Search

Periodontal disease is a chronic infection of periodontal tissue characterized by extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation due to increased expression of plasminogen activators and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and various proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-17. Successful regeneration of damaged periodontal tissues depends on the proper functionality of periodontal ligament mesenchymal stem cells (PDLMSCs), especially the production of extracellular matrix proteases. We investigated the influence of IL-17 on ECM remodeling through modulation of urokinasetype plasminogen activator (uPA) and MMP2/MMP9 expression in human PDLMSCs at mRNA, protein and activity levels using by RT-PCR, Western blotting and zymography, respectively. Investigation of the involvement of MAPKs in these processes in PDLMSCs was determined by Western blotting, as well as by utilizing specific p38 and MEK1/2 inhibitors. Our results show that IL-17 activates MAPK signaling in PDLMSCs. Moreover, IL-17 had no effect on MMP9 expression, but it stimulated uPA and MMP2 gene and protein expression in PDLMSCs through the activation of the ERK1/2 MAPK signaling pathway. The obtained data suggest that IL-17 contributes to ECM degradation in the periodontal ligament by stimulating uPA and MMP2 expression and activity in PDLMSCs. This information is important for understanding periodontal disease development and defining future directions of its treatment.

Educational tourism is a selective form of thematic tourism and implies a trend of acquiring new knowledge, transferring knowledge to others, as well as improving skills outside the classroom. It implies a tourist activity in which education is the primary or secondary motive for staying at the destination. The main goal of the travel is focused on activities that include visits to other countries to learn about different cultures. These include student exchange programs and study trips, work, and skills development in different and new environments, such as numerous international internships. There is a difference between travels where education is not the main motive; however, during the holiday guests are educated about certain aspects of the tourist offer (e.g. cultural attractions) and travels where education is the main motive for travel and stay at the destination.

It is a well-known fact that practice in clinical, mental health, or forensic psychology, as well as in other applied psychological disciplines, is always a few steps ahead of the theoretical framework. It is the practical work, experience, and research that lead to acquiring new knowledge and contribute to the theoretical base. The modern world has been flooded by a wave of aggression and destruction in the recent decades, most prominently by younger population. Having this in mind, we have focused not only on studying a sample of children and adolescents who exhibit delinquent and asocial behaviour-who may or may not be characterized as delinquents and criminal offenders-but also on the underlying causes of such behaviour. Due to the volume restrictions, this paper will hone in on the correlation of family relationships, character traits, and tendency towards aggressive behaviour in adolescents with a view of generating guidelines for the practical work in clinical psychology, where special emphasis is placed on the correlation-as well as the predictive potential-of the family relationships to the models of aggressive hostility. The study aims at determining whether family relationships are statistical predictors of the degree of manifestation of aggression and hostility. The results indicate that the dimensions of family relationships present good predictors of different categories of aggressive and hostile behaviour in adolescents. The research sample consists of 212 high school students in the Kosovska Mitrovica school district. The main research instruments are: FACES IV, Big-Five inventory (BFI), and BDHI scale. In conclusion, the practical and theoretical contribution of this study, as a part of the ongoing series, is summarized as follows: 1) the study expands on the range of the instruments used in psychodiagnostics of children and adolescents owing to the methodological principles of the clinical approach such as group framework, openness of the batteries of psychodiagnostic tests, multidimensionality, favouring the wide-range techniques, and explorativity; 2) in terms of forensic psychology-which is linked to clinical psychology as an applied discipline, especially with psychodiagnostic and specifically with psychodiagnostic of children and adolescents-the research results indicate a more successful evaluation of the most probable truth for an individual in the given circumstances by introducing new psychodiagnostic instruments in the legal process; 3) the study highlighted several predictors of family relationship dimensions and the manifestation of aggressive and hostile behaviour in adolescents, which promotes preventive measures in ensuring and nourishing mental health of children and adolescents and their families in a wider social community; and 4) hopefully, the study contributed to the overall evaluation and prediction of the behavioural patterns of children and adolescents and the correlation of their family relationships and the tendency towards aggression.

