Search

Smart charging of electric vehicles can alleviate grid congestion and reduce charging costs. However, various electric vehicle models currently lack the technical capabilities to effectively implement smart charging since they cannot handle charging pauses or delays. These models enter sleep mode when charging is interrupted, preventing resumption afterwards. To avoid this, they should be continuously charged with their minimum charging power, even when a charging pause would be desirable, for instance with high electricity prices. This research examines this problem to inform various stakeholders, including policymakers and manufacturers, and stimulates the adoption of proactive measures that address this problem. Here, we demonstrate through technical charging tests that around one-third of tested car models suffer from this issue. Through model simulations we indicate that eliminating paused and delayed charging problems would double the smart charging potential for all applications. Lastly, we propose concrete legal and practical solutions to eliminate these problems.

The nesting whitefly, Paraleyrodes minei Iaccarino, 1990 (Aleyrodidae: Aleurodicinae), was recorded for the first time in Croatia on leaves of mandarin and orange trees on the island of Vis in September 2023. Whitefly puparia collected from the infested leaves were morphologically identified as species P. minei in the laboratory. Currently, the whitefly fauna in Croatia comprises 37 species belonging to 22 genera. They all are classified in the subfamily Aleyrodinae. Therefore, the exotic Neotropical species P. minei is the first and, for now, the only member of the aleyrodid subfamily Aleurodicinae that has been found in Croatia. It is a polyphagous species feeding mostly on woody plants assigned to 19 families. It is most frequently recorded on genus Citrus (Rutaceae) plants, with a status of moderate to severe pest. Due to the intensive international trade of plants and global climatic changes, this invasive pest presents certain phytosanitary risks to citrus orchards, not only on geographically isolated island Vis, but potentially also on the mainland of the Adriatic part of Croatia. The aim of this paper is to present the first record of P. minei in Croatia and provide information about the species morphology, biology, and damages., Gnjezdasti štitasti moljac Paraleyrodes minei Iaccarino, 1990 (Aleyrodidae: Aleurodicinae) zabilježen je po prvi put u Hrvatskoj na listovima mandarine i naranče na otoku Visu u rujnu 2023. Pupariji štitastog moljca prikupljeni na zaraženim listovima morfološki su identificirani u laboratoriju kao vrsta P. minei. Fauna štitastih moljaca trenutno u Hrvatskoj broji 37 vrsta iz 22 roda, isključivo iz potporodice Aleyrodinae. Stoga je egzotična, neotropikalna vrsta P. minei prva i jedina do sada zabilježena vrsta u Hrvatskoj iz potporodice štitastih moljaca Aleurodicinae. To je polifag koji se uglavnom hrani na drvenastim biljnim vrstama iz 19 porodica, a najčešće je nađen na agrumima (Rutaceae) na kojima ima status umjerenog do značajnog štetnika. Zbog intenzivne međunarodne trgovine biljem i globalnih klimatskih promjena, ovaj invazivni štetnik predstavlja određeni fitosanitarni rizik za nasade agruma, ne samo na geografski izoliranom otoku Visu već potencijalno i na kopnenom dijelu obale Jadrana. Cilj ovog rada prikazati je prvi nalaz vrste P. minei u Hrvatskoj te pružiti informacije o morfologiji i biologiji vrste te štetama.

Smart charging of electric vehicles can alleviate grid congestion and reduce charging costs. However, various electric vehicle models currently lack the technical capabilities to effectively implement smart charging since they cannot handle charging pauses or delays. These models enter sleep mode when charging is interrupted, preventing resumption afterwards. To avoid this, they should be continuously charged with their minimum charging power, even when a charging pause would be desirable, for instance with high electricity prices. This research examines this problem to inform various stakeholders, including policymakers and manufacturers, and stimulates the adoption of proactive measures that address this problem. Here, we demonstrate through technical charging tests that around one-third of tested car models suffer from this issue. Through model simulations we indicate that eliminating paused and delayed charging problems would double the smart charging potential for all applications. Lastly, we propose concrete legal and practical solutions to eliminate these problems.

Vitamin D has been a focus of attention in liver cancer due to its direct and indirect antineoplastic effects. This review critically evaluates data from recently published basic and clinical studies investigating the role of vitamin D in liver cancer. Basic studies indicate that vitamin D plays an important role in liver cancer development by suppressing the activity of hepatic stellate cells and Kupffer cells. Furthermore, vitamin D has a direct anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic, proapoptotic, and prodifferentiative effect on liver cancer cells. Recent investigation suggested several interesting mechanisms of these actions, such as inactivation of Notch signaling, p27 accumulation, and tyrosine-protein kinase Met/extracellular signal-regulated kinases inhibition. On the other hand, data from clinical observational studies, although promising, are still inconclusive. Unfortunately, studies on the effect of vitamin D supplementation were generally focused on short-term outcomes of chronic liver diseases (liver enzyme levels or elastographic finding); therefore, there are still no reliable data on the effect of vitamin D supplementation on liver cancer occurrence or survival.

Vitamin D has been a focus of attention in liver cancer due to its direct and indirect antineoplastic effects. This review critically evaluates data from recently published basic and clinical studies investigating the role of vitamin D in liver cancer. Basic studies indicate that vitamin D plays an important role in liver cancer development by suppressing the activity of hepatic stellate cells and Kupffer cells. Furthermore, vitamin D has a direct anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic, proapoptotic, and prodifferentiative effect on liver cancer cells. Recent investigation suggested several interesting mechanisms of these actions, such as inactivation of Notch signaling, p27 accumulation, and tyrosine-protein kinase Met/extracellular signal-regulated kinases inhibition. On the other hand, data from clinical observational studies, although promising, are still inconclusive. Unfortunately, studies on the effect of vitamin D supplementation were generally focused on short-term outcomes of chronic liver diseases (liver enzyme levels or elastographic finding); therefore, there are still no reliable data on the effect of vitamin D supplementation on liver cancer occurrence or survival.

Rekurentne infekcije mokraćnog sustava odnose se na pojavu tri ili više epizoda u godinu dana ili dvije ili više epizoda unutar šest mjeseci, a koje su dokazane urinokulturom.Česte su u žena svih dobnih skupina, te tako oko 60% žena ima barem jednu epizodu cistitisa tijekom života, a procjenjuje se da će 20-40% žena koje su imale jednu epizodu cistitisa, vjerojatno imati još jednu, od kojih će 25-50% imati rekurentne infekcije. Predispozicijski čimbenici jednaki su kao i za pojedinačne epizode, a ponešto se razlikuju u žena generativne dobi od onih u menopauzi. Glavni predispozicijski čimbenik u mladih žena je spolni odnos, a u postmenopauzi nedostatak estrogena. Nakon provedene terapije indiciran je neki oblik antimikrobne, a potom i neantimikrobne profilakse, te prenosimo smjernice za liječenje i profilaksu. U Ambulanti za urogenitalne infekcije Klinike za infektivne bolesti "Dr. Fran Mihaljević", Zagreb, u razdoblju od 1.10.2021. do 30.9.2022. bilo je 996 pregleda, a radi rekurentnih infekcija mokraćnog sustava bilo je pregledano 275 žena kroz 503 pregleda. Njih 87,3% imalo je barem jedan predispozicijski čimbenik, od kojih su najčešći bili peri- i postmenopauza, te inkontinencija mokraće. Antimikrobnu je profilaksu primalo 93,1% bolesnica, najčešće u trajanju od 6 mjeseci (31,3%) i to nitrofurantoinom (72,3%), fosfomicinom (11,7%), te sulfametoksazol/trimetoprimom (9%). Neantimikrobnu je profilaksu uzimalo 26,5% žena, najčešće D-manozu (91,8%). Dokazani recidiv za vrijeme ili nakon profilakse imalo je 16,7% žena, a u njih 32,6% uzročnik je bio isti kao i tijekom primarne infekcije. S obzirom na učestalost rekurentnih infekcija mokraćnoga sustava, važno je ispravno postavljanje dijagnoze, te indikacije za antimikrobnu profilaksu, kako bi se poboljšala kvaliteta života bolesnica. No, s obzirom na rastuću rezistenciju mikroorganizama na antibiotike, treba biti racionalan u njihovoj primjeni u profilaktičke svrhe. Stoga su izbor bolesnica za profilaksu i njihovo pra

Since its inception in 1987, ISO 9001 has become one of the most implemented quality management systems in organizations around the world. Due to its wide application and international recognition, it is widely regarded as a prerequisite for successful internationalization. In the era of digitalization, transformation of labor and capital markets and emergence of born-global companies, questions are being asked if ISO 9001 is as important as it used to be. This is especially relevant in the context of Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) that form the economic backbone of developed countries. The growing market globalization has changed the landscape in which SMEs compete, and many enter international markets from their inception. The aim of this paper is to answer the question how and under which circumstances SMEs make the decision to get ISO 9001 certification. In order to shed more light on this understudied issue we offer a systematization of the literature on the topic of ISO 9001 and SMEs, with a special emphasis on key determinants and barriers of ISO 9001 implementation in SMEs as well as the key outcomes in terms of SME performance following the ISO 9001 implementation., Od svojih početaka 1987. godine, norma ISO 9001 je postala jedan od najčešće korištenih sustava za upravljanje kvalitetom u organizacijama diljem svijeta. Zbog svoje široke mogućnosti primjene i međunarodne priznatosti, smatra se preduvjetom za uspješnu internacionalizaciju poduzeća. U vremenu digitalizacije, transformacije tržišta rada i kapitala te pojave globalno rođenih poduzeća, postavljaju se pitanja o tome je li norma ISO 9001 i dalje značajna kao što je nekad bila. Ovo je posebno važno u kontekstu malih i srednjih poduzeća koja predstavljaju ekonomsku osovinu razvijenih zemalja. Rast globalizacije svjetskih tržišta je izmijenio okolnosti unutar kojih se mala i srednja poduzeća natječu te ona sve češće ulaze na međunarodna tržišta odmah po osnutku. Cilj ovog rada je odgovoriti na pitanje kako i pod kojim okolnostima mala i srednja poduzeća danas donose odluku o implementaciji norme ISO 9001. Kako bi se rasvijetlio ovaj nedovoljno istraženi fenomen u radu je sistematizirana literature na temu norme ISO 9001 i malih i srednjih poduzeća. Pritom je poseban naglasak stavljen na ključne odrednice i prepreke implementaciji norme ISO 9001 u malim i srednjim poduzećima kao i na ključne ishode u smislu performansi malih i srednjih poduzeća nakon implementacije norme ISO 9001.

