NKG2D is one of the most intensively studied immune receptors of the past decade. Its unique binding and signaling properties, expression pattern, and functions have been attracting much interest within the field due to its potent antiviral and anti-tumor properties. As an activating receptor, NKG2D is expressed on cells of the innate and adaptive immune system. It recognizes stress-induced MHC class I-like ligands and acts as a molecular sensor for cells jeopardized by viral infections or DNA damage. Although the activating functions of NKG2D have been well documented, recent analysis of NKG2D-deficient mice suggests that this receptor may have a regulatory role during NK cell development. In this review, we will revisit known aspects of NKG2D functions and present new insights in the proposed influence of this molecule on hematopoietic differentiation.

The theoretical starting point of this paper are the competences and key tasks of the directors of institutions for early and preschool education. The development of many different professional competences is necessary when dealing with the complicated tasks of a principal. This paper presents the results of research conducted on a sample of principals from institutions for early and preschool education, municipal and privately funded, from the Šibenik-Knin and Zadar counties, relating to the assessment of competences and prescribed key tasks in the management of the institutions. Respondents assessed all competences as extremely important for the quality implementation of the process of leading and managing an institution for early and preschool education. The results showed that the respondents assessed most of the key tasks aimed at the organisation of educational work, as well as tasks and activities aimed at employees, parents and the community, as significant in the performance of their work. Therefore, it is necessary to continue to insist on new forms of education for principals of early and preschool educational institutions, where with the help of various examples, indicators and concrete situations from practice, principals will gain the necessary dose of new knowledge and competences for better management.