Shellfish Research Articles

Functional trait dataset of benthic macroinvertebrates in South Korean streams

Functional traits are the result of evolution and adaptation, providing important ecological insights into how organisms interact with their environment. Benthic macroinvertebrates, in particular, have garnered attention as biomonitoring indicators for freshwater ecosystems. This study presents a functional trait dataset for benthic macroinvertebrates, comprising 447 taxa (393 at genus level, 53 at family level and one at class level) from five phyla (Annelida, Arthropoda, Mollusca, Nematomorpha, and Platyhelmenthes), categorized into nine traits related to life history, morphology, and habit. To account for variation in available trait information, we assigned confidence levels to each taxon and functional trait based on the level of evidence using fuzzy coding. Our dataset provides an important resource for understanding the ecology of benthic macroinvertebrates in South Korea, serving as a valuable baseline dataset for studying their biodiversity, conservation, and biomonitoring in freshwater ecosystems.

Cantharidin Topical Solution 0.7%: First Approval.

Cantharidin (YCANTH™) is a proprietary drug-device combination product containing a formulation of cantharidin 0.7% topical solution (a vesicant naturally derived from blister beetles) delivered via a single-use applicator that has been developed by Verrica Pharmaceuticals Inc. for the treatment of molluscum contagiosum and is also being developed for the treatment of warts. In July 2023, YCANTH™ (cantharidin 0.7% topical solution) was approved for the topical treatment of molluscum contagiosum in adult and pediatric patients 2years of age and older in the USA. This article summarizes the milestones in the development of cantharidin 0.7% topical solution leading to this first approval for the topical treatment of molluscum contagiosum in adult and pediatric patients 2years of age and older.

Molluscum Contagiosum - Rare Tumorous Presentation with Dermoscopic Findings.

Molluscum Contagiosum - Rare Tumorous Presentation with Dermoscopic Findings.

Seasonal Occurrence of Fin Fish and Shell Fish Species Collected from the Arasalar Estuary, South East Coast of India

Seasonal Occurrence of Fin Fish and Shell Fish Species Collected from the Arasalar Estuary, South East Coast of India

Seasonal benthic species composition linked to coastal defense structures (CDS) in Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.

The natural hydrodynamic process of Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, has changed since the extension of Sultan Mahmud Airport runway in 2008. Consequently, severe coastal erosion has occurred in the area, particularly during the northeast monsoon season (NEM). Numerous types of coastal defense structures (CDS) have been constructed to protect the coastline. Despite the loss of esthetic values, the effect of CDS construction on marine organisms in the area remains unknown. Hence, this study aims to assess the ecological aspects of macrobenthic compositions at the CDS area of Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, based on the differences between the southwest (SWM) and northeast (NEM) monsoon seasons. Macrobenthos were collected from the sediment in July (SWM) and December 2021 (NEM) using the Ponar grab at 12 substations from five sampling stations. The density of macrobenthos was higher in SWM (48,190.82 ind./m2) than in NEM (24,504.83 ind./m2), with phylum Mollusca recording the highest species composition (60-99.3%). The macrobenthos species had a low to moderate level of diversity (H' = 1.4-3.1) with the species were almost evenly distributed (J' = 0.2-0.8). Windward substations exhibited coarser grain sizes (38.56%-86.84%), whereas landward substations exhibited very fine grain sizes (44.26%-86.70%). The SWM season recorded a higher organic matter content (1.6%-6.33%) than the NEM season (0.4%-3.1%). However, metal concentrations in the surface sediment were within the safe range and permissible limits for both seasons, inferring that the macrobenthos composition was unaffected. This study demonstrated that the CDS associated with the monsoon system has controlled the hydrodynamics and nearshore sedimentary processes in the Kuala Nerus coastal zone, thereby affecting the macrobenthos population, in terms of richness and density. The ecological and energetic effects of the coastal structures in different seasons have resulted in a more significant result, with the SWM exhibiting a higher macrobenthos composition than the NEM.

Comprehensive analysis of 66 complete molluscum contagiosum virus (MOCV) genomes: characterization and functional annotation of 47 novel complete MOCV genomes, including the first genome of MOCV genotype 3, and a proposal for harmonized MOCV genotyping indexing.