The molecular mechanism by which electron transfer (ET) is coupled to proton pumping in cytochrome oxidase is one of the main unsolved problems in biochemistry. Particularly, the nature and position of the proton-loading site is under dispute. The CuB complex has three ligated histidines, whereas only His290 and His291 are ionizable sites with the same pKa values in aqueous solution, but apparently quite different ones within the enzyme. Earlier, a model of proton pumping with the central role of His290 was proposed. Recent calculations indicate that the His291 ligand of the CuB center might play the role of the pumping element, since its protonation state depends on the oxidation state of the binuclear complex (BNC). The present electrostatic study was applied to assess the role of the protein environment on the acidity of the two histidines. Their pKa values and effects of different energy terms were evaluated to discover the nature of their diverse behavior in the enzyme. Here, a new set of pKa values for the non-standard model compounds within the BNC was applied. The enhanced results are compared with results of previous studies in the light of the plausible proton pumping mechanism. The obtained microscopic and apparent pKa values in the oxidized state of BNC are virtually the same, indicating that deprotonated form of His291 accounts for the large pKa increase of His290, since then both titratable sites on then CuB center cannot simultaneously be in the charged state. The present results support the underlined His291 pumping model.

Interpreting the extensive and varied bibliography of Jovan Cvijić, largely in foreign languages, which apart from the text includes geographic and ethnographic map of the Balkan Peninsula, atlases, notes and drawings, it is concluded that his scientific work was versatile and complex. Cvijić's perception of space, the use of didactic principles, methods and forms of work can be categorized as actual and modern even in the present time. He was the first among the Balkan geographers who simultaneously interpreted natural, historical, sociological, ethnographic and ethno-psychological phenomena and processes. Cvijić pointed to the relationship between the geographic environment and human communities, civilizations and historical events, constantly examining their mutual conditionality. Numerous research trips in almost all regions of the Balkan Peninsula led to his interest in the culture and customs of the people. He noted that in the Balkans, there are different people by origin, religion and mentality. The result of the field research is certainly one of Cvijić's most important work - 'Anthropogeographical problems of the Balkan Peninsula'. His scientific approach has given an outstanding contribution to methodological development of geography.

In order to meet the needs of modern society, schools should be continually reviewed its role. In contemporary the methodological concepts, interdisciplinary teaching is seen as a necessity in order to increase the quality of teaching and teaching an improved outcome. Analysis Curriculum geography of 5th to 8th graders and items that are correlated with it indicates that there are a number of lessons that provide quality basis for the realization of interdisciplinary teaching and learning. The aim is to determine the program content items geography in primary school that are suitable for an interdisciplinary approach to teaching. Test results indicate the great potential of interdisciplinary connections between teaching content of geography and other subjects in primary school. The paper contained proposals that could contribute to the improvement of the interdisciplinary approach. [Project of the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development, Grant no. 176008]

The interdisciplinary teaching-scientific disciplines and all participants in the educational process, the school becomes an environment in which, in addition to teaching and learning, fosters the harmonious development of personality of students with various aspects. Geography and ethnology ratio is determined by their position in the system of scientific disciplines and tasks that have in education. From ethnology as a science is the selection of content, according to educational and functional tasks of teaching geography in specific socio-historical context. In geography textbooks represented ethnological themes through the study of the origin, beliefs and customs of a nation or community. As such, characteristics of the different analyzed ethnology people, by studying the relations between them, and thus enrich the geography textbooks. Ethnological facilities are very suitable for the teaching process because they enable wide application forms and methods, as well as a wide selection of new information and communication educational technologies. The aim of this paper is based on defining similarities and differences between geography and ethnology, as well as related and in many ways related to science and unbreakable. The aim of the paper points to the scale of the ethnological contents in geography textbooks for Secondary school. The results show that in terms of geography and ethnology, there are some similarities, but also differences when it comes to the interpretation of certain phenomena, processes and principles. Based on the results, proposals are defined which are contributing to a more efficient study of ethnological content with the aim of more obvious, more permanent and more practical adoption of students' knowledge.

Cobalt(III) complexes derived from thio- and selenosemicarbazone ligands have been studied to elucidate the nature and consequences of S to Se substitution on their possible biological activity. Solid state structures of cobalt(III) complexes with bis-tridentate coordinated 2-quinolinecarboxaldehyde thio- and selenosemicarbazone were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The complexes were also characterized by spectroscopic methods and cyclic voltammetry. Electronic properties of the complexes were studied using DFT and TD–DFT methods. Finally, evident in vitro antioxidant activity of the complexes was demonstrated. [Project of the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development, Grant no. 172035 and Grant no. 172055]

Municipality of Negotin is an area of rural character, one of the most agrarian in Serbia. Rural development, as one of the areas of regional policy is a key instrument for the restructuring of the agricultural sector, has a task to focus and strategic use of the potential of attractive tourist village. At the time of increasing urbanization and globalization, specific indigenous settlements accurately reflect the spirit and tradition of ancient times are gaining a certain cultural, economic, and tourist importance. Municipality of Negotin has good conditions for the development of rural tourism thanks to its geographical position, varied landscape (vari­ous forms of recreation), gastronomy, folklore, rich cultural heritage. Rural tourism should contribute to the preservation of the rural environment and cultural heritage, but also economically motivate the local population to remain in the countryside. This form of tourism could contribute significantly to the protection of nature, but also to provide resources for the survival and development of the village.

