immunosuppression – Page 2

Advances in the Degradation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons by Yeasts: A Review

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This review explores how yeasts, tiny single-celled fungi, can clean up environments contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) – harmful chemicals produced by car emissions, factories, and burning. These yeasts use special enzymes to break down these toxic compounds into less harmful substances, making them a promising natural solution for environmental cleanup. Scientists are also improving these yeasts through genetic engineering to make them even more effective at removing pollution.

Effects of Ganoderma lucidum Powder on the Growth Performance, Immune Organ Weights, Cecal Microbiology, Serum Immunoglobulins, and Tibia Minerals of Broiler Chickens

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Researchers tested whether powdered Ganoderma lucidum mushroom could replace antibiotic growth promoters in chicken farming. The study found that adding 0.2% mushroom powder to chicken feed improved weight gain and feed efficiency similar to antibiotics, while also promoting beneficial gut bacteria. The mushroom powder was safe and did not cause any disease, making it a promising natural alternative to antibiotics in poultry production.

Increased Dissemination of Aflatoxin- and Zearalenone-Producing Aspergillus spp. and Fusarium spp. during Wet Season via Houseflies on Dairy Farms in Aguascalientes, Mexico

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This study found that during rainy seasons on Mexican dairy farms, houseflies carry more mold spores that produce harmful toxins called aflatoxins and zearalenone. These toxins contaminate cattle feed and milk, posing health risks to both animals and humans. The research shows that controlling houseflies during wet seasons is crucial to reduce toxic mold contamination of dairy products and animal feed.

Negative Effects of Occurrence of Mycotoxins in Animal Feed and Biological Methods of Their Detoxification: A Review

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Molds that grow on grains and feed produce toxic substances called mycotoxins that can seriously harm farm animals, causing liver and kidney damage, reproductive problems, and reduced productivity. While proper storage and farming practices help prevent contamination, some mycotoxins still get through. Recent research shows that beneficial bacteria like those in yogurt and certain yeasts can effectively remove these toxins from animal feed, making it safer for livestock while protecting the environment from harmful chemicals.

Differential composition of the pulmonary microbiome in HIV-positive versus HIV-negative patients with Pneumocystis jirovecii

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This study compared lung infections in HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients who both had Pneumocystis jirovecii. Researchers found that HIV-positive patients had more diverse microorganisms in their lungs, particularly viruses, yet generally did better. HIV-negative patients had fewer types of microorganisms but worse outcomes. The findings suggest that the way a person’s immune system is weakened matters more than just having many germs present.

A Case Report of Candidiasis Cellulitis in Long-Term Corticosteroid Use

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A 54-year-old man developed a serious skin infection on his hand caused by Candida, a normally harmless fungus, because he had been taking corticosteroid injections for 15 years for breathing problems. Despite antibiotic treatment, the swelling and pain continued. Doctors discovered it was a fungal infection through lab tests and treated it with antifungal medication (fluconazole) after draining the infection, which completely healed within two weeks.

The palmitoyl-CoA ligase Fum16 is part of a Fusarium verticillioides fumonisin subcluster involved in self-protection

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Fusarium verticillioides is a fungus that produces fumonisin B1, a poisonous compound that can contaminate corn and harm human and animal health. Remarkably, the fungus has evolved special protective mechanisms to survive its own poison. This study discovered that five genes in the fungus work together to shield it from fumonisin’s toxic effects by either breaking down the toxin or boosting the production of protective molecules called ceramides in cell membranes.

Evaluation of Antifungal Activity Against Candida albicans Isolates From HIV-Positive Patients with Oral Candidiasis in a Major Referral Hospital, West Java, Indonesia

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This study examined fungal infections in HIV-positive patients suffering from oral candidiasis (mouth thrush) in Indonesia. Researchers identified the types of Candida fungi present and tested their resistance to four common antifungal medications. Most patients had Candida albicans, and while these fungi generally responded well to newer antifungal drugs like voriconazole and fluconazole, some showed resistance, particularly to fluconazole, suggesting the need for careful testing before prescribing treatment.

Emerging Infections Network Survey of Screening for Cryptococcal Antigenemia, United States, 2024

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Researchers surveyed infectious disease doctors across the United States about their use of a simple blood test that detects cryptococcal fungal infections in HIV patients before symptoms appear. The test, called cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening, can prevent serious illness and death if caught early, but the survey found that many doctors are not using it consistently. About 42% of doctors were unsure about the benefits of the test, and another 32% were confused about current screening recommendations, revealing a need for better education about this important preventive tool.

Implantation of Aspergillus Section Flavi in French Maize and Consequences on Aflatoxin Contamination of Maize at Harvest: Three-Year Survey

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A harmful fungus called Aspergillus that produces cancer-causing toxins (aflatoxins) has become increasingly common in French maize crops over the past three years. Researchers collected and tested maize samples from across France and found that by 2020, about 80% of samples contained this fungus, and 16% had measurable levels of aflatoxins. This is happening because of hotter and drier conditions caused by climate change, which favor the fungus’s growth. The findings suggest that France needs to improve its monitoring and safety measures for maize to protect consumers and farmers.

Disease: immunosuppression