The clinical outcome of chronic mitral regurgitation (MR) in children and adolescents, specifically the time it takes for Mr to develop significant changes in the configuration and function of the left atrium (LA), is a relatively understudied area. Numerous echocardiographic parameters demonstrate significant changes in the size, volume, and functional behavior of the LA; however, they lack the ability for early and fine detection of LA dysfunction. Left atrial strain (LAS) analysis represents a newer non-invasive technique for assessing LA function and early detection of its deformation and dysfunction. In the analysis of patients with chronic and significant Mr, it emerges as a method that could verify early deformative, functional, and possibly fibrotic changes in the LA and thus predispose rhythm disturbances and clinical manifestations. This study relates to strain analysis of LA function, which can have prognostic and clinical implications in pediatric cardiology and be of great assistance in deciding when to initiate Mr treatment.

Introduction: Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is an aggressive tumor associated with a significantly poorer prognosis compared to other types of thyroid cancer. Doppler ultrasound and familiarity with the Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TIRADS) nodule classification are essential. Objective: This case highlights the significance of precise ultrasound imaging, crucial for early detection and subsequent management of such aggressive disease. Case report: We describe the case of a 31-year-old woman who underwent systemic ultrasound imaging. Upon ultrasound examination, a 5 mm x 4 mm x 3 mm hypoechoic, ill-defined solid nodule with echogenic foci (TIRADS 4, score 6) was identified in the mid portion of the left thyroid lobe. Given the suspicious ultrasound features, the location of the nodule, and the elevated serum calcitonin level, the micronodule raised concerns for malignancy, particularly suggesting medullary thyroid microcarcinoma. The patient underwent thyroidectomy, and histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis. The histopathology report described a small white nodule (5 mm) in the left lobe. There was no remarkable necrosis, and amyloid deposits were inconspicuous. Lymphovascular invasion was not observed, and mitoses were rare. The tumor stage was T1 (pTNM), and no distant metastases were found. C-cell hyperplasia was noted around the tumor. Immunohistochemical analysis showed positive reactions for calcitonin, chromogranin, and mCEA. The proliferative index was low, approximately 4%. After surgery, serum calcitonin levels decreased. Three years after the surgery, the patient is in good general condition and is under regular monitoring. In the meantime, the patient has become a mother. Conclusion: Early detection and treatment of micro-MTC are crucial, as these tumors have the potential for aggressive behavior. Adequate ultrasound imaging assessment could significantly improve the prognosis and outcome for these patients.

Today’s accelerated construction of buildings generates a enormous number of reinforced concrete rooms in which people live and in which an increasing number of various electrical devices are installed. Since buildings are characteristic of urban areas, mostly polluted air, consisting of particulate and gaseous pollutants, gets inside them. The electrical devices generate an electromagnetic field in their environment that multiplies with the number of these devices. The electromagnetic field cannot leave the reinforced concrete construction of buildings because of the so-called Faraday cage. The electromagnetic field generator in this analysis is focused on the electric foil heating floor. In addition, polluted air has a deficit of negative oxygen ions, which is further reduced near electronic devices since they generate positive ions. Due to their extremely high mobility, ultrafine and fine particles quickly reach from the streets even to the highest floors of buildings. The triple synergistic impact caused by the generation of electromagnetic fields, positive ions and fine particles inside closed spaces is the subject of experimental analysis carried out in this paper. The conducted analysis is carried out when varying the working parameters within one room as a research polygon.

Sarajevo and Mostar, the most visited destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), are well known for their gastronomic offerings. Influenced by diverse traditions and cultures, their culinary scenes reflect a notable influence of the Ottoman Empire. Both destinations boast numerous restaurants serving delicious dishes from both local and international cuisines. As online review platforms are a leading source of information in hospitality and tourism, this paper analyses TripAdvisor reviews of 56 restaurants in Sarajevo and 21 restaurants in Mostar that specialize in offering local cuisine. Given that traditional dishes have become a key factor in destination selection and tourist attraction, the aim of this study is to assess tourist satisfaction and highlight similarities and differences in perceptions of the local gastronomic offer in Sarajevo and Mostar. The research findings indicate that the most influential factor in tourist satisfaction is the balance between food quality and price. Interestingly, in both destinations, tourists perceive the local cuisine as Bosnian cuisine. The results of this analysis may serve as a valuable tool for policymakers and businesses to develop and effectively promote local gastronomic offerings.