Looking back on the onset of the pandemic Exactly two years ago, we published an editorial in the Croatian Medical Journal discussing a global threat from a new coronavirus epidemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which began in China at the end of 2019 and soon spread around the world (1). The first case of COVID-19 in Croatia was recorded on February 25, 2020, while the editorial was being written. On that occasion, we warned of the danger of the rapid spread and pathogenic potential of the novel coronavirus, the need for the constant monitoring of respiratory pathogens with high epidemic potential, as well as of the importance of developing vaccines and antiviral drugs rapidly to combat this and similar viruses.

Since its inception in 1987, ISO 9001 has become one of the most implemented quality management systems in organizations around the world. Due to its wide application and international recognition, it is widely regarded as a prerequisite for successful internationalization. In the era of digitalization, transformation of labor and capital markets and emergence of born-global companies, questions are being asked if ISO 9001 is as important as it used to be. This is especially relevant in the context of Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) that form the economic backbone of developed countries. The growing market globalization has changed the landscape in which SMEs compete, and many enter international markets from their inception. The aim of this paper is to answer the question how and under which circumstances SMEs make the decision to get ISO 9001 certification. In order to shed more light on this understudied issue we offer a systematization of the literature on the topic of ISO 9001 and SMEs, with a special emphasis on key determinants and barriers of ISO 9001 implementation in SMEs as well as the key outcomes in terms of SME performance following the ISO 9001 implementation., Od svojih početaka 1987. godine, norma ISO 9001 je postala jedan od najčešće korištenih sustava za upravljanje kvalitetom u organizacijama diljem svijeta. Zbog svoje široke mogućnosti primjene i međunarodne priznatosti, smatra se preduvjetom za uspješnu internacionalizaciju poduzeća. U vremenu digitalizacije, transformacije tržišta rada i kapitala te pojave globalno rođenih poduzeća, postavljaju se pitanja o tome je li norma ISO 9001 i dalje značajna kao što je nekad bila. Ovo je posebno važno u kontekstu malih i srednjih poduzeća koja predstavljaju ekonomsku osovinu razvijenih zemalja. Rast globalizacije svjetskih tržišta je izmijenio okolnosti unutar kojih se mala i srednja poduzeća natječu te ona sve češće ulaze na međunarodna tržišta odmah po osnutku. Cilj ovog rada je odgovoriti na pitanje kako i pod kojim okolnostima mala i srednja poduzeća danas donose odluku o implementaciji norme ISO 9001. Kako bi se rasvijetlio ovaj nedovoljno istraženi fenomen u radu je sistematizirana literature na temu norme ISO 9001 i malih i srednjih poduzeća. Pritom je poseban naglasak stavljen na ključne odrednice i prepreke implementaciji norme ISO 9001 u malim i srednjim poduzećima kao i na ključne ishode u smislu performansi malih i srednjih poduzeća nakon implementacije norme ISO 9001.

Sweet’s syndrome (SS) is an uncommon skin condition also known as acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis. Most common clinical manifestations include fever and painful skin rash mostly localized on the face, neck, and upper extremities. Although there is no known cause of Sweet's syndrome, it can occasionally be triggered by infections, drugs and paraneoplastic or inflammatory conditions., Sweetov sindrom (SS) ili akutna febrilna neutrofilna dermatoza, rijedak je kožni poremećaj kojeg karakterizira bolan kožni osip po licu, vratu i gornjim ekstremitetima uz vrućicu. Patogeneza Sweetovog sindroma nije poznata, no pojava bolesti povezuje se s infekcijama, nekim lijekovima, paraneoplastičnim i upalnim zbivanjima.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic resulted in global healthcare crises and strained health resources, both in the acute and chronic phase of the disease. Similarly to post-acute viral syndromes described in survivors of other virulent coronavirus epidemics, there are increasing reports of persistent and prolonged symptoms after acute COVID-19. These reports and studies have helped contribute to the recognition of post-COVID-19, a syndrome characterized by persistent symptoms and/or delayed or long-term complications beyond 4 weeks from the onset of symptoms. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of different manifestations of post-COVID conditions and propose a framework for the identification of patients at higher risk for post- COVID and their coordinated management through dedicated COVID-19 outpatient clinics.

Looking back on the onset of the pandemic Exactly two years ago, we published an editorial in the Croatian Medical Journal discussing a global threat from a new coronavirus epidemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which began in China at the end of 2019 and soon spread around the world (1). The first case of COVID-19 in Croatia was recorded on February 25, 2020, while the editorial was being written. On that occasion, we warned of the danger of the rapid spread and pathogenic potential of the novel coronavirus, the need for the constant monitoring of respiratory pathogens with high epidemic potential, as well as of the importance of developing vaccines and antiviral drugs rapidly to combat this and similar viruses.

Alien species represent a significant component of European entomofauna. Intensive international trade of plants, particularly woody ornamentals, has increased introduction of alien species into Europe in the last two decades, where alien terrestrial invertebrates prevail as one of the most numerous groups of introduced organisms. As of 2010, fourteen species of alien psyllids (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) have been recorded in Europe. Five species have been reported from Croatia, including Acizzia jamatonica (Kuwayama, 1908), as the only species from genus Acizzia Heslop-Harrison, 1961 present in Croatia so far. This paper provides genus status in Croatia, with first records of Australian species Acizzia uncatoides (Ferris & Klyver, 1932) and Acizzia acaciaebaileyanae (Froggatt, 1901)., Strane vrste važna su komponenta europske entomofaune. Intenzivna međunarodna trgovina biljem, primarno drvenastim ukrasnim vrstama, u posljednja je dva desetljeća dovela do porasta broja unosa stranih vrsta u Europu pri čemu kopneni bezkralježnaci predstavljaju jednu od najbrojnijih skupina. Do 2010. godine 14 stranih vrsta lisnih buha (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) zabilježeno je u Europi. Pet je do danas registrirano u Hrvatskoj, uključujući i vrstu Acizzia jamatonica (Kuwayama, 1908), kao jedinog predstavnika roda Acizzia Heslop-Harrison, 1961. Rad donosi pregled vrsta roda Acizzia u Hrvatskoj, s prvim nalazima australskih vrsta Acizzia uncatoides (Ferris & Klyver, 1932) i Acizzia acaciaebaileyanae (Froggatt, 1901).

Introduction: Radiologist workload had increased significantly within the past three decades. In 2006-2007, the average annual workload per FTE radiologist was 14,900 procedures, an increase of 7% since 2002-2003 and 34.0% since 1991-1992. Annual RVUs per FTE radiologist were 10 200, an increase of 10% since 2002-2003 and 70.3% since 1991-1992. Subjects and methods: The study included worksheets data of three radiology specialists in their first three years as specialists. Data were collected and analyzed retrospectively for the period frame January 1st to September 21st 2018. The total data of imaging procedures by one radiologist had been collected and then separated by different imaging procedures as followed. Results: Average total number of imaging procedures per radiologist was 2785. Separately, there were: 850 bone X ray images, 550 chest X rays, 250 ultrasound examinations, 860 CTs and 256 MRIs. Daily average of analyzed imaging procedures per radiologist was as followed: 7,4 bone X ray images, 4,8 chest X rays, 2,2 ultrasounds, 7,5 CTs and 2,2 MRIs. Total working time per radiologist in the analyzed time period was 684 hours. Average time spent for analyzing per one imaging procedure was 14 minutes and 45 seconds spread in total 114 working days. Conclusions: The conclusion is that current workload for a radiology specialist obviously represents a necessity to be thoroughly explored. This case study and previous literature results indicate that a well constructed large scale study represents a potential in resolving the previous studies limitations and providing relevant data, so correct measures and guidelines could be developed.

Alien species represent a significant component of European entomofauna. Intensive international trade of plants, particularly woody ornamentals, has increased introduction of alien species into Europe in the last two decades, where alien terrestrial invertebrates prevail as one of the most numerous groups of introduced organisms. As of 2010, fourteen species of alien psyllids (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) have been recorded in Europe. Five species have been reported from Croatia, including Acizzia jamatonica (Kuwayama, 1908), as the only species from genus Acizzia Heslop-Harrison, 1961 present in Croatia so far. This paper provides genus status in Croatia, with first records of Australian species Acizzia uncatoides (Ferris & Klyver, 1932) and Acizzia acaciaebaileyanae (Froggatt, 1901)., Strane vrste važna su komponenta europske entomofaune. Intenzivna međunarodna trgovina biljem, primarno drvenastim ukrasnim vrstama, u posljednja je dva desetljeća dovela do porasta broja unosa stranih vrsta u Europu pri čemu kopneni bezkralježnaci predstavljaju jednu od najbrojnijih skupina. Do 2010. godine 14 stranih vrsta lisnih buha (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) zabilježeno je u Europi. Pet je do danas registrirano u Hrvatskoj, uključujući i vrstu Acizzia jamatonica (Kuwayama, 1908), kao jedinog predstavnika roda Acizzia Heslop-Harrison, 1961. Rad donosi pregled vrsta roda Acizzia u Hrvatskoj, s prvim nalazima australskih vrsta Acizzia uncatoides (Ferris & Klyver, 1932) i Acizzia acaciaebaileyanae (Froggatt, 1901).

