrence of AAA with abdominal tortuous aorta (ATA) remains exceptionally rare. CASE REPORT We present the case of a 63-year-old male with an AAA extending into the iliac arteries, accompanied by ATA. Computed tomography revealed complex structural abnormalities, necessitating immediate surgical intervention. Due to the anatomical complexities, endovascular repair was not feasible, leading to a successful aortobifemoral bypass surgery using the Piljic method. The patient recovered well postoperatively, highlighting the efficacy of the chosen approach. CONCLUSION While AAA is often treated with endovascular repair, ATA complicates this approach, underscoring the need for open surgery in such cases. Research on aortic tortuosity's role in rupture prediction and stress alleviation shows varied findings, necessitating additional studies. ATA may also hinder vascular catheter insertion, requiring alternative routes for interventions. Future research is imperative to develop tailored treatment strategies for patients with concurrent AAA and ATA, ensuring optimal outcomes.

Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted general medical practice by altering work structures and increasing teamwork while also adversely affecting the mental health of general practitioners and family medicine specialists. This study assesses depression, anxiety, and fear levels among general practitioners and family medicine specialists in Europe 2 years after the COVID-19 pandemic’s onset, and it explores influencing factors. Methods This observational cross-sectional study included participants from 13 European countries. Data was collected from May to August 2022 with an anonymous online survey incorporating validated questionnaires for depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), and fear of COVID-19 (FCV-19S). Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, correlation tests, and linear regression. Results A total of 1,723 participants completed the survey. Findings indicated an overall mild to moderate levels of anxiety (GAD-7: 5.4 ± 4.76) and depression (PHQ-9: 6.33 ± 5.43), and moderate fear of COVID-19 (FCV-19: 12.84 ± 5.29). Key determinants of anxiety, fear, and depression included country, at-risk status, patient non-compliance, and mental health history. Sex influenced anxiety and fear, losing co-workers to COVID-19 influenced anxiety and depression, while losing relatives or friends influenced fear. Conclusion Two years into the pandemic, European general practitioners and family medicine specialists showed mild to moderate levels of anxiety, depression, and fear. Country, at-risk status, mental health history, and work-related challenges significantly affected mental health. Crucial interventions are needed to support healthcare workers during pandemics, focusing on protective measures, stable work environments, and coping strategies for anxiety and depression.

Purpose This study aims to investigate the dual impact of anger on decision-making, addressing the gap in understanding its paradoxical nature in entrepreneurial contexts. Design/methodology/approach Using an integrative approach, this study synthesises insights from the appraisal theory of emotion, affect infusion model, emotional intelligence framework, broaden-and-build theory and resource-based view to provide a comprehensive review and analysis of entrepreneurial anger and its psychological foundations. Findings Anger exhibits a paradoxical duality influencing entrepreneurial decision-making and behaviour. This duality manifests across several dimensions. Cognitively, it can sharpen focus or lead to fixation; emotionally, it may energise or overwhelm; motivationally, it can spur action or provoke recklessness; volitionally, it may enhance determination or induce impulsivity; and behaviourally, it can lead to strategic assertiveness or reactive aggression. Research limitations/implications Although this theoretical examination reveals the paradoxical nature of entrepreneurial anger, future empirical studies are needed to explore its temporal evolution, cross-cultural variances and interactions with other emotional states. This research should help validate the proposed dimensions and implications of entrepreneurial anger in real-world settings. Practical implications Understanding the paradoxical nature of entrepreneurial anger is vital for entrepreneurs. recognising its dual properties allows them to mitigate the anger’s negative consequences while leveraging its potential as a strategic asset. To transform anger into a strategic asset, entrepreneurs need to augment their self-awareness, hone emotion regulation skills and cultivate deliberation-based decision-making approaches. At an organisational level, entrepreneurs should foster a culture where emotions are openly acknowledged and addressed, as well as constructively managed. This can help turn anger into an entrepreneurial performance driver. Social implications By promoting a deeper understanding of entrepreneurial anger, this research can foster healthier entrepreneurial ecosystems where emotions are acknowledged, understood and managed effectively, leading to more sustainable and harmonious entrepreneurial ventures. Originality/value This work offers a holistic conceptual analysis of entrepreneurial anger elucidating its paradoxical properties and implications.

