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.

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.

The imperatively excellent performance of wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) transmission over a fiber optic link, demands flat, i.e. not wavelength-selective transfer function. This implies that, mostly during installation and commissioning of a WDM-aimed fiber link, it is of interest to measure its frequency response, by complex stimulus-response tests using a tunable laser source coupled with an optical spectrum analyzer. On the contrary, a simple and practically costless alternative that we propose here, is testing in time domain by means of the ubiquitous optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR), considering its distinctly reflective trace pattern as approximation of the fiber channel two-way power-delay profile, whose rms delay spread is the straightforward indicator of the fiber attenuation vs. wavelength characteristics’ unflatness qualifying the fiber as either appropriate for WDM transport, or requiring piecewise “flattening” of the transfer function by applying coherent optical orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (CO-OFDM). Specifically, the proposed OTDR – aided WDM suitability fiber test model applied on the exemplar traces, showed significant peak-to-peak DWDM spectrum unflatness, i.e. the pronounced frequency selectivity strongly indicating the need for introducing CO-OFDM on top of WDM. This was found to be monotonically tracked by the WDM transmission performance – the bit-error rate (BER) values in particular, measured with and without the CO-OFDM applied.

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.

The aim was to investigate sex differences regarding shooting position, shooting technique, and shot placement preceding open-play goal scoring in the Swedish Super League (SSL) in floorball. Video recordings of 3751 goals were analysed to determine the goal scorers’ positions on the pitch when they took the shots and which type of shots they used. In addition, the placement of the ball when it entered the goal was determined. The proportion of goals from the playing zone closest to the goal was higher for women (P < 0.001), whereas the relative number of goals from the playing zones to the left of the goal and from the central playing zone farthest from the goal was higher for men (all P < 0.001). Women used wrist shots and backhand shots more frequently to score goals than men (both P < 0.01); conversely, the proportion of goals scored using slap shots and volley shots was higher for men (both P < 0.001). In terms of shot placement, the percentage of goals scored in top-left corner was higher for male players (P < 0.05). Hence, there are sex-related goal-scoring differences in SSL and the findings may inform coaches in refining tactics and training. Keywords: Sex difference, video analysis, unihockey, shooting technique.

Background: HLA-A gene is one of the most polymorphic loci in human genome and its variants influence disease susceptibility and immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy response. HLA-A*03 allele has been identified as a biomarker associated with poor ICI response. Objective: This study aimed to characterize HLA-A allele and genotype frequencies in the Bosnian population, assess sex specific differences, and evaluate the prevalence of HLA-A*03. Methods: Blood samples from 75 individuals were analyzed. Genomic DNA was isolated using the Miller method, and HLA-A typing was performed using PCR with sequence specific primers (PCR-SSP). Polymorphism parameters were calculated using PowerMarker v3.25. Differences between males and females were assessed using chi square and Fisher’s exact tests. Results: Twelve HLA-A allelic groups and 28 genotypes were identified. The most frequent alleles were HLA-A*02 (33.33%), A*01 (16.67%), A*24 (11.33%), A*03 (10%), and A*11 (8%). The most common genotypes were HLA-A*01/*02 (12%), A*02/*02 (12%), and A*02/*03 (8%). Females showed significantly higher frequencies of HLA-A*02, A*03, and A*31, as well as genotypes HLA-A*02/*03, A*02/*11, and A*02/*31. The population exhibited high polymorphism (heterozygosity 0.8667; gene diversity 0.8232; PIC 0.8054). Strong similarity with European and Western groups and substantial divergence from East Asian and African populations were detected. Conclusion: The Bosnian population demonstrates high HLA-A polymorphism, with HLA-A*02 as the most common allele. Females more frequently carry the HLA-A*03 allele and several related genotypes, suggesting potential sex specific implications for ICI therapy response. These findings provide a foundation for future studies investigating the clinical relevance of HLA-A variation in Bosnian cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy.

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.

The numerical simulation of friction stir welded T-joints made of AA2024 T3is investigated. Analysis of heat generation due to friction and plastic workis performed, as well as of the reaction force in the normal direction duringthe plunge stage of the friction stir welding. The effect of joint geometry isstudied for butt joints and T-joints produced from the same material.Different tool rotation speeds and tool pin lengths were considered forT-joint FSW welding. It was shown that the temperature at the root of theweld below the tool pin is lower in the T-joint than in the butt joint, due tothe efficient conduction of the heat produced through the normal plate. Also,the reaction force was higher for the T-joint than for the butt joint; so, heatproduction by friction was more intense in comparison with the heatproduced by plastic deformation. The reaction force was moderatelyincreased for the tool with a shorter pin, increasing both components of theheat produced. An increase in the tool rotation speed decreased theresistance to the tool plunging into the T-joint, increasing the frictional heatand decreasing the amount of heat generated by plastic deformation.