molecular identification – Page 5

Epidemiology of mucormycosis in COVID-19 patients in northwest Iran: Rhizopus arrhizus as the predominant species

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During the COVID-19 pandemic, a dangerous fungal infection called mucormycosis was found in 63 patients in northwestern Iran. The infection was caused mainly by a fungus called Rhizopus arrhizus and most commonly affected the sinuses and brain. Most patients had been given high-dose steroids to treat their COVID-19, which weakened their immune systems and increased their risk of this serious fungal infection, especially those with diabetes.

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.

Deciphering the morphological, molecular, and pathogenic variability in Fusarium species associated with potato dry rot disease

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Researchers studied potato dry rot disease in India by collecting diseased potatoes from storage facilities and identifying the fungal pathogens responsible. They found that three Fusarium fungi species cause this disease, with Fusarium sambucinum being the most aggressive and damaging. The study provides important information for farmers and agricultural scientists to better control this disease and reduce potato losses during storage.

First Report of Colletotrichum kahawae Causing Anthracnose on Buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum) in China and Biological Characterization of the Pathogen

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Researchers in China discovered that a fungus called Colletotrichum kahawae is causing a serious disease called anthracnose on buckwheat crops in Yunnan Province. This is the first time this particular fungus has been identified on buckwheat in China. Scientists studied how the fungus grows and found it prefers temperatures around 25°C and neutral pH levels. The fungus can also infect other important crops like wheat, corn, potatoes, and oats, which could pose a significant threat to agriculture in the region.

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 belonging to the genus Amphisphaeria in northern Thailand. These fungi were found growing on dead tree twigs from various plant species. The researchers used both microscopic examination and genetic analysis to identify and describe these new species, expanding our knowledge of fungal diversity in tropical regions.

Epidermophyton floccosum, an etiological agent of tinea pedis and tinea unguium: about two cases

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Two elderly patients were diagnosed with fungal nail and foot infections caused by Epidermophyton floccosum, a fungus that has become less common in recent years. Both cases were confirmed using advanced molecular testing (real-time PCR) alongside traditional laboratory methods. The infections were successfully treated with terbinafine, an antifungal medication. This case report highlights the importance of using modern diagnostic techniques to accurately identify and treat fungal infections.

Two Cases of Curvularia geniculata Keratitis Successfully Treated with Natamycin-Based Therapy

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Two patients with eye infections caused by a rare fungal species called Curvularia geniculata were successfully treated with antifungal medication. The infections occurred after plant material entered their eyes during daily activities. Doctors identified the exact fungal species through genetic testing and used an antifungal drug called natamycin, alone or combined with another antifungal, to treat the infections. Both patients recovered fully with excellent vision restoration.

Dermatophytosis in a Chilean fox: first case of Nannizzia gypsea in Lycalopex griseus and the need for a one health approach

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Researchers reported the first case of a fungal skin infection caused by Nannizzia gypsea in a wild South American grey fox found near Santiago, Chile. The fox developed crusted and scaly lesions on its tail, which were successfully treated with topical antifungal cream. This discovery highlights how increasing contact between domestic pets, wild animals, and humans due to urbanization can spread fungal infections, emphasizing the need for integrated health approaches that consider human, animal, and environmental health together.

Mycorrhizal fungus BJ1, a new species of Tulasnella sp.: its biological characteristics and promoting effect on seed germination of Bletilla striata

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Researchers discovered a new type of fungus called Tulasnella sp. BJ1 that forms beneficial partnerships with Bletilla striata, a traditional Chinese medicinal plant. When this fungus was used with the plant’s seeds, germination rates and seedling growth improved significantly compared to seeds grown alone. The fungus helps by producing growth-promoting substances like plant hormones and breaking down nutrients that the developing plants can absorb. This finding offers a practical method to grow more B. striata plants efficiently for medicinal use.

A case of flexor tenosynovitis caused by Cyberlindnera rhodanensis – First reported human infection

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A patient developed a fungal wrist infection caused by a yeast never before seen in humans, called Cyberlindnera rhodanensis. The infection required six surgeries and five months of antifungal medications to treat. This case shows that new fungal pathogens can cause serious infections even in healthy people, and highlights the importance of proper identification of organisms in medical cultures.

Research Keyword: molecular identification