Common Fungi Research Articles

Moxidectin elevates Candida albicans ergosterol levels to synergize with polyenes against oral candidiasis.

Candida albicans, the most common opportunistic pathogenic fungus, is also the main pathogenic organism for oral candidiasis. This condition is particularly prevalent among the elderly, children, and individuals undergoing radiotherapy or suffering from HIV. The lack of new antifungal drugs, and drug resistance coupled with the side effects of current antifungal agents have increased the challenges of clinical antifungal therapies. Polyenes, including amphotericin B and nystatin, are clinical fungicidal drugs, however, their side effects and low solubility have limited their clinical applications. Here, we identified that moxidectin, a novel approved antiparasitic agent, could synergize with both amphotericin B and nystatin to inhibit the growth and biofilm formation of Candida albicans including 60 clinical isolates. The transcriptome and RT-PCR analysis indicated that moxidectin activated the biosynthesis pathway of ergosterol, the direct target of polyenes, further being verified by the loss of the synergistic activities with polyenes against ergosterol pathway mutants, including Δ/Δerg3, Δ/Δerg11 and Δ/Δerg3 Δ/Δerg11. Moxidectin was then confirmed to elevate the ergosterol biosynthesis levels of C. albicans and enhance the binding between cells and polyenes. In a mouse oral candidiasis model, moxidectin combined with low dosages of polyenes to significantly reduce the infection area, colonization of C. albicans and the inflammatory degree of tongue mucosa. Our study originally demonstrated that moxidectin could activate the ergosterol biosynthesis then elevate the ergosterol contents to enhance the antifungal effects of polyenes against C. albicans and its infections. Moxidectin can serve as the candidate potentiator of polyenes for further clinical practice. KEY POINTS: • Moxidectin synergized with polyenes against Candida albicans. • Moxidectin activated the ergosterol biosynthesis of Candida albicans. • Moxidectin combined with polyenes to effectively combat oral candidiasis in mice.

Repurposing of Statins Against Superficial Fungal Infections

In a few decades fungal infections will become a major worldwide health concern. Research reveal that the fungal strain becomes resistant to current medications in cases of HIV infections, corona infections and environmental factors particularly in people with impaired immune systems. The amount of organ transplants and medication used for therapy all have contributed to an increase in the immunocompromised population. The fungal infections are becoming a more significant cause of mortality and morbidity. An estimated 1.5 million fatal consequences are caused by fungal pathogens annually. In a few decades, fungal infections will become a major worldwide health concern, so that unprecedented rates of fungal resistance to currently available antifungal medicines has been observed.The drug repurposing approaches lowers costs and time by investigating previously approved medicines with known safety and pharmacokinetics toxicity profile for novel therapeutic effects.The HMG – CoA reductase inhibitors drugs statins shows antifungal properties against tinea spp. group of common fungus that causes superficial infections. We have evaluated statins for their antifungal potential by insilico studies & Invitro studies & validate results with standard drugs itraconazole & ketoconazole.The docking studies shows highest binding energy shown by atorvastatin among all statin were used for docking studies pravastatin , atorvastatin, simavastatin ,fluvastatin & rosuvastatin . against fungal protein (PDB ID:5V5Z) & human protein (PDB ID: 3LD6) was found to be -13.52 &13.4 kcal/mole .The invitro studies shows MIC values for atorvastatin against Trichophyton rubrum , Microsporum canis & Epidermatophyton flocossum fungal strains found between 125 μg/ml to 150 125 μg/ml where as for standard drugs was found between 12.5 μg/ml to 25 μg/ml. Following insilico & invitro research atorvastatin determined and may be used for the treatment of fungal infections.

Association of multilocus sequence typing, MSH2 gene mutations, and antifungal resistance in Candida glabrata: implications for clinical outcomes in Chinese hospitals