First aim of this review paper is to make the checklist of the most important phytophagous insects from the Sternorrhyncha (Hemiptera) suborder that may feed on plants from genus Citrus, Fortunella and Poncirus, present in the Mediterranean basin. Second aim is to compare the mentioned list with Croatian findings from relevant literature. Third aim is to separate and describe possible risk for introduction and harmfulness of the most harmful species in Croatia. In the literature review 46 species (17 aphids, 21 scale insects, 6 whiteflies and 2 psyllids) which may feed on citrus plants were found to be present in selected countries. Out of that number, 37 species (13 aphids, 18 scale insects and 6 whiteflies) are reported for Croatia. Based on their potential to cause damages, ability to spread and the vicinity of the countries in which they are found, following species if introduced could be potential threat for citrus growing areas in Croatia: Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy), Aonidiella citrina (Craw, 1890), Parasaissetia nigra (Nietner, 1861), Trioza erytreae (Del Guercio, 1918), Aleurothrixus flocossus (Maskell, 1896) and Parabemisia myricae (Kuwana, 1927)., Prvi cilj ovog preglednog rada je napraviti popis najvažnijih fitofagnih kukaca iz podreda Sternorrhyncha (Hemiptera) prisutnih u Mediteranskom bazenu kojima domaćini mogu biti biljne vrste iz rodova Citrus, Fortunella i Poncirus. Drugi cilj je usporediti navedeni popis s vrstama utvrđenim u Hrvatskoj temeljem dostupne relevantne literature. Treći cilj je izdvojiti i opisati najštetnije vrste za koje postoji rizik od unosa i uzrokovanja šteta u Hrvatskoj. Literaturnim pregledom u odabranim zemljama utvrđeno je 46 vrsta kukaca kojima domaćini mogu biti agrumi (17 lisnih uši, 21 štitastih uši, 6 štitastih moljaca i 2 lisne buhe). Od toga je 37 vrsta kukaca (13 lisnih uši, 18 štitastih uši i 6 štitastih moljaca) nađeno u Hrvatskoj. Na temelju njihovog potencijala uzrokovanja šteta, sposobnosti širenja i blizine zemalja u kojima su prisutni, nekoliko vrsta kukaca u slučaju unosa mogu predstavljati potencijalnu opasnost za uzgojna područja agruma u Hrvatskoj: Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy), Aonidiella citrina (Craw, 1890), Parasaissetia nigra (Nietner, 1861), Trioza erytreae (Del Guercio, 1918), Aleurothrixus flocossus (Maskell, 1896) i Parabemisia myricae (Kuwana, 1927).

The current epidemic of a new coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by a novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), recently officially named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has reopened the issue of the role and importance of coronaviruses in human pathology (1-5). This epidemic definitively confirms that this heretofore relatively harmless family of viruses, Coronaviridae, includes major pathogens of epidemic potential. The COVID-19 epidemic has clearly demonstrated the power of infectious diseases, which have been responsible for many devastating epidemics throughout history. The epidemiological potential of emerging infectious diseases, especially zoonoses, is affected by numerous environmental, epidemiological, social, and economic factors (6,7). Emerging zoonoses pose both epidemiological and clinical challenges to health care professionals.

The current epidemic of a new coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by a novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), recently officially named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has reopened the issue of the role and importance of coronaviruses in human pathology (1-5). This epidemic definitively confirms that this heretofore relatively harmless family of viruses, Coronaviridae, includes major pathogens of epidemic potential. The COVID-19 epidemic has clearly demonstrated the power of infectious diseases, which have been responsible for many devastating epidemics throughout history. The epidemiological potential of emerging infectious diseases, especially zoonoses, is affected by numerous environmental, epidemiological, social, and economic factors (6,7). Emerging zoonoses pose both epidemiological and clinical challenges to health care professionals.

First aim of this review paper is to make the checklist of the most important phytophagous insects from the Sternorrhyncha (Hemiptera) suborder that may feed on plants from genus Citrus, Fortunella and Poncirus, present in the Mediterranean basin. Second aim is to compare the mentioned list with Croatian findings from relevant literature. Third aim is to separate and describe possible risk for introduction and harmfulness of the most harmful species in Croatia. In the literature review 46 species (17 aphids, 21 scale insects, 6 whiteflies and 2 psyllids) which may feed on citrus plants were found to be present in selected countries. Out of that number, 37 species (13 aphids, 18 scale insects and 6 whiteflies) are reported for Croatia. Based on their potential to cause damages, ability to spread and the vicinity of the countries in which they are found, following species if introduced could be potential threat for citrus growing areas in Croatia: Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy), Aonidiella citrina (Craw, 1890), Parasaissetia nigra (Nietner, 1861), Trioza erytreae (Del Guercio, 1918), Aleurothrixus flocossus (Maskell, 1896) and Parabemisia myricae (Kuwana, 1927)., Prvi cilj ovog preglednog rada je napraviti popis najvažnijih fitofagnih kukaca iz podreda Sternorrhyncha (Hemiptera) prisutnih u Mediteranskom bazenu kojima domaćini mogu biti biljne vrste iz rodova Citrus, Fortunella i Poncirus. Drugi cilj je usporediti navedeni popis s vrstama utvrđenim u Hrvatskoj temeljem dostupne relevantne literature. Treći cilj je izdvojiti i opisati najštetnije vrste za koje postoji rizik od unosa i uzrokovanja šteta u Hrvatskoj. Literaturnim pregledom u odabranim zemljama utvrđeno je 46 vrsta kukaca kojima domaćini mogu biti agrumi (17 lisnih uši, 21 štitastih uši, 6 štitastih moljaca i 2 lisne buhe). Od toga je 37 vrsta kukaca (13 lisnih uši, 18 štitastih uši i 6 štitastih moljaca) nađeno u Hrvatskoj. Na temelju njihovog potencijala uzrokovanja šteta, sposobnosti širenja i blizine zemalja u kojima su prisutni, nekoliko vrsta kukaca u slučaju unosa mogu predstavljati potencijalnu opasnost za uzgojna područja agruma u Hrvatskoj: Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy), Aonidiella citrina (Craw, 1890), Parasaissetia nigra (Nietner, 1861), Trioza erytreae (Del Guercio, 1918), Aleurothrixus flocossus (Maskell, 1896) i Parabemisia myricae (Kuwana, 1927).

Working as a team with patients who are also recreational runners and managing a running school in the City of Mostar had made us thinking on how recreational running affects the mental health in individuals. Previous literature is pretty old dated, so we found this even more interesting. We have wondered why there is no more recent literature on this subject. So, while working on this mini review and discussing on this subjects we came up with an idea on a research about self esteem and life quality of individuals pre and post running school experience. Previous studies show that consistent running results in a number of positive psychological changes among diverse populations. In a study of Kenneth E.C. ordinary nonprofessional runners were surveyed about the psychological aspects of running. Many of the respondents had started running to improve their health, and almost all noted mental and emotional benefits including relief of tension, improved self-image, and better mood. Considering therapeutic effects of running Greist et al. define running as not expensive, and unlike sorne other treatments, it has beneficiai physical side effects. Their results compare favorably with those of patients in psychotherapy and have persisted for at !east one year in follow-up. Taking in mind all of the previously published research it can be concluded that running can be a therapeutic tool for a sereies of negative psychological conditions, such ass depression, anxieta, tension, mood changes, low self esteem etc. Although, these research are a few decades old there is still no recipe or dosage for running, especially in the area of physical ilness prevention. There is much to research and to be discovered in this field.

The Australian red gum lerp psyllid Glycaspis brimblecombei Moore, 1964 is recorded for the first time in Croatia. In the paper, a brief overview of the new pest with the locality of its first occurrence is provided., Australska vrsta lisne buhe Glycaspis brimblecombei Moore, 1964 zabilježena je po prvi puta u Hrvatskoj. Rad donosi kratak pregled o novom štetniku s lokalitetom prvog nalaza.

Pandemic influenza A virus (H1N1) 2009 causes a disease that is epidemiologically and clinically not significantly different from seasonal influenza, but there are differences. The aim of the study was to display and compare epidemiological and clinical characteristics of pandemic influenza in children. At Dr. Fran Mihaljević University Hospital for Infectious Diseases in Zagreb, in the first two seasons, the incidence of pandemic influenza virus A (H1N1) in particular was exhaustively analyzed only in patients with laboratory-confirmed pandemic influenza A virus (H1N1) 2009. In hospitalized children with documented influenza pandemic, moderate form of the disease predominated, which ultimately meant shorter hospital stay and fewer complications. Otitis media was the rarest complication in children in both seasons. In conclusion, children younger than 5 years, especially boys, were vulnerable groups for pandemic influenza, presenting as a mild disease with low mortality and few complications. Most of the affected children with influenza did not have important risk factors such as asthma and obesity, highlighted by other authors as significant risk factors., Pandemijski virus influence A (H1N1) 2009. uzrokuje bolest koja se epidemiološki i klinički ne razlikuje značajno od sezonske gripe, ali ipak postoje razlike. Cilj studije bio je prikazati i usporediti epidemiološke i kliničke karakteristike u djece s dokazanim pandemijskim virusom influence A (H1N1) 2009. U Klinici za infektivne bolesti Dr. Fran Mihaljević u Zagrebu u prve dvije sezone incidencija pandemijskog virusa influence A (H1N1) posebno je bila iscrpno analizirana samo u bolesnika s dokazanim pandemijskim virusom influence A (H1N1). U hospitalizirane djece s dokazanim pandemijskim virusom influence A prevladavao je umjereni oblik bolesti, što je u konačnici značilo kraći boravak u bolnici i manje komplikacija. Upala srednjeg uha je bila najrjeđa komplikacija kod djece. Zaključno, djeca mlađa od 5 godina, osobito dječaci, češće su obolijevali od pandemijskog virusa influence A (H1N1), koja se prezentirala kao blaža bolest s niskom smrtnošću i rjeđim komplikacijama. Većina oboljele djece od pandemijske influence nisu imala čimbenike rizika kao što su astma i pretilost, što drugi autori u svojim istraživanjima ističu kao važne čimbenike rizika za virus influence.

