epidemiology – Page 6

Introducing a global database of entomopathogenic fungi and their host associations

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Scientists have created a comprehensive online database called EntomoFun 1.0 that catalogs nearly 1,800 documented cases of fungi that infect insects worldwide. This database brings together information scattered across hundreds of scientific papers and museum collections, showing which fungal species infect which insects and where these interactions occur geographically. This tool will help researchers understand how these fungal pathogens affect insect populations and ecosystems, and may eventually lead to better pest management strategies.

Basidiobolomycosis caused by a rare species – Basidiobolus meristosporus

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A five-year-old girl developed large swollen lumps on her buttock and thigh that were initially thought to be tuberculosis or cancer. Doctors took a tissue sample and found it was caused by a rare fungus called Basidiobolus meristosporus. Using advanced DNA sequencing techniques, they identified the exact fungus species and treated her successfully with an antifungal medication called itraconazole, leading to complete healing within six weeks.

Prevalence of Compartment Syndrome and Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation following Rhabdomyolysis; a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

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This study analyzed twenty research papers to understand how often two serious complications occur in patients with rhabdomyolysis, a condition involving muscle damage. Compartment syndrome, where pressure builds up around muscles limiting blood flow, occurred in about 4% of cases overall but was slightly more common in severe cases. Disseminated intravascular coagulation, a dangerous blood clotting disorder, occurred in about 8% of patients. These findings help doctors better understand and monitor for these potentially life-threatening complications.

First Report of Trametes hirsuta, Causal Agent White Rot in Avocado Trees Grown in the State of Michoacán, México

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Researchers discovered a wood-destroying fungus called Trametes hirsuta causing serious disease in avocado trees in Mexico’s main avocado-growing region. The fungus attacks tree trunks and branches, causing white rot that can kill trees within 3-5 years. The study confirmed this is a new threat to avocado orchards and suggests controlling it through pruning, chemical fungicides, or biological control methods.

Global, Regional, and National Burden of Pulmonary Fungal Infections 1990–2021

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This study analyzed the global impact of fungal lung infections from 1990 to 2021, finding that about 5.6 million people were affected in 2021 with significant mortality rates. The burden of these infections is particularly high in low- and middle-income countries and affects older individuals more severely. The researchers project that deaths from fungal lung infections will double by 2044, emphasizing the need for better prevention strategies, vaccines, and international cooperation to address this growing health challenge.

Correlation between Vegetable and Fruit Intake and Cognitive Function in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study in Chongqing, China

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This study examined how eating different types of fruits and vegetables affects brain health in older adults in Chongqing, China. Researchers found that higher fruit intake and eating more root vegetables (like carrots and turnips) were associated with better cognitive function and lower risk of mild cognitive impairment. Some vegetables like tomatoes and peppers also showed protective benefits, while leafy greens did not show a significant effect. The findings suggest that encouraging older adults to eat more fruits and certain vegetables could help prevent memory problems and cognitive decline.

China’s innovative national plan to combat fungal diseases and antifungal resistance

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China has created a comprehensive national system to fight fungal infections and drug resistance. The system monitors fungal diseases across hundreds of hospitals throughout the country to track which infections are most common and which antifungal medicines are becoming less effective. Early findings show that many hospitals lack proper facilities for testing fungal infections, and some fungi are developing resistance to commonly used antifungal drugs, particularly fluconazole.

Odontogenic-onset mucormycosis: A case series from a tertiary care institute in North India

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Mucormycosis is a serious fungal infection that can develop after dental procedures like tooth extraction or root canal therapy, especially in people with poorly controlled diabetes. This case study from India describes five patients who developed this infection within weeks of dental work. The infection destroys bone in the upper jaw and palate but usually doesn’t spread to the sinuses like other forms of mucormycosis. All patients improved with antifungal medications and surgical cleaning, highlighting the importance of proper sterilization during dental procedures.

Nuts, vegetables, fruits, and protein dietary pattern during pregnancy is inversely associated with risk of childhood allergies: a case–control study

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This study found that pregnant women who ate more nuts, vegetables, fruits, and protein had children with significantly lower rates of allergies. The research compared the diets of mothers whose children developed allergies to mothers of allergy-free children and discovered that higher consumption of omega-3 fatty acids and folic acid during pregnancy was linked to healthier immune development. The findings suggest that eating a nutrient-rich diet during pregnancy may help protect babies from developing allergies and other immune-related conditions.

Azole Resistance in Aspergillus Species Isolated from Clinical Samples: A Nine-Year Single-Center Study in Turkey (2015–2023)

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This study examined azole antifungal resistance in fungal infections from a Turkish hospital over nine years. Researchers tested 200 Aspergillus fungal isolates and found that 7% showed resistance to azole medications, with 11% of Aspergillus fumigatus showing resistance. The findings highlight the ongoing challenge of drug-resistant fungal infections and the importance of monitoring resistance patterns to improve treatment decisions for serious fungal infections.

Research Keyword: epidemiology