BackgroundCandida glabrata is the second most common cause of invasive candidiasis worldwide. In this study, we determined the clinical characteristics and drug sensitivity of C. glabrata isolates and investigated the associations between MSH2 gene mutations, sequence types (ST), and drug resistance.MethodsA total of 154 C. glabrata isolates were collected from patients being treated in three hospitals in China. The antifungal sensitivity of the strains was assessed using the broth microdilution method. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) was also performed, followed by MSH2 sequencing. The clinical features and outcomes of C. glabrata infection were analysed for a total of 49 strains, which were collected from patients with invasive Candida infection at Longhua Hospital.ResultsAll 154 isolates were found to be susceptible to amphotericin, 5-fluorocytosine, anidulafungin, caspofungin, and micafungin, whereas 11.7% were fluconazole-resistant, 18.8% were itraconazole non-wild type, and 35.7% were voriconazole non-wild type. ST7 (62.34%) was the most common ST genotype, followed by ST10 (16.88%) and ST15 (7.79%). The total azole resistance rates for all isolates, ST7, ST10, and other STs were 36.4, 42.7, 34.6, and 18.8%, respectively. The ST7 and ST10 isolates were characterised by a higher drug resistance rate than the other minor ST isolates. Moreover, 59.09% of isolates had one or more MSH2 non-synonymous mutations, with V239L being the most commonly detected mutation. The frequency of MSH2 mutations was significantly higher in azole-resistant isolates than in other isolates, whereas P6L or L87P mutations were associated with the highest azole resistance rates of up to 87.5% and 80%, respectively. Our results indicated that ST7 and ST15 are independent predictors of mortality caused by C. glabrata infection and revealed a higher 30-day mortality in patients infected with these strains than in those infected with other ST isolates.ConclusionsOur findings revealed the relationships between MLST, MSH2 gene mutations, and drug resistance in the common pathogenic fungus C. glabrata, and thereby enabled us to identify strains that are associated with higher rates of mortality. These findings will contribute to enhancing our understanding of the pathogenesis of C. glabrata infection.

Enhancement of antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of Fomitopsis pinicola mycelium extract

BackgroundFomitopsis pinicola is one of the most common fungi found in temperate zone of Europe, widely distributed spread in Asia and North America. Fungus has a wide range of therapeutic activity: antitumor, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antifungal, hepatoprotective, hemostatic action. A number of studies have confirmed the significant antioxidant activity of F. pinicola fruiting bodies. However, the controlled cultivation conditions that influence fungal growth and metabolite production of F. pinicola, particularly the mycelial growth and biosynthesis of metabolites in its culture broth, as well as the antioxidant activity of its mycelium, remain poorly understood.ResultsThis study investigated the impact of cultivation conditions on F. pinicola mycelium growth, phenols synthesis and antioxidant activity. Difference in the biosynthetic activity of F. pinicola under tested cultivation conditions was established. A highest value of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH•) inhibition (78.2 ± 0.9%) was found for a mycelium cultivated at 30 ºC, while cultivation at a lower temperature (20 ºC) was suitable for biomass growth (8.5 ± 0.3 g/L) and total phenolic content (TPC) 11.0 ± 0.6 mg GAE/g. Carbon and nitrogen sources in a cultivation broth significantly influenced the studied characteristics. Xylose supported the highest DPPH• inhibition (89.91 ± 0.5%) and TPC (16.55 ± 0.4 mg GAE/g), while galactose yielded the best biomass (4.0 ± 0.3 g/L). Peptone was the most effective nitrogen source for obtaining the mycelium with high potential of DPPH• radical inactivation (90.42 ± 0.5%) and TPC (17.41 ± 0.5 mg GAE/g), while the maximum biomass yield (7.8 ± 0.6 g/L) was found with yeast extract in cultivation medium. F. pinicola demonstrated the ability to grow and produce bioactive metabolites across a wide pH range from 2.5 to 7.5. Shaking cultivation resulted in the highest TPC (21.44 ± 0.10 mg GAE/g), though the same level of antioxidant activity (93%) was achieved under both shaking and static cultivation on the 7th and 28th days, respectively.ConclusionControlling cultivation parameters makes it possible to regulate the metabolic and biochemical processes of F. pinicola, facilitating the balance needed to obtain optimal biomass, phenols and antioxidant activity. The findings show the potential to increase phenol production by 2.25 and 2.23 times under shaking and static conditions, respectively, while maintaining a high level of activity.

