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Aim To compare interleukin-2 levels (IL-2) and IL-2 gene site 1 methylation levels between preterm newborns (PN) and full-term newborns (FN) and investigate their association with the environmental exposure of their mothers during pregnancy. Methods IL-2 and IL-2 gene site 1 methylation levels were assessed in 50 PN and 56 FN. Newborns' mothers filled in questionnaires about their living and occupational environments, habits, diets, and hobbies. Results The mothers of PN were significantly more frequently agrarian/rural residents than the mothers of FN. PN had significantly higher IL-2 levels, and significantly lower methylation of IL-2 gene site 1 levels than FN. Conclusion IL-2 levels, hypomethylation of the IL-2 gene site 1, and the mother's rural residence (probably due to pesticide exposure) were predictive biomarkers for preterm birth. For the first time, we present the reference values for the methylation of IL-2 gene site 1 in PN and FN, which can be used in the clinical setting and biomonitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper discusses the representation of Lizzie Borden in true-crime and crime-fiction prose texts, as well as in a stage production. It centers on the hypothesis of sociocultural aspects which constitute the accounts written about her and feminist readings. Regardless of genre, these narratives portray Lizzie Borden in various ways--from a female tormenter to a guilt-free spinster. Both true-crime books and crime-fiction novels, together with the ballet, are modified by sociocultural factors and are also subject to intertextuality. In addition, the lines between fiction and non-fiction literary works of primary concern are blurred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the fourth part of data on selected new and noteworthy taxa originating from the revision of Herbarium collection of the Institute for Nature Conservation of the Vojvodina province (PZZP). Selected taxa include 13 species, two subspecies, 1 variety and two nothospecies placed within 11 genera (Malus Mill., Marrubium L., Marsilea L., Medicago L., Melampyrum L., Melica L., Melilotus Mill., Menyanthes L., Pholiurus Trin., Plantago L. and Ranunculus L.). One species (Malus dasyphylla) is new for a flora of Vojvodina province. Also, one subspecies (Melica ciliata subsp. magnolii) and one variety (Melampyrum nemorosum var. heterotrichum) are confirmed for Serbia while one species (Menyanthes trifoliata) is confirmed for Vojvodina province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article addresses the issue of the 19th century image of Montenegro from the perspective of an educated European citizen, famous German ancient historian and Nobel Laureate Theodor Mommsen who visited Montenegro in May 1862 during the Montenegrin–Ottoman War. After spending a day in the capital Cetinje, he described his experience in a (hereby for the first time published) letter to his wife Marie Reimer in which he is trying to stay objective as a scholar, while nevertheless showing the supposedly superior point of view of a civilized European. Since the short text contains distinctive elements of 19th century travel writing, the objective of the interpretation is to construct its implied image of Montenegro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper deals with some important aspects of aesthetic learning within the transcultural teaching of literature aiming to show how the systematic interpretation of the best literary works as part of teacher education contributes to humanistic education or rather the transcultural mediation of humanistic values while at the same time language skills of learners being encouraged. The research was conducted as part of the university teaching project. It has shown how the playful use of language within the literary translation enables the aesthetic experience. Moreover, the evaluation confirmed that dealing with linguistically successful conveyed images, symbols and metaphors that are not necessarily culturally shaped, but rather related to conversion of personal to universal human experience fosters the transformation of aesthetic experience into cognition about the universal values beyond national borders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the third part of data on selected new and noteworthy taxa ensuing from the revision of Herbarium collection of the Institute for Nature Conservation of the Vojvodina province (PZZP). Selected taxa include 11 species, three subspecies, three varieties, one infraspecific taxon with indetermined status [stat. indet.] and one nothospecies placed within seven genera (Filago L., Ludwigia L., Luzula DC., Lycopus L., Lythrum L., Phlomis L. and Silene L.). Two varieties (Luzula campestris subsp. campestris var. elata, Silene flos-cuculi subsp. floscuculi var. latifolia) and one infraspecific taxon with indetermined status (Luzula multiflora subsp. multiflora [stat. indet.] b. uliginosa) are new for a flora of Serbia. Additionally, one species (Ludwigia palustris) and one nothospecies (Lythrum ×scabrum) are confirmed for