Four molluscum contagiosum virus (MOCV) genotypes (MOCV1-4) and four subtype variants were partially characterized using restriction enzyme profiling in the 1980s/1990s, but complete genome sequences of only MOCV1 and MOCV2 are available. The evolutionary pathways whereby genotypes/subtype variants with unavailable sequences emerged and whether all MOCVs can be detected using current diagnostic approaches remain unclear. We fully characterized 47 novel complete MOCV genomes, including the first complete MOCV3 genome, expanding the number of fully characterized genomes to 66. For reliably classifying the novel non-MOCV1/2 genomes, we developed and validated a framework for matching sequence-derived restriction maps with those defining MOCV subtypes in pioneering studies. Six phylogenetic subgroups (PG1-6) were identified, PG5 representing a novel MOCV2 subtype. The phylogenetic subgroups diverged from the prototype lineages following large-scale recombination events and hinted at partial sequence content of MOCV4 and direction of recombinant transfer in the events spawning PG5 and yet undetected MOCV1vb variant.

The MC160 protein of the molluscum contagiosum virus dampens cGAS/STING-induced interferon-β activation

Molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) is a poxvirus that causes benign, persistent skin lesions. MCV encodes a variety of immune evasion molecules to dampen host immune responses. Two of these proteins are the MC159 and MC160 proteins. Both MC159 and MC160 contain two tandem death effector domains and share homology to the cellular FLIPs, FADD, and procaspase-8. MC159 and MC160 dampen several innate immune responses such as NF-κB activation and mitochondrial antiviral signaling (MAVS)-mediated induction of type 1 interferon (IFN). The type 1 IFN response is also activated by the cytosolic DNA sensors cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) and stimulator of interferon genes (STING). Both cGAS and STING play a vital role in sensing a poxvirus infection. In this study, we demonstrate that there are nuanced differences between both MC160 and MC159 in terms of how the viral proteins modulate the cGAS/STING and MAVS pathways. Specifically, MC160 expression, but not MC159 expression, dampens cGAS/STING-mediated induction of IFN in HEK 293 T cells. Further, MC160 expression prevented the K63-ubiquitination of both STING and TBK1, a kinase downstream of cGAS/STING. Ectopic expression of the MC160 protein, but not the MC159 protein, resulted in a measurable decrease in the TBK1 protein levels as detected via immunoblotting. Finally, using a panel of MC160 truncation mutants, we report that the MC160 protein requires both DEDs to inhibit cGAS/STING-induced activation of IFN-β. Our model indicates MC160 likely alters the TBK1 signaling complex to decrease IFN-β activation at the molecular intersection of the cGAS/STING and MAVS signaling pathways.

Diversity of Gastropods and Bivalvia Caught By Pemadak in The Intertidal Zone of Serinting Beach, Special Economic Zone Mandalika

The intertidal area is utilized by coastal communities to collect intertidal biota during low tides, which is called “madak. Madak culture is also practiced by the people of Sumbawa. One of the groups of animals taken during madak are Gastropods and Bivalves from the Phylum Mollusca. Gastropods and Bivalves have many benefits for coastal communities. One of the direct benefits of Gastropods and Bivalves for society is consumption. This research focuses on the diversity that leads to the taxonomy of Gastropods and Bivalves caught by fishmen in the intertidal zone of Serinting Beach.The present study aims to analyze the diversity of Gastropods and Bivalves harvested during madak, to develop identification keys for harvested Gastropods and Bivalves, and to identify the amount of exploitation of Gastropods and Bivalves in madak. This study used a descriptive method of quantitative approach by purchasing Gastropods and Bivalves harvested by 5 madak-women in 5 days convenience (convenience sampling) The results found 5 orders, 11 families, and 28 species from 715 individuals of Gastropoda, while 2 orders, 3 families, and 4 species from 69 individuals of Bivalvia. Madak Gastropods and bivalves were used to develop identification keys. It was estimated that the number of Gastropods exploited was 3.348,4 individuals and bivalves were 351,6 individuals 1 per month.

Unveiling Hidden Risks: Intentional Molecular Screening for Sexually Transmitted Infections and Vaginosis Pathogens in Patients Who Have Been Exclusively Tested for Human Papillomavirus Genotyping.

