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Background/Aim. Early diagnosis of amelanotic cutaneous melanoma metastases (ACMM) represents a great challenge and is essential for determining the stage, treatment, and prognosis of the disease. The aim of the study was to evaluate the vascular structures and their arrangement and frequency in ACMM. Methods. The study was conducted as a prospective, descriptive, multicenter study of pathohistologically confirmed ACMM. Results. The study included a total of 52 ACMM from 17 patients (8 men and 9 women, with an age range of 32–91 years, median 63.12 years) with a previous history of primary melanoma. The most prevalent were elevated ACMM – 39 (75.0%) lesions, while 13 (25.0%) ACMM were flat. Linear irregular blood vessels were statistically significantly more often associated with elevated ACMM, compared to flat ACMM (92.3% vs. 50.0%, p < 0.001). Dotted blood vessels were statistically significantly more frequent in flat ACMM, compared to elevated ACMM (76.9% vs. 28.2%, p = 0.003). Diffuse distribution of blood vessels was the most prevalent, with 92.3% of flat ACMM and 76.9% of elevated ACMM (p = 0.416). Peripheral arrangement of blood vessels was detected in 15.4% of elevated A CMM and 7.7% of flat ACMM (p = 0.815). The central arrangement of blood vessels was seen in 2.6%, while the cluster (segmental) schedule was present in 5.1% of elevated ACMM. The monomorphic vascular pattern was the predominant pattern in 84.6% of flat ACMM and 61.5% of elevated ACMM (p = 0.232). Conclusion. Our study supports the finding that linear irregular blood vessels are more commonly associated with elevated ACMM, while the dotted ones are dominant in flat ACMM.

Introduction. Basaloid follicular hamartoma (BFH) is a rare benign follicular malformation often clinically misdiagnosed. Patients with BFH demonstrate a variety of clinical manifestations and associated abnormalities. BFH may be a familial, congenital, or acquired condition with a localized or generalized distribution. Several clinical variants of generalized BFH are recognized, which may be associated with a diverse spectrum of abnormalities. Case report. We present two cases of solitary BFH in pediatric patients. The first patient was a 16- year-old boy with a history of autism spectrum disorder, admitted to our department for consultation due to a harmless dermal nevus on his face. The second patient was a six-year-old girl presented with a ten-month history of an asymptomatic, skin-colored papule located on the right nasolabial fold that gradually increased in size over time. Both cases were documented dermoscopically, and they were presented with a brief overview of the current literature. Conclusion. Considering the overlapping clinical, histological, and dermoscopic features of BFH with other benign and malignant lesions, its incidence in pediatric patients is probably higher than what is reported in the current literature.

Introduction: Metastatic melanoma rarely metastasizes to the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). However, melanoma in the gastrointestinal tract is usually of metastatic origin, given that primary melanomas in this location are extremely uncommon. It is very important to differentiate between primary melanoma in the mucosa of the GIT and metastatic melanoma. Case Presentation: A 65-year-old woman with a history of primary cutaneous melanoma in the head region dating back to 2019 developed metastatic melanoma of the large intestine and terminal ileum after two years. Several months later, the patient died. Conclusion: The diagnosis of metastatic melanoma requires a multidisciplinary approach to determine the precise and definitive diagnosis as well as timely therapy, all with the aim of improving the quantity and quality of life of patients.

Informal employment is a less favourable type of employment whose levels policy makers usually want to decrease and move these workers in the formal part of the labour market. It is more commonly found in LDCs and in developing economies, than in developed ones. This paper uses a cross-section multiple regression analysis to check the effects of multiple macroeconomic variables on the size of the informal labour market. The sample is made out of economies for which ILO has published data about the share of employment outside the formal sector, excluding the economies that receive aid from IDA, using 2017, 2018 and 2019 data from the International Labour Organization and other international organizations. Results show that macroeconomic variables do not have significant explanatory power, except for unemployment rate, exports and GDP growth rate.

Background/Aim. Recently, there has been an increased interest in novel dietary antioxidants, including omega-3 fatty acids and bioactive proteins present in milk. The aim of this study was to examine potential antioxidant effects of four-weeks long fish-based and milk-based diets in female Wistar rats. Methods. Four-months old rats were divided into three groups receiving either: control diet, diet enriched with fish meal, or diet enriched with milk. The activities of antioxidant enzymes: glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were determined in liver homogenates obtained at the end of the treatment period. Results. Statistically significant higher activities of GPx (3.52 ± 0.73 U/mg) and CAT (147.25 ± 15.93 U/mg) were detected in rats fed with fishbased meal in comparison with both the control (GPx: 1.93 ± 0.11 U/mg; CAT: 99.37 ± 10.03 U/mg) and the group fed with milk-based diet (GPx: 1.72 ± 0.52 U/mg; CAT: 104.18 ± 37.49 U/mg). Despite somewhat lower concentration of TBARS in the milk-treated group (0.88 ± 0.23 nmoL/mg), no significant differences were detected in comparison with other groups (the control group: 1.00 ± 0.08 nmoL/mg; the fish-based diet group: 1.13 ± 0.15 nmoL/mg). Conclusion. Diet enriched with fish could improve one’s oxidative status by enhancing activities of antioxidant enzymes in the liver tissue. On the contrary, we failed to obtain results suggesting that milk could serve as a source of dietary antioxidants. [Project of the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development, Grant no. III41030]