Antifungal Properties of Sargassum cinereum and Padina boergesenii Extracts Against Fungi Associated with Strawberry Fruits Concerning Mycotoxin Production

Strawberries are susceptible to decay and destruction while being harvested and stored. This study had the following objectives: (1) the documentation of fungi and mycotoxin production associated with infected strawberry fruits; (2) the evaluation of the primary phytochemicals of Sargassum cinereum and Padina boergesenii by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis to identify the active chemical composition of the seaweed extracts; and (3) the assessment of the antifungal activity of five extracts from brown seaweeds both in vitro and in vivo against fungal infections on fresh fruit under post-harvest conditions. The most common fungi were Aspergillus niger 14.36%, Botrytis cinerea 38.29%, and Mucor irregularis 16.88%. Padina boergesenii acetone extract had the highest in vitro antifungal activity. The methanol extracts of both S. cinereum and P. boergesenii were effective against the pathogenicity and aggressiveness (in vivo) on post-harvest strawberry fruits. B. cinerea could produce botrydial and dihydrobotrydial toxins with concentrations of 8.14 µg/mL and 4.26 µg/mL, respectively. A. niger could produce ochratoxin A with a concentration of 10.05 µg/mL. The present study demonstrates that the extracts of macroalgae S. cinereum and P. boergesenii contain secondary metabolites and antioxidants, indicating their potential utilization in antifungal applications.

Applications of Nanotechnology in Combating Fungal Diseases in Humans: An Updated Review

In recent years, fungal infections caused by filamentous fungi have posed a serious threat to public health worldwide. Fungi such as Aspergillus, Coccidioides, and Mucorales (the most common filamentous fungi), as well as Candida auris (a non-filamentous fungus), can cause infections in humans. It can cause serious life-threatening diseases in individuals with weakened immune systems, patients infected with HIV/AIDS, uncontrolled diabetes, blood disorders, organ transplants, and chemotherapy. In this review, we describe the available nan formulations (metallic and polymeric nanoparticles) that have been developed to enhance efficacy and reduce the number of adverse effects following the administration of conventional antifungals. The burden posed by fungal infections on human health is increasing worldwide. Fungi such as Aspergillus, Candida, and Cryptococcus are among the most common pathogens responsible for human diseases, accounting for over 90% of infection-related deaths. Moreover, effective antifungal treatments are not available, primarily due to host toxicity, pathogen resistance, and immunodeficiency. In recent years, nanomaterials have proven to be not only more efficient antifungal therapeutic agents but also capable of overcoming fungal drug resistance".

The Impact of Beneficial Microorganisms on Soil Vitality: A Review

The paper summarizes the literature on the critical impact of beneficial microorganisms on soil vitality. Common soil microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa, and viruses contribute significantly to enhancing soil fertility through processes such as nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization and mobilization, sulfur cycle, composting, and heavy metal remediation. Their abundance and biomass vary significantly across taxa within the uppermost 15 cm of soil, with bacteria dominating numerically and fungi contributing substantially to biomass. These microorganisms mediate essential biogeochemical cycles in soil, including carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycles, by facilitating the decomposition of organic matter and recycling soil nutrients. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria like Rhizobium are prevalent symbionts capable of biologically fixing nitrogen. Additionally, bacteria such as Micrococcus spp., Enterobacter aerogens, Pseudomonas capacia, fungi including Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, A. japonicas, Penicillum spp., and actinomycetes like Streptomyces play crucial roles in phosphorus solubilization, making phosphorus available for plant uptake. This synthesis underscores the critical role of beneficial microorganisms in maintaining soil vitality. These organisms interact with plants through beneficial relationships, influencing soil fertility dynamics by enhancing nutrient availability, promoting plant growth, and controlling pathogens. The use of biofertilizers has emerged as a sustainable strategy to improve crop yields and restore soil fertility, reducing environmental impacts linked to chemical fertilizers. Understanding the intricate dynamics of soil-beneficial microorganism and their interactions with Plants are pivotal for optimizing agricultural practices, ensuring long-term soil health, and enhancing productivity in sustainable farming systems.