This analytical, prospective, cross-sectional study included 408 males and females. Eligible participants had positive and negative HPV genotyping test results and agreed to early detection or had HPV antecedents. They provided the same urogenital samples used for HPV detection and, through our multiplex in-house PCR assay, we screened for Candida spp., Ureaplasma spp., Trichomonas vaginalis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 (HSV), Mycoplasma spp., molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), Treponema pallidum, Haemophilus spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella spp. The subsequent statistical analysis aimed to reveal correlations between HPV genotypes and the identified pathogens. Of the participants, 72.1% (n = 294) tested positive for HPV genotypes. HR-HPV (high-risk HPV) genotypes comprised 51 (8.1%), 66 (7.1%), and 58 (6.1%). Haemophilus spp., Ureaplasma spp., Candida spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Mycoplasma spp. frequently co-occurred with HPV infection (p < 0.05). Gender-based variations were notorious for Ureaplasma spp., Mycoplasma spp., and MCV (p < 0.05). Coinfections were prevalent (43.9%), with a positive HPV result elevating the risk for Trichomonas vaginalis, Mycoplasma spp., Staphylococcus aureus, HSV, and MCV (OR > 1, p < 0.05). HPV 16 correlated with HSV and Ureaplasma spp., while HPV 6 was linked with HSV and MCV (p < 0.05). This screening strategy uncovered significant coinfections and associations between HPV genotypes and pathogens, underscoring the importance of routine screening to explore clinical implications in urogenital health.

Molluscum contagiosum presenting as periorbital abscess in immunocompetent children

Molluscum contagiosum presenting as a periorbital region abscess is unusual. The virus generally causes a self-limiting localized disease in children. Presentation as an abscess has been reported mainly in immunocompromised patients. We performed a retrospective study of ten children treated for Molluscum contagiosum infection presenting as periorbital abscess. Data investigated included age, immunocompetence, systemic antibiotic treatment, clinical findings, and histopathology. All children were immunocompetent. Bacterial cultures taken in six of the ten children were positive in two. Seven patients received oral antibiotics before presentation but required IV antibiotics on admission. One patient received IV antibiotics only. All antibiotic treatment had very limited effect. Two patients had no antibiotic treatment. CT imaging in one case where orbital cellulitis was suspected showed no significant intraorbital findings with anterior involvement only. Nine out of ten children had surgery and intra-operative cryotherapy at our center with immediate improvement and recovery. One child whose parents initially refused surgical excision had initial limited clinical improvement of periorbital swelling with antibiotics. However, the lesions were excised shortly following discharge from our hospital at another medical center with a complete cure. Molluscum is a cause of periorbital abscess in immunocompetent children which should be part of the differential diagnosis in periorbital/adnexal infection. Antibiotic treatment has a limited effect, and the abscess is most likely a virally triggered reaction. Surgical excision and intra-operative cryotherapy are curative of the disease in our experience.

A Multifaceted Study of Wawa River, Esperanza, Agusan Del Sur, Philippines - Aquatic Macroinvertebrates, Water Quality, and Soil Particle Size Analysis

The diversity of macro-invertebrate species in specific aquatic habitats often assesses environmental stress caused by pollution. To find out interactions in various macro-invertebrates communities, different water quality parameters and soil particles of Wawa River, research was conducted on Wawa River, Esperanza Agusan del Sur. Samples of macro-invertebrates, water and soil were taken from three different river stations. A total of 13 taxa of various macro-invertebrates were identified from the area. Phylum Arthropoda constitutes 62% of the total population and 32% form Phylum Mollusca. There is a notable similarity in macroinvertebrate abundance across the three stations, but the maximum numbers were observed in downstream. Most of the water physicochemical parameters of Wawa River were within the normal range, suitable for the healthy growth of macro-invertebrates. Most of the three sampling stations have medium sand particles, indicating relatively stable sediment, suitable habitat availability, and ongoing sediment transport and deposition processes. Diversified populations of various macro-invertebrates confirm good ecological condition of the environment and water in the studied site especially ample concentration of DO in River. The documented data on macro-invertebrates in the studied site will provide a baseline for future research.

Defining clinically meaningful improvement in molluscum contagiosum

Defining clinically meaningful improvement in molluscum contagiosum

Trans-Japan Sea land-bridge disjunction: A case of vicariance in the subterranean genus Nipponasellus (Crustacea, Isopoda, Asellidae) in a large-scale biogeographical context.