Sweet’s syndrome (SS) is a rare inflammatory condition presented with fever, leukocytosis, ery- thematous, tender plaques and histology evidence of dense neutrophilic infiltration in the dermis. It appears mostly in women between age 30-60 years. Erythema nodosum (EN), a form of pan- niculitis, is manifested as erythematous painful rounded lumps and occurs 3-5 times more often in female patients in all age groups, but mostly between the second and the fourth decades of life. Although rare, concurrent occurrence of Sweet’s syndrome and erythema nodosum is described and may be associated with autoimmune disorders, certain malignancies, gastrointestinal disease or upper respiratory tract infections. Here, we described 34-year-old saleswoman who developed con- current Sweet’s syndrome and erythema nodosum seven days after upper respiratory tract infection onset. During upper respiratory infection, she was treated with three-days azithromycin therapy, together with ibuprofen and paracetamol. Later, when she developed concurrent SS and EN, she was treated initially with clindamycin and prednisone 40 mg, followed by 60 mg of prednisone after which the patient becomes afebrile with gradual rash regression. There is limited knowledge on concurrent SS and EN, their etiopathogenesis and association with different diseases, infections and /or medications. Concurrent SS and EN in our patient was probably triggered by the upper respiratory tract infection. Although, there is no evidence that azithromycin may induce SS or EN or both, it could be considered as a possible trigger alone or together with the upper respiratory tract infection., Sweetov sindrom (SS) rijetko je upalno stanje koje se manifestira vrućicom, leukocitozom, eritem- atoznim, nježnim plakovima i histološkim dokazom guste neutrofilne infiltracije u dermisu. Pojavl- juje se uglavnom u žena u dobi od 30-60 godina. Nodozni eritem (EN), oblik panikulitisa, očituje se bolnim, eritematoznim, zaobljenim potkožnim čvorovima i javlja se 3-5 puta češće u bolesnica u svim dobnim skupinama, ali uglavnom između drugog i četvrtog desetljeća života. Iako je rijetka, istodobna pojava Sweet-ovog sindroma i nodoznog eritema opisana je i može biti povezana s autoi- munim poremećajima, određenim malignim bolestima, gastrointestinalnom bolešću ili infekcijama gornjih dišnih putova. Ovdje smo opisali 34-godišnju prodavačicu koja je razvila istodobni Sweetov sindrom i nodozni eritem sedam dana nakon početka infekcije gornjih dišnih putova. Tijekom infek- cije gornjih dišnih puteva, liječena je trodnevnom terapijom azitromicinom, zajedno s ibuprofenom i paracetamolom. Kasnije, kad je razvila istodobno SS i EN, liječena je u početku klindamicinom i prednizonom od 40 mg, a zatim sa 60 mg prednizona, nakon čega bolesnica postaje afebrilna s pos- tupnom regresijom osipa. Malo se zna o istodobnom SS i EN, njihovoj etiopatogenezi i povezanosti s različitim bolestima, infekcijama i / ili lijekovima. Istodobni SS i EN u naše bolesnice vjerojatno je potaknut infekcijom gornjih dišnih puteva. Iako nema dokaza da azitromicin može izazvati SS ili EN ili oboje, moglo bi se pretpostaviti da bi mogao biti okidač sam ili zajedno s infekcijom gornjih dišnih puteva.

Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is widely distributed in Europe and caused mostly by two different orthohantaviruses: Puumala virus (PUUV) and Dobrava virus (DOBV). Several studies have implicated that HFRS is an immunologically mediated disease and that the proinflammatory cytokines may have a role in the immunopathogenesis of HFRS. In this study, we have detected: IL-2; IL-6; their soluble receptors (sIL-2R, sIL-6R); TNF-alpha; sCD23; and total IgE in two consecutive sera of HFRS patients, and have looked for their possible relation with the main blood and biochemical findings in order to determine their possible role in disease progression. The differences in the level of measured parameters between PUUV- and DOBV-infected patients were also observed. The sIL-2R, sIL-6R and sCD23 levels were elevated in all HFRS patients, but we did not find any statistical difference between 1st and 2nd sera. The total IgE was elevated in about 1/3 of HFRS patients in both sera. We detected higher IL-6, sIL-2R and sCD23 levels in the sera of patients with DOBV infection than in patients with PUUV infection, with no statistically significant difference. The total IgE level was elevated in five of the six tested patients with DOBV infection, and they had a statistically higher level of total IgE than patients with PUUV infection. Almost all the listed biochemical and blood parameters in HFRS patients stand either in positive or in negative correlation with sIL-2Rapha. The levels of urea and creatinine, which are the hallmarks of HFRS severity, stand in positive correlation with sIL-2Rapha, IL-6, sIL-6R and sCD23. The level of the total IgE stands either in positive or in negative correlation with proteins and parameters of the liver function. We have also found a high positive correlation between the total IgE level and basophile count.

Azitromicin je antibiotik široka spektra djelovanja iz skupine makrolidnih antibiotika i ima snažno imunomodulatorno djelovanje. Bez obzira na zasad malen broj radova o ovom iznimno važnom svojstvu azitromicina, iz dostupne se literature lako razaznaje njegov potencijal imunomodulatornog djelovanja na razini stanica i tkiva te u različitim kliničkim entitetima, ponajprije u patologiji različitih akutnih i kroničnih respiratornih poremećaja i infekcija. Azitromicin se nakuplja u nizu stanica i djeluje imunomodulatorno na njih preko različitih imunosnih mehanizama (epitelne stanice, fibroblasti, monociti/makrofagi, dendritičke stanice, NK-stanice, T-limfociti, neutrofili, mastociti, eozinofili). Ograničen broj kliničkih studija upućuje na imunomodulatorno djelovanje azitromicina u različitim infekcijama, u prvom redu respiratornim, a onda i infekcijama kože i potkožnog tkiva, spolno prenosivim bolestima i infekcijama te bolestima gastrointestinalnog trakta. Većina njih u svojim se zaključcima dijelom oslanja na različite kalkulacije o imunomodulatornom djelovanju azitromicina, bazirane na studijama in vitro ili ex vivo. Učinkovito antimikrobno djelovanje azitromicina na brojne mikroorganizme, udruženo s njegovim potentnim imunomodulatornim djelovanjem, čini ovaj lijek snažnim terapeutikom ne samo u akutnim nego i u kroničnim infekcijama, ali i u nekim kliničkim entitetima i kroničnim bolestima za koje nije dokazan infektivni uzročnik., Azithromycin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic from a group of macrolide antibiotics that has a strong immunomodulatory effect. Relatively few papers focusing on this extremely important property of azithromycin have been published so far. Nevertheless, available literature reveals its enormous potential for immunomodulatory effect at the cell and tissue level and in various clinical entities, primarily in the pathology of various acute and chronic respiratory disorders and infections. Accumulating within a whole string of cells, azithromycin uses different immune mechanisms (epithelial cells, fibroblasts, monocytes/macrophages, dendritic cells, NK cells, T lymphocytes, neutrophils, mast cells, eosinophils) to exert its immunomodulatory effect. A limited number of clinical studies indicate the immunomodulatory effect of azithromycin in various infections, primarily respiratory infections, as well as in skin and subcutaneous tissue infections, sexually transmitted diseases and gastrointestinal infections and diseases. In most of these studies, conclusions regarding the immunomodulatory effect of azithromycin are, in part, based on various calculations supported by in vitro or ex vivo studies. Given its effective antimicrobial activity against numerous microorganisms, together with its potent immunomodulatory effect, azithromycin is an effective therapeutic drug indicated for the treatment of both acute and chronic infections, as well as certain clinical entities and chronic diseases for which no infectious agent has been proven.

Neutrophils and monocytes through their CD15s, CD11b and CD44 adhesion molecules are implicated in the initiation and resolution of cardiac inflammation as well as in healing processes after the myocardial infarction (MI). The aim of this study was to determine the effect of white wine consumption on granulocyte and monocyte CD15s, CD11b, and CD44 expression 24h after the surgically inflicted MI. Granulocytes and monocytes were analyzed by flow cytometry, using whole blood of male Sprague-Dawley rats that consumed white wine for 4 weeks. This group was compared with water only drinking controls, sham animals (subject to surgery without myocardial infarction) and baseline group (intact animals that received no intervention prior to being sacrificed). Sham animals did not differ from baseline animals in CD11b+CD44+ percentage and CD44+ median fluorescence intensity. Wine drinking was associated with striking increase in CD44 expression on monocyte subpopulations. Its expression was three and fourfold increased on monocytes and large monocytes, respectively, relative to the water only drinking controls. Because of known role of CD44 on suppression of post-infarction inflammation, its upregulation on granulocytes and monocytes may significantly contribute to the microenvironment favourable for the cardiac regeneration.