In this paper, the methods for measuring the traffic noise level have been explored using a Class 2 measuring instrument and a mobile phone with a noise measurement application to determine the possibility of using applications for these purposes. Noise level was measured on the barrier for noise protection, located in the vicinity of the Clinical Center in Belgrade. Noise level was measured at predefined spots, at the same time, from the inside and outside of the barrier. Also, the noise level measured by sound receivers is recorded on the floors of the Clinical Center at a higher altitude compared to the primary protected ambulance facility which is located at the same level with the barrier. By comparing the results, conclusions were drawn regarding the measurement methods and the justification of setting the noise barrier at the location of the research.

Excessive speed and poor drivers' perception are the causes of a large number of traffic accidents. Analysis of the influence of geometry in drivers' behavior has been widely performed by different researchers. One way to improve road safety is to provide adequate visibility in order to help drivers adopt adequate behaviors. When the budget is not sufficient for expensive traffic solutions, innovative but simple solutions can be implemented. In this study, the experiment was performed to explore how drivers' perception and behavior are influenced by two virtual 3D shapes' projections - a 3D alternative crosswalk pattern and speed bumps consisted of triangular prisms. The results show statistically significant differences between drivers' willingness to reduce vehicle speed as a response to the two types of road markings: the first one with the square shape base (rectangular prism) and the second one with triangular shape base (triangular prism).

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In this paper, an attempt was made to contribute to the use of biological markers, n-alkanes, and polycyclic alkanes of the sterane and terpane type, in the assessment of the source of oil pollutants in the environment using the example of the correlation between recent river and coastal sediments,. Four samples of recent river sediments of the Vrbas River and four samples of adjacent bank sediments (soils), in the part of the River that belongs to the city of Banja Luka (Bosnia and Herzegovina) were analyzed. In the alkane fractions of isolated extracts, a bimodal distribution of the n-alkanes was observed. Lower homologues dominated in the recent river sediments with maximum at C15, but higher n-alkanes dominated in the soil samples, with a maximum at n-C29 or at n-C31. The higher concentration of steranes and terpanes with oil type distributions in the recent/fresh river sediments (compared to the bank sediments) represents evidence that lower n-alkanes originate from oil sources. The higher content of total hydrocarbons in the recent river sediments than in the bank sediments further confirms this conclusion. At the same time, these fundamental considerations provide evidence that oil pollution primarily occurred in the water flow and then the oil pollutants propagated towards the riverbank. [Project of the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development, Grant no. 176006]

State activities, as well as the activities of public sector entities and entities, are presented and noted in their individual and consolidated financial statements. In the public sector, the financial statements provide information on the sources, allocation and use of financial assets, or public revenues, while also providing the opportunity to observe the deliberate spending of these financial resources in accordance with regulated law and budget requirements. The level of implementation of IPSAS in the Republic of Serbia, within the public sector, is emphasized through research in the work, as well as the development and goals of establishing accounting regulations. The adoption of the IPSAS standard has allowed a higher degree of responsibility for mutually dependent and involved public sector actors, as well as state and entity governments with public revenue, better transparency, greater credibility, and overall better governance and planning, as well as faster and more rational management of programs, as and the universality of financial statements at the international level, for the purpose of better understanding and use of the information provided therein.

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Abstract Objective HIV/HCV co-infection is characterised by accelerated progression of liver disease. Recently, the rsl2979860 C/T polymorphism in the IL28B gene has been linked to progression towards cirrhosis in HCV mono-infected patients and to treatment response of HCV-infection in HIV/HCV co-infected patients. Our aim was to clarify by non-invasive techniques if this polymorphism affects fibrosis progression in HIV/HCV co-infection. Methods In a cross-sectional design, liver stiffness (transient elastography), surrogate markers of liver fibrosis (APRI and FIB-4 scores) and rsl2979860 genotypes were analysed in 84 HCV/H1V co-infected patients. IL28B genotypes were determined by real-time PCR using a light cycler. In 56 HIV/HCV co-infected patients we also studied progression of fibrosis in relation to rsl2979860 C/T genotypes over two years. Results 82% of the patients were on HAART (74% without detectable HI viremia) and 67% were haemophiliacs, respectively. HCV genotype 1 was present in 62%. Cross-sectional median liver stiffness was 7.4 kPa and correlated with APRI and FIB-4 scores (r = 0.6 each, p < 0.001). Frequencies of IL28B genotypes were: CC 50%, CT 43% and TT 7%. In the cross-sectional analysis liver stiffness values were not different between the various IL28B-genotypes. Upon follow-up under HAART carriers of a C allele did not show further progression, while liver stiffness significantly increased in HIV/HCV co-infected patients with the T allele (p = 0.047). Conclusion Although progression of liver fibrosis was low under HAART in our cohort, progression was more pronounced in HIV/HCV genotype 1 co-infected patients with the T allele.