Periodontitis (PD) is a degenerative, bacteria-induced chronic disease of periodontium causing bone resorption and teeth loss. It includes a strong reaction of immune cells through the secretion of proinflammatory factors such as Interleukin-17 (IL-17). PD treatment may consider systemic oral antibiotics application, including doxycycline (Dox), exhibiting antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties along with supportive activity in wound healing, thus affecting alveolar bone metabolism. In the present study, we aimed to determine whether Dox can affect the regenerative potential of periodontal ligament mesenchymal stem cells (PDLSCs) modulated by IL-17 in terms of cell migration, osteogenic potential, bioenergetics and expression of extracellular matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2). Our findings indicate that Dox reduces the stimulatory effect of IL-17 on migration and MMP-2 expression in PDLSCs. Furthermore, Dox stimulates osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs, annulling the inhibitory effect of IL-17 on PDLSCs osteogenesis. In addition, analyses of mitochondrial respiration reveal that Dox decreases oxygen consumption rate in PDLSCs exposed to IL-17, suggesting that changes in metabolic performance can be involved in Dox-mediated effects on PDLSCs. The pro-regenerative properties of Dox in inflammatory microenvironment candidates Dox in terms of regenerative therapy of PD-affected periodontium are observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An approach to model the trans-influence using partial atomic charges derived from the molecular electrostatic potential by means of the restrained electrostatic potential (RESP) fitting method is exemplified on a series of halogenido-ammine octahedral chromium(III) complexes. RESP charges incorporated in our vibrationally optimized consistent force field account for second-order phenomena, improve the modeling and assignment of skeletal vibrations, and reproduce the trends in frequency shifts along the (F, Cl, Br, I) series. In addition, a supplementary statistical analysis is given for Cr-halogen bonds in crystal structures from CSD. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. 172035]

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were isolated from human periodontal ligament (hPDL-MSCs) and characterized by their morphology, clonogenic efficiency, proliferation and differentiation capabilities. hPDL-MSCs, derived from normal impacted third molars, possessed all of the properties of MSC, including clonogenic ability, high proliferation rate and multi-lineage (osteogenic, chondrogenic, adipogenic, myogenic) differentiation potential. Moreover, hPDL-MSCs expressed a typical MSC epitope profile, being positive for mesenchymal cell markers (CD44H, CD90, CD105, CD73, CD29, Stro-1, fibronectin, vimentin, α-SMA), and negative for hematopoietic stem cell markers (CD34, CD11b, CD45, Glycophorin-CD235a). Additionally, hPDL-MSCs, as primitive and highly multipotent cells, showed high expression of embryonic markers (Nanog, Sox2, SSEA4). The data obtained provided yet further proof that cells with mesenchymal properties can be obtained from periodontal ligament tissue. Although these cells should be further investigated to determine their clinical significance, hPDL-MSCs are believed to provide a renewable and promising cell source for new therapeutic strategies in the treatment of periodontal defects. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. 175062 i br. III 41011]

Introduction. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising tool for regenerative medicine, but due to the heterogeneity of their populations, different sources and isolation techniques, the characteristics defining MSCs are inconsistent. Objective. The aim of this study was to compare the characteristics of MSCs derived from two different human tissues: peripheral blood (PB-MSCs) and umbilical cord Wharton’s Jelly (UC-MSCs). Methods. The PB-MSC and UC-MSC were isolated by adherence to plastic after gradient-density separation or an explant culture method, respectively, and compared regarding their morphology, clonogenic efficiency, proliferating rates, immunophenotype and differentiation potential. Results. MSCs derived from both sources exhibit similar morphology, proliferation capacity and multilineage (osteogenic, chondrogenic, adipogenic and myogenic) differentiation potential. Differences were observed in the clonogenic capacity and the immunophenotype, since UC-MSCs showed higher CFU-F (colony-forming units-fibroblastic) cloning efficiency, as well as higher embryonic markers (Nanog, Sox2, SSEA4) expression. When additional surface antigens were analyzed by flow cytometry (CD44, CD90, CD105, CD33, CD34, CD45, CD11b, CD235a) or immunofluorescent labeling (vimentin, STRO-1 and α-smooth muscle actin), most appeared to have similar epitope profiles irrespective of MSC source. Conclusion. The results obtained demonstrated that both MSCs represent good alternative sources of adult MSCs that could be used in cell therapy applications. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. 175062]

