Morphometric multislice computed tomography examination of the craniovertebral junction in neck flexion and extension

Background: Detailed study of the craniovertebral junction (CVJ) is necessary to completely understand the mechanism of its flexion and extension. Materials and methods: One cadaver head was sectioned in the sagittal plane. Also, in 22 volunteers, examined using the multislice computed tomography (MSCT), 14 parameters and 2 angles were measured in the neutral position, flexion and extension. Results: The obtained measurements showed the anterior part of the occiput to move inferiorly in flexion, and the anterior atlas arch and the tip of the dens to get closer to the basion. At the same time, the opisthion moves superiorly, but the cervical spine bends anteriorly. Consequently, the dens-opisthion diameter and the opisthion-posterior atlas arch distance slightly decrease in length, whilst the arches of the atlas (C1), axis (C2) and C3 vertebra become more distant. Following extension, the posterior part of the occiput moves inferiorly, so that the basion-dens tip, the basion-axis arch, and the basion-posterior atlas arch distances increase in length. In contrast, the distances of the C1–C3 arches decrease in length. The angle between the foramen magnum and the dens tip decreases 1.620 on average in flexion, but increases 3.230 on average in extension. The angle between the axis body and the opisthion also decreases in flexion (mean, 3.360) and increases in extension (mean, 6.570). Among the congenital anomalies, a partial agenesis of the posterior atlas arch was revealed (4.5%), as well as an anterior dehiscence of the C1 foramen transversarium (13.6%). Conclusions: The mentioned measurements improved our understanding of the CVJ biomechanics. The obtained data can be useful in the evaluation of the CVJ instability caused by trauma, congenital anomalies and certain spine diseases

Morphological and functional characteristics of satellite glial cells in the peripheral nervous system

Satellite glial cells are specialized cells that form a functional perineuronal sheath around sensory ganglion neurons. There are a large number of studies that reveal the morphological and functional characteristics of these cells. Satellite glial cells have been studied both in intact ganglions and in tissue cultures, using light and transmission electron microscopy, immunohistochemical and other methods. Satellite glial cells have polygonal form; they are mononuclear and have developed synthetic organelles, numerous receptors, adhesion molecules and ion channels, which enable them to interact with adjacent neurons, as well as transmit signals in the ganglions of the peripheral nervous system. Based on the literature data, satellite glial cells thanks to their characteristics can receive signals from other cells and react to changes in their surroundings. Previous studies have investigated the potential role of satellite glial cells in the formation of the blood-nervous tissue barrier of the peripheral nervous system, as well as in the neuropathic pain genesis. Some recent discoveries support the fact that satellite glial cells can participate in controlling of local viral infections and protecting pseudounipolar neurons from mentioned infections

FDI in Serbia

After the dissolution of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY) in the early 1990s, the Republic of Serbia found itself in an unprecedented social, political, and economic situation. Facing a significant delay in the transition process in comparison with other Central and Eastern European (CEE) states, Serbian governments since 2001 have opted for a model of economic development based on attracting foreign direct investment (FDI). This strategic commitment has led to complex and controversial effects on Serbia’s economy. On the one hand, FDI inflows benefited the local economy by increasing its international market competitiveness, contributing to a decrease in unemployment, and enhancing technology transfer. On the other hand, FDI is related to some negative economic trends such as expansion of labor-intensive jobs and an increasing dependency on unpredictable inflows of foreign capital. The aim of this chapter is to offer insights into the empirical literature on FDI to Serbia in the context of Serbia’s historical development and to explore the spatiality and influences of contemporary inflows with a special focus on prospects and suggestions for Serbia’s economic trajectory over the next 25 years. Conceptually, this text is based on Dunning’s eclectic approach to FDI by focusing upon the origins, location, and internalization of foreign capital in the country