Serbia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease with as many as 50 - 70% of patients experiencing psychotic symptoms during the course of the illness. Our aim was to provide an evidence-based review on the etiology, prevalence and management of psychotic symptoms in Parkinson's disease. Material and Methods. We used references from the "Medline" database published from 1999 to 2019. Results. The most common psychotic symptoms in Parkinson's disease are visual hallucinations, which occur in 25 - 30% of patients, acoustic hallucinations in about 20%, and delusions in around 5% of these patients. The etiology of psychotic symptoms is not fully clarified, but researchers suggest a complex interrelationship of factors associated with the disease itself and the factors associated with antiparkinsonian medications. After exclusion of other etiologic causes of psychotic symptoms, it is necessary to revise the type and dose of antiparkinsonian drugs. Although pimavanserin has recently been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration, the current treatment of choice for psychotic symptoms in Parkinson's disease is still quetiapine. Only patients who do not tolerate or do not respond to quetiapine are treated with clozapine, which has been proven more effective, but with significant side effects. Conclusion. Timely diagnosis and adequate treatment of psychotic symptoms in Parkinson's disease are essential, because they dramatically affect the quality of life of patients and their families. Therefore, it is necessary to establish more effective tools for screening and treatment of psychotic symptoms in Parkinson's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caves represent unique and extreme ecosystems inhabited by specifically adapted and metabolically diverse organisms (phototrophs, heterotrophs, and mixotrophs). Hydrogeologically active river caves, such as Stopić Cave (Serbia), have additional characteristics. Knowledge is lacking on the cyanobacteria and algae living in these specific ecosystems and, in particular, in the water bodies within caves. The main objectives of this study were to investigate the diversity, composition, and seasonality of cyanobacterial and algal communities of the Trnavski stream flowing through Stopić Cave and to assess water quality. Initial analysis of planktonic and benthic samples collected during the winter, spring, and summer of 2020 from six sites along the Trnavski stream flowing through Stopić Cave identified 132 cyanobacterial and algal taxa. Subsequent detailed analysis of benthic diatoms increased the total number of identified taxa to 242, with representatives of Bacillariophyta, Cyanobacteria, and Chlorophyta being the most common. Representatives of Xanthophyceae, Chrysophyceae, Euglenophyceae, Dinophyceae, and Cryptophyceae were also recorded. The highest total number of taxa was found in the spring (n = 156), and the lowest number in the summer (n = 60). Many taxa were specific to only one season, with the majority of these belonging to Cyanobacteria and Chlorophyta. The values recorded for pH, conductivity, and light intensity showed that there was relatively little seasonal variation; in contrast, water temperature varied greatly among seasons. According to most diatom indices, the water quality of Trnavski stream was good at most sampling sites during the study period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Herbarium collection of the Institute for Nature Conservation of the Vojvodina province (PZZP) is one of the least known institutional collections in Serbia. In this article is presented the first part of results of the ongoing process of examination and revision of this collection. It covers data on interesting, new and noteworthy vascular plant taxa from 6 genera (Cytisus L., Lamium L., Lappula Moench, Lathyrus L., Leersia Sw. and Legousia Durande) included in 18 species, 5 subspecies, 3 varieties, 4 forms, as well as 4 taxa with undetermined status [stat. indet.] and one supposed nothospecies. One species and subspecies (Lappula heteracantha subsp. heterocarpa) and 5 taxa on the different infraspecific levels are new for a flora of Serbia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbohydrate sulfotransferases (CHST) catalyse the biosynthesis of proteoglycans that enable physical interactions and signalling between different neighbouring cells in physiological and pathological states. The study aim was to provide an overview of emerging diagnostic and prognostic applications of CHST. PubMed database search was conducted using the keywords "carbohydrate sulfotransferase" together with appropriate inclusion and exclusion criteria, whereby 41 publications were selected. Additionally, 40 records on CHST genetic and biochemical properties were hand-picked from UniProt, GeneCards, InterPro, and neXtProt databases. Carbohydrate sulfotransferases have been applied mainly in diagnostics of connective tissue disorders, cancer and inflammations. The lack of CHST activity was found in congenital connective tissue disorders while CHST overexpression was detected in different malignancies. Mutations of CHST3 gene cause skeletal