Background: Lyme disease represent an emergent zoonosis caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. The disease is transmitted from animals to humans by hematophagous insects, primarily ticks. The question of the existence of chronic borreliosis in children and adults is today a stumbling block in diagnostics and therapy at the global level. Objective: The aim of this article is to answer the questions: is the diagnosis of Lyme disease complicated and is Borrelia burgdorferi the cause of chronic Lyme disease in children and adults. Methods: A retrospective-prospective clinical study of outpatients treated and monitored in a private infectious disease clinic over 13 years from January 1, 2013 – November 30, 2025 was conducted. The study was clinical, descriptive and analytical, and was conducted in three phases; the first retrospective and two prospective phases. The diagnosis of the disease was made on the basis of anamnestic-epidemiological data, clinical picture, clinical findings of new clinical markers and the course of the disease, and verified by serological detection of specific antibodies using ELISA, WB methods, detection of antibodies to protein sequences by Immunoblot0m, and detection of Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria in serum using a light microscope in a dark field. Results: In the investigated period, a total of 1,095 patients with Lyme disease symptoms were treated. Of that number, 120 children and 975 adults were treated. M : F = 436 : 659. The average age of children was 10.7 years, and of adults 50.1 years. 11.62% of patients had an acute and subacute phase of the disease, the rest were chronic patients with Lyme disease, children and adults. Out of 105 patients who were examined for Borrelia by light microscopy in the dark field, Borrelia was confirmed in 31 patients before therapy and in 19 relapses. In 21 patients before the therapy, as expected, Borrelia was not found in the blood, nor in 46 controls after the therapy, which was carried out intermittently for more than 50 days. In 3 patients, who had a slow recovery, Borrelia was found in the blood after 30 and 80 days of intermittent therapy. Conclusion: Lyme borreliosis is a persistent infection and in susceptible individuals it has a chronic remitting course. Diagnosis of the disease is simple if an individual approach is adopted, an adequate history is taken, new clinical markers are found on the skin and confirmed by the detection of antibodies to the Borrelia protein sequences in Immunoblot. The confirmatory test is the detection of Borrelia by light microscopy in the dark field. Chronic borreliosis in children and adults and vertical transmission from mother to child are unquestionable.

Background: The expansive advancement of technology has prompted scholars to investigate the links between external factors that influence the success of technology-based entrepreneurs, with particular emphasis on the link between national culture and technological entrepreneurial orientation. Purpose: This paper examines the relationship between national culture and technological entrepreneurial orientation during the early stages of entrepreneurial activity, utilizing Hofstede's national culture dimensions as a theoretical framework. Study design/methodology/approach: The empirical analysis was conducted using multiple linear regression, based on data obtained from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) database. The sample comprises 8,000 participants from Southeastern Europe. Findings/conclusions: The research findings indicate a statistically significant relationship between national culture and technological entrepreneurial orientation. A similar standard of living, associated with a lower index of power distance, is positively linked to technological entrepreneurial orientation, whereas the perception of entrepreneurship as a desirable professional career, typical of an individualistic society, is statistically significant but negatively associated with technological entrepreneurial orientation. A lower index of Power distance encourages innovativeness and efficiency in entrepreneurial ventures within high-tech sectors; conversely, Individualistic societies lead to a greater prevalence of enterprises in low-tech sectors. Limitations/future research: A group of drivers of technological entrepreneurial orientation was examined. We recommend that future research, in addition to national culture, also considers other factors, such as individual or sociodemographic factors.

The focus of this monograph is on the profound changes brought by the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the transition to the post-digital era, in which digital technologies, automation, and innovations shape industries, institutions, and everyday life. Digital transformation enables small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups to achieve a more level playing field compared to global corporations, creating conditions for the development of dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystems. Startups, defined as temporary organizations designed to find a scalable, repeatable business model, are key drivers of economic development. The monograph focuses on digital entrepreneurship, business model innovation, open innovation, entrepreneurial finance, entrepreneurial marketing, the digitization of processes and global value chains, and the sustainable growth and development of post-startup ventures within contemporary ecosystems. Special attention is given to the circular economy as a key approach to reducing negative environmental impacts and transitioning from the linear “take–make–dispose” model to sustainable business models based on reuse, recycling, and repair. In this context, the growing importance of ESG principles is emphasized, as they integrate environmental, social, and governance dimensions into business strategies and contribute to long-term value and corporate reputation. The monograph addresses the critical question of the benefits that growing enterprises can achieve by adopting ESG principles, as well as how innovative business models create value for all stakeholders. Managing the development of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, digital entrepreneurship, growth strategies, and entrepreneurial management represents a thematic continuation and qualitative enhancement of the author’s previous editions. Finally, the monograph highlights the importance of continuously building entrepreneurial culture and innovative ecosystems as prerequisites for societal prosperity and for motivating new generations of entrepreneurs, researchers, and creators.

