This review explores the intersection of gender, geography, and sustainability by examining the role of women in the blue economy across Europe’s Outermost Regions (ORs). Despite growing recognition of the blue economy’s role in sustainable development, there is limited understanding of how women participate in these sectors at the geographic periphery of the European Union. Using publicly available data from Eurostat, INSEE, ISTAC, and other national portals, we analyze employment patterns through a gender lens, supported by qualitative insights from case studies in regions such as the Azores, Réunion, and Guadeloupe. Due to the scarcity of disaggregated blue economy data, general labor force participation is used as a proxy, highlighting both opportunities and visibility gaps. Theoretically grounded in feminist political ecology and intersectionality, the review identifies key barriers, including data invisibility, occupational segregation, and structural inequalities, as well as resilience enablers such as women-led enterprises and policy interventions. We conclude with targeted recommendations for research, policy, and practice to support inclusive blue economies in ORs, emphasizing the need for better data systems and gender-sensitive coastal development strategies.

Natural plant oils are commonly used in skincare products for their emollient properties. Plum seed oil is a promising cosmetic ingredient since it represents a sustainable material derived from fruit processing waste, recognized in the CosIng Database for its skin-conditioning function. The aim of this study was to incorporate plum seed oil into a topical emulgel and assess its biophysical effects on the skin. An in vivo study on healthy volunteers evaluated the safety (irritation potential) and long-term efficacy (impact on biophysical skin parameters during 28-day application) of emulgel containing 6% (w/w) plum seed oil as a natural emollient and active ingredient. Results showed that plum seed oil exhibited no irritation potential during a 24-hour safety assessment since transepidermal water loss (TEWL) decreased (p <0.05), and erythema index didn’t change significantly. Results of 28-day efficacy study suggested, potential anti-irritant effects after long-term usage. In addition, pH, skin integrity and skin color were preserved during the study, while skin hydration was increased. To our knowledge, this is the first study to employ non-invasive biophysical methods to assess the influence of plum seed oil in cosmetic formulations. These findings point plum seed oil’s potential as a natural, sustainable, safe and effective raw material for cosmetics.

The burden of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity consequences caused by gentamicin warrants preventive therapeutic measures. Our aim was to evaluate combined and potentially synergistic effects of rosuvastatin and curcumin, both possessing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, compared to their monotherapies in a gentamicin-induced model of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. In a randomized, controlled study, 36 male Wistar rats were allocated to six groups and treated for 5 days: negative control group received solvent, model group gentamicin (100 mg/kg, intraperitoneally), treatment groups gentamicin and via orogastric tube either standard-dose rosuvastatin (5 mg/day), reduced-dose rosuvastatin (1.25 mg/day), curcumin (100 mg/kg), or combination of reduced-dose rosuvastatin and curcumin. Human rosuvastatin doses were converted to rat doses using the conversion factor of 6.2. Functional outcomes evaluated by Preyer pinna reflex for hearing and a vestibular battery test were complemented by renal and cochlear histology, biochemical biomarkers of injury, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Gentamicin induced proximal tubular necrosis and cochlear and vestibular damage. Compared to monotherapies, combination therapy significantly preserved renal architecture, improved renal biomarkers, reduced early inflammatory biomarkers, preserved cochlear architecture and drove vestibular protection. It also alleviated gentamicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Rosuvastatin provided stronger auditory protection, with reduced-dose rosuvastatin superior to standard-dose in preserving vestibular function. Bliss independence modelling showed that combined therapy synergistically inhibited kidney injury and inflammation. In conclusion, the combination of reduced-dose rosuvastatin and curcumin outperforms both monotherapies in alleviating gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity, audiotoxicity and vestibulotoxicity, whilst synergistically attenuating nephrotoxicity and early-phase inflammation in rats. These findings highlight promising preventive strategies against aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity.

