Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed the treatment landscape for non-small cell lung carcinoma but are associated with immune-related adverse events (irAEs), including thyroid dysfunction. This study examines the incidence and clinical impact of thyroid dysfunction in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients receiving ICIs at the Clinic of Oncology, Clinical Center University of Sarajevo. In this retrospective cohort study of 50 patients with metastatic NSCLC treated with ICIs—either in combination with chemotherapy or as monotherapy for those with programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression ≥ 50%—we collected data on demographics, treatment regimens, thyroid function tests, and survival outcomes. Thyroid dysfunction occurred in 24 patients (48%), with 12 (24%) developing hypothyroidism, 4 (8%) developing hyperthyroidism, and 8 (16%) experiencing a transition from hyperthyroidism to hypothyroidism. The incidence of thyroid dysfunction was significantly higher in patients treated with atezolizumab compared to pembrolizumab (P ═ 0.04), with 87.5% of affected patients receiving atezolizumab. The median time to onset of thyroid dysfunction was 10 cycles (interquartile range [IQR]: 5) for hypothyroidism and six cycles (IQR: 19) for hyperthyroidism. Progression-free survival (PFS) was significantly longer in patients who developed thyroid dysfunction, with the median PFS not reached, compared to a median PFS of 14 months (95% CI: 9.68–18.32) in patients without thyroid dysfunction (P ═ 0.038). No significant associations were found between thyroid dysfunction and patient age or gender. These findings suggest that thyroid dysfunction is a common irAE in patients with metastatic NSCLC receiving ICIs, particularly atezolizumab, and its development may be associated with improved PFS. Regular monitoring of thyroid function is recommended to promptly identify and manage thyroid abnormalities during ICI therapy, potentially improving patient outcomes.

This study explores both pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical methods for decarbonizing and recovering valuable metals from bauxite residue, with hydrogen plasma reduction and direct acid leaching as the primary approaches. The goal is to offer innovative techniques for extracting metals from bauxite residue, a by-product of the Bayer process, which cannot be disposed of in an environmentally sustainable manner. Additionally, reducing the volume of bauxite residue through combined treatments is a key objective. In contrast to traditional carbon-based reductive melting, which generated significant CO2 emissions, hydrogen is now being investigated as a cleaner alternative. Through hydrogen plasma reduction, approximately 99.9% of iron is recovered as crude metallic iron, which can be easily separated from the slag containing other valuable metals. Thermochemical analysis was used to predict slag formation and chemical analysis of slag during hydrogen reduction. To further recover metals like aluminum and titanium, the slag is subjected to sulfuric acid leaching under high-pressure of oxygen in an autoclave avoiding silica gel formation. The results demonstrated a leaching efficiency of 93.21% for aluminum and 84.56% for titanium, using 5 mol/L sulfuric acid at 150 °C, with almost complete iron recovery. Assisted ultrasound leaching of slag with sulphuric acid under atmospheric pressure leads to 54% leaching efficiency of titanium.

The real-world deployments of 5G SA networks have highlighted significant challenges, particularly related to signal coverage, leading to performance degradation for enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication (URLLC), and massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC). To address these challenges and minimize the costs of new infrastructure deployment, Network Sharing among multiple operators has become a viable, cost-effective solution. The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) began exploring network sharing in 5G with Release 15, expanding it with an Indirect Network Sharing configuration in Release 19. In this work, we present an Indirect Network Sharing approach that utilizes Network Slicing to create multiple isolated virtual networks on a single physical infrastructure, ensuring resource isolation and efficient management in a multi-operator environment. Our demonstration illustrates how a third-party entity can effectively manage network resources, maintaining isolation and performance quality across different network domains operated by various providers.

5G Standalone (SA) networks introduce a concept of Network Slicing that enables a range of new applications, such as enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication (URLLC), and massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC). However, despite the promising potential of 5G SA networks, real-world deployments have revealed significant limitations, particularly in terms of signal coverage, resulting in performance degradation for eMBB, URLLC, and mMTC services. To mitigate these challenges and reduce the costs associated with deploying new infrastructure, Network Sharing among multiple operators has emerged as a cost-effective solution. While the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) introduced Network Sharing in 5G Release 15 and added an Indirect Network Sharing configuration in Release 19, real-life implementation remains limited due to immature mechanisms and the lack of automated systems for neutral hosts providers to easily onboard new operators and dynamically allocate network resources to meet specific network requirements. In this paper, we explore the application of Network Slicing as a mechanism to deploy Network Sharing among multiple operators, presenting a 5G SA Indirect Network Sharing architecture as proof of concept (PoC). Through our experiment, performed in a real-world and open-source testbed based on O-RAN principles, we demonstrate how applying Network Slicing technology, Neutral Host providers can effectively deploy resource isolation and enable collaboration in a multi-operator environment while guaranteeing service quality to their users.