This study examines nineteen phreatobiological hand pump samples collected in 20092010 in three separate areas of salmon river basins in the southern part of Primorye, in the Far East of Russia. For the first time, faunal groundwater patterns were assessed for the rivers of Eastern Manchuria, the Ussury River Basin and the rivers of the south-western slope of Sikhote Alin. A total of 164 species (including 32 stygobionts) belonging to the phyla Annelida, Mollusca and Arthropoda are first records of groundwater animals, and two of the stygobionts are described below as new species for Science. Nipponasellus sudzukhensis spec. nov. and N. matsumotoi spec. nov. are described and illustrated, and their taxonomic affinities with congeners are discussed. The morphology of male pleopod 2 of the genus Nipponasellus is re-examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which revealed fine details of the pleopodal structures. The two new continental species of Nipponasellus were characterised by a distinct cannula completely immersed in ctenoid cuticular scales and the absence of a labial spur. Informal macrogroups were proposed based on the structure of the appendix masculina and an analysis of family distribution. The results of cladistic analyses revealed relationships between the proposed groups, but phylogenetic relationships within the Caecidotea-Proasellus group remain challenging. Common diagnostic characters of Nipponasellus showed that the group occupies an independent position close to the Caecidotea-Proasellus group rather than the Asellus-pattern sensu Magniez. Revised diagnosis for the genus Nipponasellus is given, including the two new species and the five previously described ones. The species diversity of East Asian stygobiotic asellid isopods is briefly reviewed to infer a biogeographic distribution pattern that emphasises the strict endemicity of members of the genus Nipponasellus. The intracontinental separation between continental Far East Asia and the Japanese archipelago highlights the biogeographic importance of the land-bridge in the Oligocene and raises questions about hypotheses explaining the (disjunct) distribution in East Asia, together with the circumstances preceding an ancient colonisation of the region.

Analysis of pediatric outpatient visits uncovers disparities in molluscum contagiosum treatment across medical specialties in the United States.

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a common viral infection that affects the skin of children. In this study, treatment regimens and demographic information for MC patients across US medical specialties were compared. We discovered an average of 471,383 pediatric MC visits annually using the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey database from 2000 to 2016. Non-Hispanics (82.9%) and Caucasians (91.0%) made up the majority of the visitors. The majority of cases were handled by pediatricians (46.5%), family medicine doctors (10.6%), and dermatologists (36.7%). Compared to pediatricians, dermatologists saw a higher percentage of Caucasian patients (95% vs.84%) and patients with private insurance (83% vs. 73%). Patients were more likely to see family medicine doctors (55.0%) in non-metropolitan areas than pediatricians (26.4%) or dermatologists (16.3%). Dermatologists were less likely than pediatricians (38%) to favor spontaneous resolution (70%). Dermatologists favored terpenoids (20%), imiquimod (12%), and curettage (10%), while pediatricians primarily used terpenoids (12%), steroids (4%), and imiquimod (4%). The majority of MC cases are managed by pediatricians; however, treatment approaches deviate markedly from recommended best practices.

Clinical, immunological and molecular profiles of DOCK8 deficiency in six patients from a tertiary care centre in North India.

Dedicator of cytokinesis protein 8 (DOCK8) deficiency is an autosomal recessive form of combined immunodeficiency. This rare disorder is characterized by an increased predisposition to allergy, autoimmunity and malignancies. To analyse clinical, immunological and molecular profiles of patients with DOCK8 deficiency. Clinic records of all patients attending the primary immunodeficiency clinic from 2018 to 2021 were reviewed. Six patients from five families were found to have DOCK8 deficiency. Median age at diagnosis was 7.5 years (range 2-13), with a male/female ratio of 5 : 1. Among the six patients, recurrent eczematous skin lesions were the predominant cutaneous manifestation, present in five patients (83%). Warts and molluscum contagiosum were evident in two patients (33%) and one patient (16%), respectively. Two patients had recalcitrant prurigo nodularis lesions and two had epidermodysplasia verruciformis-like lesions. Food allergies and asthma were reported by one patient each. Of the six patients, recurrent sinopulmonary infections were detected in five (83%). Epstein-Barr virus-driven non-Hodgkin lymphoma with liver metastases was the only case of malignancy, in a 4-year-old boy. IgE was elevated in all patients. Lymphopenia and eosinophilia were observed in three patients (50%) and five patients (83.3%), respectively. Genetic analysis showed DOCK8 pathogenic variants in all patients: homozygous deletion mutations in two patients, compound heterozygous deletion mutations in one, and homozygous nonsense mutations in two. A novel pathogenic homozygous missense variant in the DOCK8 gene was identified in one patient. DOCK8 deficiency should be considered as a possibility in any patient with early onset eczema, cutaneous viral infections and increased predisposition to allergy, autoimmunity and malignancy.