Non-equilibrium plasmas have been used as one of the principal technologies for development of microelectronics and they are the basis for the development of new generations of nano-electronics devices required for 65 and 40 nm technologies. Microdischarges recently have become more common in everyday life. Technology of plasma etching has enabled us to develop such discharges and the field of microdischarges has grown into the most interesting field of the physics of collisional non-equilibrium plasmas. Recently, an effort to fabricate microplasma sources that can be integrated with other MEMS devices to form larger Microsystems has been made. Plasma-based microsystems can find application in bio-microelectro- mechanical system (bio-MEMS) sterilization, small-scale materials processing and microchemical analysis systems. However, integrability requires not only a size reduction, but also an understanding of the physics governing the new small-scale discharges. In this paper, we have performed modeling of a breakdown voltage by using Particle-in-Cell/Monte Carlo collision (PIC/MCC) code taking into account the secondary electron emission due to a high field.

Background/Aim. Thoracic drainage is a surgical procedure for introducing a drain into the pleural space to drain its contents. Using this method, the pleura is discharged and set to the physiological state which enables the reexpansion of the lungs. The aim of the study was to prove that the use of modern principles and protocols of thoracic drainage significantly reduces the occurrence of failures and complications, rendering the treatment more efficient. Methods. The study included 967 patients treated by thoracic drainage within the period from January 1, 1989 to June 1, 2000. The studied patients were divided into 2 groups: group A of 463 patients treated in the period from January 1, 1989 to December 31, 1994 in whom 386 pleural drainage (83.36%) were performed, and group B of 602 patients treated form January 1, 1995 to June 1, 2000 in whom 581 pleural drainage (96.51%) were performed. The patients of the group A were drained using the classical standards of thoracic drainage by the general surgeons. The patients of the group B, however, were drained using the modern standards of thoracic drainage by the thoracic surgeons, and the general surgeons trained for this kind of the surgery. Results. The study showed that better results were achieved in the treatment of the patients from the group B. The total incidence of the failures and complications of thoracic drainage decreased from 36.52% (group A) to 12.73% (group B). The mean length of hospitalization of the patients without complications in the group A was 19.5 days versus 10 days in the group B. The mean length of the treatment of the patients with failures and complications of the drainage in the group A was 33.5 days versus 17.5 days in the group B. Conclusion. The shorter length of hospitalization and the lower morbidity of the studied patients were considered to be the result of the correct treatment using modern principles of thoracic drainage, a suitable surgical technique, and a careful follow-up of the patients.