dysplasia, chondrodysplasia, and autosomal recessive multiple joint dislocations while increased tissue expression of CHST11, CHST12 and CHST15 is an unfavourable prognostic factor in ovarian cancer, glioblastoma and pancreatic cancer, respectively. Recently, CHST11 and CHST15 overexpression in the vascular smooth muscle cells was linked to the severe lung pathology in COVID-19 patients. Promising CHST diagnostic and prognostic applications have been described but larger clinical studies and robust analytical procedures are required for the more reliable diagnostic performance estimations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the first part of the paper, the authors discuss some of the classical sociological ideas about the neighborhood, developed within the Chicago School and the symbolic interactionism of Jane Jacobs. Those ideas are then used in order to examine the neighborhood relations in Novi Sad, in the context of transition and spatial transformation. The authors present selected results of a survey conducted in 2015 on the representative sample of 503 citizens of Novi Sad. The neighborhood relations in Novi Sad are investigated with the aim of analyzing their quality in different parts of the city and their relation with different social characteristics. According to the research hypothesis, the quality of neighborhood relations varies significantly in different parts of the city and between different social groups, whereby the parts of the city are classified by the degree of their socio-spatial transformation in transition. The research confirmed the first hypothesis and found that the neighborhood relations are more intense in the old, historic part of the city, within the single-family and mixed housing, among the owners of apartments as well as those who were born in Novi Sad or moved to the city less than 10 years ago. Although some findings suggest that differences in the neighborhood relations arise from the degree and quality of socio-spatial transformation in the transition, these links are not simple nor direct. Through the analysis of the research results, the authors assess the relevance of some classical sociological ideas for understanding and planning the neighborhoods in the contemporary city in transition. In the conclusion, the authors emphasize the importance of overcoming strict spatial determinism as well as the idealization of neighborhood relations in further research in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase (AHCY) deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive disorder in methionine metabolism caused by mutations in the AHCY gene. Main characteristics are psychomotor delay including delayed myelination and myopathy (hypotonia, absent tendon reflexes etc.) from birth, mostly associated with hypermethioninaemia, elevated serum creatine kinase levels and increased genome wide DNA methylation. The prime function of AHCY is to hydrolyse and efficiently remove S-adenosylhomocysteine, the by-product of transmethylation reactions and one of the most potent methyltransferase inhibitors. In this study, we set out to more specifically characterize DNA methylation changes in blood samples from patients with AHCY deficiency. Global DNA methylation was increased in two of three analysed patients. In addition, we analysed the DNA methylation levels at differentially methylated regions (DMRs) of six imprinted genes (MEST, SNRPN, LIT1, H19, GTL2 and PEG3) as well as Alu and LINE1 repetitive elements in seven patients. Three patients showed a hypermethylation in up to five imprinted gene DMRs. Abnormal methylation in Alu and LINE1 repetitive elements was not observed. We conclude that DNA hypermethylation seems to be a frequent but not a constant feature associated with AHCY deficiency that affects different genomic regions to different degrees. Thus AHCY deficiency may represent an ideal model disease for studying the molecular origins and biological consequences of DNA hypermethylation due to impaired cellular methylation status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rett syndrome (RTT) is an X-linked dominant neurodevelopmental disorder almost exclusively affecting females and is usually sporadic. Mutations in MECP2 gene have been found in more than 80% of females with typical features of RTT. In this study, we analyzed 15 sporadic cases of RTT. In 7 of 15 patients (47%), we detected pathogenic mutations in the coding parts of MECP2 fourth exon. We found two missense (T158M, R133C), two nonsense (R168X, R270X), two frameshift mutations (P217fs and a double deletion of 28-bp at 1132–1159 and 10-bp at 1167–1176), and one in-frame deletion (L383_E392del10). To our knowledge, the last two mutations have not been reported yet. We also detected one previously described polymorphism (S194S). In conclusion, these results show that the fourth exon should be the first one analyzed because it harbors most of the known mutations. Moreover, mutation-negative cases should be further analyzed for gross rearrangements. This is the first study of its kind in Croatia and it enabled us to give the patients an early confirmation of