Southeast European transition economies continue to struggle with turning innovative ideas into sustainable commercial successes. This paper examines the factors that drive effective and lasting Technology Transfer (TT) within emerging open innovation ecosystems in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, North Macedonia, and Albania. Unlike earlier studies that focus on a single country or rely on limited methods, this research adopts a comprehensive mixed-methods approach, combining a two-round Delphi study, focus groups, a needs analysis, and a survey of 100 companies.Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) on data collected from companies and research institutions, the study demonstrates that robust Intellectual Property Protection (IPP) exerts a significant and direct influence on enhancing technology transfer. In contrast, innovation capabilities alone do not significantly affect transfer outcomes. Instead, network dynamics strengthen these capabilities, which in turn support technology transfer — but only when embedded within solid institutional frameworks. These findings challenge the common assumption that innovation capabilities are sufficient for successful technology commercialization. They emphasize the critical importance of institutional quality and cooperation networks in transitional economies. At the theoretical level, the study integrates resource-based, institutional, and open innovation perspectives to address the “innovation-implementation” gap. Practically, it highlights key policy priorities: strengthening IPP enforcement, establishing specialized IPP courts, and fostering partnerships between universities and industry, as well as within innovation clusters. For companies and universities, developing absorptive capacity and engaging in cross-border collaborations are essential for maximizing the benefits of external knowledge. While limited by its regional focus and cross-sectional design, this research offers a nuanced framework for sustainable technology transfer in Southeast Europe and underscores the need for further comparative and longitudinal studies to deepen our understanding of this phenomenon.

Background: Regular physical training in young athletes leads to physiological cardiovascular adaptations, often manifested as electrocardiographic (ECG) changes. Identifying predictors of such changes is essential for distinguishing normal adaptations from potential pathological findings. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate body mass index (BMI), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP), and heart rate (HR) as potential predictive factors for sinus arrhythmia, incomplete right bundle branch block (IRBBB), and ST-segment elevation in young endurance and strength athletes. Methods: This retrospective-prospective study included 60 male athletes aged 12–17 years (30 endurance, 30 strength athletes) who underwent a five-year follow-up with regular ECG monitoring. Anthropometric and cardiovascular parameters (BMI, SBP, DBP, HR) were recorded, and associations with ECG findings were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Student’s t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, Chi-square test, and logistic regression. Results: Endurance athletes showed a significant increase in BMI during follow-up (p = 0.035), while in strength athletes BMI was significantly associated with sinus arrhythmia (p = 0.045). Systolic blood pressure at the end of the study significantly differed in endurance athletes with and without ST-segment elevation (p = 0.029). However, logistic regression analysis demonstrated that BMI, SBP, DBP, and HR were not independent predictors of ECG abnormalities in either group. Conclusion: Basic cardiovascular parameters such as BMI, blood pressure, and heart rate do not appear to independently predict ECG changes in young athletes. Other factors, including training intensity and genetic predisposition, likely play a greater role. Preventive cardiovascular screening remains crucial for the early detection of clinically relevant abnormalities in this population.

The growing need for reducing ܥܱଶemissions in the context of sustainable development has intensified the search for efficient analytical approaches to understand and manage emission drivers. In this paper, three machine learning models were developed using multiple linear regression for the countries of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Slovenia. Renewable energy consumption, ܲܯଶ,ହ air pollution, ܦܩܲ per capita, foreign direct investment, urban population, forest area, and total population were used as inputs in the models, while ܥܱଶ emissions for the period from 2000 to 2020 were used as outputs. The developed models for all three countries have good performance, with ܴଶvalues of 91,34%, 77,91%, and 77,20% respectively. For Bosnia and Herzegovina urban population increases ܥܱଶemission, while renewable energy consumption and forest area decrease ܥܱଶ emission. In Croatia ܲܯଶ,ହ was the most influential factor that increases ܥܱଶemission.In Slovenia population growth decreases ܥܱଶ emissions, whileGDP per capita increases ܥܱଶ emissions. Also, hypothesis testing for differences between means was performed for all variables between all three countries. The findings showed that for almost all variables there were statistically significant differences in mean differences between all countries. Regarding ܥܱଶ emission there are not enough statistical evidence that Bosnia and Herzegovina have higher ܥܱଶ emissions than Croatia, while both Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia have significantly higher ܥܱଶ emissions than Slovenia. This research shows the potential of machine learning models as tools for data-driven policymaking in the transition towards Industry 5.0 and a sustainable industrial future.