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Blue mold pathogen, isolated from infected Allium cepa L., was identified as a Penicillium species through morphological and molecular characterisation. Internal Transcribed spacer (ITS) region of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) was utilised for DNA sequencing. Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) analysis has found the maximum similarity index of the fungus to be 82.39% with the Uncultured Penicillium clone (Accession: MF535522). So, the isolated Penicillium specie is the first reported specie of the genus that infects onion. A phylogenetic tree was constructed to establish a relationship of the isolated fungus with the most relevant species reported on GenBank. Extracts of Pennisetum flaccidum Griseb. were evaluated against the isolated fungus as a potential biocontrol agent. Among the five tested methanol concentrations (0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2% and 2.5%) of each plant part (root, inflorescence and foliage), 0.5% root extract showed maximum growth retardation, i.e. 89%. For bioassay-guided fractionation, the root extract was partitioned in n-hexane, chloroform, n-butanol and ethyl acetate. Ethyl acetate (1%) was proved to be the most potent one. Phytochemical screening has confirmed the occurrence of terpenoids, tannins, saponins and alkaloids. The applied molecular approach has deduced that the Penicillium specie collected from Pakistan might be novel. This study can be concluded that P. flaccidum contains potent phytochemicals which might be used as antifungal agent against Penicillium species.

Objectives The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of different dosing regimens of ceftazidime/avibactam (CZA) in patients with Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae (KPC-Kp) pulmonary infections. Methods A total of 70 KPC-Kp strains were isolated from sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage samples of patients with pulmonary infections in three hospitals in northern China from April 2015 to October 2015. Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) was performed using population pharmacokinetic parameters of CZA combined with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) distributions gained from antimicrobial susceptibility testing to predict the efficacy of different dosing regimens. Various CZA dosing regimens were modelled using MCS. Results The in vitro study showed potent activity of CZA against KPC-Kp strains with MIC50/90 values of 1/2 mg/L, with a susceptibility rate of 95.7%. The values of cumulative fraction of response (CFR) for bactericidal (50%fT>5 × MIC) target were as follows: for patients with creatinine clearance (CLCr) >51 mL/min, the CFR was 96.01% for 2.5 g CZA every 12 h (q12h) and 97.14% for 2.5 g CZA every 8 h (q8h); and for patients with moderate renal impairment (CLCr >30 to ≤50 mL/min), the CFR was 95.75% for 1.25 g CZA q12h and 97.09% for 1.25 g CZA q8h. Conclusion This study indicated that the recommended dose of CZA can provide adequate pharmacodynamic exposure for treating KPC-Kp pneumonia.

Disparity or continuity in the chromosome count within taxa of various categories has been verified to be an imperative character for taxonomic classification. Male meiotic studies in 64 species (161 accessions) of composits from geographically isolated regions were examined in detail in order to update the existing knowledge of meiotic chromosome numbers of composits from the outer part of the Himalayas. Myriactis javanica (2n = 36) and Tanacetum nubigenum (2n = 36) have been counted chromosomally for the first time at the world level. Besides, Koelpinia linearis (2n = 36), Ajania fruticulosa (2n = 18), Crepis flexuosa (2n = 14), and Tanacetum gracile (2n = 18) have been analyzed chromosomally for the first time from India. New intraspecific diploid/polyploid cytotypes are added for Artemisia desertorum (2n = 6x = 54), Carduus nutans (2n = 4x = 16), Erigeron annuus (2n = 2x = 18), Leontopodium jacotianum (2n = 4x = 48), Pentanema indicum (2n = 6x = 54), Scorzonera virgata (2n = 2x = 16), and Tragopogon pratensis (2n = 2x = 12). Besides, eight species have been evaluated cytologically for the first time from Kashmir Himalayas. Various meiotic abnormalities like cytomixis, structural heterozygosity, chromatin stickiness, nonsynchronous disjunction, laggards, bridges, unoriented chromosomes leading to pollen sterility have been observed for the first time in some species. The presence of B-chromosomes has been detected in Achillea millefolium (2n = 18+0-1B) and Saussurea candolleana (2n = 26+0-1B). Among meiotically analyzed species, diploids (76.5%) and polyploids (23.5%) prevail.