Copyright of Facta Universitatis: Series Physical Education & Sport is the property of Facta Universitatis, Series Physical Education & Sport and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Periodontal disease is a chronic infection of periodontal tissue characterized by extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation due to increased expression of plasminogen activators and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and various proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-17. Successful regeneration of damaged periodontal tissues depends on the proper functionality of periodontal ligament mesenchymal stem cells (PDLMSCs), especially the production of extracellular matrix proteases. We investigated the influence of IL-17 on ECM remodeling through modulation of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) and MMP2/MMP9 expression in human PDLMSCs at mRNA, protein and activity levels using by RT-PCR, Western blotting and zymography, respectively. Investigation of the involvement of MAPKs in these processes in PDLMSCs was determined by Western blotting, as well as by utilizing specific p38 and MEK1/2 inhibitors. Our results show that IL-17 activates MAPK signaling in PDLMSCs. Moreover, IL-17 had no effect on MMP9 expression, but it stimulated uPA and MMP2 gene and protein expression in PDLMSCs through the activation of the ERK1/2 MAPK signaling pathway. The obtained data suggest that IL-17 contributes to ECM degradation in the periodontal ligament by stimulating uPA and MMP2 expression and activity in PDLMSCs. This information is important for understanding periodontal disease development and defining future directions of its treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been identified within dental pulp tissues of exfoliated deciduous (SHEDs) and permanent (DPSCs) teeth. Although differences in their proliferative and differentiation properties were revealed, variability in SHEDs and DPSCs responsiveness to growth factors and cytokines have not been studied before. Here, we investigated the influence of interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on stemness features of SHEDs and DPSCs by analyzing their proliferation, clonogenicity, cell cycle progression, pluripotency markers expression and differentiation after 7‐day treatment. Results indicated that IL‐17 and bFGF differently affected SHEDs and DPSCs proliferation and clonogenicity, since bFGF increased proliferative and clonogenic potential of both cell types, while IL‐17 similarly affected SHEDs, exerting no effects on adult counterparts DPSCs. In addition, both factors stimulated NANOG, OCT4, and SOX2 pluripotency markers expression in SHEDs and DPSCs showing diverse intracellular expression patterns dependent on MSCs type. As for the differentiation capacity, both factors displayed comparable effects on SHEDs and DPSCs, including stimulatory effect of IL‐17 on early osteogenesis in contrast to the strong inhibitory effect showed for bFGF, while having no impact on SHEDs and DPSCs chondrogenesis. Moreover, bFGF combined with IL‐17 reduced CD90 and stimulated CD73 expression on both types of MSCs, whereas each factor induced IL‐6 expression indicating its' role in IL‐17/bFGF‐modulated properties of SHEDs and DPSCs. All these data demonstrated that dental pulp MSCs from primary and permanent teeth exert intrinsic features, providing novel evidence on how IL‐17 and bFGF affect stem cell properties important for regeneration of dental pulp at different ages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Impact of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on non-thromboembolic outcomes in atrial fibrillation (AF) is insufficiently explored. This prospective cohort study of AF patients aimed (i) to analyse the association between T2DM and heart failure (HF) events (including new-onset HF), and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, (ii) to assess the impact of baseline T2DM treatment on outcomes, and (iii) to explore characteristics of new-onset HF phenotypes in relation to T2DM status.Methods and Results: Of 1803 AF patients (515/1288, with/without prior HF), 389 (22%) had T2DM at baseline. After 5 years of median follow-up, T2DM patients had an 85% greater risk of HF events [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.85; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.51-2.28; P < 0.001], including a 45% increased risk for new-onset HF (1.45; 1.17-2.28; P = 0.015). T2DM conferred a 56% higher all-cause (1.56, 1.22-2.01; P = 0.003) and a 48% higher cardiovascular mortality (1.48; 1.34-1.93; P = 0.007). Fine-Gray analysis, with mortality as a competing risk, confirmed greater HF risk among T2DM patients. All risks were highest among insulin-treated patients. The prevalence of new-onset HF phenotypes was as follows: 67% preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), 20% mid-range ejection fraction (HFmrEF) and 13% reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). On time-dependent Cox regression, adjusted for baseline characteristics and an interim acute coronary event, T2DM increased aHRs for new-onset HFpEF (2.38; 1.30-4.58; P <0.001) and the combined HFmrEF/HFrEF (1.77; 1.11-3.62; P = 0.017).Conclusions: Atrial fibrillation patients with T2DM have independently increased risk of new-onset/recurrent HF events, cardiovascular and all-cause mortality, particularly when insulin-treated. The prevailing phenotype of new-onset HF was HFpEF; T2DM conferred higher risk of both HFpEF and HFmrEF/HFrEF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Research in Pedagogy / Istraživanja u Pedagogiji is the property of Serbian Academy of Education Belgrade & the Preschool Teacher Training College 'Mihailo