<p>Rad, ali i nastojanje koji su poduzeti izvan rada, predstavljaju uvertiru analiziranju stanja i perspektiva socijalne pedagogije u zemljama Evropske unije i Bosne i Hercegovine. S ciljem jednog konkretnijeg, jezgrovitijeg, ali i pragmatičnijeg i vi&scaron;e informisanog zagovaranja za socijalnu pedagogiju u Bosni i Hercegovini, akumulacijom teorijskog i na praksi utemeljenog kapitala socijalne pedagogije, Bosna i Hercegovina potrebuje za stručnom praksom socijalne pedagogije. Socijalna pedagogija, ali i druge komplementarne i temeljne pomagačke znanosti i struke u Bosni i Hercegovini, nisu imale značajne teorijske i istraživačke pomake od kraja rata, a koje bi se nametnule kao socijalno-politički bitnima. Paradigmatska revolucija koja bi započela iz socijalne pedagogije, čini se da bi inovirala odgojno-obrazovne programe koji su nerijetko sredstvo u funkciji obespravljivanja. To bi se rezonovalo i na socijalnu politiku koja negira sudjelujuće odlučivanje i kvazi model deficita koji je samo inačica medicinskog modela tretiranja osoba različitih sposobnosti u Bosni i Hercegovini.</p>

Monitoring emisija zagađujućih tvari ključni je segment sistema upravljanja kvalitetom voda i zaštite okoliša, te se njegovo provođenje mora realizirati kontinuirano i u skladu s važećom regulativom, posebno Uredbom o uslovima ispuštanja otpadnih voda u okoliš i sisteme javne kanalizacije. U ovom radu prikazana je kvantifikacija opterećenja okoliša termoelektrane Kakanj kroz određivanje ekvivalentnog broja stanovnika (EBS), u skladu sa zakonskim okvirom Federacije Bosne i Hercegovine. Analiza je izvršena na osnovu monitoringa ključnih parametara kvaliteta otpadnih voda (temperatura, proticaj, ukupni fosfor, ukupni azot i dr.) tokom 48-satnog uzorkovanja u 2020. godini. Dobijeni rezultati omogućuju pouzdanu procjenu ukupnog zagađivačkog tereta u navedenom periodu, što ujedno čini osnovu za obračun posebne vodne naknade. Utvrđeno je da su izmjerene vrijednosti emisija tehnoloških otpadnih voda u okviru zakonski propisanih graničnih vrijednosti, pri čemu najveći doprinos ekvivalentu štetnosti potiče od prisutnosti toksičnih supstanci. Nadalje, racionalizacija potrošnje vode i unapređenje tretmana otpadnih voda predstavljaju ključne mjere koje će dugoročno doprinijeti poboljšanju ekološkog statusa površinskih vodotoka

Reproducibility and quantization in quantum spin Hall platforms is a persisting challenge, limiting their use in hybrid realizations of topological superconductivity. We report robust and reproducible quantized transport in a graphene quantum Hall topological insulator, stabilized at low magnetic fields by screening long-range Coulomb interactions with a metallic Bi$_2$Se$_3$ back gate. Beyond quantized resistance plateaus, we demonstrate mode-resolved control via gate-defined chiral-helical junctions that selectively transmit or backscatter a single helical channel, a capability inaccessible in time-reversal symmetric quantum spin Hall systems. Targeted experiments and simulations identify contact-induced doping, effectively creating unintended chiral-helical interfaces, as a generic mechanism for quantization breakdown, which is mitigated by large area contacts that enhance edge-channel equilibration. Our findings establish metal screened graphene as a gate-tunable, interaction-driven helical system with quantized transport, spatially separable helical channels, and compatibility with superconducting proximity for topological devices.

<p>Rad sadrži prikaz slučaja provođenja mjere nadzora nad ostvarivanjem roditeljskog staranja koja je jedna od mjera zasnovana u Porodičnom zakonu FBiH, dio Prava i dužnost roditelja i djece, pod-dio Za&scaron;tita prava i interesa djece, Član 125. Nadzor nad ostvarivanjem roditeljskog staranja, stav 1 do 6. Mjera nadzora se utvrđuje ukoliko su roditelji zanemarili staranje o zdravlju i odgoju djeteta, ili kada je roditeljima potrebna pomoć u odgoju djeteta. U kontekstu provedbe nadležni organ starateljstva određuje program nadzora, kao i osobu koja će pratiti razvoj djeteta, kontrolirati postupke roditelja, podnositi periodične izvje&scaron;taje organu starateljstva i poduzimati druge mjere u interesu djeteta. Roditelj se ovom mjerom obavezuje da će redovno posjećivati organ starateljstva, odgojne ili zdravstvene ustanove ukoliko za to postoje opravdani razlozi, te da će periodično obavje&scaron;tavati o mjerama koje poduzimaju prema djetetu.</p>

