Environmental mycology

Addressing Critical Fungal Pathogens Under a One Health Perspective: Key Insights from the Portuguese Association of Medical Mycology

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Four dangerous fungal species pose growing threats to human health worldwide, especially for people with weakened immune systems. Portugal’s medical experts have reviewed the current situation, finding these fungi increasingly resistant to treatment, present in hospitals and the environment, and occasionally spreading from animals to people. The review emphasizes the need for better testing, coordinated tracking systems, and approaches that consider human, animal, and environmental health together to combat this emerging crisis.

Mapping Histoplasma spp. in bats and cave ecosystems: evidence from midwestern Brazil

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Researchers studied caves in midwestern Brazil and found that a fungal pathogen called Histoplasma, which causes a serious lung disease called histoplasmosis, is present in cave environments and in bats. They developed a quick DNA test to detect this fungus in cave soil samples and bat tissue samples. The study identified specific caves with high levels of the fungus, which could help warn visitors and cave explorers about the risk of infection.

Prevalence of fungi and their antifungal and disinfectant resistance in hospital environments: insights into combating nosocomial mycoses

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This study examined fungal contamination in hospital intensive care units, finding that Aspergillus and other mold species are commonly present in air and ventilation systems. Importantly, many of these fungi have developed resistance to antifungal medications and hospital disinfectants, making them harder to treat and control. The researchers discovered that the same resistant fungi found in hospitals are similar to those infecting patients, suggesting that hospital environments may be spreading these dangerous infections.

Onygenales from marine sediments: diversity, novel taxa, global distribution, and adaptability to the marine environment

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Researchers discovered 22 different species of fungi living in marine sediments off the coast of Spain, including 6 previously unknown species. These fungi have special adaptations allowing them to survive in salty seawater and break down complex organic materials. The findings expand our understanding of fungal life in ocean environments and reveal how these organisms contribute to marine nutrient cycles.

Diurnal Release of Airborne Pathogen Spores in Greenhouses via the Synergistic Effects of Relative Humidity and Wind

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When humidity drops during the day in greenhouses, fungal spores shrink and disconnect from the fungus, releasing into the air. Even light winds can carry these spores to nearby plants, causing rapid disease spread. Understanding this process helps growers control ventilation and humidity to prevent cucumber and other vegetable diseases in greenhouses.

Black mold in the bag room: First case of Arthrocladium tropicale peritonitis in a peritoneal dialysis patient

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A peritoneal dialysis patient contracted a rare fungal infection caused by Arthrocladium tropicale, a mold found in damp environments and associated with ant nests. The infection was diagnosed through microscopy and genetic testing, revealing resistance to one antifungal drug but susceptibility to amphotericin B. Treatment with this antibiotic and removal of the dialysis catheter led to full recovery, highlighting the importance of keeping medical equipment storage areas dry and pest-free.

Insights into Persian Gulf Beach Sand Mycobiomes: Promises and Challenges in Fungal Diversity

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Researchers studied fungi in beach sand and water along the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman coasts during summer months. They found high levels of potentially harmful fungi, especially Aspergillus terreus, which can cause serious respiratory infections. Many of these fungi showed resistance to common antifungal medications. The study recommends better hygiene awareness for beach visitors and establishing safety standards for these popular recreational areas.

Diversity and Ecology of Fungi from Underexplored and Extreme Environments

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This research collection explores fungi living in extreme environments like salty lagoons, Arctic lakes, and polluted soils. Scientists discovered that many fungi have special abilities to survive harsh conditions and can even help clean up contaminated areas. The findings suggest that understanding these remarkable fungi could lead to new applications in environmental cleanup and sustainable agriculture. The research emphasizes the need to combine traditional laboratory methods with modern genetic techniques to fully understand fungal diversity.

Himalayan Mushrooms as a Natural Source of Ergosterol and Vitamin D2: A Review of Nutraceutical and Functional Food Perspectives

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Mushrooms from the Himalayan region are naturally rich in ergosterol, a compound that converts to vitamin D2 when exposed to sunlight or UV light. This review explores how mushrooms can serve as sustainable, plant-based sources of vitamin D to address deficiencies in populations with limited sun exposure. By understanding how environmental factors and UV treatment affect ergosterol levels, scientists can develop enriched mushroom-based foods and supplements with enhanced nutritional benefits.

Yeast Diversity on Sandy Lake Beaches Used for Recreation in Olsztyn, Poland

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Researchers studied yeasts living in sand from four recreational lakes in Poland over two summers. They found 62 different yeast species, including 8 potentially harmful types that can cause infections in humans. The study shows beach sand contains significant microbial contamination that should be regularly monitored to protect swimmers, especially people with weakened immune systems or skin injuries.

Research Keyword: Environmental mycology