Azitromicin je antibiotik široka spektra djelovanja iz skupine makrolidnih antibiotika i ima snažno imunomodulatorno djelovanje. Bez obzira na zasad malen broj radova o ovom iznimno važnom svojstvu azitromicina, iz dostupne se literature lako razaznaje njegov potencijal imunomodulatornog djelovanja na razini stanica i tkiva te u različitim kliničkim entitetima, ponajprije u patologiji različitih akutnih i kroničnih respiratornih poremećaja i infekcija. Azitromicin se nakuplja u nizu stanica i djeluje imunomodulatorno na njih preko različitih imunosnih mehanizama (epitelne stanice, fibroblasti, monociti/makrofagi, dendritičke stanice, NK-stanice, T-limfociti, neutrofili, mastociti, eozinofili). Ograničen broj kliničkih studija upućuje na imunomodulatorno djelovanje azitromicina u različitim infekcijama, u prvom redu respiratornim, a onda i infekcijama kože i potkožnog tkiva, spolno prenosivim bolestima i infekcijama te bolestima gastrointestinalnog trakta. Većina njih u svojim se zaključcima dijelom oslanja na različite kalkulacije o imunomodulatornom djelovanju azitromicina, bazirane na studijama in vitro ili ex vivo. Učinkovito antimikrobno djelovanje azitromicina na brojne mikroorganizme, udruženo s njegovim potentnim imunomodulatornim djelovanjem, čini ovaj lijek snažnim terapeutikom ne samo u akutnim nego i u kroničnim infekcijama, ali i u nekim kliničkim entitetima i kroničnim bolestima za koje nije dokazan infektivni uzročnik., Azithromycin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic from a group of macrolide antibiotics that has a strong immunomodulatory effect. Relatively few papers focusing on this extremely important property of azithromycin have been published so far. Nevertheless, available literature reveals its enormous potential for immunomodulatory effect at the cell and tissue level and in various clinical entities, primarily in the pathology of various acute and chronic respiratory disorders and infections. Accumulating within a whole string of cells, azithromycin uses different immune mechanisms (epithelial cells, fibroblasts, monocytes/macrophages, dendritic cells, NK cells, T lymphocytes, neutrophils, mast cells, eosinophils) to exert its immunomodulatory effect. A limited number of clinical studies indicate the immunomodulatory effect of azithromycin in various infections, primarily respiratory infections, as well as in skin and subcutaneous tissue infections, sexually transmitted diseases and gastrointestinal infections and diseases. In most of these studies, conclusions regarding the immunomodulatory effect of azithromycin are, in part, based on various calculations supported by in vitro or ex vivo studies. Given its effective antimicrobial activity against numerous microorganisms, together with its potent immunomodulatory effect, azithromycin is an effective therapeutic drug indicated for the treatment of both acute and chronic infections, as well as certain clinical entities and chronic diseases for which no infectious agent has been proven.

Francisella tularensisis is a causative agent of tularemia a zoonotic disease that infects wide range of hosts including arthropods, mammals and birds. In this study, the prevalence of tularemia among small mammals in Croatia was investigated. The 444 samples of small rodents and insectivores were collected in eight different localities in continental Croatia during the 2-year study. Spleen samples of: 197 Apodemus agrarius (striped field mouse), 78 Apodemus sylvaticus (wood mouse), 92 Apodemus flavicollis (yellow-necked mouse), 17 Myodes glareolus (bank vole), 27 Mycrotus agrestis (field vole), 20 Microtus arvalis (common vole) and 13 Sorex araneus (common shrew) were investigated for the presence of DNA of Francisella spp. using qRT-PCR method. Two striped field mouses and one wood mouse, originated from the same area - locality of Lipovljani, were found to be positive on Francisella spp. revealing the presence of bacteria among small mammals population in Croatia., Francisella tularensisis uzročnik je zoonoze tularemije, koja ima široki raspon domaćina, uključujući člankonošce, sisavce i ptice. Dvije podvrste F. tularensis, subsp. tularensis (Tip A) i subsp. holartica (Tip B), opisane su kao najčešći uzročnici bolesti u ljudi (Kingry and Petersen, 2014; Kuehn et al., 2013). Tip A i Tip B razlikuju se po svojim biokemijskim značajkama, patogenosti, ekologiji, epidemiologiji te geografskoj rasprostranjenosti. Rasprostranjenost Tipa A uglavnom je ograničena na sjevernoamerički kontinent, za razliku od Tipa B, koji se javlja duž cijele sjeverne polutke, a ujedno je i najčešći uzročnik tularemije u Europi(Keim et al., 2007; Kuehn et al., 2013). No ekologija i kruženje ove bakterije u prirodi do danas još nisu u potpunosti razjašnjeni. Različiti glodavci (voluharice, miševi, tekunice, bizantski štakori, dabrovi) te dvojezupci (kunić i zec) opisani su kao mogući rezervoari F.tularensis. Zadnja epidemiološka i epizootiološka istraživanja tularemije u Hrvatskoj datiraju iz šezdesetih i sedamdesetih godina prošloga stoljeća(Borcić et al., 1975). Stoga je cilj ovoga rada bio prikupiti nove podatke o prevalenciji tularemije u populaciji sitnih sisavaca u Hrvatskoj. Ukupno 444 uzoraka sitnih glodavaca i kukcojeda sakupljeno je u razdoblju od dvije godine na osam različitih lokaliteta u šumama kontinentalne Hrvatske: Lipovljani, Nova Subocka, Velika Gorica, Stara Gradiška, Županja, Sunja, Koprivnica i Čakovec (Slika 1). Pretraženi su uzorci slezene od: 197 Apodemus agrarius (poljski miš), 78 Apodemus sylvaticus (šumski miš), 92 Apodemus flavicollis (žutogrli miš), 17 Myodes glareolus (šumska voluharica), 27 Mycrotus agrestis (livadna voluharica), 20 Microtus arvalis (poljska voluharica) te 13 Sorex araneus (rovka). Uzorcisu pretraženi na prisutnost DNA Francisella spp. koristeći qRT-PCR metodu. Dobiveni rezultati pokazuju da su od ukupno 444 prikupljene životinje tri uzorka (0.67%), od kojih dva poljska miša te jedan šumski miš, bili poziti

Smjernice se odnose na klasifikaciju, dijagnostiku i liječenje sindroma prostatitisa. Njihov su cilj standardizacija, izjednačavanje i optimalizacija dijagnostike, liječenja i praćenja bolesnika s prostatitisom koji će dovesti do poboljšanja kvalitete zdravstvene zaštite ovih bolesnika te promovirati racionalnu potrošnju antibiotika. Namijenjene su ponajprije liječnicima opće prakse i specijalistima koji rade u primarnoj zdravstvenoj zaštiti i bolnicama. Ministarstvo zdravstva Republike Hrvatske (RH) imenovalo je članove Radne grupe za izradu smjernica namijenjenih dijagnostici i liječenju prostatitisa. Smjernice se temelje na dokazima iz sistematski pregledane literature, na lokalnim podacima o osjetljivosti bakterija na antibiotike, na postojećim kliničkim protokolima za dijagnostiku i liječenje prostatitisa, kao i prijedlozima i komentarima kolega liječnika. One su putem tečajeva trajne edukacije široko predstavljene liječnicima obiteljske medicine te specijalistima koji rade u primarnoj zdravstvenoj zaštiti i bolnicama – urolozima, infektolozima, mikrobiolozima i nefrolozima. Završnu verziju smjernica pregledali su i prihvatili članovi Interdisciplinarne sekcije za kontrolu rezistencije na antibiotike. U smjernicama su predstavljene kliničke upute radi standardizacije postupaka i kriterija za postavljanje dijagnoze i liječenje bolesnika s prostatitisom u RH., These guidelines refer to classification, diagnostics and treatment of prostatitis syndrome. The aim of these guidelines is the standardization, harmonization and optimization of diagnostics, treatment and monitoring of patients with prostatitis that would lead to improved quality of health care for these patients and promote rational use of antibiotics. The guidelines are primarily intended for general practitioners and specialists working in primary health care and hospitals. The members of the Working Group (WG) for the development of guidelines on diagnostics and treatment of prostatitis were appointed by the Croatian Ministry of Health. The evidence for these guidelines was identified by systematic review of the literature, local antibiotic resistance data, existing clinical protocols for diagnostics and treatment of prostatitis, as well as suggestions and comments from colleagues physicians. Through continuing medical education courses, the guidelines were widely presented to family medicine physicians and specialists working in primary health care and hospitals – urologists, infectious disease specialists, microbiologists and nephrologists. The final version of the guidelines was reviewed and approved by members of the Intersectoral Coordination Mechanism for the Control of Antimicrobial Resistance (ISKRA). These guidelines also present clinical instructions aimed at standardizing the procedures and criteria for diagnosis and treatment of patients with prostatitis in Croatia.