Antipathogenic Activity of Betainized Polyethyleneimine Sprays Without Toxicity

Background/Objectives: The design of alternative antipathogenic sprays has recently attracted much attention due to the limitations of existing formulations, such as toxicity and low and narrow efficacy. Polyethyleneimine (PEI) is a great antimicrobial polymer against a wide range of pathogens, but toxicity limits its use. Here, betainized PEI (B-PEI) was synthesized to decrease the toxicity of PEI and protonated with citric acid (CA), boric acid (BA), and HCl to improve antimicrobial activity. Methods: Cytotoxicity of the PEI-based solutions was determined on L929 fibroblast cells. Antibacterial/fungal activity of PEI-based antipathogenic sprays was investigated by microtiter and disc diffusion assays, in addition to bacterial viability and adhesion % of common bacteria and fungi on the PEI-treated masks. Furthermore, the antiviral effect of the PEI-based solutions was determined against SARS-CoV-2 virus. Results: The biosafe concentration of PEI was determined as 1 μg/mL with 75 ± 11% cell viability, but B-PEI and its protonated forms had great biocompatibility even at 1000 μg/mL with more than 85% viability. The antibacterial/fungal effect of non-toxic B-PEI was improved by protonation with BA and HCl with 2.5–10 mg/mL minimum bactericidal/fungicidal concentrations (MBCs/MFCs). Bacterial/fungal viability and adhesion on the mask was almost eliminated by using 50 μL with 5–10 mg/mL of B-PEI-BA. Both protonated bare and betainized PEI show potent antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 virus. Conclusions: The toxicity of PEI was overcome by using betainized forms of PEI (B-PEI). Furthermore, the antimicrobial and antiviral efficacy of PEI and B-PEI was improved by protonation with CA, BA, and HCl of amine groups on B-PEI. B-PEI-BA spray solution has great potential as an antipathogenic spray with broad-spectrum antimicrobial potency against harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses without any toxicity.

The Pathology and Blood Biochemistry of Juvenile Lates calcarifer on Diets Contaminated With Mycotoxins, Histamines and Rancid Fats-A Case Study.

Mycotoxins, originating from contaminated raw materials or suboptimal feed storage, are a growing concern in tropical aquaculture. Common fungi such as Aspergillus spp. and Fusarium spp. produce mycotoxins including aflatoxin, fumonisin, deoxynivalenol and zearalenone. High doses or prolonged exposure (weeks) to low doses of these mycotoxins (< 20 μg/kg) can depress growth, immunity, and cause mortality. This study investigated poor growth and low survival in juvenile Asian seabass, Lates calcarifer fed two different diets (FM40 and ABS3) for 5 weeks. Analysis of these diets revealed high peroxide values, multiple mycotoxins and high histamine levels. Fish fed the FM40 diet, which was contaminated with aflatoxin B1 (13.2 μg/kg), aflatoxin B2 (1.9 μg/kg), deoxynivalenol (29.5 μg/kg), alternariol (2.2 μg/kg), elevated peroxide value (45.91 mEq/kg), and histamine (129.51 mg/kg) developed mild bile duct hyperplasia, depressed total serum proteins (50.40 ± 10.06 g/L), markedly elevated blood potassium (8.2 ± 0.18 mmol/L), and heavy iron deposits in splenic melanomacrophage centres (Perl's stain) indicative of increased haemolysis. The presence of multiple cytotoxic mycotoxins in FM40 diet could explain the increased haemolysis and elevated blood potassium. In contrast, fish fed the ABS3 diet, which had high histamine levels (210.05 mg/kg), exhibited protein-losing nephropathy with multifocal fibrin plugs (Martius scarlet blue stain) indicating acute renal damage, and elevated blood calcium and phosphorus levels. Histamine is metabolised and excreted through the kidneys and known to induce renal arteriolar constriction, disrupt glomerular filtration barrier and increase permeability resulting in protein loss. This study shows that blood biochemistry and histopathology are useful diagnostic tools for assessing the impact of mycotoxins and histamines on fish health.

Microbial Sampling and Analysis Taken from Fingerprint System Devices Located at Al-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital in Baghdad - Iraq

Biometric devices (BDs) are nowadays common in use for a variety of purposes. This system involves physical contact between the skin and surface of the device, which is likely to be contaminated by microorganisms of multiple users. However, it can be a source of multiple microbiological contaminations. This study was done at AL-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital-Baghdad- Iraq, during the period started from 15th November 2023 till 15th March 2024. It was designed to find out the most common bacteria and fungi that might contaminate the fingerprint devices and performing antimicrobial susceptibility tests. Forty-six sterile swab samples taken from Twenty-three fingerprint system devices distributed in twelve different hospital departments. From each device we took two swabs, one before sterilization other after, and tested sensitivity patterns against 16 antimicrobials. Four Gram positive bacteria scored on fingerprint devices, in Medicine, Surgery, Orthopedics and Obstetrics &amp; Gynecology departments represented by Coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CoNS). Response to sensitivity test for antibiotics, especially Moxifloxacin, Linezolid, Teicoplanin, Vancomycin, Tigecycline and Rifampicin, 100%, as well other antibiotics but in varying degrees, and not any type of fungi were isolated. In conclusion, Gram positive bacteria population was the most common organisms, and highly response in varying degrees to the most Sixteen antibiotics used in sensitivity test, however, should proper maintenance and educational practices must be applied to minimize contamination.