Palov' and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A racemic spirohydantoin derivative with two aromatic substituents, a tetralin and a 4‐methoxybenzyl unit, was synthesized and its crystal structure was determined. To define the relationship between molecular stereochemistry and spatial association modes, development of the crystal packing was analyzed through cooperativity of intermolecular interactions. Homo and heterochiral dimeric motifs were stabilized by intermolecular N−H⋅⋅⋅O, C−H⋅⋅⋅O, C−H⋅⋅⋅π interactions and parallel interactions at large offsets (PILO), thus forming alternating double layers. The greatest contribution to the total stabilization came from a motif of opposite enantiomers linked by N−H⋅⋅⋅O bonds (interaction energy=−13.72 kcal/mol), followed by a homochiral motif where the 4‐methoxybenzyl units allowed C−H⋅⋅⋅π, C−H⋅⋅⋅O interactions and PILO (interaction energy=−11.56 kcal/mol). The number of the contact fragments in the environment of the tetralin unit was larger, but the 4‐methoxybenzyl unit had greater contribution to the total stabilization. The statistical analysis of the data from the Cambridge Structural Database (CSD) showed that this is a general trend. The compound is a potential inhibitor of kinase enzymes and antigen protein‐coupled receptors. A correlation between the docking study and the results of the CSD analysis can be drawn. Due to a greater flexibility, the 4‐methoxybenzyl unit is more adaptable for interactions with the biological targets than the tetralin unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New anticancer platinum(II) compounds simultaneously targeting tumor cells and tumor-derived neoangiogenesis, with new DNA interacting mode and large therapeutic window are appealing alternative to improve efficacy of clinical platinum chemotherapeutics. Herein, we describe three novel dinuclear [{Pt(en)Cl}2(μ-L)]2+ complexes with different pyridine-like bridging ligands (L), 4,4′-bipyridine (Pt1), 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethane (Pt2) and 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethene (Pt3), which highly, positively charged aqua derivatives, [{Pt(en)(H2O)}2(μ-L)]4+, interact with the phosphate backbone forming DNA-Pt adducts with an unique and previously undescribed binding mode, called a minor groove covering. The results of this study suggested that the new binding mode of the aqua-Pt(II) complexes with DNA could be attributed to the higher anticancer activities of their chloride analogues. All three compounds, particularly complex [{Pt(en)Cl}2(μ-4,4′-bipy)]Cl2·2H2O (4,4′-bipy is 4,4′-bipyridine) (Pt1), overcame cisplatin resistance in vivo in the zebrafish–mouse melanoma xenograft model, showed much higher therapeutic potential than antiangiogenic drug sunitinib malate, while effectively blocking tumor neovascularization and melanoma cell metastasis. Overall therapeutic profile showed new dinuclear Pt(II) complexes could be novel, effective and safe anticancer agents. Finally, the correlation with the structural characteristics of these complexes can serve as a useful tool for developing new and more effective anticancer drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Statistical analysis of data from crystal structures extracted from the Cambridge Structural Database (CSD) has shown that S and Se atoms display a similar tendency towards specific types of interaction if they are part of a fragment that corresponds to the side chains of cysteine (Cys), methionine (Met) selenocysteine (Sec) and selenomethionine (Mse). The most numerous are structures with C—H...Se and C—H...S interactions (∼80%), notably less numerous are structures with Se...Se and S...S interactions (∼5%), and Se...π and S...π interactions are the least numerous. The results of quantum‐chemical calculations have indicated that C—H...Se (∼−0.8 kcal mol−1) and C—H...S interactions are weaker than the most stable parallel interaction (∼−3.3 kcal mol−1) and electrostatic interactions of σ/π type (∼−2.6 kcal mol−1). Their significant presence can be explained by the abundance of CH groups compared with the numbers of Se and S atoms in the crystal structures, and also by the influence of substituents bonded to the Se or S atom that further reduce their possibilities for interacting with species from the environment. This can also offer an explanation as to why O—H...Se (∼−4.4 kcal mol−1) and N—H...Se interactions (∼−2.2 kcal mol−1) are less numerous. Docking studies revealed that S and Se rarely participate in interactions with the amino acid residues of target enzymes, mostly because those residues preferentially interact with the substituents bonded to Se and S. The differences between Se and S ligands in the number and positions of their binding sites are more pronounced if the substituents are polar and if there are more Se/S atoms in the ligand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a summary of a doctoral dissertation titled "Criteria for Planning and Designing Urban Libraries and for Creating a New Open Public Spaces Network." The dissertation explores the relationship between urban libraries and open public spaces, and their role in urban transformation. It analyzes historical and contemporary libraries in the context of their cities, examining their architectural design, urban planning, and qualitative planning. The research identifies different types of library/open public space relations and proposes criteria for planning and designing urban libraries as part of a network of open public spaces. The dissertation also suggests that urban libraries can contribute to the development of polycentric urban systems and offers examples for further research in this field. [Extracted from the article]