The antiviral protein ZAP binds CpG dinucleotides in viral RNA to inhibit replication. This has likely led to the CpG suppression observed in many RNA viruses, including retroviruses. Sequences added to retroviral vector genomes, such as internal promoters, transgenes, or regulatory elements, substantially increase CpG abundance. Because these CpGs could allow retroviral vector RNA to be targeted by ZAP, we analyzed whether it restricts vector production, transduction efficiency, and transgene expression. Surprisingly, even though CpG-high HIV-1 was efficiently inhibited by ZAP in HEK293T cells, depleting ZAP did not substantially increase lentiviral vector titer using several packaging and genome plasmids. ZAP overexpression also did not inhibit lentiviral vector titer. In addition, decreasing CpG abundance in a lentiviral vector genome did not increase its titer, and a gammaretroviral vector derived from murine leukemia virus was not substantially restricted by ZAP. Overall, we show that the increased CpG abundance in retroviral vectors relative to the wild-type retroviruses they are derived from does not intrinsically sensitize them to ZAP. Further understanding of how ZAP specifically targets transcripts to inhibit their expression may allow the development of CpG sequence contexts that efficiently recruit or evade this antiviral system., Graphical abstract, ZAP is an antiviral protein that targets CpG dinucleotides in viral RNA. Despite retroviral vectors containing a much higher CpG abundance than the viruses they are derived from, ZAP does not substantially restrict vector production or transduction efficiency. Therefore, ZAP does not appear to restrict the core retroviral vector platform.

Objectives: Procalcitonin (PCT) is an early diagnosis marker of sepsis/bacteremia. However, some reports refer to its lower responsiveness to gram-positive bacteremia. We retrospectively evaluated the PCT values at the onset of bacteremia in relation to severity index. Methods: Patients with bacteremia caused by two gram-negative bacteria (46 E. coli and 50 Klebsiella pneumoniae) and three gram-positive bacteria (45 S. aureus, 56 S. epidermidis, and 10 S. mitis) were studied. The plasma PCT and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were compared between species and different Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score groups. Results: The median PCT level was higher in gram-negative than in gram-positive bacteremia in overall (13.09 vs. 0.50 ng/mL, p

Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) has been proved a major driving force in prokaryotic evolution. However, the molecular functions of these transferred genes in pathogenic bacteria especially plant pathogenic bacteria are still not fully investigated. In this study, the whole-genome in silico analysis was performed and found a syringopeptin synthetase (syp) homolog in Burkholderia glumae, which can cause bacterial panicle blight in rice, was predicted to be horizontally transferred from Pseudomonas ancestor with solid confidence by phylogenetic analysis. The comprehensive molecular experiments were performed to study the potential role of this gene in B. glumae. Inoculation of rice panicles with the syp mutant resulted in 60% lower disease index compared with the wild type (WT) parent strain, suggesting the requirement of syp for the full virulence of B. glumae. Chromatography analysis of exudates from B. glumae showed suppression of synthesis of metabolites analogous to syringopeptin in the mutants. All these data raise the possibility of HGT phenomenon in shaping the virulence and adaptation of B. glumae over evolutionary time.

Myiasis is an infestation of maggots on living tissue in humans and animals all over the world. It is known to occur in wild animals, while no information is reported in forest musk deer (Moschus berezovskii). During our research on the conservation of forest musk deer, we found a new record of traumatic myiasis of an injured forest musk deer. The flies are likely Lucilia caesar (Linnaeus, 1758) according to the results of DNA barcoding technology. We report traumatic myiasis of forest musk deer for the first time, which expands the information on parasite and myiasis of forest musk deer and confirms the potential risk of traumatic myiasis of forest musk deer., Graphical abstract Image 1, Highlights • First report of Lucilia caesar parasitizing forest musk deer. • The myiasis caused by Lucilia caesar occurred in China. • This study will provide new epidemiological information of myiasis of wildlife in China.

Some of the most important pathogens affecting wildlife are transmitted indirectly via the environment. Yet the environmental stages of pathogens are often poorly understood, relative to infection in the host, making this an important research frontier. Sarcoptic mange is a globally widespread disease caused by the parasitic mite Sarcoptes scabiei. The bare-nosed wombat (Vombatus ursinus) is particularly susceptible, and their solitary nature and overlapping use of burrows strongly indicate the importance of environmental transmission. However, due to the challenge of accessing and monitoring within wombat burrows, there has been limited research into their suitability for off-host mite survival and environmental transmission (i.e., to serve as a fomite). We created a model using published laboratory data to predict mite survival times based on temperature and humidity. We then implemented innovative technologies (ground-penetrating radar and a tele-operated robotic vehicle) to map and access wombat burrows to record temperature and relative humidity. We found that the stable conditions within burrows were conducive for off-host survival of S. scabiei, particularly in winter (estimated mite survival of 16.41 ± 0.34 days) and less so in warmer and drier months (summer estimated survival of 5.96 ± 0.37 days). We also compared two areas with higher and lower average mange prevalence in wombats (13.35% and 4.65%, respectively), finding estimated mite survival was slightly higher in the low prevalence area (10.10 and 12.12 days, respectively), contrary to our expectations, suggesting other factors are also important for population prevalence. Our study is the first to demonstrate the suitability of the bare-nosed wombat burrow for off-host mite survival and environmental transmission. Our findings have implications for understanding observed patterns of mange, disease dynamics and disease management for not only bare-nosed wombats, but also other burrow or den-obligate species exposed to S. scabiei via environmental transmission., Graphical abstract Image 1, Highlights • Wombat burrows are a source of environmental transmission of Sarcoptes scabiei. • We used ground-penetrating radar and a robotic vehicle to measure burrow conditions. • We estimate S. scabiei can survive 5.96–16.41 days within burrows depending on season. • Seasonal variation in environmental survival may influence disease dynamics in wombats.