Forest restoration benefits common and rare wood-decomposing fungi with a delay

Decline in the amount of dead wood deteriorates habitats for saproxylic organisms globally. This could be compensated by restoration, but it is poorly understood how created dead wood corresponds to the habitat requirements of saproxylic species. Using a large-scale field experiment of 30 restoration sites across Finland, we studied the long-term (5–15 years) effects of dead wood creation on wood-decomposing fungi (polypores) in Norway spruce and Scots pine dominated forests. All studied conservation areas had been used for timber production prior to conservation. The average amount and diversity of woody debris was higher on the restoration treatments than on the non-restored controls. Altogether, 56 polypore species were recorded. Restoration treatments had 1.4 and 8 times more species and observations than controls. Eight red-listed polypore species were observed, six on the restored plots (four only from the created dead wood) and two on the controls. Species composition of polypore assemblages differed between the restoration and control treatments, as well as between the spruce- and pine-dominated forests. Following restoration, temporal changes in the polypore assemblages were clear but only partly related to dead wood creation. Unlike previous short-term studies, our results show that dead wood creation by felling and ring-barking trees benefits not only common but also indicator and red-listed polypore species; indeed, 15 years after restoration all red-listed species occurred on created dead wood. As some red-listed species occurred solely on naturally fallen trees five to ten years after restoration, created dead wood alone cannot substitute for natural dead wood.

Fungal Shoulder Periprosthetic Infections: A Systematic Review.

Background: Data regarding fungal PJIs of the shoulder are scarce. The present systematic review aims to identify and evaluate all published shoulder fungal PJIs in an effort to better understand the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to these infections. Methods: A systematic review according to the PRISMA guidelines was conducted, locating all shoulder fungal PJIs. The initial search located 1435 articles. Data were collected on demographics, the causative fungus, antifungal treatment (AFT), surgical interventions, and infection outcomes. Results: After screening and implementation of the inclusion criteria, a total of 10 articles, including 10 cases, were eligible. The sample's mean age was 62.44 years. Diabetes mellitus was the most common comorbidity (30%), while 70% were immunocompromised. Candida spp. was the most common causative fungus (nine cases; 90%), while all cases were confirmed with cultures. In three cases (30%), there was bacterial co-infection. The mean duration of antifungal treatment (AFT) was 8.4 weeks, while the preferred agent was fluconazole (60% of cases), followed by amphotericin B (30%). Most cases (50%) underwent resection arthroplasty as part of the treatment, while two-stage revision arthroplasty was performed in 30%. Infection's eradication was reported in 90% of the studied cases. Conclusions: The diagnosis and management of fungal periprosthetic shoulder infections are particularly challenging and require a multidisciplinary approach. The combination of antifungal therapy and tailored surgical strategies is crucial, but further research is needed to refine treatment protocols and address the unique considerations in shoulder PJIs.

A single-center study on the distribution and shifting trend of infectious keratitis pathogens from 2018 to 2022

