Circular Economy (CE) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are two key concepts that can significantly contribute to sustainable development. The first is based on the goal of maximizing resource utilization and minimizing waste, creating conditions for sustainable and environmentally friendly economic development. On the other hand, AI aims to optimize various processes and improve efficiency in the application of CE, providing tools for innovation and enhancement of business processes. The focus of this research is the analysis of performance indicators for the application of Circular Economy (CE), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in countries with different levels of economic development and within the context of global territorial coverage. Circular Economy is crucial for sustainable development through waste reduction and maximum resource utilization. Countries such as the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany demonstrate high recycling rates and use of secondary raw materials, while Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Albania lag in these aspects. Artificial Intelligence plays an important role in economic growth and innovation. The United States, China, and Japan lead in investments, number of patents, and number of experts in this field, making them leaders in AI technologies. Less developed countries have limited capacities and need international support for the development of this field. Sustainable Development Goals represent a comprehensive approach to economic, social, and environmental progress. Countries with high SDG indices, such as the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany, successfully implement sustainable development strategies. In contrast, the least developed countries face significant challenges in achieving these goals. This research shows that developed countries are successful in applying Circular Economy and Artificial Intelligence, while less developed countries lag behind and need additional support. Global cooperation and the exchange of knowledge and technologies are crucial for achieving sustainable development and technological advancement in all countries.
Although often presented as a revolutionary innovation, the circular economy is not a new idea. It is another reconciliation and compromise between economic and environmental problems expressed by the terms "sustainable growth", "green growth" and "sustainable development". The various strategies aimed at prolonging the use of resources gathered under the banner of the circular economy are not individually new, and if the concept offers any novelty, it is by offering a new framing of these strategies, as well as the possibility of connecting them. The circular economy is built on a heterogeneous collection of scientific and semi-scientific concepts, such as: ecological economy, industrial ecology, cradle-to-cradle design, blue economy, biomimicry, ecological efficiency, cleaner production, etc. Over a hundred definitions of circularity can be found in the literature, which means that the term means different things to different people. This could be because the concept and its application were almost exclusively developed and led by practitioners, i.e. policy makers, companies, business consultants, business associations, business foundations, etc. The result is a perception that the circular economy does not address the ontological and epistemological questions, such as what counts as ethical value, that underlie the complex and interconnected environmental, social and economic issues we face today. It's really easier to say what the circular economy isn't than to say what it is. The circular economy "is not a theory but a new approach to industrial production and consumption." Rather, it is a multiplicity, an umbrella concept that generates enthusiasm because it seemingly provides a new framework capable of solving many problems, but comes under increased scrutiny when attempts at operationalization surface unresolved questions about its definition. The variety of meanings given to the circular economy may explain the appeal of the term, but it also makes it difficult to know what it is really about. The main advantage of the circular economy is the optimal method of production in various industrial sectors: (1) It implies the lowest possible level of waste material that can no longer be recycled, (2) Each activity of the production process produces the smallest possible amount of waste for a specific activity. The key shortcomings of the circular economy are: (1) It is much more expensive to produce a long-lasting product than a larger quantity of equivalent disposable products,(2)- He does not pay attention to people as factors of production.