Abstract Objective Progressive immunodeficiency associated with HIV-infection leads to a progressive course of liver disease in HIV/HCV-co-infected patients. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) efficiently restores and preserves immune functions and has recently been demonstrated to also result in reduced liver-related mortality in HIV/HCV-co-infected patients. Methods To analyse differences in current liver fibrosis as a possible effect of HAART on fibrosis progression we assessed hepatic fibrosis by transient elastography in a cross-sectional comparison between HCV-mono-infected and HIV/HCV-co-infected patients presenting at our outpatient department in 2007. Results Overall, we did not find any difference in the distribution of liver stiffness between mono- (n = 84) and double-infected (n = 57) patients (14.4 kPa (10.8 - 18.2) versus 12.4 kPa (9.1 - 16.1), mean (95%-CI)). However, in the 8 HIV+ patients with CD4 counts < 200/μl liver stiffness was markedly greater (18.4 kPa (0.8 - 36.0)) than in HIV+ patients with preserved immunity (11.5 kPa (8.4 - 15.0)). Conclusions These findings are in line with other data that show an improved prognosis of chronic hepatitis C in HIV+ patients under effective HAART, and may be a hint that fibrosis progression in well-treated HIV+ patients will no longer be different from that in HCV-mono-infected patients.

A novel mechanochemical approach is described for chloride-templated head-to-tail macrocyclization of a pentapeptide and a hexapeptide. This straightforward method allows the solvent-free preparation of cyclopeptides with yields comparable to solution-based approaches without the need for high dilution of the reaction mixture and with significantly reduced reaction times and organic waste amount., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing financial interest., (© 2025 The Authors. Published by American Chemical Society.)

Studies on selenium (Se) and silicon (Si) foliar biostimulation of different plants have been shown to affect concentrations of phenolic compounds. However, their effects on olive ( Olea europaea L.) primary and secondary metabolites have not been fully investigated. Therefore, the effects of foliar sprayed Si and Se and their combination on the concentration of phenols, selected metabolites involved in the phenol biosynthesis, and mineral elements concentrations were determined in olive leaves of the field-grown cultivar Leccino. During the summer period, leaves were foliar sprayed three times, after which were sampled 30 days after the corresponding application. In general, foliar treatment of Si or Se increased the concentrations of several predominant phenolic compounds, such as oleuropein, oleacein, and specific flavonoids. The effects were especially pronounced after the third application in the harvest time sampling time. Amino acids and other phenol precursors were also significantly affected. The effects were phenol-specific and depended on the treatment, sampling time, and treatment × sampling time interaction. The response of verbascoside to the applied treatments appeared to be closely linked to corresponding changes in its amino acid precursors, such as tyrosine, while its connection with tryptophan and IAA has to be cautiously considered. In contrast, for other phenolic compounds like secoiridoids, a clear interdependence with their precursors was not identified, likely due to the more complex nature of their biosynthesis. The effects on the concentrations of elements other than Se and Si were milder.

Oxidative stress and inflammation are significant causes of aging. At the same time, citrus flavanones, naringenin (NAR), and hesperetin (HES) are bioactives with proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Nevertheless, there are still no data about flavanone's influence and its potential effects on the healthy aging process and improving pituitary functioning. Thus, using qPCR, immunoblot, histological techniques, and biochemical assays, our study aimed to elucidate how citrus flavanones (15 mg/kg b.m. per os ) affect antioxidant defense, inflammation, and stress hormone output in the old rat model. Our results showed that HES restores the redox environment in the pituitary by down-regulating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) protein while increasing kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), thioredoxin reductase (TrxR1), and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) protein expression. Immunofluorescent analysis confirmed Nrf2 and Keap1 down- and up-regulation, respectively. Supplementation with NAR increased Keap1 , Trxr1 , glutathione peroxidase ( Gpx ), and glutathione reductase ( Gr ) mRNA expression. Decreased oxidative stress aligned with NLRP3 decrement after both flavanones and glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) only after HES. The signal intensity of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) cells did not change, while corticosterone levels in serum decreased after both flavanones. HES showed higher potential than NAR in affecting a redox environment without increasing the inflammatory response, while a decrease in corticosterone level has a solid link to longevity. Our findings suggest that HES could improve and facilitate redox and inflammatory dysregulation in the rat's old pituitary.