Objective: To investigate the pathogen species, composition, and distribution characteristics of infectious keratitis pathogens in Shandong Province and its surrounding areas. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, patients with keratitis who underwent corneal sampling and microbiological culture at the Shandong Eye Hospital from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2022 were included. Under topical anesthesia, the edge of the lesion was scraped by an experienced physician. The samples were inoculated on blood agar and Sabouraud dextrose agar plates, separately for bacterial and fungal culture and identification. If necessary, the samples were inoculated on a non-nutrient agar medium with Escherichia coli for Acanthamoeba culture. Bacterial isolates were identified using Vitek 2 compact or matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Fungal isolates were identified based on morphological characteristics or sent to a company for sequencing in cases of difficult identification. The epidemiological data of the patients, pathogen species and number (counting as 1 strain if the same strain was isolated from multiple corneal specimens of the same patient), culture positivity rate, and seasonal distribution were recorded. Differences in pathogen positivity rates among different seasons were analyzed using the chi-square test. Results: Among the 4, 024 patients with infectious keratitis during the study period, there were 2 510 males (62.3%) and 1 514 females (37.6%), aged from 46 days to 94 years. Positive microbial culture results were achieved in 2, 363 patients (58.7%), including 906 cases (38.3%) with bacterial positivity, 1 231 cases (52.1%) with fungal positivity, 28 cases (1.2%) with Acanthamoeba positivity, and 198 cases (8.4%) with mixed fungal and bacterial infections. A total of 2 561 strains were isolated, including 1 104 bacterial strains. The most common bacteria were coagulase-negative Staphylococcus spp. (623/1 104, 56.4%), followed by Streptococcus spp. (131/1 104, 11.9%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (68/1 104, 6.2%). The most common fungi were Fusarium spp. (634/1 429, 44.4%), followed by Aspergillus spp. (279/1 429, 19.5%) and Alternaria spp. (229/1 429, 16.0%). Bacterial keratitis was more common in summer and autumn, while fungal keratitis was more common in autumn and winter. Conclusions: Among infectious keratitis cases in Shandong Eye Hospital, Fusarium species were predominant fungal pathogens, while coagulase-negative Staphylococcus predominated in bacterial pathogens. Both fungal and bacterial corneal infections showed seasonal variations.

Identification of entomopathogenic fungi from insect pests of mango and their efficacy against mango hoppers

Surveys were made in the Sindhudurg and Ratnagiri districts of the Konkan region of Maharashtra, India during 2017-2018 for the collection of mummified insect samples from different mango orchards in order to isolate entomopathogenic fungi. The collected mummified insect samples were brought to the laboratory and incubated on PDA plates. Those samples showing growth on PDA plates were sub-cultured until pure fungus growth was obtained. They were tested for their pathogenicity in the laboratory and 14 samples were found pathogenic to mango hoppers. They were sent to NFCCI, Agarkar Research Institute, Pune for identification. Out of the 14 entomopathogenic samples identified, 7 were from Genus Fusarium, 4 were mixed cultures of Fusarium and Aspergillus, and one sample each from Genus Trichoderma, Mucor and Nigrospora. Studies showed that Fusarium species were the most common entomopathogenic fungi associated with mango pests, especially mango hoppers. Laboratory evaluation of these samples showed that amongst different isolated entomogenus fungi, &lt;i&gt;Fusarium semitectum&lt;/i&gt; sample 16(1) was more pathogenic to mango hoppers than other fungal samples. Field evaluation of this sample also proved its efficacy.

Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Microbial Keratitis: A 5-Year Comparative Study.

To report the clinical and microbiological profiles of microbial keratitis and its antimicrobial resistance before, during, and after COVID-19. This was a retrospective case-note review of all corneal scrape specimens collected from patients with microbial keratitis from January 2018 to December 2023. Case records were analyzed for demographic characteristics, microbiological diagnosis, and antibiograms. All outcome variables were collected, stratified, and compared between 3 periods: the pre-COVID-19 group (January-December 2019), the COVID-19 group (January 2020-December 2022), and the post-COVID-19 group (January-December 2023). A total of 947 corneal cultures from 947 patients were reviewed. Gram-positive bacteria predominated in all periods, with no significant differences in their distribution. Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most frequently identified organism. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most common Gram-negative bacterium, with its incidence significantly lower in the post-COVID period. Fungal infections showed a significant increase in the post-COVID group, with Fusarium sp. being the most common fungus and showing a significant increase in incidence in the post-COVID group. Despite a stable incidence of microbial keratitis, this study highlights a concerning trend in antibiotic resistance. Although some pathogens became less common, those that persisted have become increasingly difficult to treat. Understanding the clinical and microbiological profiles of microbial keratitis and antimicrobial resistance patterns before and after the COVID-19 pandemic is crucial for informed treatment decisions.