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore the differences in physical characteristics, leg strength, and jumping performance between 3 × 3 and 5 × 5 male basketball players. Methods: Twelve elite-level 5 × 5 basketball players (26.0 ± 13.0 years; 201.4 ± 6.6 cm; 95.50 ± 11.50 kg) and twelve elite-level 3 × 3 basketball players (26.7 ± 7.3 years; 193.0 ± 5.1 cm; 98.03 ± 9.77 kg), all male, were enrolled in the study. After anthropometric measurements and standardized warm ups, countermovement jump (CMJ), drop jump (DJ) and isokinetic strength testing were conducted, respectively. Results: An independent two-sample t-test revealed that 5 × 5 athletes were notably (p < 0.005) taller, with a lower body fat percentage (11.9 ± 3.6% vs. 18.6 ± 10.9%) and higher quadricep strength (317.21 ± 36.54 N·m vs. 284.76 ± 29.77 N·m and 313.32 ± 24.08 N·m vs. 285.87 ± 31.2 N·m for left and right leg, respectively). Conversely, 3 × 3 players displayed superior CMJ performance in concentric and eccentric peak forces, peak power, and reactive strength index. In the DJ, 3 × 3 players also excelled in eccentric peak force, reactive strength index, and jump height. Conclusions: The findings indicate that while 5 × 5 basketball players excel in body physique and in the strength of their lower body, 3 × 3 basketball players outperform them in power-related metrics.

Abstract The paper presents the results of Cr, Co, Cu, Fe, Ni, Mn, Pb, Zn, and four radionuclides (226Ra,232Th, 137Cs, and 40K) determination in transplanted lichens after two, four, and six months of exposure. Lichens were sampled from the area of Mountain Igman in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) and transplanted to two locations (Pofalići and Bjelave) in Sarajevo, the capital city of BiH. The total metals content was determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). Gamma spectrometry (GS) was used for radionuclide activity determination. Content of Cr, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb an Zn in lichen after two, four, and six months of exposure ranged as follows: <LOD-0.61, <LOD-1.55, 3.85–8.08, 332.5–497.9, 19.68–31.65, 2.29–4.24, <LOD-10.30, 32.76–58.58 µg/g, respectively. Cr was not detected in exposed lichen samples. A very strong positive correlation for Cu-Cu, Cu-Fe, Cu-Pb, Cu-Zn, Ni-Ni and Fe-Fe was obtained in lichens, while a strong correlation was between Co-Zn, Co-Cu, Pb-Pb and Mn-Mn. The specific activity of 137Cs ranged from 19.95 to 56.66 Bq/kg, while for 40K ranged from 49.65 to 330.61 Bq/kg. The specific activity of 226Ra and 232Th was below the GS limit of detection.

2-acetoxybenzoic acid, also known as aspirin, is one of the most widespread and important pharmaceutical compound used in the treatment of pain, inflammation, and febrile conditions. In addition to its well-known therapeutic properties, 2-acetoxybenzoic acid is increasingly being investigated in the context of its interactions with metals, leading to new insights into potential applications in medicine, chemistry, and biotechnology. Among the metals that form complex compounds with 2-acetoxybenzoic acid, nickel is one of the most interesting due to its specific electrochemical properties and biological activity. The study of the 2-acetoxybenzoic acid-nickel complex plays a significant role in understanding the molecular mechanisms of interaction between drugs and metal ions, as well as the potential therapeutic benefits of these compounds. This research thoroughly examines the structural, chemical, and biological aspects of the 2-acetoxybenzoic acid-nickel complex, with particular emphasis on its potential application in the pharmaceutical industry and medicine. The structure of this complex was determined by various spectroscopic and analytical techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV), mass spectrometry (MS), melting point methods, and optical microscopy. These methods contributed to the understanding of the interaction mechanisms between the ligand and the nickel ion center, opening the possibility for further investigation of the pharmacological properties and potential therapeutic applications of this complex. The antibacterial and antifungal activity of the synthesized Ni(II) complex with 2-acetoxybenzoic acid was investigated, and it was found that the metal complex exhibits varying degrees of inhibitory effects on bacteria.

Fly ash (FA) is a low-cost industrial waste material mostly composed of oxides. These small, hard particles can be used as reinforcements in composite production. In this study, an A356.0 aluminum alloy reinforced with 4 wt.% FA was synthesized by compo casting and subsequently subjected to multiple passes of equal channel angular extrusion (ECAE) to investigate the influence of intense plastic deformation on the composite hardness and microstructure. Microstructure analysis was performed on an optical microscope and by computer tomography (CT). The as-cast alloy contains a relatively homogeneous microstructure with minor FA agglomerations and very low porosity. The severe plastic deformation induced by ECAE results in a directed structure and additional integration of FA into the matrix with the disappearance of pores. Vickers hardness measurement of aluminum/fly ash (Al/FA) composite was carried out with different indentation loads: 0.196 N (HV0.02), 0.490 N (HV0.05), 0.981 N (HV0.1), and 1.960 N (HV0.2). The results showed that hardness increases after each ECAE pass because of microstructure changes. Already after the first pass, a significant increase in hardness is achieved, ranging from 27% (HV0.05) to 62% (HV0.2). A Meyer’s index (n) value greater than 2 indicates that the hardness of single and double extruded composite depends on the indentation load. Extruded samples show a hardness enhancement with increasing applied load, so the examined composite exhibits a reverse indentation size effect (RISE).