Intensive physical activity (PA) can lead to proteinuria and, consequently, serum protein profiles in athletes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of acute aronia juice consumption before a simulated half-marathon race on serum protein profiles in recreational runners. The pilot study was designed as a single-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study, with 10 male participants who consumed aronia juice (containing 1.3 g polyphenols) or placebo before the race. The blood levels of total proteins, albumin, the non-albumin fractions gamma, beta, alpha2 and alpha1, as well as renal function parameters, were determined before and 15 min, 1 h and 24 h after the race. The significant changes in urea, creatinine and uric acid levels were noticed at selected time points in both groups. In the placebo group, a significant decrease in total proteins ( p < 0.05) was observed 24 h after the race, along with an increase in gamma fraction abundance ( p < 0.05). In addition, urea and uric acid levels returned to baseline only in the aronia group 24 h after the race. Thus, according to the results obtained, acute aronia juice supplementation before intensive PA could influence the transient change in renal function and PA-induced protein loss in recreational runners.

A comprehensive thermodynamic and structural study of the complexation affinities of tetra ( L1 ), penta ( L2 ), and hexaphenylalanine ( L3 ) linear peptides towards several inorganic anions in acetonitrile (MeCN) and N , N -dimethylformamide (DMF) was carried out. The influence of the chain length on the complexation thermodynamics and structural changes upon anion binding are particularly addressed here. The complexation processes were characterized by means of spectrofluorimetric, 1 H NMR, microcalorimetric, and circular dichroism spectroscopy titrations. The results indicate that all three peptides formed complexes of 1:1 stoichiometry with chloride, bromide, hydrogen sulfate, dihydrogen phosphate (DHP), and nitrate anions in acetonitrile and DMF. In the case of hydrogen sulfate and DHP, anion complexes of higher stoichiometries were observed as well, namely those with 1:2 and 2:1 (peptide:anion) complexes. Anion-induced peptide backbone structural changes were studied by molecular dynamic simulations. The anions interacted with backbone amide protons and one of the N -terminal amine protons through hydrogen bonding. Due to the anion binding, the main chain of the studied peptides changed its conformation from elongated to quasi-cyclic in all 1:1 complexes. The accomplishment of such a conformation is especially important for cyclopeptide synthesis in the head-to-tail macrocyclization step, since it is most suitable for ring closure. In addition, the studied peptides can act as versatile ionophores, facilitating transmembrane anion transport.

In environmental analysis, the detection of water-soluble synthetic polymers (WSSP) presents considerable challenges. Thus, a precise and reproducible analytical method was developed using continuous-flow off-line pyrolysis with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) to simultaneously identify multiple water-soluble polymers from a single environmental sample. WSSP are widely used in multiple industries as hydrogels due to their hydrophilic character and potential biocompatibility. This adaptability of hydrogels is reflected in their ability to provide customized formulations for specific needs, such as in the development of personal care products, medicine, and pharmaceuticals. Specifically, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) (PNVCL), and polyethyleneimine (PEI) were targeted for analysis in wastewater, employing unique pyrolysis products for identification. These polymers require careful assessment in wastewater to evaluate potential environmental risks associated with their release. PVP and PNVCL were identified through two pyrolysis products, while six pyrolysis products were utilized for the identification of PEI. The validated method demonstrated very good linearity and reproducibility, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.94 to 0.99 and relative standard deviation (RSD) values between 3 % and 36 % for the targeted compounds. The limit of quantification (LOQ) for the three polymers ranged from 1 to 10 μg L-1. Moreover, the average recovery rates for these polymers, determined from artificial water samples, were approx. 85 %. Utilizing the validated method, water samples from seven wastewater treatment plants in Germany were successfully analyzed, confirming the presence of these polymers at elevated concentrations in the μg L-1 range. Notably, untreated influent waters exhibited higher polymer levels compared to treated influents and effluents, underscoring their significant contribution to overall polymer content. The developed analytical method provides an efficient tool for the simultaneous identification and quantification of PVP, PNVCL, and PEI in wastewater samples. The results highlighted the prevalent presence of PVP, PNVCL, and PEI in the tested wastewater samples, indicating their significant abundance., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Basaloid follicular hamartoma (BFH) is rare benign follicular malformation that is often clinically misdiagnosed. Patients with BFH demonstrate a variety of clinical manifestations and associated abnormalities. BFH may be a familial, congenital, or acquired condition with localized or generalized distribution. Several clinical variants of generalized BFH are known, and they can be associated with a diverse spectrum of abnormalities. Herein, we report two cases of solitary BFH in pediatric patients, both documented dermoscopically.