The complete mitogenome of Alternaria tenuissima (Kunze) Wiltshire 1933 (Pleosporaceae), a fungus causing apple leaf blotch disease

Alternaria tenuissima (Kunze) Wiltshire 1933 is a plant pathogenic fungus mainly causing leaf blotch disease. Here, we de novo assembled mitochondrial genome of A. tenuissima isolate AT-1224. The total mitogenome size is 57,475 bp with 29.00% G + C content. The genome contained 12 coding genes and 15 hypothetical proteins, 34 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes and 2 ribosomal RNA (rRNA). There are 227 SSR repeats, range from 2 to 4 base pairs, most five repeats were AT (144), AAT (54), AG (33), AC (13) and AAG (5). The results also found 13 tandem repeats (>100 bp), the largest repeat were forward 2 times located from 13,405 to 20,024 bp and 25,549 to 32,168 bp. Phylogenetic analysis based on 17 species complete mitogenomes indicated that A. tenuissima mitogenome was closest to 2 species, A. solani and A. alternata, sister clade to 6 species, representing Curvularia clavate, Exserohilum rostratum, Exserohilum turcicum, Bipolaris cookie, Bipolaris oryzae and Bipolaris sorokiniana. Further analysis among common fungus in local apple orchards using mitochondrial protein-coding genes revealed A. tenuissima were closing to 2 Alternaria fungi and a fungus representing Phoma sp. These results provide a basic reference for identification and evolution studies of A. tenuissima on apple trees.

A-273 Rapid, Portable Invasive Fungal Infection Diagnostic and Candida Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing

Abstract Background Traumatic wounds are associated with a higher risk of invasive fungal infections (IFI), which lead to a significant increase in amputation or death. Actionable treatment decisions are hampered because true infections can be difficult to differentiate from external wound contaminates, and tissue biopsy and quantification of fungal load is required to determine if treatment is necessary, which currently takes several days. GeneCapture is developing the CAPTURE 60-minute, portable infection identification platform to detect infectious levels of common fungi including the genera Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Scedosporium, the family Herpotrichiellaceae, and the order Mucorales. The company is also pursuing rapid identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing for Candida species from multiple infection types. Methods This study seeks to determine the Limit of Detection (LoD), sensitivity and specificity of the CAPTURE ID assay for fungal pathogens. Since tissue biopsy samples must be used to assess the presence of IFI in wounds, GeneCapture has developed a manual process for the crude homogenization of muscle tissue to allow this matrix to be used as the starting sample for the ID assay. Mock samples were tested for inclusivity and exclusivity on a series of IFI ID panels against multiple strains of the included fungi, against fungi not yet specifically detected on the panel, and against bacteria that commonly infect wounds. While the LoD for yeasts may be determined in CFU/mL, there is no similar, easy-to-define metric for molds. GeneCapture has developed a quantitative PCR method to detect the single copy beta-tubulin gene to roughly correlate fungal dry mass and nuclei number to assay signal for molds cultured in Potato Dextrose Broth. Determining beta-tubulin copy numbers for extracts from mock samples then allowed detection of the progression of IFI over the course of infection. Lastly, antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) was performed on two species of Candida to validate utilizing GeneCapture’s rapid phenotypic AST method for fungal infections. Results To date, the CAPTURE ID panel has been tested against 27 included or excluded strains of fungi or bacteria with 97% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The current LoD for mold organisms varies from approximately 1,000 nuclei for Aspergillus species, to 100,000 nuclei for Fusarium species. Additional work to understand this range is underway. Lastly, we have correctly determined the susceptibility of Candida species using our novel approach within 4-6 hours. Conclusions GeneCapture’s ID and AST technology offer a unique solution to address the increasing prevalence of fungal infections. Our platform can identify the most common fungal components in a wound within 60 minutes of receiving a tissue biopsy sample. Candida infections occur across multiple matrices and rapidly identifying the species of Candida and then determining its phenotypic susceptibility profile will have a large impact on treating these difficult pathogens.

Microbial Sampling and Analysis taken from Laboratory white Coats Staff Working at Al-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital

Lab coats are protective elements to people working in health care and researches that separates them from pollutants. However, if not properly used, it can be a source of multiple microbiological contaminations. This study was done at AL-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital-Baghdad, during from 15th November 2023 to 15th March 2024. It was designed to find the most common bacteria, fungi and yeasts that might be present on staff lab coats. 53 samples (106 swabs) were cultured after collected from the sleeves and pockets of staff Lab coats and observed the antimicrobial susceptibility in lab swabs culture for 14 isolates out of 106 swabs belonged to Gram positive bacteria and sensitivity patterns against 16 antimicrobials. Gram positive bacteria found to be the most common organisms in lab coats represented by Microbiology unit with 71.4%, followed by Phlebotomy units 21.4% , which represented by Coagulase-negative Staphylococci(CoNS) Staphylococcus epidermidis (43.9%),Staphylococcus haemolyticus and Staphylococcus warneri (21.4% ,14.3%) respectively. , It turns out, higher bacteria growth in female Lab coats )85.7%( than in male )14.3% (and in sleeves )15.1%( than in pockets(11.3%) ,in addition , increased response to sensitivity test for antibiotics , especially Tigecycline antibiotic 100% ,Gentamycin, Levofloxacin, Moxifloxacin, Teicoplanin and Rifampicin (92.9%),as well others but in varying degrees , and not any type of fungi were isolated. In conclusion, Gram positive bacteria population was the most common organisms, higher prevalence of microbial infection in female than in men and increased of antibiotic sensitivity specially Tigecycline antibiotic, however, should proper maintenance and educational practices must be applied to minimize contamination.