Pneumonija je najvažnija upalna bolest u dišnom sustavu iako sudjeluje samo jednim postotkom u svim akutnim infekcijama dišnog sustava. Kao i u većini drugih organa i sustava organa, imunosni obrambeni mehanizmi u plućima baziraju se na mehanizmima specifične i nespecifične imunosti i njihovim komponentama koje uključuju anatomske barijere te staničnu i humoralnu imunost. Prvu liniju obrane od infekcija donjega respiratornog sustava čine elementi nespecifične imunosti, među kojima najvažniju ulogu imaju epitelne stanice i makrofagi. Mehanizmi specifične imunosti imaju snažnu ulogu u obrani od različitih patogena, visoko su sofisticirani i ovise o prepoznavanju specifičnih antigena na površini mikroorganizama te tvore snažnu obranu protiv različitih patogena koji uzrokuju pneumonije. Međutim, za razliku od nespecifične imunosti, indukcija i razvoj imunoreakcija koje sudjeluju u specifičnoj imunosti mogu trajati danima i tjednima nakon ekspozicije patogenu, a važna komponenta tog procesa jest i stvaranje memorijskih stanica koje sudjeluju u snažnoj obrani pri ponovnim susretima s istim patogenima. Mehanizmi nespecifične i specifične imunosti u pneumonijama jesu kompleksni i bit će potrebna još brojna istraživanja da bi se bolje shvatili i rabili u kreiranju novih lijekova i cjepiva te bolje primijenili u uporabi postojećih lijekova. Osim važnog antimikrobnog djelovanja antibiotika ne smijemo nikako zanemariti ni njihovo protuupalno i imunomodulatorno djelovanje koje može pomoći u racionalnijem pristupu liječenju pneumonija., Pneumonia is the most important inflammatory disease of the respiratory system, although it represents only one percent of all acute respiratory infections. As in most other organs and systems of the body, immune defence mechanisms in lungs are based on the mechanisms of specific and non-specific immunity and their components that include anatomical barriers, and cellular and humoral immunity. The first line of defence against infections of the lower respiratory system consists of the elements of non-specific immunity, among which epithelial cells and macrophages have the most important role. The mechanisms of specific immunity play an important role in the defence against a variety of pathogens, they are highly sophisticated and depend on the recognition of specific antigens on the surface of microorganisms. They also provide a strong defence against a variety of pathogens that cause pneumonia. Unlike the nonspecific immunity, the induction and development of immune reactions involved in specific immunity can last for days and weeks after the exposure to the pathogen. An important component of this process is the creation of memory cells that participate in a strong immune defence to the reinfections with the same pathogens. The mechanisms of nonspecific and specific immunity to pneumonia are complex and will require more studies for better understanding and their use in the creation of new drugs and vaccines, as well as a better use of the existing drugs. In addition to an important antimicrobial effect of antibiotics, we must not disregard their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects that can help us take a more rational approach to treating pneumonia.

Pneumonija je najvažnija upalna bolest u dišnom sustavu iako sudjeluje samo jednim postotkom u svim akutnim infekcijama dišnog sustava. Kao i u većini drugih organa i sustava organa, imunosni obrambeni mehanizmi u plućima baziraju se na mehanizmima specifične i nespecifične imunosti i njihovim komponentama koje uključuju anatomske barijere te staničnu i humoralnu imunost. Prvu liniju obrane od infekcija donjega respiratornog sustava čine elementi nespecifične imunosti, među kojima najvažniju ulogu imaju epitelne stanice i makrofagi. Mehanizmi specifične imunosti imaju snažnu ulogu u obrani od različitih patogena, visoko su sofisticirani i ovise o prepoznavanju specifičnih antigena na površini mikroorganizama te tvore snažnu obranu protiv različitih patogena koji uzrokuju pneumonije. Međutim, za razliku od nespecifične imunosti, indukcija i razvoj imunoreakcija koje sudjeluju u specifičnoj imunosti mogu trajati danima i tjednima nakon ekspozicije patogenu, a važna komponenta tog procesa jest i stvaranje memorijskih stanica koje sudjeluju u snažnoj obrani pri ponovnim susretima s istim patogenima. Mehanizmi nespecifične i specifične imunosti u pneumonijama jesu kompleksni i bit će potrebna još brojna istraživanja da bi se bolje shvatili i rabili u kreiranju novih lijekova i cjepiva te bolje primijenili u uporabi postojećih lijekova. Osim važnog antimikrobnog djelovanja antibiotika ne smijemo nikako zanemariti ni njihovo protuupalno i imunomodulatorno djelovanje koje može pomoći u racionalnijem pristupu liječenju pneumonija., Pneumonia is the most important inflammatory disease of the respiratory system, although it represents only one percent of all acute respiratory infections. As in most other organs and systems of the body, immune defence mechanisms in lungs are based on the mechanisms of specific and non-specific immunity and their components that include anatomical barriers, and cellular and humoral immunity. The first line of defence against infections of the lower respiratory system consists of the elements of non-specific immunity, among which epithelial cells and macrophages have the most important role. The mechanisms of specific immunity play an important role in the defence against a variety of pathogens, they are highly sophisticated and depend on the recognition of specific antigens on the surface of microorganisms. They also provide a strong defence against a variety of pathogens that cause pneumonia. Unlike the nonspecific immunity, the induction and development of immune reactions involved in specific immunity can last for days and weeks after the exposure to the pathogen. An important component of this process is the creation of memory cells that participate in a strong immune defence to the reinfections with the same pathogens. The mechanisms of nonspecific and specific immunity to pneumonia are complex and will require more studies for better understanding and their use in the creation of new drugs and vaccines, as well as a better use of the existing drugs. In addition to an important antimicrobial effect of antibiotics, we must not disregard their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects that can help us take a more rational approach to treating pneumonia.

Obična bukva (Fagus sylvatica L.) u Hrvatskoj ima najveći areal, najzastupljenija je vrsta na obraslom šumskom zemljištu i pojavljuje se u velikom broju šumskih zajednica. Urod bukvice bilježi se kao bitan faktor porasta populacije sitnih glodavaca, koji su poznati prijenosnici niza zaraznih bolesti opasnih za čovjeka. Cilj ovog istraživanja je praćenje populacija sitnih glodavaca i hantavirusa u bukovim šumama. U okviru rada obavljen je izlov u periodu od 2011. do 2014. godine na ukupno 7 lovnih ploha raspoređenih na dva lokaliteta (NP Plitvička jezera i PP Medvednica). Ulovljene jedinke obrađene su na prisutnost hantavirusa. Na lovnim plohama u NP Plitvička jezera mjeren je i urod bukvice. Rezultati ovoga rada pokazali su da u bukovim šumama dominiraju žutogrli šumski miš i šumska voluharica te zajedno čine 99 % ulova. Brojnost sitnih glodavaca karakterizirale su povišene vrijednosti u 2012. godini i visoka brojnost („mišja godina“) u 2014. godini, dok je 2011. i 2013. godinu karakterizirala niska brojnost. Kod obrađenih glodavaca potvrđena je prevalencija 3 vrste hantavirusa. Puumala virus bio je zastupljen u 50 % ulova šumske voluharice, Dobrava (DOBV) u 5 % ulova žutogrlog šumskog miša i hantavirus Seewis (SWSV) u jednoj od dvije ulovljene jedinke šumske rovke. Urod bukvice na lovnim plohama NP Plitvička jezera zabilježen je povišen u 2011. godini i obilan u 2013. godini. Iz podataka utvrđujemo pozitivnu vezu između količine jesenskog uroda bukvice te porasta populacija sitnih glodavaca, porasta prevalencije hantavirusa i epidemije mišje groznice u godinama nakon obilnog uroda., The European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) is at present considered to be the most common economically important and widespread tree species in Europe. In contrast to other tree species and economically important species in Croatia European beech has the largest areal and can be found in variety of plant communities. As the most specious and widely distributed mammalian group, rodents are the wildlife reservoir for many zoonoses which can infect humans and other wildlife. Rodent outbreaks tend to follow years with increased seed production of oak and beech. Many authors have linked fluctuations in abundance of rodent reservoirs with increase of human zoonotic infections. Aim of this research is monitoring of rodent populations and hantaviruses in beech forests. At two locations (National park Plitvice lakes and Nature park Medvednica) seven trapping plots were set, each containing 1 or 2 grids size 100m x 100m (100 traps). Rodent capturing was done from year 2011 until 2014 in summer and autumn. Beech mast was recorded in NP Plitvice lakes each year in autumn. Trapped rodents were screened for hantaviruses. Results show two dominant rodent species, yellow-necked mouse (Apodemus flavicollis) and bank vole (Myodes glareolus) in beech forests of NP Plitvice and NP Medvednica. Both species make 99 % of total captures. Rodent abundance showed increase in year 2012 and outbreak in year 2014 measuring on one grid max abundance of 45 animals/ha, whereas year 2011 and 2013 had lowest abundance. In beech forests of National Park Plitvice lakes and Nature Park Medvednica 3 different hantaviruses were found within their typical rodent host species: Puumala (PUUV) in bank voles (Myodes glareolus), hantavirus Dobrava (DOBV) in yellow-necked mouse (Apodemus flavicollis) and Seewis (SWSV) in common shrew (Sorex araneus) which makes first molecular evidence of shrew-borne Seewis virus in Croatia. Highest infection rate was found in bank voles with 50 % of Puumala positive individuals.