Aim : Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) represent the major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide including Libya, where they account for 43% of all deaths. Sphingolipids are involved in the pathology of numerous diseases including cardiovascular diseases and are proposed as potential biomarkers of cardiovascular health that could be more effective compared to traditional clinical biomarkers. The aim of this study was to determine the sphingolipid content in the erythrocyte membrane of Libyan migrant and Serbian resident women. In addition, to examine if sphingolipid levels could be used as a novel indicator of cardiovascular risk, we evaluated possible correlations with some well-established biomarkers of cardiovascular health. Materials and Methods : A total of 13 Libyan and 15 Serbian healthy women participated in the study. The high-performance version thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) using the image analysis tool JustTLC was applied for quantification of erythrocytes' sphingolipids. Results : Lower mean values of erythrocytes' sphingolipids and cholesterol concentrations were found in the group of Libyan emigrants compared to Serbian resident women. Besides, in this group of apparently healthy women ( n  = 28), the sphingolipid content of erythrocytes was inversely related to the Omega-3 index ( r =-0.492, p  = 0.008) and directly linked to vitamin D status ( r  = 0.433, p  = 0.021) and membrane cholesterol levels ( r  = 0.474, p  = 0.011). Conclusion : The erythrocytes' sphingolipid levels should be measured/assessed as an additional biomarker of CV health, by applying a simple and routine method. Still, further investigation in a larger population-specific context is warranted.

Patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) commonly experience cutaneous immune-related adverse events (irAEs). We present two cases, a 51-year-old female and a 70-year-old male, that were undergoing treatment with pembrolizumab for metastatic melanoma and developed scaly, erythematous papules on their skin. Following skin biopsies, histological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of lichen planus. In the first patient, acitretin at a dosage of 25 mg/day was administered for 6 months, resulting in complete resolution of lichen lesions. Imaging scans showed no signs of melanoma. The second patient was treated with topical betamethasone dipropionate ointment for several weeks, which led to a favorable therapeutic response. During follow-up, a thoracic CT scan showed several micronodular lesions in the right lung, whereas brain and abdomen CT scans showed no signs of the disease. Lichen planus is not a commonly reported irAE in patients treated with ICIs. This report underscores the importance of conducting skin biopsies in patients receiving ICI therapy and highlights the potential prognostic importance of skin irAEs in patients with melanoma receiving such treatment.

In this study, we investigated the influence of pedological parameters and variation of altitude on the mineral nutrients, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activities of olive leaves. Samples of the Chetoui cultivar were collected from eight geographical locations with different altitudes. Levels of phenolic compounds varied according to the altitude. Classification of the locations revealed that altitude 1 (>500 m) was characterized by high levels of secoiridoids and simple phenols, while altitude 2 (500-300 m) and altitude 3 (<300 m) were higher in flavonoids. Levels of Mn, Ca and B in the leaves and level of Zn in the soil were significantly correlated with the abundance of oleuropein and luteolin-7- O glucoside, the most important phenols in Chetoui olive leaves. The results suggest that, in addition to pedological criteria, environmental conditions also influence the formation of phenolic compounds.

Comparative analysis of the conventional methylation-specific PCR (MSP) vs. the quantitative MSP (qMSP) assessment of the O 6 -methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase ( MGMT ) promoter methylation status in 34 snap-frozen (SF) glioma samples was performed. The accuracy of the semi-quantitative MSP was compared with the corresponding qMSP semi-quantitative values using two semi-quantitative cut-off values (0-unmethylated and 1-weakly methylated) to discriminate methylated from unmethylated samples. In the case of the cut-off value 0, MSP test showed 80.0% sensitivity and 78.9% specificity compared to the reference qMSP analysis. However, when using the cut-off value 1, the diagnostic accuracy of the MSP test was significantly higher (85.7% sensitivity, 85.2% specificity). Fleiss' Kappa statistical analyses indicated moderate agreement (Fleiss' Kappa Coefficient = 0.509; 70.59% agreement) between MSP and qMSP semi-quantitative measurements of MGMT promoter methylation in glioma patients, justifying the conventional MSP use in diagnostics and confirming its high reliability. Further, we aimed to compare the validity of SF and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) glioma samples for MGMT testing. Statistical analyses indicated moderate overall agreement of FFPE glioma samples and SF MSP semi-quantitative measurements (Fleiss' Kappa Coefficient = 0.516/0.509; 70.0% agreement) and emphasized their low reliability in the assessment of highly methylated MGMT promoter samples.