The history of agriculture is a long chain composed of numerous revolutionary innovations that have occurred, and continue to occur, following industrial revolutions and the advancements of modern science; in the 20th and 21st centuries, this progress has been much faster than ever before. There is no specific year that marks the founding of agriculture in human civilization; it cannot be precisely determined, as it was not a singular event but rather a process that spanned centuries. Researchers agree that Homo sapiens began to abandon the nomadic way of life, domesticate wild animals, and gather and plant cereal seeds in the early Neolithic period (Neolithic Revolution), when there was a rapid retreat of glaciers to the north and a warming of the climate. Most researchers believe this occurred around 10,000 years ago, although some suggest it may have been 12,000 or even 15,000 years ago. One of the first regions where humans engaged in agriculture was the area known as the Fertile Crescent, which spans the region that today includes Israel and Lebanon in the west and Iraq and Iran in the east, around the Euphrates and Tigris rivers. The development of agriculture during the Neolithic Revolution enabled population growth, the establishment of settlements, and the rise of more complex societies. It was a period of transformation in human history that laid the foundations for modern agriculture and food systems on which today's global population relies. The development of the economy, including agriculture, from its very beginnings has been based on the use of natural resources as one of the main factors of industrial production. The increasing exploitation of these resources raises questions about how long this process can continue, considering that many of these resources are non renewable. It is estimated that by 2050, the population will reach 9 billion, for whom food must be provided! In addition to not very optimistic economic forecasts, another dark cloud, taking on increasingly negative proportions, looms over nature. Environmental degradation, as an ecological problem, has become not only relevant but also crucial for survival. The primary need to produce more food regardless of the ecological consequences, is responsible for the alarming degradation of the environment. Soil is the most important resource in food production. The increasing exploitation of soil, combined with strong industrialization and urbanization, is leading to a reduction in arable land and the contamination of cultivated land, threatening food production and biodiversity. In some areas, these relationships have reached critical levels. The degradation of agricultural land is adversely affected by many factors, with the most aggressive being: erosion (caused by wind, water, and sun), industrial pollutants, mineral fertilizers, pesticides, lack of windbreaks, illegal waste dumping, traffic impact, etc. Phosphorus fertilizers introduce heavy metals, primarily cadmium, into the soil, which then enters the human body through plants and animals, potentially causing serious diseases. Pesticides, various solvents, and packaging used for storage and transport are very dangerous substances that can negatively impact soil fertility. Additionally, conventional agriculture significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Industrial production, including conventional agriculture, operates on a linear economy model, whose principle of "take-make-use-dispose" is one of the main polluters of the environment. Modern science proposes new agricultural production concepts, such as precision, smart, regenerative, and digital agriculture, which contribute to the rational use of natural resources. In a time of unreasonable natural resource consumption, environmental degradation, and global climate change on one hand, and increasing food demand on the other, a new model in agriculture—circular agriculture—represents a promising strategy to support sustainable, restorative, and regenerative agriculture. Circular agriculture, which operates on the principle of "take make-use-return," aims to reduce waste, increase resource efficiency, and improve sustainability. Circular agriculture focuses on optimizing resource use, minimizing waste, and promoting sustainable food production. This paper provides a brief overview of the impact of the four industrial revolutions on the development of agriculture, with a more detailed analysis of the application of achievements from the third and fourth industrial revolutions. The negative impacts of linear agriculture on the environment and the contribution of circular agriculture to the rational use of natural resources, reduction of soil degradation, mitigation of climate change, and production stability are presented. The practices of the circular economy and the barriers to its implementation are also discussed.
Due to increasingly pronounced climate changes and intensified anthropogenic impacts on the environment, on one hand, and global economic growth and exploitation of scarce natural resources, on the other hand, there is a need to find a compromise solution that would ensure long-term, sustainable economic development. One of the optimal possibilities in this context is the development approach of the circular economy. This approach offers a sustainable response to environmental challenges by promoting principles such as waste reduction, reuse, and recycling. The circular economy finds its application in numerous sectors of economic activity, such as industry, agriculture, energy, water resource management, and others. The implementation of the circular economy involves meeting the four basic economic principles (4E): economy, efficiency, effectiveness, and the latest ecological principle. The realization of the basic principles of the circular economy includes various techniques for transforming natural resource management, i.e., maximizing the utility of available materials while minimizing waste production. In this context, technological innovations play a crucial role in enhancing the development of circular economic processes. New technologies are thus a prerequisite for increasing economic efficiency while simultaneously reducing the ecological footprint of the entire social community. Through examples from around the world, the chapter illustrates specific cases where the circular economy has already had a visible impact on reducing local pollution, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, managing industrial and agricultural waste, preserving water flows and soil, and protecting air quality. It also considers the challenges and potential solutions in implementing circular strategies in these areas. Furthermore, the role of international cooperation and the development of political frameworks that favor the expansion and adoption of circular initiatives are analyzed. The discussion is based on creating comprehensive strategies that connect different societal actors and create an efficient system of long-term sustainability and socio-economic stability. From all the above, it implies that the circular economy is a key tool for achieving long-term sustainable development, whose active application counteracts climate change and protects the planet for future generations.
World is facing severe economic as well as environmental problems due to rapid industrialization, over-use of natural resources for extraction of raw material, and exponential growth of consumption patterns. On the other hand, the finite natural resources, especially in agriculture, are under constant threat of scarcity due to meeting the food/feed/fiber needs of growing population. The linear economic model worsens the situation as it is based on “take-make-dispose” approach and hence does not support recycling, repair, reuse, or remanufacturing of existing products. Circular economy (CE) has emerged as a significant approach in terms of waste reduction, natural resources conservation and sustainable development in many sectors including agriculture. It plays a vital role towards achieving the many of the United Nations’ (UN) sustainable development goals (SDGs) such as poverty eradication (SDG 1), sustainable production and consumption patterns (SDG 12), dealing with the climate change (SDG 13), and protecting the ecosystem (SDG 13, 14). Circular economy offers a sustainable solution to the current non-environment friendly practices through different strategies and principles such as designing out the waste, keeping the products/material in use, regeneration of natural ecosystem, using renewable energy/sources, collaboration and system thinking, innovation and adoption of new technologies, and consumer engagement and behavior change.