RTT diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, characterized as a disease usually diagnosed in the advanced stages with limited therapeutic options. Significant progress in the treatment of lung cancer has been achieved by the application of targeted therapy and immunotherapy based on the identification of molecular abnormalities of the tumor tissue. However, only a small proportion of patients is carrying genetic alterations and will benefit from targeted therapy. Here, we conducted transcriptomic profiling and a comprehensive biostatistics analysis of the squamous-cell lung carcinoma (SqCLC), a histological subtype of the non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), aiming to identify the specific transcriptomic signature of SqCLC and evaluate the functional relevance of identified genes. This study sheds light on individual SqCLC tumors' transcriptomic landscape and discusses the therapeutic and prognostic potential of identified biomarkers. Squamous cell lung carcinoma (SqCLC) is associated with high mortality and limited treatment options. Identification of therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers is still lacking. This research aims to analyze the transcriptomic profile of SqCLC samples and identify the key genes associated with tumorigenesis, overall survival (OS), and a profile of the tumor-infiltrating immune cells. Differential gene expression analysis, pathway enrichment analysis, and Gene Ontology analysis on RNA-seq data obtained from FFPE tumor samples (N = 23) and healthy tissues (N = 3) were performed (experimental cohort). Validation of the results was conducted on publicly available gene expression data using TCGA LUSC (N = 225) and GTEx healthy donors' cohorts (N = 288). We identified 1133 upregulated and 644 downregulated genes, common for both cohorts. The most prominent upregulated genes were involved in cell cycle and proliferation regulation pathways (MAGEA9B, MAGED4, KRT, MMT11/13), while downregulated genes predominately belonged to immune-related pathways (DEFA1B, DEFA1, DEFA3). Results of the survival analysis, conducted on the validation cohort and commonly deregulated genes, indicated that overexpression of HOXC4 (p < 0.001), LLGL1 (p = 0.0015), and SLC4A3 (p = 0.0034) is associated with worse OS in early-stage SqCLC patients. In contrast, overexpression of GSTZ1 (p = 0.0029) and LILRA5 (p = 0.0086) was protective, i.e., associated with better OS. By applying a single-sample gene-set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA), we identified four distinct immune subtypes. Immune cell distribution suggests that the memory T cells (central and effector) and follicular helper T cells could serve as important stratification parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. It is known that it is possible to improve healthcare by paying more attention to psychological aspects of diagnosis and treatment of physical and mental conditions. The study and practice of such factors is called psychological medicine. The aim of this paper was to provide contemporary aspects of psychological medicine and to emphasize its contributions to clinical practice. Material and Methods. A review of the literature on psychological and psychosomatic medicine was performed using Medline and manual search. Results. The main goals of psychological medicine are comprehensive assessment of psychological factors affecting the etiology, course and outcome of illness, biopsychosocial consideration of patient care, as well as integration of specific interventions in prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of patients. We need to emphasize that due to clinical limitations, in terms of current separation of mental and physical healthcare, the treatment of many health conditions in which psychological factors are significant, is still insufficient. Conclusion. Because of its importance to patients’ well-being, psychological and psychosomatic medicine should to be an integral part of clinicians’ knowledge across all specialties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of resveratrol in combination with cisplatin on the inhibition of tumour angiogenesis, growth, and macrophage polarization in mice bearing the solid form of an Ehrlich ascites tumour (EAT) that were exposed to whole-body hyperthermia treatment. In addition, we investigated whether a multimodal approach with hyperthermia and resveratrol could abolish cisplatin resistance in tumour cells through the modulation of histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity and levels of heat shock proteins (HSP70/HSP90) and contribute to the direct toxicity of cisplatin on tumour cells. The tumour was induced by injecting 1 × 106 EAT cells subcutaneously (sc) into the thighs of Balb/c mice. The mice were treated with resveratrol per os for five consecutive days beginning on day 2 after tumour injection and/or by injecting cisplatin intraperitoneally (ip) at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg on days 10 and 12 and at a dose of 5 mg/kg on day 15. Immediately thereafter, the mice were exposed to systemic hyperthermia for 15 min at