Circulating phenotypic B-1 cells are decreased in common variable immunodeficiency and correlate with immunoglobulin M levels.

B-1 cells are innate-like lymphocytes characterized by spontaneous production of 'natural' polyspecific antibodies, often of self-specificity, and thought to be responsible for tissue homeostasis, mucosal protection, maintaining resting serum immunoglobulin (Ig)M levels and for early immunoglobulin production following infection. Although defined most clearly in mice, a human B-1 cell counterpart, defined by the phenotype CD19 or 20(+) CD27(+) CD43(+) CD69 or 70(-) , has been proposed recently, facilitating a study of their role in human humoral immunodeficiencies, such as common variable immunodeficiency (CVID). This study examined circulating B-1 cells in 27 CVID patients in comparison to age-matched controls (n = 28).

Hyperbaric oxygen is effective in early stage of healing of experimental brain abscess in rats.

Objectives: Current therapy of brain abscess (BA) includes a combined approach that involves antibiotics and minimal invasive surgery, but also hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) as a supportive measure. Optimum treatment is still a matter of significant controversy.

Methods: The experiment, previously approved by a relevant ethical committee, involved 80 female Wistar rats.

War-associated cases of typhoid fever imported to Split-Dalmatia County (Croatia).

Objective: The goal was to investigate the number and origin of typhoid fever cases in Split-Dalmatia County, Croatia, during the period of 1970-2005.

Methods: Data from the medical records of typhoid fever cases treated at the University Hospital during the 35-year period were analyzed. Cases were defined as those in which Salmonella typhi was isolated from blood and/or stool.

The simulation and calculation of the fatigue of the lower complete denture in function by means of the finite element analysis.

This paper presents a finite element analysis, by which the stress distribution during function of a lower jaw acrylic-resin complete denture can be shown. The geometry of a prosthesis has been approximated by measuring, its elementary dimensions, as well as the dimensions of the characteristic cross-sections, on an already completed denture. Based upon these dimensions a mesh, (a three-dimensional network diagram) of finite elements was made.