Contrast staining after endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke typically occurs in infarcted tissue and is considered an indicator of irreversible brain damage. Contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue was shown to occur in this retrospective review of 194 consecutive patients who underwent endovascular treatment for anterior circulation large-vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke and is likely due to a reversible, milder degree of BBB disruption. BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Contrast staining is a common finding after endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke. It typically occurs in infarcted tissue and is considered an indicator of irreversible brain damage. Contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue has not been systematically investigated. We sought to assess the incidence, risk factors, and clinical significance of contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue after endovascular treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent endovascular treatment for anterior circulation large-vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke. Contrast staining, defined as new hyperdensity on CT after endovascular treatment, was categorized as either contrast staining in infarcted tissue if the stained region demonstrated restricted diffusion on follow-up MR imaging or contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue if the stained region demonstrated no restricted diffusion. Baseline differences between patients with and without contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue were compared. Logistic regression was used to identify independent associations for contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue after endovascular treatment. RESULTS: Among 194 patients who underwent endovascular treatment for large-vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke and met the inclusion criteria, contrast staining in infarcted tissue was noted in 52/194 (26.8%) patients; contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue, in 26 (13.4%) patients. Both contrast staining in infarcted tissue and contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue were noted in 5.6% (11/194). Patients with contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue were found to have a higher likelihood of having an ASPECTS of 8–10, to be associated with contrast staining in infarcted tissue, and to achieve successful reperfusion compared with those without contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue. In contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue regions, the average attenuation was 40 HU, significantly lower than the contrast staining in infarcted tissue regions (53 HU). None of the patients with contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue had clinical worsening during their hospital stay. The median discharge mRS was significantly lower in patients with contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue than in those without (3 versus 4; P = .018). No independent predictors of contrast staining in noninfarcted tissue were found. CONCLUSIONS: Contrast staining can be seen outside the infarcted tissue after endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke, likely attributable to the reversible disruption of the BBB in ischemic but not infarcted tissue. While generally benign, understanding its characteristics is important because it may mimic pathologic conditions such as infarcted tissue and cerebral edema.
Chlorogenic acid, an ester of caffeic acid with quinic acid, also known as 5- O-caffeoylquinic acid (5-CQA), is a ubiquitous plant constituent that is an important intermediate in lignin biosynthesis. In some cases, it occurs at surprisingly high levels in the leaves and fruits of certain higher plants, such as coffee beans. Due to its catechol moiety and an extended side chain conjugation, it easily forms a resonance-stabilised phenoxy radical, accounting for its powerful antioxidant potential. The objective of this work was to determine if the esterification and methylation of 5- CQA would enhance its antioxidant activity. Two 5-CQA derivatives were prepared for this study. Chlorogenic acid was esterified with methanol over Amberlite IR120-H to obtain methyl chlorogenate, while methyl 3',4´-dimethyl chlorogenate was prepared from 5-CQA by treatment with diazomethane. Spectroscopic methods confirmed the structure of these derivatives. Their antioxidant properties were tested to establish a relationship between structure and antioxidant activity. Antioxidant activity results were generated for 5-CQA and its ester analogues using eight different methods. Depending on the method applied, results were expressed as IC50/MCE50 values or as equivalents of the applied standard (ascorbic acid and Trolox). In most of these tests, 5-CQA showed the highest antioxidant activity compared to its derivatives. Nevertheless, due to their hydrophobic characteristics, their ester analogues remain promising antioxidant candidates in emulsifying systems.