SažetakPopis štitastih uši na domaćinima iz roda Quercus L. sastavljen je od svih dostupnih literaturnih podataka faunističkih istraživanja štitastih uši u Hrvatskoj i podataka faunističkih istraživanja koja su trajala od 2005. do 2014. Prema literaturnim podacima u Hrvatskoj registrirano je 15 vrsta štitastih uši na hrastu. Istraživanjima je utvrđeno 12 vrsta štitastih uši, od kojih je u odnosu na vrste iz literaturnih podataka registrirano šest novih. U ovom trenutku popis štitastih uši na hrastovima obuhvaća 21 vrstu iz četiri porodice kako slijedi: porodica Asterolecanidae: Asterodiaspis ilicicola (Targioni Tozzetti 1888), A. quercicola (Bouche 1851), A. variolosa (Ratzeburg 1870), porodica Coccidae: Coccus hesperidum Linnaeus 1758, Eulecanium tiliae (Linnaeus 1758), Parthenolecanium rufulum Cockerell 1903, Pulvinaria sericea (Fourcroy 1785), porodica Diaspididae: Chionaspis etrusca Leonardi 1908, C. lepineyi Balachowsky 1928, C. salicis (Linnaeus 1758), Diaspidiotus alni (Marchal 1909), D. bavaricus (Lindinger 1912), D. ostreaeformis (Curtis 1843), D. zonatus (Frauenfeld 1868), Gonaspidiotus minimus (Leonardi in: Berlese & Leonardi 1896), Lepidosaphes beckii (Newman 1869), L. ulmi (Linnaeus 1758), Targionia vitis (Signoret 1876) i porodica Kermesidae: Kermes quercus (Linnaeus 1758), K. roboris (Fourcroy 1785) i K. vermilio Planchon 1864.U srpnju 2014. godine, zamijećeno je propadanje hrasta crnike u Poreču. Nakon što je obavljen vizualni pregled, uzeti su uzorci. Dijagnostička analiza, koja je obavljena u Laboratoriju za zoologiju Zavoda za zaštitu bilja, pokazala je da se radi o štitastoj uši crnike K. vermilio. Budući da je ovo prvi nalaz K. vermilio u Hrvatskoj, vrstu možemo smatrati novim članom hrvatske entomofaune. Ova štitasta uš napada zimzelene domaćine iz roda Quercus, ponaj­prije Quercus ilex L. Široko je rasprostranjena u zemljama Mediteranskog bazena. U prošlosti, štitasta uš K. vermilio imala je značajnu gospodarsku važnost kao izvor crvene boje z, Check-list of scale insects (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha) on host plants of genus Quercus L. comprises all available literature data on faunistic research of scale insects in Croatia, as well as data from the research conducted from 2005 to 2014. Published data on former faunistic research from the following authors have been used: Balachowsky (1950), Kovačević (1961), Kozár (1983), Langhoffer (1927, 1929), Lindinger (1912), Schmidt (1956, 1973) and Žak-Ogaza (1967). Each listed species was matched with a corresponding name, according to current systematics (Ben Dov et al., 2014). Following materials and methods were used in conducted research: visual inspections, collecting of plant material, storing and preservation of samples, analysis of samples under stereomicroscope, preparation of microscopic slides and identification of species. Samples were collected according to the method by Gill (1993). Analysis of collected samples was done under ZEISS Discovery V12 stereomicroscope with appurtenant AxioCam ERc5s digital camera. 70% ethyl alcohol, potassium hydroxide, lactic acid, fuchsine acid, lignin pink, acetic acid and clove oil were used in processing of scale insects’ samples. Permanent microscopic slides (photo 2) were prepared using clove oil, accordingly to Kosztarab & Kozár, 1988 and Gill, 1993. Identification of scale insect species was conducted using identification keys by Balachowsky, 1950, Borchsenius, 1960, Gill, 1993 and Pellizzari et al., 2012, compound microscope OLYMPUS BX 51 (with 4x, 10x, 20x, 40x and 100x magnification lens and 10x magnification ocular) and OLYMPUS DP25 digital camera. Based on literature data, 15 species of scale insects have been registered on oak trees (table 1). Faunistic investigation of scale insects in period from 2005 to 2014 established 12 species of scale insects. When compared to literature data, 6 new species have been registered (table 2). Currently, the check-list of scale insects on oak trees in Croatia comprises 21 spe

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by low bone mineral density and microarchitectural changes with increased susceptibility to fractures, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Although it predominantly affects postmenopausal women, it is now well known that systemic bone loss is a common underlying feature of different metabolic, endocrine and inflammatory diseases. Investigations of osteoporosis as a complication of chronic inflammatory conditions revealed immune mechanisms behind the increased osteoclast bone resorption and impaired osteoblast bone formation. This concept was particularly emphasized after the research field of osteoimmunology emerged, focusing on the interaction between the immune system and bone. It is increasingly becoming evident that immune cells and mediators critically regulate osteoclast and osteoblast development, function and coupling activity. Among other mediators, receptor activator of nuclear factor-kB ligand (RANKL), receptor activator of nuclear factor-kB (RANK) and soluble decoy receptor osteoprotegerin (OPG) form a key functional link between the immune system and bone, regulating both osteoclast formation and activity as well as immune cell functions. Excessive production of inflammatory mediators exerts autocrine, paracrine and endocrine signaling effects on bone remodeling with the net increase in bone resorption locally, in diseases primarily affecting joints, bones or surrounding tissues, and systemically, causing osteoporosis in various chronic inflammatory diseases. This brief review particularly focuses on bone pathology in rheumatoid arthritis, as one of the most extensively studied conditions accompanied by local and systemic inflammation-induced bone loss.

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by low bone mineral density and microarchitectural changes with increased susceptibility to fractures, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Although it predominantly affects postmenopausal women, it is now well known that systemic bone loss is a common underlying feature of different metabolic, endocrine and inflammatory diseases. Investigations of osteoporosis as a complication of chronic inflammatory conditions revealed immune mechanisms behind the increased osteoclast bone resorption and impaired osteoblast bone formation. This concept was particularly emphasized after the research field of osteoimmunology emerged, focusing on the interaction between the immune system and bone. It is increasingly becoming evident that immune cells and mediators critically regulate osteoclast and osteoblast development, function and coupling activity. Among other mediators, receptor activator of nuclear factor-kB ligand (RANKL), receptor activator of nuclear factor-kB (RANK) and soluble decoy receptor osteoprotegerin (OPG) form a key functional link between the immune system and bone, regulating both osteoclast formation and activity as well as immune cell functions. Excessive production of inflammatory mediators exerts autocrine, paracrine and endocrine signaling effects on bone remodeling with the net increase in bone resorption locally, in diseases primarily affecting joints, bones or surrounding tissues, and systemically, causing osteoporosis in various chronic inflammatory diseases. This brief review particularly focuses on bone pathology in rheumatoid arthritis, as one of the most extensively studied conditions accompanied by local and systemic inflammation-induced bone loss.

Ebola virusna bolest (EVB) je opasna, karantenska zarazna bolest čija se do sada najveća zabilježena epidemija pojavila u zapadnoj Africi krajem 2013.g. i početkom 2014.g. te se proširila u pet zemalja regije (Gvineja, Liberija, Nigerija, Sierra Leone i Mali). Tjekom kasnog ljeta 2014 je došlo do nepovezane epidemije u Demokratskoj Republici Kongo. Postoji pet vrsta virusa ebole [Zaire (EBOV), Sudan (SUDV), Bundibugyo (BDBV), Taï Forest (TAFV) i Reston (RESTV)] koji su svi endemski u Africi, osim soja Reston, koji je endemski i u dijelovima jugoistočne Azije i Kini. Rezervoarom virusa ebole smatraju se voćni šišmiši (ili letipsi), kod kojih su dokazana ebolavirusna RNA i antitijela, no nisu definitivno potvrđeni kao glavni rezervoari EBOV. Imunopatogeneza ebole je kompleksna i zahtijeva ozbiljna istraživanja. Teški oblici bolesti praćeni su brojnim komplikacijama, multiorganskim zatajenjem i znacima septičkog šoka. Smrtnost se kreće od 55 – 75%, ponekad i više. Preživjeli prolaze dugo razdoblje rekonvalescencije. Za sada nema odobrenog cjepiva, a medicinsko osoblje pri liječenju i zbrinjavanju bolesnika s EVB mora primjenjivati propisane striktne mjere osobne zaštite. Liječenje je simptomatsko uz po potrebi mjere intenzivnog liječenja. Bez obzira na moguću ekonomsku neprofitabilnost, jasno pokazana potreba za razvojem dijagnostika, cjepiva i lijekova za liječenje ebole i drugih hemoragijskih vrućica, koji bi predstavljali garanciju sprječavanja širenja ovih opasnih bolesti., Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a dangerous and highly contagiuos infectious disease. The largest recorded outbreak so far occurred in West Africa in late 2013 and in early 2014 and spread to five countries of the region (Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone and Mali). During the late summer of 2014 an unrelated outbreak of Ebola virus disease occured in the Democratic Republic of Congo. There are five types of Ebola virus [Zaire (EBOV), Sudan (SUDV), Bundibugyo (BDBV), Taï Forest (TAFV) i Reston (RESTV)] all of which are endemic in Africa, except Reston ebolavirus, which is also endemic in parts of South East Asia and China. The reservoir of Ebola virus are considered to be fruit bats, in which Ebola virus RNA and antibodies were detected, but they are not definitively confirmed as the main reservoirs. Immunopathogenesis of Ebola virus disease is complex and requires serious research. Severe forms of the disease are accompanied by numerous complications, multiorgan failure and signs of septic shock. Mortality ranges from 55 – 75%, and sometimes more. Survivors undergo a long period of convalescence. So far there is no approved vaccine, and medical personnel who treat and care for patients with EVD must apply strict measures of proposed personal protection. Treatment is symptomatic with, if necessary, measures of intensive treatment. Regardless of the possible economic unprofitability, the need for the development of diagnostics, vaccines and drugs for the treatment of EVD and other hemorrhagic fevers is clearly demonstrated and would represent a mean to prevent future outbreaks of this dangerous disease.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is an infectious viral disease that has (re-)emerged in the last decade in south-eastern Europe, and there is a risk for further geographical expansion to western Europe. Here we report the results of a survey covering 28 countries, conducted in 2012 among the member laboratories of the European Network for Diagnostics of 'Imported' Viral Diseases (ENIVD) to assess laboratory preparedness and response capacities for CCHF. The answers of 31 laboratories of the European region regarding CCHF case definition, training necessity, biosafety, quality assurance and diagnostic tests are presented. In addition, we identified the lack of a Regional Reference Expert Laboratory in or near endemic areas. Moreover, a comprehensive review of the biosafety level suitable to the reality of endemic areas is needed. These issues are challenges that should be addressed by European public health authorities. However, all respondent laboratories have suitable diagnostic capacities for the current situation.