Copyright of Acta Medica Medianae is the property of Acta Medica Medianae and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Interleukin 17 (IL-17) is a cytokine with pleiotropic effects associated with several inflammatory diseases. Although elevated levels of IL-17 have been described in inflammatory myopathies, its role in muscle remodeling and regeneration is still unknown. Excessive extracellular matrix degradation in skeletal muscle is an important pathological consequence of many diseases involving muscle wasting. In this study, the role of IL-17 on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase- (MMP-) 9 in myoblast cells was investigated. The expression of MMP-9 after IL-17 treatment was analyzed in mouse myoblasts C2C12 cell line. The increase in MMP-9 production by IL-17 was concomitant with its capacity to inhibit myogenic differentiation of C2C12 cells. Doxycycline (Doxy) treatment protected the myogenic capacity of myoblasts from IL-17 inhibition and, moreover, increased myotubes hypertrophy. Doxy blocked the capacity of IL-17 to stimulate MMP-9 production by regulating IL-17-induced ERK1/2 MAPK activation. Our results imply that MMP-9 mediates IL-17’s capacity to inhibit myoblast differentiation during inflammatory diseases and indicate that Doxy can modulate myoblast response to inflammatory induction by IL-17. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland caused by proliferation of both stromal and epithelial cells. BPH develops after the age of 40 and has high morbidity and low mortality rate. Male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are mostly associated with BPH and they are very common in the ageing population. Herbal medicines have been used for the treatment of numerous chronic and severe diseases. The main aim of phytotherapy in benign prostatic hyperplasia is to relieve symptoms and to improve patient's quality of life (QoL). Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.), a member of Cucurbitaceae family, is a herbaceous, monoecious, annual plant. Pumpkin extracts, from different parts of the plant, have shown various therapeutic effects due to their biologically active components. Pumpkin seeds are valued for high proportions of proteins, essential amino acids, fatty acids and microelements. In the therapy of small urinary disorders, prostate gland and the urinary bladder diseases, pumpkin seeds have shown positive results. Synthetic drug therapy and surgical procedures show many side effects and complications, so herbal medicines are promising in mild to moderate BPH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological and anatomical characteristics of the tooth are of great importance for clinical dentistry. These aspects of the tooth can be better conceptualized from the perspective of external and internal morphology of dental crowns and roots. The aim of this study was to determine the average total length of the upper first and second premolars, the average length of crowns, the average length of roots and to determine the most common number of the roots and root canals of these teeth. We used 41 first and 48 second extracted upper premolars.The length of these teeth was measured by a digital micrometer. The number of roots was determined visually, and each tooth was longitudinally dissected across the vestibular-palatal plane for determining the number of root canals. The average total length of the upper first premolars was 22.5 mm, the average crown length was 8.8 mm, the mean root length was 13.7 mm. The upper first premolars usually have two roots in 53.7% and two root canals in 82.9%. The average total length of the upper second premolars was 22.5 mm. The average crown length was 8.4 mm and the mean root length was 14.1 mm. The upper second premolars usually have one root in 89.6% and one root canal in 79.2%. The determined average values of the length of these teeth and the length of their crowns and roots were similar to the values of the same population reported by other authors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study has been to elucidate how different oxygen levels impact the effects of Interleukin-17 (IL-17) on angiogenic properties of endothelial cells. Two endothelial cell lines, mouse MS-1 and human EA.hy 926, were grown in 20% and 3% O2 and their angiogenic abilities analyzed after IL-17 treatment: proliferation, apoptosis, migration and tubulogenesis. Expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) was also measured. Considering EA.hy 926 cell line, hypoxia alone reduced proliferation, survival and migration, but not their ability to form tubules. When cultured at 20% O2, IL-17 stimulated proliferation, migration and tubulogenesis, whereas a hypoxic environment did not affect their migration and proliferation, but increased their survival and tubulogenic properties. Expression of eNOS and Cox-2 increased by both IL-17 and hypoxia, as well as with their combination. With the MS-1 cell line hypoxia did not affect proliferation, survival, migration and tubule formation. At 20% O2, IL-17 did not alter their proliferation,but inhibited migration and stimulated tubule formation. At 3% O2, only the stimulating effect of IL-17 on tubulogenesis was evident. The constitutive expression of eNOS was unaffected by oxygen concentrations or IL-17 supplementation, whereas both IL-17 and hypoxia upregulated Cox-2 expression. Thus the effects of IL-17 on the angiogenic properties of endothelial cells depend on both the cell line used and the oxygen concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Facultatis Medicae Naissensis is the property of Nis University, Faculty of Medicine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of InfoM is the property of Belgrade University, Faculty of Organizational Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Acta Facultatis Medicae Naissensis is the property of Nis University, Faculty of Medicine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of InfoM is the property of Belgrade University, Faculty of Organizational Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background/Aim. Thoracic drainage is a surgical procedure