While modern FPGAs typically implement programmable logic using $\mathrm{4}-\mathrm{6}$-input LUTs, the Cologne Chip GateMate FPGA instead adopts a LUT-tree architecture, among several other distinctive features. We analyze its design trade-offs and support our findings with results from a targeted benchmark suite. LUT-trees prove less efficient for combinational logic than LUTs. Equivalent RTL designs (excluding DSPs) require ${1 0 - 3 0 \%}$ more programmable elements (CPEs) in GateMate than in comparable FPGAs. We observed a reduced logic-area efficiency, and the 1:1 flip-flop (FF) to logic ratio yields $30 \% \text{FF}$ under-utilization across diverse RTL designs. Comparative evaluation with a peer FPGA demonstrates that GateMate is suited for deeply pipelined applications with modest DSP and control requirements. Lack of timing-driven place and route, distributed RAM and DSP blocks limits usability for arithmetic-heavy, monolithic designs. We conclude that its dual-port block RAM and FF-dense fabric are strengths in particular application domains. Improved LUT-tree-optimized logic synthesis and constraint-driven place and route are required to increase its competitiveness.

This paper investigated the withdrawal capacity of the double-threaded nuts mounted in 3Dprinted materials. The basic technical properties and the withdrawal force of the double-threaded nuts for the specimens made of PLA, WPLA, and layered WPLA+PLA configuration (with and without STP adhesive) were investigated. The results are compared with the literature data of withdrawal force for beech wood, MDF, and particleboard with and without the adhesive. The research has determined the effects of the properties of 3D printed materials (density, compressive and tensile strength), the infill and printing patterns, and adhesive on withdrawal capacity of double-threaded nuts. Double-threaded nuts mounted with adhesive had higher withdrawal forces (about 25 % for PLA and WPLA specimens, and 15 % for layered WPLA+PLA specimens) than those mounted without adhesive. The highest values of withdrawal forces, regardless of the adhesive, were obtained for layered WPLA+PLA configuration, followed by WPLA, and the lowest for PLA. No significant difference was found between the withdrawal forces for WPLA and layered WPLA+PLA specimens for both cases – with and without an adhesive. The withdrawal forces of double-threaded nuts for the PLA specimens were higher than the withdrawal forces for the beech (16.7 % mounted without adhesive and 11.6 % mounted with an adhesive), and other combinations showed a difference higher than 35 % in favor of 3D printed materials. The present analysis, which determinesand compares used traditional dismountable connectors in 3D-printed furniture elements, is applicable for research and practice.

The escalating production and use of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have led to a pressing need for efficient and sustainable methods for recycling valuable metals such as cobalt, nickel, manganese, and lithium from spent cathode materials. Traditional hydrometallurgical leaching approaches, based on mineral acids, face significant limitations, including high reagent consumption, secondary pollution, and poor selectivity. In recent years, deep eutectic solvents (DESs) and ionic liquids (ILs) have emerged as innovative, environmentally benign alternatives, offering tunable physicochemical properties, enhanced metal selectivity, and potential for reagent recycling. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state and prospects of leaching LIB cathode materials using DES and ILs. We summarize the structural diversity and composition of common LIB cathodes, highlighting their implications for leaching strategies. The mechanisms, efficiency, and selectivity of metal dissolution in various DES- and IL-based systems are critically discussed, drawing on recent advances in both laboratory and real-sample studies. Special attention is given to the unique extraction mechanisms facilitated by complexation, acid–base, and redox interactions in DES and ILs, as well as to the effects of key operational parameters. A comparative analysis of DES- and IL-based leaching is presented, with discussion of their advantages, challenges, and industrial potential. While DES offers low toxicity, biodegradability, and cost-effectiveness, it may suffer from limited solubility or viscosity issues. Conversely, ILs provide remarkable tunability and metal selectivity but are often hampered by higher costs, viscosity, and environmental concerns. Finally, the review identifies critical bottlenecks in upscaling DES and IL leaching technologies, including long-term solvent stability, metal recovery purity, and economic viability. We also highlight research priorities that emphasize applying circular hydrometallurgy and life-cycle assessment to improve the sustainability of battery recycling.