Results of a 10-month Study on the Species Spectrum and Antimicrobial Resistance of Microorganisms in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Introduction. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) remains a global issue requiring a comprehensive approach to address it. One of the methods to mitigate AMR is the microbiological monitoring of antibiotic-resistant strains of microorganisms within the framework of infection control with regular monitoring of resistance patterns. The aim of thе study. To determine the species diversity and antimicrobial resistance of microorganisms isolated in a tertiary care hospital over a 10-month period. Materials and methods. The study was conducted at the Clinical Bacteriology Laboratory of the Regional Center for Laboratory Diagnostics, Communal enterprise ″Yuri Semenyuk Rivne Regional Clinical Hospital″ of Rivne Regional Council (Rivne, Ukraine) over 10 months (July 2023 - April 2024). From 8.300 patients, 12.463 biological samples were collected, from which 16.618 strains of microorganisms were isolated and studied. Pure culture isolation was performed using bacteriological methods with nutrient media. Species identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were carried out using a semi-automated bacteriological analyzer ID/AST system D2mini with plates produced by Zhuhai DL Biotech Co. Ltd., in accordance with EUCAST 2023-2024 guidelines. Results. During the 10 months of observation, 16.618 strains of microorganisms were identified and their antimicrobial resistance levels were determined. Of these, 64.4 % were gram-negative bacteria, 32.5 % were gram-positive microorganisms, and 3.0 % were yeast fungi. The most common gram-negative bacteria were Klebsiella pneumoniae (40.8 %), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18.2 %), and Acinetobacter baumannii (14.4 %). Among the gram-positive bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus (39.5 %), Staphylococcus epidermidis (15.5 %), and Staphylococcus haemolyticus (14.1 %) were predominant. The most common yeast fungi of the Candida genus were Candida albicans (60.5 %), Candida guilliermondii (12.5 %), and Candida tropicalis (8.9 %). High resistance was found to second-generation cephalosporins (81.4 % resistant strains to cefalexin) and fourth-generation cephalosporins (67.2 % resistant to cefepime), as well as aminopenicillins (amoxicillin-clavulanate – 76.1 %, ampicillin – 75.1 %). High sensitivity was noted to antibiotics of the tetracycline group (78.5 % to tetracycline), glycylcyclines (93.5 % to tigecycline), oxazolidinones (93.5 % to tigecycline), and lincosamides (80.8 % to clindamycin). Conclusions. A total of 16.618 strains of microorganisms were identified, with 64.4 % being gram-negative bacteria, 32.5 % gram-positive microorganisms, and 3.0 % yeast fungi. High resistance was found to second- and fourth-generation cephalosporins and aminopenicillins. High sensitivity was detected to antibiotics of the tetracycline, glycylcycline, oxazolidinone, and lincosamide groups.

A Basic Guide to Mushrooms Commonly Encountered in Potted Plants in Florida

Mushrooms growing in potting soil are a common problem reported in nursery production and in potted plants in the indoor and outdoor home landscape. Many of these fungi are saprotrophic and feed on the organic matter contained in the potting soil itself and/or in the mulch, which varies in composition but often contains tree bark, wood chips, pine straw, moss, or leaves. These fungi are not necessarily harmful to the plants, but fungal fruiting bodies can make plants unmarketable. Unknown fungi can also be concerning to retailers and homeowners because of potential toxicity to pets and children. The purpose of this publication is to provide homeowners and retail nursery growers with an overview of some of the most common mushroom-forming fungi found in potted plants and potting soils in Florida. We also provide cultural control recommendations to help prevent or reduce mushroom growth.