Olive tree (Olea europaea L.) leaves have recently been recognised as a valuable source in cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry as well as in preparation of health-supporting beverages. Little is known about the element composition of olive leaves and almost nothing about tissue-specific allocation of elements. Element composition and tissue-specific distribution were determined in leaves of two olive cultivars, Leccino and Istarska bjelica using micro-particle induced X-ray emission (micro-PIXE). In leaves of the Istarska bjelica cultivar larger bulk concentrations of potassium, sodium, molybdenum and boron, but smaller concentrations of calcium and magnesium were found than in leaves of the Leccino cultivar. Tissue-specific investigation revealed that larger concentration of calcium in epidermis and in leaf blade tissues (secondary veins, palisade and spongy mesophyll) contributed to the larger leaf bulk calcium concentration in the Leccino cultivar. For magnesium, all leaf tissues, except the bundle sheath cells and consequently the main vascular bundle, contributed to the larger bulk concentration in the Leccino cultivar. Potassium was not predominant in any of the leaf tissues examined, while sodium and molybdenum were below the limit of detection, and boron not detectable by micro-PIXE. The results indicate that sinks for calcium and magnesium are stronger in specific leaf tissues of the Leccino than of the Istarska bjelica cultivar. The new understanding of tissue-specific allocation of elements in leaves of olive will serve as a basis for detailed studies into the effects of foliar and/or soil fertilisers in olive., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2022 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.. All rights reserved.)

The synthesis, degradation, and reconstruction of the cell membrane as a metabolic pathway of phospholipids is a constant and dynamic process. Fatty acids as bioactive lipid components of plasma and erythrocyte phospholipids as structural lipids have biological roles in the integrity of cell membranes. Fatty acids, depending on the chain length, the degree of saturation, and the synthesis pathways, can alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress caused by excessive exercise. Considering that changing food intake or diet can influence fatty acid phospholipid metabolism, our study aimed to determine the potential benefits of fish-based diets in working (police) dogs undergoing intensive training concerning bioactive lipids such as fatty acids, phospholipids of plasma, and erythrocytes. Fatty acid esters' composition of plasma and erythrocyte phospholipids as a bioactive lipids, in addition to markers of oxidative stress and metabolic parameters, were analysed by GC chromatography. The food was well tolerated by all dogs, and the compliance to the diet was high throughout the study. After the treatment with fish-based food, blood glucose, total, and LDL cholesterol levels were significantly reduced, indicating positive biochemical profiles of dogs. Correlations of fatty acid phospholipid compositions between plasma and erythrocytes have shown that both plasma and erythrocytes could represent markers of omega-3 eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid intake levels in dogs. Morover, fish-based food supplementation caused a significant reduction in lipid peroxidation markers. The enrichment of dogs' diets with marine fish could improve oxidative status and improve roles and status of bioactive lipids, such as membrane phospholipids and fatty acids, as its components in plasma and erythrocytes in police dogs exposed to intensive exercise.

Cyclic pentaphenylalanine was studied as an efficient anion sensor for halides, thiocyanate and oxoanions in acetonitrile and methanol. Stability constants of the corresponding complexes were determined by means of fluorimetric, spectrophotometric, 1 H NMR, and microcalorimetric titrations. A detailed structural overview of receptor-anion complexes was obtained by classical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The results of 1 H NMR and MD studies indicated that the bound anions were coordinated by the amide groups of cyclopeptide, as expected. Circular dichroism (CD) titrations were also carried out in acetonitrile. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of the detection of anion binding by cyclopeptide using CD spectroscopy. The CD spectra were calculated from the structures obtained by MD simulations and were qualitatively in agreement with the experimental data. The stoichiometry of almost all complexes was 1:1 (receptor:anion), except for dihydrogen phosphate where the binding of dihydrogen phosphate dimer was observed in acetonitrile. The affinity of the cyclopeptide receptor was correlated with the structure of anion coordination sphere, as well as with the solvation properties of the examined solvents.

Manganese (Mn) is an essential element that intervenes in several plant metabolic processes. The olive tree, and its fruits and leaves, are known as a source of nutraceuticals since they are rich in biophenols. However, there is still a serious lack of data about biophenolic distribution in olive stems and roots under Mn fertilisation. In this context, our study aimed to examine the effects of Mn fertilisation on the biophenolic profile in the leaves, stems, and roots of the 'Istarska bjelica' olive cultivar. The experiment was set up in a greenhouse, during a period of five months, as a random block design consisting of three treatments with varying Mn concentrations in full-strength Hoagland's nutrient solution (0.2 µM Mn, 12 µM Mn, and 24 µM Mn). The obtained results indicate that the amount of Mn in the examined olive plant tissues was significantly higher under 12 µM Mn and 24 µM Mn treatments compared to that of the 0.2 µM Mn treatment. While the concentration of biophenols varied in roots depending on the compound in question, a strong positive impact of the increased Mn concentration in nutrient solution (12 µM Mn and 24 µM Mn) on the concentrations of the main biophenolic compounds was observed in stems. The concentration of oleuropein in leaves almost doubled at 24 µM Mn, with the highest Mn concentration, as compared to the 0.2 µM Mn treatment. The obtained results led to the conclusion that the supply of Mn could enhance the concentration of some biologically active compounds in olives grown hydroponically, implying a critical need for further investigation of Mn fertilisation practices in the conventional olive farming system.