Background: The endometrial microbiome, its composition, and the quantity of some bacteria could be predictors of successful implantation in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment. The presence of Lactobacillus, which negatively correlates with pathogenic bacteria, could be a contributing factor to endometrial ecosystem stability. The study aimed to determine whether the quantity of Lactobacillus spp and Gardnerella vaginalis in the endometrium depends on estrogen levels. A secondary aim was to determine whether the decreased number of Lactobacillus spp leads to increased pathogenic bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis in the endometrial cavity. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted in a private IVF center in Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Participants were recruited from February 2023 to December 2023. The tip of a double-lumen catheter was used to collect samples from the endometrium. QIAamp DNA Mini Kit was used for DNA isolation. A commercial real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) kit was used to detect Lactobacillus spp and Gardnerella vaginalis quantitatively. Results: In total, 92 participants were included in the study, 57 in the fresh cycle and 35 in the frozen cycle of IVF. The youngest participant was 18 years old, and the oldest was 45 years old. The mean age of participants was 34.3 years with a standard deviation of 5.7. After RT-PCR, 90 participants had positive tests on Lactobacillus spp, Gardnerella vaginalis was positive in 31 participants. Conclusion: Supraphysiological estrogen levels do not significantly change the quantity of Lactobacillus spp and Gardnerella vaginalis in the endometrial cavity. Decreasing the number of Lactobacillus spp increased the number of pathogenic bacteria Gardnerella vaginalis in the endometrial cavity.

We present absolute frequency measurements of a laser stabilized using an offset sideband locking technique on the P(49)24-1 rovibrational transition of 127I2 near 556 nm. The P(49)24-1 transition is offset by 4.8 GHz from the intercombination transition of 171Yb. A dual-tone electro-optical modulator is employed to bridge this frequency gap, enabling frequency stabilization of the 556 nm laser near the Yb transition, achieving a fractional frequency stability of 1.2 × 10-11 at one second. We thoroughly characterize the frequency shifts associated with this locking scheme, with typical systematic effects fractional uncertainties of 9 × 10-12.

Purpose Digital game-based learning (DGBL) has emerged as a new learning method that offers ample advantages compared to traditional learning environments. Although previous research supports the effectiveness of DGBL, there is a lack of studies explaining the relationship between the concrete elements of a digital game and the highly abstract and intangible personal values. Thus, this paper aims to employ means-end chain (MEC) theory to identify the attributes of DGBL, the benefits that learners derive from these attributes and how these benefits contribute to learners’ terminal values. Design/methodology/approach This paper used MEC theory to map the attributes, consequences and values of DGBL. The study was conducted on 20 students at a European university, and data analysis using the laddering technique included content analysis, classification into A-C-V levels, construction of an implication matrix and generation of a hierarchical value map (HVM). Findings This study provides insight into key design elements of digital educational games through a hierarchical value map, identifying how attributes such as interactive content, simulation of real-world situations and adaptability influence psychological and functional consequences that lead to higher student values: happiness, achievement, personal growth and autonomy. The four dominant trajectories associated with DGBL are the happiness-driven, achievement-driven, growth-driven and autonomy-driven trajectories, each of which is supported by relevant learning and motivation theories. The study also highlights the importance of elements such as reduced cognitive load, greater emotional engagement and tailored educational content in improving learning outcomes. Research limitations/implications The research is based on subjective, self-reported data and a sample of higher education students at a single European university, which may limit the applicability of the findings to lower educational levels and other cultural contexts. Additionally, the analysis encompasses DGBL in general, without focusing on specific types of games or modes of play. Practical implications The results obtained from the means-end analysis are valuable for understanding the fundamental values of learners that motivate them to engage in DGBL, offering insight into game design attributes and consequences related to higher-order personal values. The present study shows that the three most important game design elements are interactive content, simulation of the real-world and customization. Originality/value This study extends the application of the MEC approach in a new context and validates the laddering technique, revealing the hierarchy of values that students realize through DGBL. It also provides insight into the pathways linking attributes, consequences and values and offers a solid HVM framework for future research on the impact of game design elements on learning outcomes.