fungal identification – Page 5

The addition of six novel species and a new record of Amphisphaeria from northern Thailand

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Scientists discovered six new species of fungi called Amphisphaeria in northern Thailand, all found on dead wood. These fungi play an important role in decomposing woody materials in nature. By examining both their physical characteristics and genetic material, researchers confirmed these are distinct species previously unknown to science. One previously known species was also found on a new type of host plant.

Simultaneous Detection of Four Madurella Species Using Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) for Eumycetoma Diagnosis

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Scientists developed a simple new test to identify four types of fungi that cause a serious tropical disease called eumycetoma. Unlike previous tests that required expensive equipment and multiple reactions, this new test works in one tube using simple heating instead of complex thermal cycling. The test can detect the fungi in about 45 minutes and works reliably in remote areas with limited resources.

Fungi under fire: diagnostic capacities and antifungal availability in Peruvian healthcare facilities

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This study examined how well Peruvian hospitals can diagnose and treat serious fungal infections across the country. Researchers surveyed 54 healthcare centers and found that while basic fungal tests are available everywhere, advanced diagnostic tools and certain antifungal medications are mostly limited to the capital city of Lima. The research identifies major gaps in care that need to be addressed to help more patients survive these serious infections.

Editorial: Dermatopathology and Associated Laboratory Investigations in the Study of Skin Disease

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This special journal issue brings together several studies on how doctors diagnose skin diseases using laboratory tests. The papers cover different methods including examining fungal infections under a microscope, using new staining techniques, and applying molecular tests to identify skin cancers and autoimmune conditions. Together, these studies show how combining pathology examination with laboratory techniques is essential for accurately diagnosing and treating various skin disorders.

A Novel Subspecies of Didymella acutilobae Causing Leaf Spot in East Asian Hogweed

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Researchers identified a new fungal disease affecting East Asian hogweed, an edible herb used in traditional medicine. The disease, called leaf spot, was caused by a previously unknown subspecies of fungus named Didymella acutilobae subsp. heraclei. Using genetic analysis and laboratory testing, scientists confirmed this fungus is responsible for infecting hogweed plants in Korean fields. Understanding this pathogen is important for protecting this valuable medicinal plant.

Four New or Newly Recorded Species from Freshwater Habitats in Jiangxi Province, China

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Scientists surveying freshwater streams in Jiangxi Province, China discovered four fungal species new to the region. Three of these species had never been described before, while one was recorded in China for the first time. Using both microscope observations and DNA analysis, researchers confirmed these findings and classified them within the fungal families Pleurotheciaceae and Pseudodactylariaceae. These discoveries demonstrate how much fungal diversity still remains undiscovered in freshwater ecosystems.

Diversity of Fungal Genera Associated with Shot-Hole Disease in Cherry Blossoms Across Korea

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Cherry blossom trees in Korea are commonly affected by shot-hole disease, which causes holes in leaves and reduces flowering. Researchers found that four different fungi cause this disease, not just one as previously thought: Alternaria, Diaporthe, Epicoccum, and Botryosphaeria. The types of fungi vary by region and between urban and rural areas, suggesting different management strategies may be needed in different locations.

Identification and Pathogenicity of Fusarium Fungi Associated with Dry Rot of Potato Tubers

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Researchers identified different Fusarium fungi causing potato dry rot in Russia and tested how they grow at various temperatures and how aggressively they damage potatoes. They found that F. sambucinum is the most dangerous because it can grow and cause rot even during cold storage, unlike other species. This research helps farmers understand which pathogens threaten their crops and how storage conditions affect disease development.

Speciation analysis of fungi by liquid atmospheric pressure MALDI mass spectrometry

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Scientists developed a fast new method using a technique called LAP-MALDI mass spectrometry to identify dangerous fungal infections within minutes instead of days. The method analyzes the unique fatty acids and proteins in fungal cells to distinguish between different species. This could help doctors quickly identify which fungal infection a patient has and choose the right treatment, potentially saving lives.

Naganishia albidus Causing Perioral Cutaneous Infection: A Rare Case Easily Misdiagnosed

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A 37-year-old construction worker developed unusual scaling and itchy sores around his mouth that worsened despite treatment for eczema. Doctors eventually discovered the infection was caused by a rare yeast fungus called Naganishia albidus, which is almost never seen in healthy people. Using advanced laboratory tests and antifungal medications taken by mouth and applied to the skin, the infection completely cleared within six weeks.

Research Keyword: fungal identification