Long-distance running, especially in non-professional runners, can increase cardiac arrest risk by enhancing platelet activation and aggregation. Polyphenols can exert cardioprotective effects by positively influencing platelet function. This study aimed to examine the acute effects of polyphenol-rich aronia juice consumption, before simulation of a half-marathon race, on platelet activation and aggregation with leukocytes in recreational runners. In this acute crossover study,10 healthy male runners (age 30.8 ± 2.3 years) consumed breakfast with 200 mL of aronia juice or 200 mL of placebo. They warmed-up and ran a simulated half-marathon race (21.1 km). Blood was collected at baseline, and at 15 min, 1 h, and 24 h after the run. All variables were analyzed with 4 (time) × 2 (group) ANOVA with repeated measures on both factors. Results revealed a significant effect of group on platelet activation parameters: P-selectin and GPIIb-IIIa expressions significantly decreased in the aronia group compared with the placebo group ( F [1,9] = 10.282, p = 0.011 and F [1,9] = 7.860, p = 0.021, respectively). The effect of time was significant on both platelet aggregation markers: platelet-monocyte and platelet-neutrophil aggregates were significantly lower after the race ( F [3,7] = 4.227, p = 0.014 and F [3,7] = 70.065, p = 0.000, respectively), with changes more pronounced in the later. All effects remained when platelets were exposed to an agonist. These results suggest that aronia consumption could counteract the half-marathon race-induced changes in platelet function. Novelty Aronia juice consumption significantly decreased the expression of platelet activation markers but did not affect platelet aggregation. The race itself did significantly reduce platelet-neutrophil aggregation. Aronia juice may serve as a supplement beverage for recreational runners to alleviate enhanced platelet reactivity caused by prolonged running.

The role of the Cl - anion as a templating agent for the synthesis of cyclopeptides was assessed through the preparation of three new homocyclolysines and other six cyclic peptides by head-to-tail lactamization. Isolated yields of products obtained by chloride-templating approach were considerably higher than those gained by a cation-promoted procedure, whereby, in some cases, only the anion-assisted synthesis yielded the desired cyclopeptides.

Eruptive melanocytic nevi are an unusual phenomenon characterized by sudden onset of multiple melanocytic nevi on previously unaffected skin. The majority of case reports have linked this condition with blistering skin disease or immunosuppression. There are only three reports of eruptive nevi developing on the palms and /or soles in healthy individuals. Herein we present the clinical and dermoscopic features of two cases of eruptive acral nevi that developed in healthy individuals in the absence of any recognizable underlying disease and review the current literature of eruptive nevi.

Chokeberry polyphenols have been suggested to reduce cholesterol and blood pressure and thus protect against cardiovascular diseases (CVD), but the evidence in humans is limited and inconsistent. This randomized double-blinded three-parallel groups trial investigated the changes in various anthropometric and clinical biomarkers, and in plasma phospholipids fatty acids (PPFA) in volunteers at cardiovascular risk after a four-week intervention with 100 mL/day of (1) chokeberry juice with a high-dose of polyphenols (1177.11 mg gallic acid equivalents, GAE); (2) chokeberry juice with a low-dose of polyphenols (294.28 mg GAE) and; (3) a nutritionally matched polyphenol-free placebo drink. Our results indicate that the intake of chokeberry juice containing either the low or the high dose of polyphenols cannot be linked with a reduction in total- and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)cholesterol or in systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure in comparison with the consumption of the placebo drink. However, we found evidence of moderate changes in the PPFA, i.e., increased saturated fatty acids (SFA), mostly palmitic acid, and reduced n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), principally linoleic acid (LA) with the intake of chokeberry against the placebo. These effects may be associated with the polyphenols but we could not differentiate a clear dose-response effect. Further research is still needed to elucidate the contribution of the polyphenolic fraction to the potential cardiovascular effects of the chokeberry and to build up the evidence of its potential benefit via the modulation of PPFA composition., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Background and objective : Despite recent advances in treatment, glioblastoma (GBM) remains the most lethal and aggressive brain tumor. A continuous search for a reliable molecular marker establishes the methylation status of the O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase ( MGMT ) gene promoter as a key prognostic factor in primary glioblastoma. The aim of our study was to screen Serbian patients with primary glioblastoma for an MGMT promoter hypermethylation and to evaluate its associations with overall survival (OS) and sensitivity to temozolomide (TMZ) treatment. Materials and methods : A cohort of 30 Serbian primary glioblastoma patients treated with radiation therapy and chemotherapy were analyzed for MGMT promoter methylation and correlated with clinical data. Results: MGMT methylation status was determined in 25 out of 30 primary glioblastomas by methylation-specific PCR (MSP). MGMT promoter hypermethylation was detected in 12 out of 25 patients (48%). The level of MGMT promoter methylation did not correlate with patients' gender ( p = 0.409), age ( p = 0.536), and OS ( p = 0.394). Treatment with TMZ significantly prolonged the median survival of a patient (from 5 to 15 months; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Due to a small cohort of primary GBM patients, our study is not sufficient for definitive conclusions regarding the prognostic value of MGMT methylation for the Serbian population. Our preliminary data suggest a lack of association between MGMT promoter methylation and overall survival and a significant correlation of TMZ treatment with overall survival. Further population-based studies are needed to assess the prognostic value of the MGMT promoter methylation status for patients with primary glioblastoma., Competing Interests: The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest to disclose.