Berdazimer gel for molluscum contagiosum: An integrated analysis of 3 randomized controlled trials

An out-of-office therapeutic agent indicated for molluscum contagiosum is needed. To assess the efficacy and safety of berdazimer gel, 10.3% (a topical, antiviral, nitric oxide-releasing medication) versus vehicle. Berdazimer gel, 10.3% or vehicle was applied once daily to all molluscum contagiosum lesions for 12weeks in patients ≥6months with 3-70 mollusca. Efficacy assessment: complete lesion clearance and partial clearance at week 12. Safety and tolerability assessment: adverse events through week 24 and local skin reactions through week 12. There were 1598 patients enrolled (n=917 berdazimer, n=681 vehicle). Berdazimer was superior to vehicle at week 12 in complete clearance rates, 30.0% versus 19.8% (odds ratio, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.38-2.23, P<.001). Subgroup analyses of primary efficacy showed consistent favorable efficacy for berdazimer across most subgroups, including age, sex, baseline lesion count, and disease duration. Berdazimer provided favorable outcome for partial clearance. Application-site pain (18.7% vs 4.8% in berdazimer vs vehicle) and erythema (11.7% vs 1.3%), mostly mild to moderate, were the most common local skin reactions. Berdazimer sodium in molluscum patients with lesions (B-SIMPLE) trials enrolled only US patients; no efficacy assessments beyond week 12. Berdazimer gel, 10.3% showed favorable efficacy and safety across subgroups.

Molluscum Contagiosum En Plaque – An Unusual Presentation with Dermoscopy to Rescue

Molluscum Contagiosum En Plaque – An Unusual Presentation with Dermoscopy to Rescue

Community Structure of Marine Macrofauna at Diu coast, Gujarat, India

The marine ecosystem support variety of habitat that consequently supports high species diversity. The present study investigated the diversity of marine macrofauna in the rocky intertidal zone of Diu, Gujarat. Survey was carried out from 4 different sites during April 2022 to March 2023. During the study, all the study sites were surveyed regularly on monthly basis during the lowest low tide period. During the examination, the encountered fauna was carefully observed along the coast using a Quadrat method and visual encounter method and extensive photography was carried out. This study demonstrates 70 species of macrofauna at coastal area of Diu. The highest diversity was observed in the phylum Mollusca (37 species), followed by phylum Arthropoda (16 species), Cnidaria (8 species), Porifera (4 species), Annelida (species 2), Echinodermata (2 species), Platyhelminthes (1 species). This study highlights the importance of protecting the diverse marine habitats in Diu and emphasizes the need for further research on the ecology and conservation of the region’s unique marine biodiversity.

Enhancing diagnostic accuracy in common human poxvirus infections during mpox outbreak: A dermoscopy review.

Poxviruses belong to the Poxviridae family, a group of pathogens known for their high infectivity in humans, posing significant health threats. One of the most well-known representatives of poxvirus infections is smallpox, which has been successfully eradicated. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence in cases of mpox, another member of the Poxviridae family, raising concerns about the potential for a global pandemic or a worldwide health crisis. While the typical clinical presentation of mpox and other poxvirus infections often involves cutaneous lesions, there have been reports of various atypical and non-classic clinical manifestations. Dermoscopy has emerged as a crucial diagnostic tool, aiding dermatologists in clinical practice to make informed decisions. In this summary, we provide an overview of the clinical and dermoscopic features of representative cutaneous lesions associated with human poxvirus infections, including mpox, orf, milker's nodule, and molluscum contagiosum.

Common Skin Infections in High School Athletes and the Role of the School Nurse.

Skin infections in high school athletes pose a risk of transmission to other student athletes. Therefore, it is important to promptly identify possible skin infections and refer them to the healthcare provider for treatment so athletes can return to play quickly and with little interruption to the team. Common skin infections include bacterial infections such as Streptococcus and Staphylococcus, viral infections such as herpes simplex and molluscum contagiosum, and fungal infections such as tinea corporis and capitis. The National Federation of State High School Associations provides guidance for the prevention of skin infections as well as return to play guidelines. The school nurse and high school athletic trainer are both healthcare professionals who play a role in preventing, identifying, monitoring, and caring for student athletes who contract skin infections.