a temperature of 41 °C. The obtained results showed that the administration of resveratrol did not significantly contribute to the antitumour effect of cisplatin and hyperthermia, but it partially contributed to the immunomodulatory effect and to the reduction of cisplatin toxicity and to a slight increase in animal survival. This treatment schedule did not affect microvessel density, but it inhibited tumour growth and modulated macrophage polarization to the M1 phenotype. Furthermore, it abolished the resistance of tumour cells to cisplatin by modulating HDAC activity and the concentration of HSP70 and HSP90 chaperones, contributing to the increased lifespan of mice. However, the precise mechanism of the interaction between resveratrol, cisplatin, and hyperthermia needs to be investigated further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low seroprevalent human adenovirus type 26 (HAdV26)-based vaccine vector was the first adenovirus-based vector to receive marketing authorization from European Commission. HAdV26-based vaccine vectors induce durable humoral and cellular immune responses and, as such, represent a highly valuable tool for fighting infectious diseases. Despite well-described immunogenicity in vivo, the basic biology of HAdV26 still needs some refinement. The aim of this study was to determine the pro-inflammatory cytokine profile of epithelial cells infected with HAdV26 and then investigate the underlying molecular mechanism. The expression of studied genes and proteins was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Confocal microscopy was used to visualize HAdV26 cell uptake. We found that HAdV26 infection in human epithelial cells triggers the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, namely IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, and TNF-α, with the most pronounced difference shown for IL-6. We investigated the underlying molecular mechanism and observed that HAdV26-induced IL-6 gene expression is αvβ3 integrin dependent and NF-κB mediated. Our findings provide new data regarding pro-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine expression in HAdV26-infected epithelial cells, as well as details concerning HAdV26-induced host signaling pathways. Information obtained within this research increases our current knowledge of HAdV26 basic biology and, as such, can contribute to further development of HAdV26-based vaccine vectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scilla litardierei and S. lakusicii are closely related species endemic to the Dinarides. While S. litardierei is a characteristic species of wet meadows in karst fields, S. lakusicii inhabits open rocky habitats in the surroundings of karst fields. During their life cycle, plants in karst areas are subjected to the influence of drought, waterlogging, high temperature and high intensity of light. The goal of our investigation was a comparative analysis of the isoenzyme profiles and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Class III peroxidase (POX) in the roots, leaves and flowers of S. litardierei and S. lakusicii that grew in different karst localities within their native range in the Dinarides. Field research was performed on karst fields and neighboring karst areas in eastern Herzegovina (Bosnia and Herzegovina) during the vegetation season in 2017. SODs are key enzymes in plant antioxidant defense, while POXs, in addition to their antioxidant role, play an important role in plant growth and development. The highest protein concentration in roots was measured for S. litardierei from the Lastva locality (13.416 ± 4.213 mg/gFW), while the lowest was measured in S. lakusicii from Popovo Polje (2.516 ± 0.565 mg/gFW). The highest SOD activity was measured for all three plants' organs from Fatničko Polje. The highest POX activity in leaf samples was measured in S. litardierei from Dabarsko Polje (0.6012 ± 0.210 μmol/mg*min), in the flower samples also in S. litardierei from Dabarsko Polje (0.288 ± 0.005 μmol/mg*min), while in root samples the highest POX activity was measured in S. litardierei from Fatničko Polje. SOD and POX isoenzyme profiles vary depending on Scilla species, locality and plant organ. According to our results, SOD and POX could play an important role in the adaptive mechanisms of Scilla species in their natural karst habitats. • Karst is a challenging habitat for plants. • Scilla litardierei and S. lakusicii inhabit different karst habitats. • The most pronounced differences in protein content were detected in the roots. • SOD and POX may be an important part of the adaptive mechanism of Scilla species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We report on a method to control the packing density of sulfur-bound oligonucleotide layers on metal electrodes by electrical means. In a first step, a dense nucleic acid layer is deposited by self-assembly from solution; in a second step, defined fractions of DNA molecules are released from the surface by applying a series of negative voltage cycles. Systematic investigations of the influence of the applied electrode potentials and oligonucleotide length allow us to identify