for introducing a drain into the pleural space to drain its contents. Using this method, the pleura is discharged and set to the physiological state which enables the reexpansion of the lungs. The aim of the study was to prove that the use of modern principles and protocols of thoracic drainage significantly reduces the occurrence of failures and complications, rendering the treatment more efficient. Methods. The study included 967 patients treated by thoracic drainage within the period from January 1, 1989 to June 1, 2000. The studied patients were divided into 2 groups: group A of 463 patients treated in the period from january 1, 1989 to December 31, 1994 in whom 386 pleural drainage (83.36%) were performed, and group B of 602 patients treated form January 1, 1995 to June 1, 2000 in whom 581 pleural drainage (96.51%) were performed. The patients of the group A were drained using the classical standards of thoracic drainage by the general surgeons. The patients of the group B, however, were drained using the modern standards of thoracic drainage by the thoracic surgeons, and the general surgeons trained for this kind of the surgery. Results. The study showed that better results were achieved in the treatment of the patients from the group B. The total incidence of the failures and complications of thoracic drainage decreased from 36.52% (group A) to 12.73% (group B). The mean length of hospitalization of the patients without complications in the group A was 19.5 days versus 10 days in the group B. The mean length of the treatment of the patients with failures and complications of the drainage in the group A was 33.5 days versus 17.5 days in the group B. Conclusion. The shorter length of hospitalization and the lower morbidity of the studied patients were considered to be the result of the correct treatment using modern principles of thoracic drainage, a suitable surgical technique, and a careful follow-up of the patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an organism ages, many physiological processes change, including the immune system. This process, called immunosenescence, characterized by abnormal activation and imbalance of innate and adaptive immunity, leads to a state of chronic low-grade systemic inflammation, termed inflammaging. Aging and inflammaging are considered to be the root of many diseases of the elderly, as infections, autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases, degenerative diseases, and cancer. The role of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) in the inflammaging process and the age-related diseases is not completely established, although numerous features of aging MSCs, including altered immunomodulatory properties, impeded MSC niche supporting functions, and senescent MSC secretory repertoire are consistent with inflammaging development. Although senescence has its physiological function and can represent a mechanism of tumor prevention, in most cases it eventually transforms into a deleterious (para-)inflammatory process that promotes tumor growth. In this review we are going through current literature, trying to explore the role of senescent MSCs in making and/or sustaining a microenvironment permissive to tumor development and to analyze the therapeutic options that could target this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current research data reveal microenvironment as a significant modifier of physical functions, pathologic changes, as well as the therapeutic effects of stem cells. When comparing regeneration potential of various stem cell types used for cytotherapy and tissue engineering, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are currently the most attractive cell source for bone and tooth regeneration due to their differentiation and immunomodulatory potential and lack of ethical issues associated with their use. The microenvironment of donors and recipients selected in cytotherapy plays a crucial role in regenerative potential of transplanted MSCs, indicating interactions of cells with their microenvironment indispensable in MSC-mediated bone and dental regeneration. Since a variety of MSC populations have been procured from different parts of the tooth and tooth-supporting tissues, MSCs of dental origin and their achievements in capacity to reconstitute various dental tissues have gained attention of many research groups over the years. This review discusses recent advances in comparative analyses of dental MSC regeneration potential with regards to their tissue origin and specific microenvironmental conditions, giving additional insight into the current clinical application of these cells., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (©The Author(s) 2021. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.)

Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) are adult stem cells of stromal origin that possess self-renewal capacity and the ability to differentiate into multiple mesodermal cell lineages. They play a critical role in tissue homeostasis and wound healing, as well as in regulating the inflammatory microenvironment through interactions with immune cells. Hence, MSCs have garnered great attention as promising candidates for tissue regeneration and cell therapy. Because the inflammatory niche plays a key role in triggering the reparative and immunomodulatory functions of MSCs, priming of MSCs with bioactive molecules has been proposed as a way to foster the therapeutic potential of these cells. In this paper, we review how soluble mediators of the inflammatory niche (cytokines and alarmins) influence the regenerative and immunomodulatory capacity of MSCs, highlighting the major advantages and concerns regarding the therapeutic potential of these inflammatory primed MSCs. The data summarized in this review may provide a significant starting point for future research on priming MSCs and establishing standardized methods for the application of preconditioned MSCs in cell therapy., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: The authors declare no conflict of interest for this article., (©The Author(s) 2020. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.)