Introduction: Meningiomas are the most common benign tumor of the central nervous system, accounting for 53.3% and 37.6% of all central nervous system tumors (1). The World Health Organization (WHO) Grade I meningiomas account for 80.5% of all meningiomas and are considered benign meningiomas; the WHO Grade II meningiomas account for 17.7% of all meningiomas and exhibit more aggressive behavior. Methods: In the period 2015-2022, a retrospective single-center study at the clinic of neurosurgery at the Clinical Center University of Sarajevo was conducted, which included patients with a pathohistological finding of WHO Grade I or II meningioma. Depending on the pathohistological grade of the tumor, patients were divided into two groups: Grade I and Grade II patients. Patients were examined clinically and radiologically. Clinical data collected included in the study: Gender, age, number of symptoms before surgery, whether patients were symptomatic or asymptomatic, pre-operative Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group,and Karnopsky performance scale. Pre-operative contrast magnetic resonance imaging of the head measured tumor volume, temporal muscle thickness (TMT), sagittal midline shift, and surrounding cerebral edema. Results: A total of 80 patients were enrolled in the study, 68 with WHO Grade I and 12 with WHO Grade II meningiomas. We found that patients with Grade I meningioma were younger and that the mean thickness of the temporal muscle was statistically thicker than in patients with Grade II. Increasing TMT was significantly and positively associated with Grade I tumors and negatively associated with Grade II tumors (p = 0.032). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that TMT can serve as a radiologic pre-operative indicator of meningioma grade and provide valuable guidance to neurosurgeons in surgical planning. Further studies are needed to validate these results.
Klebsiella pneumoniae, a member of the Enterobacteriaceae family, demonstrates an increasing trend of resistance to carbapenems and is a common cause of both hospital- and community-acquired infections. The current study provides insights into the genetic characterization of carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae (CRKP) isolates circulating during 2022 in a Sarajevo tertiary hospital. Among the 87 CRKP strains analyzed, real-time polymerase chain reaction (rtPCR) results showed that 85 (97.7%) tested positive for the carbapenem resistance gene. The oxacillinase-48 (OXA-48) gene was detected in 83 (95.4%) isolates, while the K. pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) and the New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM) genes were detected in one isolate each. No Verona integron-encoded-metallo-beta-lactamase (VIM) or imipenemase-metallo-beta-lactamase 1 (IMP-1) genes were found in any of the tested isolates. The multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis of sequence types (STs) revealed that ST101, an emerging high-risk clone exhibiting extensive drug resistance, was the most prevalent, whereas ST307 was detected in only one isolate. Phylogenetic analysis of the ten CRKP isolates indicated the presence of three clusters that could constitute an outbreak. A comparison of the results of the utilized phenotypic test (the combined-disk test [CDT]) and rtPCR showed high concordance, suggesting that the phenotypic assay may be useful for the early detection of resistance mechanisms as part of routine susceptibility testing. With the increased affordability of next-generation sequencing (NGS), its application in hospital settings has proven highly beneficial, aiding in the implementation of infection control and prevention measures. Given the significant resistance demonstrated by the CRKP isolates to most tested antibiotics, it is imperative to establish effective methods to restrict the spread of these isolates, as well as to carefully monitor the use of carbapenems in clinical practice.
Abstract Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is an extremely rare and poorly recognized neoplasm in children. A 5-year-old boy presented with a 1-year history of progressive painless abdominal distension. A CT revealed a 19 × 19 × 11 cm3 cystic mass in the right hemiabdomen, without infiltrating the surrounding structures. The tumor was completely removed by surgery. The microscopic and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed peritoneal mesothelioma. Comprehensive genomic profiling revealed no major driving mutations including BAP1, no fusions, but with amplifications of AURKA, AURKC, HLA-1B, ZNF-217, OR5F1 and MEN1 genes. Imaging follow-up 3 months after surgery revealed metastatic disease. The patient died of pneumonia at another hospital shortly after the last follow-up examination at our institution. Pediatric peritoneal mesothelioma is an extremely rare malignancy with limited targeted options and a poor prognosis. Some of the identified molecular genomic biomarkers require further exploration and validation in this cancer.
This study aimed to investigate the impact of an 8-week aerobic dance intervention on postural balance in children. Forty-one children, aged 9 to 11, were randomly assigned to either an aerobic dance group (ADG) or a control group (CG) from a primary school. Postural balance was assessed using center of pressure (CoP) excursions before and after the 8-week intervention period. Evaluations were conducted on both firm and foam surfaces in bipedal and unipedal stances under open-eyes (OE) and closed-eyes (CE) conditions, as well as on both medial–lateral (ML) and anterior–posterior (AP) surfaces in a bipedal stance under OE conditions. The ADG exhibited significantly decreased CoPVm values during firm bipedal CE, unipedal OE, foam bipedal OE and CE, and foam unipedal OE (p < 0.005). This study suggests that aerobic dance intervention improved postural balance in children, showcasing adaptability and improved stability under various conditions.
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