<p>Amid volatile markets and rising ecological pressures, agile management is emerging as the strategic backbone of circular transformation. Traditionally tied to software development and product innovation, agile thinking now transcends methodology&mdash;it has become a regenerative mindset capable of navigating the complexity of circular economy models. This paper reframes agile management through a sustainability lens, highlighting key competencies such as iterative experimentation, systemic thinking, and cross-functional collaboration as vital to enabling restorative and resource-efficient business practices. By integrating agile principles with circular design elements like closed-loop systems, modularity, and extended product lifecycles, the study demonstrates how organizations can fast-track the development and scaling of circular innovations. Two real-world cases illustrate this dynamic in practice: Philips&rsquo; shift toward modular, service-centric product architectures, and IKEA&rsquo;s mission to become fully circular by 2030 through renewable sourcing, product take-back schemes, and design-fordisassembly. These examples underscore how agile approaches foster resilience, customer centricity, and strategic flexibility in a resource-constrained world. For emerging economies such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, applying agile circular practices offers an opportunity to accelerate EU alignment, strengthen competitiveness, and stimulate local innovation ecosystems across key sectors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The research offers a comprehensive insight into the interplay between participation in cultural activities, digital engagement, and the perceived socio-economic impact of culture within the local community. The findings show that respondents report a moderately high level of involvement in cultural events and strongly recognise culture as a driver of social cohesion, which is further confirmed by the nearly perfect correlation between cultural participation and the sense of connectedness. Digital platforms, although somewhat less frequently used, display a remarkably strong association with overall cultural engagement, indicating that digital culture complements rather than replaces traditional forms of participation. Respondents also acknowledge the economic benefits of cultural manifestations&mdash;particularly through tourism and local spending&mdash;although the link between economic perception and individual participation remains modest. Agerelated differences suggest that younger participants most strongly emphasise culture&rsquo;s cohesive role, while middle-aged respondents show greater sensitivity to its economic potential. Taken together, these findings support the need for an integrated cultural development model that combines digital transformation, active community participation, and systematic statistical monitoring of cultural impacts, with the aim of enhancing long-term quality of life within local communities.</p>

<p>The paper applies a comparative method to analyse the digital transformation of public administration in the Western Balkan countries &ndash; Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia. The results show that 23&ndash;49% of the population possesses basic digital skills, while internet usage exceeds 80%, confirming a gap between access to<br />technology and the ability to use it. Transactional e-services are most developed in Albania, where a digital component is present in over 95% of public services. In contrast, Bosnia and Herzegovina records less than 20%, while Montenegro and North Macedonia do not exceed 25%. Serbia demonstrates moderate progress, particularly through its e-tax system. The greatestchallenges relate to interoperability and preparedness for the EU Single Digital Gateway: Bosnia and Herzegovina shows the lowest, and Serbia a relatively high but still insufficient level of integration. Compliance with the GDPR is partial, while cybersecurity capacities remain limited in most countries. Transparency and open data are most advanced in Albania and Serbia. The analysis confirms a correlation between digital skills, the number of e-services and interoperability, indicating<br />that institutional capacities and human capital determine the efficiency of digital governance. Regional disparities are reinforced by institutional fragmentation, especially in Bosnia and Herzegovina, while policy recommendations emphasise strengthening digital skills, interoperability and the regulatory framework.</p>

We report an infrequent case of a full-term male neonate presenting with a large congenital hernia of the umbilical cord (6 cm × 6 cm) containing only the entire left lobe of the liver. Prenatal ultrasonography suggested an omphalocele; however, the definitive postnatal diagnosis was established based on the presence of a narrow rim of normal skin encircling the umbilical ring and the proximal umbilical cord. Primary closure of the fascial defect was achieved successfully, with no intraoperative or postoperative complications observed. The patient recovered well postoperatively and was discharged in stable condition. Accurate differentiation from an omphalocele is crucial for appropriate management. Unlike omphaloceles, congenital hernias of the umbilical cord (CHUC) typically do not require extensive genetic or cardiac evaluation, and their surgical repair is generally less complex. However, awareness of atypical presentations of CHUC can aid in timely diagnosis, guide surgical planning, and improve clinical outcomes.