Neurocysticercosis is the most common parasitic disease of the nervous system, nevertheless, it can remain undetected for a long period of time, especially if it occurs in non endemic areas and regions with low-endemicity. Inadequate diagnostic procedures and lack of clinician's dedication towards this health issue can lead to a missed diagnose. Herein, we present a case of a 51-year-old male, with a missed diagnosis of neurocysticercosis for more than two decades. A history of epilepsy had started twenty-one years earlier and was of unclear etiology. Recently, after neurological worsening and headaches, brain computed tomography and magnet resonance imaging was performed as well as Western blot immunoassay of serum and cerebrospinal fluid, surgery, and pathohistological examination of the extracted cysts. Neurocysticercosis was confirmed. Combined therapy that consisted of albendazole and prednisolone was administered for a period of four weeks. Also, antiepileptic therapy was continued. Both clinical status and brain imaging showed the apparent improvement in the patient's condition. Review of the literature was implemented in the discussion that deals with proper and adequate therapy option and outcome factors in neurocysticercosis patients. Over a long period of time, the majority of patients develop seizures as the most common symptom, which requires the administration of medications. Proper diagnostic procedures and adequate combination of surgery and conservative treatment areessential., Competing Interests: No Conflict of Interest is declared, (Copyright (c) 2019 Aleksandar Kostić, Nataša Vidović, Nataša Miladinović-Tasić, Jovana Kostić, Vesna Nikolov, Nebojša Stojanović, Miljana Pavlović.)

Currently, there is no information available regarding craniofacial morphology of Croatian patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The aim of the study was to determine the craniofacial characteristics of patients with OSA and to assess the association of cephalometric and anthropometric variables related to craniofacial morphology with the apnea hypopnea index (AHI). Anthropometric measurements and upright lateral cephalometric radiographs were obtained from 20 male patients with OSA and 20 male controls. The 20 OSA patients were classified into two groups on the basis of body mass index (BMI) as obese and non-obese. Twenty three variables were identified and calculated for each cephalometric radiograph. OSA was defined as AHI > or = 5/hour. The OSA patients showed greater body mass index (BMI), neck circumference (NC) and cranial index (CI) and lower facial index (FI) compared to the controls (p < 0.01). The patients with OSA showed significant cephalometric features as opposed to the controls: smaller linear distance between gonion and menton and anterior cranial base, greater linear distance from the hyoid bone to the mandibular plane, and from the posterior nasal spine to the tip of the soft palate. Furthermore, they showed reduced upper airway width at two levels: the nasopharynx, and the region of posterior airway space, smaller linear distance from the hyoid bone to the posterior wall of the nasopharynx and greater upper airway length. They also displayed significantly increased craniocervical angulation, larger angle between supramentale, menton and hyoid bone and larger angle between posterior nasal spine, supramentale and hyoid bone. The obese OSA patients showed greater neck circumference (NC) compared with the non-obese OSA. The obese OSA patients showed significant cephalometric features compared with the non-obese OSA patients: larger craniocervical angles larger angle between the third cervical vertebra, the centre of sella turcica and the posterior nasal spine, furthermore, greater linear distance between the hyoid bone and the third cervical vertebra and smaller linear distance from the hyoid bone to the posterior wall of the nasopharynx. In our study, AHI was significantly correlated with cephalometric measurements S-Go, S-H, H-C3 and S-PNS-C3.

People with intellectual disability (ID) usually have a poor quality of oral health, which include poor oral hygiene, untreated caries and high proportion of missing teeth. Due to their fear and repulsive attitude towards medical staff general anesthesia is often a useful method for dental treatment. One thousand and fifty four intellectual disability patients for the period of 1985-2009 who received dental treatment under general anesthesia in Dental Polyclinic Split, were included in the study. Patients were divided into five groups based upon the period when a specific dental treatment had been received. Each period was analyzed for the number of ID patients treated and the type of dental treatment. The results showed that the most services provided were 4006 fillings, followed by 3225 extracted teeth and finally 274 endodontic treatments. Significantly the lowest number of fillings and endodontic treatments were found among patients in group II (1990-1994), with significantly the highest number of extracted teeth. In Conclusion, the types of dental treatment have changed during twenty five years. Number of extracted teeth decreased while the number of fillings and endodontic treatment increased. However, dental status of people with intellectual disability should be improved with more restorative treatments and with better oral health prevention program.