Mostar minnow, Phoxinellus pseudalepidotus, is a freshwater fish endemic to the Neretva River drainage. Present data suggest that species is restricted only to wetland of the Mostarsko Blato but it is considered to be distributed more widely in the River Neretva basin. It is threatened because of the extremely limited range of distribution, river regulation and influence of the non-indigenous species. Suggested conservation actions for Mostar minnow are habitat protection and establishing of the nature reserve in the area of the Mostarsko Blato. Stocking with translocated and non-native species should be also banned., Prikanac, Phoxinellus pseudalepidotus, je slatkovodna vrsta ribe endemična za slijev rijeke Neretve. Dostupni podaci govore da joj je rasprostranjenost ograničena na Mostarsko blato iako se smatra da naseljava i šire područje rijeke Neretve. Glavni uzroci ugroženosti ove vrste su ograničeno područje rasprostranjenosti, regulacija vodotoka i unos alohtonih vrsta. Predložene mjere zaštite za ovu vrstu su zaštita staništa i osnivanje rezervata prirode na području Mostarskog blata, kao i zabrana regulacije i pregradnje vodotoka te zabrana unosa alohtonih vrsta u vode koje naseljava ova vrsta.

Akutne respiratorne infekcije najčešće su infektivne bolesti i razlog najčešćih posjeta ordinacijama opće prakse. Za azitromicin je poznato da ima širok spektar djelovanja na većinu uzročnika pneumonija uključujući gram-pozitivne, gram-negativne i atipične mikroorganizme s dobrom kliničkom učinkovitosti pri peroralnoj primjeni, što omogućava ambulantno liječenje bolesnika mlađih od 65 godina bez kroničnih bolesti. Danas je poznato da azitromicin osim antimikrobnog ima i znatno imunomodulatorno i u okviru toga protuupalno djelovanje. Ovdje ce biti prikazano u prvom redu potencijalno protuupalno djelovanje azitromicina u infekcijama respiratornog trakta., Acute respiratory infections are the most common infectious diseases and the most common reason for visiting a general practitioner clinic. Azithromycin is known to have a broad spectrum of action against most causes of pneumonia, including Gram-positive, Gram-negative and atypical microorganisms. Its clinical efficacy in oral administration is also good, which allows outpatient treatment of patients below 65 years of age and without chronic diseases. Today we know that in addition to antimicrobial, azithromycin also has significant immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. This article primarily focuses on its potential anti-inflammatory effects in respiratory tract infections.

Background and Purpose: Leukocyte cell surface adhesion molecule CD11b, decorated with CD15s, plays a critical role in the regulation of b2 integrin function during neutrophile endothelial transmigration. Hyperbaric oxygenation reduces neutrophil-endothelial cell adhesion, which is mediated by Mac-1 (CD11b/CD18) B2-integrin. Materials and Methods: This study investigated the expression of CD15 and CD15s, on leukocytes following repeated trimix dives in two series: in the first series 7 divers performed 6 consecutive dives from 55-80 m, while in the second series 7 divers performed 3 consecutive dives from 63-65 m. A more intense dive profile was used in the second series, as can be seen from the longer total dive time. Five divers took part in each of the two series. CD15 and CD15s were determined before and after the 1st and the last dive. Results and Conclusions: Leukocyte subpopulations were not elevated after either the first or last dives in series I. Only CD15+CD15s+ granulocytes were significantly decreased after the 1st dive. In the second series the monocyte proportion was increased and lymphocytes decreased within the total leukocyte population, while CD15s+ monocytes and CD14+CD15s+ granulocytes were elevated after the 1st dive. CD15+CD14+ granulocytes were decreased after the 1st and the last dive in the second series, while CD15s+ granulocytes were decreased only after the last dive in the second series. The current findings of decreased endothelial selectin ligand CD15s expression on CD15+ granulocytes after certain dives point to the role of this subpopulation in the endothelial damage prevention.

Background and Purpose: Leukocyte cell surface adhesion molecule CD11b, decorated with CD15s, plays a critical role in the regulation of b2 integrin function during neutrophile endothelial transmigration. Hyperbaric oxygenation reduces neutrophil-endothelial cell adhesion, which is mediated by Mac-1 (CD11b/CD18) B2-integrin. Materials and Methods: This study investigated the expression of CD15 and CD15s, on leukocytes following repeated trimix dives in two series: in the first series 7 divers performed 6 consecutive dives from 55-80 m, while in the second series 7 divers performed 3 consecutive dives from 63-65 m. A more intense dive profile was used in the second series, as can be seen from the longer total dive time. Five divers took part in each of the two series. CD15 and CD15s were determined before and after the 1st and the last dive. Results and Conclusions: Leukocyte subpopulations were not elevated after either the first or last dives in series I. Only CD15+CD15s+ granulocytes were significantly decreased after the 1st dive. In the second series the monocyte proportion was increased and lymphocytes decreased within the total leukocyte population, while CD15s+ monocytes and CD14+CD15s+ granulocytes were elevated after the 1st dive. CD15+CD14+ granulocytes were decreased after the 1st and the last dive in the second series, while CD15s+ granulocytes were decreased only after the last dive in the second series. The current findings of decreased endothelial selectin ligand CD15s expression on CD15+ granulocytes after certain dives point to the role of this subpopulation in the endothelial damage prevention.

Mostar minnow, Phoxinellus pseudalepidotus, is a freshwater fish endemic to the Neretva River drainage. Present data suggest that species is restricted only to wetland of the Mostarsko Blato but it is considered to be distributed more widely in the River Neretva basin. It is threatened because of the extremely limited range of distribution, river regulation and influence of the non-indigenous species. Suggested conservation actions for Mostar minnow are habitat protection and establishing of the nature reserve in the area of the Mostarsko Blato. Stocking with translocated and non-native species should be also banned., Prikanac, Phoxinellus pseudalepidotus, je slatkovodna vrsta ribe endemična za slijev rijeke Neretve. Dostupni podaci govore da joj je rasprostranjenost ograničena na Mostarsko blato iako se smatra da naseljava i šire područje rijeke Neretve. Glavni uzroci ugroženosti ove vrste su ograničeno područje rasprostranjenosti, regulacija vodotoka i unos alohtonih vrsta. Predložene mjere zaštite za ovu vrstu su zaštita staništa i osnivanje rezervata prirode na području Mostarskog blata, kao i zabrana regulacije i pregradnje vodotoka te zabrana unosa alohtonih vrsta u vode koje naseljava ova vrsta.

Akutne respiratorne infekcije najčešće su infektivne bolesti i razlog najčešćih posjeta ordinacijama opće prakse. Za azitromicin je poznato da ima širok spektar djelovanja na većinu uzročnika pneumonija uključujući gram-pozitivne, gram-negativne i atipične mikroorganizme s dobrom kliničkom učinkovitosti pri peroralnoj primjeni, što omogućava ambulantno liječenje bolesnika mlađih od 65 godina bez kroničnih bolesti. Danas je poznato da azitromicin osim antimikrobnog ima i znatno imunomodulatorno i u okviru toga protuupalno djelovanje. Ovdje ce biti prikazano u prvom redu potencijalno protuupalno djelovanje azitromicina u infekcijama respiratornog trakta., Acute respiratory infections are the most common infectious diseases and the most common reason for visiting a general practitioner clinic. Azithromycin is known to have a broad spectrum of action against most causes of pneumonia, including Gram-positive, Gram-negative and atypical microorganisms. Its clinical efficacy in oral administration is also good, which allows outpatient treatment of patients below 65 years of age and without chronic diseases. Today we know that in addition to antimicrobial, azithromycin also has significant immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. This article primarily focuses on its potential anti-inflammatory effects in respiratory tract infections.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is an infectious viral disease that has (re-)emerged in the last decade in south-eastern Europe, and there is a risk for further geographical expansion to western Europe. Here we report the results of a survey covering 28 countries, conducted in 2012 among the member laboratories of the European Network for Diagnostics of 'Imported' Viral Diseases (ENIVD) to assess laboratory preparedness and response capacities for CCHF. The answers of 31 laboratories of the European region regarding CCHF case definition, training necessity, biosafety, quality assurance and diagnostic tests are presented. In addition, we identified the lack of a Regional Reference Expert Laboratory in or near endemic areas. Moreover, a comprehensive review of the biosafety level suitable to the reality of endemic areas is needed. These issues are challenges that should be addressed by European public health authorities. However, all respondent laboratories have suitable diagnostic capacities for the current situation.

Infekcije mokraćnog sustava (IMS) jedan su od najčešćih i najvažnijih zdravstvenih problema u žena reproduktivne dobi. Uropatogena Escherichia coli (UPEC) odgovorna je za oko 90% IMS. Osim mehanizama virulencije same UPEC, za razvoj bolesti odgovorni su i obrambeni imunološki mehanizmi o kojima se još uvijek zna vrlo malo. Iako nespecifične imunoreakcije obuhvaćaju brojne važne čimbenike, ovdje smo dali kratki prikaz imunoreakcija na UPEC, vezanih za receptore slične Tollu (TRL), pentraksin 3 (PTX3) i prirodno ubilačke (NK) stanice, za koje su se u zadnjih nekoliko godina u literaturi pojavili značajni znanstveni iskoraci koji bi u relativno skoroj budućnosti mogli imati i značajnu praktičnu vrijednost u dijagnostici i liječenju bolesnika s infekcijama uzrokovanim UPEC-om., Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common and most important health problems in women of reproductive age. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is responsible for about 90% of the UTIs. In addition to the mechanisms of UPEC virulence itself, defensive immune mechanisms are responsible for the development of the disease as well, about which very little is known. Although innate immune reactions include a number of important factors, here we give a brief overview of immune reactions to UPEC, related to the Toll like receptors (TRL), pentraxin 3 (PTX3) and natural killer (NK) cells, for which, in recent years, significant scientific breakthroughs have been described in the literature, that in the relatively near future could have a significant practical value in diagnostics and treatment of patients with infections caused by UPEC.