a sharp desorption onset at −0.65V versus Ag/AgCl, which is independent of the DNA length. Moreover, our results clearly show the pronounced influence of competitive adsorbents in solution on the desorption behavior, which can prevent the re-adsorption of released DNA molecules, thereby enhancing the desorption efficiency. The method is fully bio-compatible and can be employed to improve the functionality of DNA layers. This is demonstrated in hybridization experiments revealing almost perfect yields for electrically “diluted” DNA layers. The proposed control method is extremely beneficial to the field of DNA-based sensors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Introduction. Mirror therapy was developed by Vilayanur Subramanian Ramachandran for the treatment of phantom pain after limb amputation. Mirror therapy is a neurorehabilitation technique that helps to relearn the use of affected limbs on many neurological and psychological levels. Material and Methods. A literature review was conducted using the following databases: KOBSON, Google Scholar, PubMed and MEDLINE. Results. A systematic literature review has shown that there is insufficient evidence of the effectiveness of this treatment in relieving and suppressing phantom limb pain. The results indicate the effectiveness of mirror therapy in relieving pain in people after a stroke. The small amount of evidence and lack of methodology reports have a major impact on the quality of this evidence. After mirror therapy, a significant reduction in pain at rest and during active movement was reported. Conclusion. Further research on mirror therapy is needed to help relieve pain. Evidence of the effectiveness of mirror therapy on pain has not been sufficiently investigated so far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) can develop lung squamous cell carcinoma (LuSCC), which could be the second primary tumor or HNSCC metastasis. Morphologically it is difficult to distinguish metastatic HNSCC from a second primary tumor which presents a significant diagnostic challenge. Differentiation of those two malignancies is important because the recommended treatments for metastatic HNSCC and primary LuSCC differ significantly. We investigated if the quantification of the promotor methylation status in HNSCC and LuSCC differs. Methods: Primary HNSCC (N = 36) and LuSCC (N = 17) were included in this study. Methylation status in the ASC/TMS1/PYCARD (apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain; 8 CpG sites) and MyD88 (Myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88; 10 CpG sites) promoters was analyzed. Bisulfite converted DNA, isolated from tumor tissue was quantified using pyrosequencing. Results of pyrosequencing analysis were expressed as a percentage for each tested CpG site. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used for the evaluation of the diagnostic properties of selected biomarkers. Results: CpG sites located in the promoters of ASC/TMS1/PYCARD_CpG8 (− 65 upstream) and MyD88_CpG4 (− 278 upstream) are significantly hypermethylated in the HNSCC when compared with LuSCC (p ≤ 0.0001). By performing ROC curve analysis we showed that corresponding areas under the curve (AUC) were 85–95%, indicating that selected CpG sites are useful for a distinction between primary LuSCC and primary HNSCC. Conclusions: Results of the present study indicate that there is a significant difference in the methylation status of tested genes between primary HNSCC and LuSCC. However, to prove this approach as a useful tool for distinguishing second primary LuSCC from HNSCC metastasis, it would be necessary to include a larger number of samples, and most importantly, metastatic samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Post-dural puncture headache is classified as a secondary headache attributable to non-vascular intracranial disorders and belongs to the group of headaches caused by low cerebrospinal fluid pressure. Etiopathogenesis. The pathogenesis is not completely clear, but it is thought to be caused by the cerebrospinal fluid leak through the duct opening. Cerebrospinal fluid efflux leads to a decrease in intracranial pressure and stretching of the pain sensitive intracranial structures. A drop in intracranial pressure can cause compensatory cerebrovascular vasodilation, contributing to the onset of a headache. Diagnosis and Therapy. Post-dural puncture headache clinically presents as an orthostatic headache. In most cases, the diagnosis is made based on a typical clinical picture and it can be confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging and measurement of cerebrospinal fluid pressure. The condition is usually benign, most often with spontaneous recovery. The therapy involves conservative treatment, medications, as well as some invasive methods: epidural blood patches, blockage of the greater occipital nerve, and in most severe cases, epidural injection of fibrin sealant or surgical dural repair. Conclusion. Post-dural puncture headache is a common complaint in the clinical practice of neurologists and anesthesiologists. The prognosis is usually favourable, while the therapy