This study investigates innovative surface coatings’ effectiveness in enhancing spruce wood’s fire resistance (Picea abies spp.). Spruce wood samples were treated with various agents, including oils, waxes, boric acid, commercial coatings, and fire-retardant agents. The evaluation was conducted using the small flame method (EN ISO 11925-2:2020), surface roughness analysis, hyperspectral imaging (HSI), and contact angle measurements. The results demonstrated significant improvements in fire resistance for samples treated with specific coatings, particularly the Burn Block spray and Caparol coating, which effectively prevented flame spread. The analysis revealed that the Burn Block spray reduced the average flame height to 6.57 cm, while the Caparol coating achieved a similar effect with an average flame height of 6.95 cm. In contrast, untreated samples exhibited a flame height of 9.34 cm, with boric acid-treated samples reaching up to 12.18 cm. Char depth measurements and the surface roughness analysis revealed a clear correlation between the type of treatment and the thermal stability of the wood. Hyperspectral imaging enabled a detailed visualisation of surface degradation, while contact angle measurements highlighted the impact of hydrophobicity on flammability. This research provides in-depth insights into the fire-retardant mechanisms of spruce wood and offers practical guidelines for developing safer and more sustainable wood materials for the construction industry.

INTRODUCTION Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), exacerbated by inappropriate antibiotic use, access to quality antibiotics and weak antimicrobial stewardship (AMS). There is a need to review current evidence on antibiotic use, access, and AMR, in primary care across key countries.Areas covered: This narrative review analyses publications from 2018 to 2024 regarding access, availability and use of appropriate antibiotics. EXPERT OPINION There were very few studies focussing on a lack of access to antibiotics in primary care. However, there was considerable evidence of high rates of inappropriate antibiotic use, including Watch antibiotics, typically for minor infections, across studied countries exacerbated by patient demand. The high costs of antibiotics in a number of LMICs impacts on their use resulting in short courses and sharing of antibiotics. This can contribute to AMR alongside the use of substandard and falsified antibiotics. Overall, limited implementation of national action plans, insufficient resources, and knowledge gaps, affects sustainable development goals to provide routine access to safe, effective and appropriate antibiotics. CONCLUSIONS There is a clear need to focus health policy on the optimal use of essential AWaRe antibiotics in primary care settings to reduce AMR in LMICs.

Background and Objectives There is uncertainty about whether patients with an anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (LVO) and a low NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score (≤5) benefit from endovascular therapy (EVT) in the late time window (6–24 hours). We compared the clinical outcomes of these patients receiving EVT with those receiving medical management (MM). Methods The CT for Late Endovascular Reperfusion multinational cohort study was conducted at 66 sites across 10 countries from January 2014 to May 2022. This subanalysis included consecutive patients with late-window stroke due to an anterior circulation LVO, defined as occlusion of the internal carotid artery or proximal middle cerebral artery (M1/M2 segments), and a baseline NIHSS score ≤5 who received EVT or MM alone. The primary end point was a 90-day ordinal shift in the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score. Secondary outcomes were 90-day excellent outcome (defined as mRS scores 0–1 or return to baseline mRS score in patients with a prestroke mRS score >1) and favorable outcome (defined as mRS scores 0–2 or return to baseline mRS score in patients with prestroke mRS score >2). Safety outcomes were symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and 90-day mortality. We used ordinal and binary logistic regression models to test for outcome differences. Results Among 5,098 patients, 318 patients were included (median [interquartile range] age 67 [56–76] years; 149 [46.9%] were female; baseline NIHSS score was 4 [2–5]). A total of 202 patients (63.5%) received EVT and 116 MM (36.5%). There was no difference in favorable 90-day ordinal mRS score shift (adjusted common odds ratio [OR] 0.77, 95% CI 0.45–1.32), excellent outcome (adjusted OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.49–1.50), or favorable outcome (adjusted OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.35–1.50) in the EVT group compared with MM. Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage risk (adjusted OR 3.40, 95% CI 0.84–13.73) and mortality at 90 days (adjusted OR 2.44, 95% CI 0.60–10.02) were not statistically different between treatment groups. Discussion In patients with an anterior LVO and low NIHSS score in the 6–24-hour time window, there was no statistical difference in disability outcomes or intracranial bleeding risk between patients treated with EVT compared with MM. The retrospective and observational design limits our findings. Ongoing randomized controlled trials will provide further insight. Classification of Evidence This study provides Class III evidence that in adult patients with anterior circulation LVO and low NIHSS score (≤5) presenting in the late time window (6–24 hours), EVT does not improve clinical outcome vs MM. Trial Registration This study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov under NCT04096248.