may include conservative or invasive treatment procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The association between substance use and aggression derives from the fact that among violent crime offenders there is a large number of people with alcohol and drug abuse. The objective of the study was to determine the incidence of psychoactive substance addicts in the population of violent crime offenders, as well as to consider possible measures to reduce the crime rates in this population. Material and Methods. Forensic psychiatric reports were used to assess 94 violent offenders from 2001 to 2018. The expert reports were obtained from the Psychiatry Clinic in Novi Sad, Serbia, including court case files, medical records, and psychiatric and psychological records of all offenders. Results. We have found that of the total of 94 violent crime offenders, as many as 25% suffered from some form of mental disorder. More than half of those with mental disorders from this group suffered from disorders induced by psychoactive substances, which means that as many as 15% of all offenders had some form of addiction. On the other hand, as much as 50% of all the offenders were under the influence of psychoactive substances at the time of the offense, predominantly by alcohol. Conclusion. Further research is needed in order to develop specific programs for the prevention of violence in the population using psychoactive substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have previously demonstrated the nucleic acid binding capacity of phenanthridine derivatives (PHTs). Because nucleic acids are potent inducers of innate immune response through Toll-like receptors (TLRs), and because PTHs bear a structural resemblance to commonly used synthetic ligands for TLR7/8, we hypothesized that PHTs could modulate/activate immune response. We found that compound M199 induces secretion of IL-6, IL-8 and TNFα in human PBMCs and inhibits TLR3/9 activation in different cellular systems (PBMCs, HEK293 and THP-1 cell lines). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floristic research of the Prometanj site, located in the northwestern part of Mokra Gora Mt. along the right bank of the Ibar River, was conducted during 2011. A total of 340 species and five subspecies of vascular plant taxa were registered. Families with the largest number of species were Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, Ranunculaceae, while the most numerous genera were Trifolium, Acer, Campanula, Geranium, Veronica, Ranunculus and Vicia. Floral elements of analyzed plant taxa were grouped into ten areal types, with domination of Central European and Eurasian and significant participation of Mediterranean-Submediterranean. The biological spectrum was characterized by the dominance of hemicryptophytes. Five strictly protected and 43 protected species were registered. Prometanj is the only remaining locality in Serbia for tertiary species Adenophora liliifolia. Floristic research of Prometanj should be extended to entire area of Mokra Gora Mt. together with the Ibar River gorge, in order to explore the whole botanical richness of this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite growing efforts for its early detection by screening populations at risk, the majority of lung cancer patients are still diagnosed in an advanced stage. The management of lung cancer has dramatically improved in the last decade and is no longer based on the "one-fits-all" paradigm or the general histological classification of non-small cell versus small cell lung cancer. Emerging options of targeted therapies and immunotherapies have shifted the management of lung cancer to a more personalized treatment approach, significantly influencing the clinical course and outcome of the disease. Molecular biomarkers have emerged as valuable tools in the prognosis and prediction of therapy response. In this review, we discuss the relevant biomarkers used in the clinical management of lung tumors, from diagnosis to prognosis. We also discuss promising new biomarkers, focusing on non-small cell lung cancer as the most abundant type of lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) engages Toll-like receptors (TLR) 2 and 4 when found in the extracellular compartment and contributes to inflammation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Since there is growing evidence for the genetic risk factors for COPD, the gene expression of HSP70, TLR2 and TLR4 was determined, as well as the association between HSP70, TLR2 and TLR4 single nucleotide polymorphisms, (SNPs) and COPD. The gene expression was assessed in peripheral blood cells of 137 COPD patients and 95 controls by a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), while a total of nine SNPs were genotyped by TaqMan allelic discrimination real-time PCR. HSP70 and TLR2 gene expression was increased in COPD patients compared to the controls, regardless of the disease severity and smoking status of participants. The rs6457452 SNP of HSP70 was associated with COPD, indicating the protective role of the T allele (OR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.24–0.89, p = 0.022). Furthermore, COPD C/T heterozygotes showed a decreased HSP70 mRNA level compared to COPD C/C homozygotes. In conclusion, HSP70 and TLR2 may have a role in the pathogenesis of COPD, and the HSP70 rs6457452 variant might influence the genetic susceptibility to COPD in the Croatian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic inflammatory lung diseases are characterized by uncontrolled immune response in the airways as their main pathophysiological manifestation. The lack of specific diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers for many pulmonary diseases represents a major challenge for pulmonologists. The majority of the currently approved therapeutic approaches are focused on achieving disease remission, although there is no guarantee of complete recovery. It is known that angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), an important counter-regulatory component of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS), is expressed in the airways. It has been shown that ACE2 plays a role in systemic regulation of the cardiovascular and renal systems, lungs and liver by acting on blood pressure, electrolyte balance control mechanisms and inflammation. Its protective role in the lungs has also been presented, but the exact pathophysiological mechanism of action is still elusive. The aim of this study is to review and discuss recent findings about ACE2, including its potential role in the pathophysiology of chronic inflammatory lung diseases:, i.e., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. Additionally, in the light of the coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19), we will discuss the role of ACE2 in the pathophysiology of this disease, mainly represented by different grades of pulmonary problems. We believe that these insights will open up new perspectives for the future use of ACE2 as a potential biomarker for early diagnosis and monitoring of chronic inflammatory lung diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quercetin (QU), a hyperthermic sensitizer, when combined with cisplatin (CP) affects tumor growth. To determine the effects of QU and CP and their interactions, multimodal treatment in vitro and in vivo models under physiological and hyperthermic conditions was performed. In vitro, different sensitivity of T24 and UMUC human bladder cancer cells was observed after short-term exposure to QU (2 h) and CP (1 h). Effects of both compounds were investigated at low and high micromolar concentrations (1 and 50 µM, respectively) under both thermal conditions. QU acted in additive or synergistic manner in combination with CP between physiological condition and hyperthermia. As determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, short-term application of QU and CP reduced cell viability. Clonal assay also indicated that combined treatment with QU and CP is lethal to bladder cancer cells in both conditions. In vivo, CP (5 or 10 mg kg−1) and QU (50 mg kg−1) acted synergistically with hyperthermia (43 °C) and inhibited tumor growth, activated immune effectors and increased mice survival. Our results demonstrate that combined treatment with CP and QU may increase death of tumor cells in physiological and hyperthermic conditions which could be clinically relevant in locoregional chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic disease characterized by a progressive decline in lung function due to airflow limitation, mainly related to IL-1β-induced inflammation. We have hypothesized that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in NLRP genes, coding for key regulators of IL-1β, are associated with pathogenesis and clinical phenotypes of COPD. We recruited 704 COPD individuals and 1238 healthy controls for this study. Twenty non-synonymous SNPs in 10 different NLRP genes were genotyped. Genetic associations were estimated using logistic regression, adjusting for age, gender, and smoking history. The impact of genotypes on patients' overall survival was analyzed with the Kaplan–Meier method with the log-rank test. Serum IL-1β concentration was determined by high sensitivity assay and expression analysis was done by RT-PCR. Decreased lung function, measured by a forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1% predicted), was significantly associated with the minor allele genotypes (AT + TT) of NLRP1 rs12150220 (p = 0.0002). The same rs12150220 genotypes exhibited a higher level of serum IL-1β compared to the AA genotype (p = 0.027) in COPD patients. NLRP8 rs306481 minor allele genotypes (AG + AA) were more common in the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) definition of group A (p = 0.0083). Polymorphisms in NLRP1 (rs12150220; OR = 0.55, p = 0.03) and NLRP4 (rs12462372; OR = 0.36, p = 0.03) were only nominally associated with COPD risk. In conclusion, coding polymorphisms in NLRP1 rs12150220 show an association with COPD disease severity, indicating that the fine-tuning of the NLRP1 inflammasome could be important in maintaining lung tissue integrity and treating the chronic inflammation of airways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]