Raccoon dogs have successfully invaded Europe, including Denmark. Raccoon dogs are potential vectors and reservoir hosts of several zoonotic pathogens and thus have the potential for posing a threat to both human and animal health. This study includes analysis of four zoonotic parasites, 16 tick-borne pathogens and two pathogen groups from 292 raccoon dogs collected from January 2018 to December 2018. The raccoon dogs were received as a part of the Danish national wildlife surveillance program and were hunted, found dead or road killed. The raccoon dogs were screened for Alaria alata and Echinococcus multilocularis eggs in faeces by microscopy and PCR, respectively, Trichinella spp. larvae in muscles by digestion, antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii by ELISA and screening of ticks for pathogens by fluidigm real-time PCR. All raccoon dogs tested negative for E. multilocularis and Trichinella spp., while 32.9% excreted A. alata eggs and 42.7% were T. gondii sero-positive. Five tick-borne pathogens were identified in ticks collected from 15 raccoon dogs, namely Anaplasma phagocytophilum (20.0%), Babesia venatorum (6.7%), Borrelia miyamotoi (6.7%), Neoehrlichia mikurensis (6.7%) and Rickettsia helvetica (60.0%). We identified raccoon dogs from Denmark as an important reservoir of T. gondii and A. alata infection to other hosts, including humans, while raccoon dogs appear as a negligible reservoir of E. multilocularis and Trichinella spp. infections. Our results suggest that raccoon dogs may be a reservoir of A. phagocytophilum., Graphical abstract Image 1, Highlights • We investigated the occurrence of zoonotic endoparasites. • We investigated the occurrence of pathogens in ticks attached to raccoon dogs. • We found 32.9% excreted A. alata eggs and 42.7% were T. gondii sero-positive. • We found five tick-borne pathogens in ticks from Danish raccoon dogs.

To our knowledge, this is the first case report of a transudative pleural effusion with positive Cryptococcal antigen and culture. We describe a 32-year-old male with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) who presented to an outside hospital with dyspnea and a large pleural effusion. An initial pleural fluid analysis was positive for Cryptococcal Ag. However, the infection was eventually found to be widespread as he had positive Cryptococcal Ag and cultures in his pleural fluid, serum, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). His antimicrobial regiment was escalated from fluconazole to amphotericin B and flucytosine. His medical condition deteriorated, and the patient passed away. Due to its rarity and range of clinical severity, diagnosis of disseminated Cryptococcosis can be delayed. We present this case to bring awareness of this diagnosis as a differential in immunocompromised patients regardless of a transudative pleural effusion.

The importance of urban green space has over the years grown into an indispensable component of green infrastructure incorporated in urban planning and design as investment to promote the well-being of city dwellers. The continuous advancement in remote sensing spatial and spectral resolutions has made it possible to effectively map and evaluate urban green space for better management. The urban greenness index between the affluent suburb of Rosebank in the north and the poor Township of Soweto in the south, of Johannesburg city was assessed and compared to determine the environmental quality between the two areas. The total above ground biomass (AGB) of the two predominantly occurring street trees, Jacaranda mimosifolia and Platanus x acerifolia in Rosebank was estimated using existing allometric equations for the respective species. An equation was derived from the correlation of normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values extracted from SPOT 6 image and AGB of Rosebank. The same equation was then used to extrapolate and estimate the AGB of Soweto. The results showed that Rosebank had the lowest total AGB of approximately 113,179 ton, while that of Soweto was approximately 504,400 ton. However, the greenness index of Rosebank (83%) was greater than in Soweto (14%), indicating a pattern of ecological disparity between the two areas. These findings could be useful for designing a sound urban planning and policy formulation for the city of Johannesburg.

Soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines Ichinohe) is one of the most important pests causing considerable damage to soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) around the world. Biocontrol provides a strategy for sustainable nematode control. Previously, Aspergillus niger NBC001 was isolated from the cysts of Heterodera spp. and able to control H. glycines and promote the growth of soybean in a pot experiment. In this study, the effects of NBC001 on H. glycines density and on the soybean rhizosphere microbial community in a soybean cyst nematode-infested field were studied. The results showed that NBC001 could suppress H. glycines by 31.7% in the field. High-throughput sequencing analysis showed that NBC001 had no significant influence on soybean rhizosphere microbial community structure, indicating that seed coat-dressing with the concentrated culture filtrate of NBC001 was safe for the soil ecological environment. In addition, high-throughput sequencing results demonstrated that at 10 days post transplantation, NBC001 increased the abundances of Actinobacteria and Acidobacteria, but decreased the abundances of Bacteroidetes and Gemmatimonadetes at the phylum level. Meanwhile, the abundances of Phyllobacterium, Ralstonia and H16 were increased, while the abundances of Adhaeribacter, Gemmatimonas, Sphingomonas, Flavisolibacter were suppressed by application of NBC001. However, at 90 days post transplantation, NBC001 only increased the abundances of Aeromicrobium and RB41 whereas it decreased the abundance of H16. The results indicated that application of NBC001 increased the relative abundances of the beneficial microorganisms such as Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, Aeromicrobium and Phyllobacterium in the soil. In summary, NBC001 is an eco-friendly biocontrol agent for H. glycines control.

The Red and Mediterranean seas are connected by the Suez Canal. Since its opening, the Canal has been regarded as a hotbed for invading alien species. During the lessepsian migration, species find their way into the Mediterranean waters and the opposite rarely happens. A single specimen of the Lessepsian migrant labrid fish was obtained at a depth of 20 m during a fishing field trip in Al-Bardi region near the Libyan-Egyptian border. The fish sample was transported to the laboratory (Marine Resources Department, Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, Tobruk University, Tobruk, Libya) and subjected to morphometric and meristic measurements to facilitate its identification. The scientific identification has verified that the caught fish is Pteragogus trispilus belonging to family Labridae. This is the first record of Pteragogus trispilus in the east Mediterranean Sea off the Libyan coast.

Objectives The purpose of this study was (i) to investigate whether nanocomposite poly(methyl-methacrylate)-zinc oxide nanowires (PMMA-ZnO-NWs) have C. albicans antibiofilm activity; (ii) to evaluate the interaction between components of the nanocomposites based on PMMA-ZnO-NWs by Raman spectroscopy; and (iii) to assess ultrastructural alterations. Design Sixty-eight rectangles (17 PMMA (control) and 51 PMMA–ZnO-NWs (250, 500, 1000 ppm ZnO nanowires) were fabricated. C. albicans ATCC 10231 and a C. albicans clinical strain were tested. Adherence, biofilm formation and ultrastructural alterations were assessed by transmission electron microscopy. Raman mapping images and spectra were analyzed using main component analysis. Results Nanocomposite PMMA-ZnO-NWs inhibited the formation of C. albicans biofilms 94% at 1000 ppm and 80% at 500 ppm against both C. albicans strains. PMMA-ZnO-NWs induced ultrastructural alterations, including cell wall damage and disorganization of the cytoplasmic membrane, resulting in cell lysis. Raman spectroscopy showed new vibrational modes (300–365–485–600 cm−1) for PMMA and ZnO-NW interactions. Conclusions PMMA-ZnO-NWs inhibited C. albicans dose-dependent biofilm formation and led to changes in the structures and cell membrane. Raman spectroscopy showed chemical interactions between ZnO-NWs and PMMA, as suggested by the appearance of new bands at 301 and 485 cm−1.

Distomum musculorum suis (DMS), the mesocercariae of Alaria alata, is typically found accidently during examination of wild boar meat for Trichinella spp. The aim of the study was to compare DMS detection methods. Briefly, 232 wild boar meat samples were tested by mesocercariae migration technique (AMT) as a reference method; of these, 104 were found to be positive. Selected positive samples were tested again with the three other methods: compressorium method (Compressor), digestion with magnetic stirrer (Digestion) and by modified digestion with Pancreatin® bile and pancreatic enzymes (D + P). The results were analyzed by logistic regression, the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test and the Mann-Whitney U test. Of the 43 samples found positive by the AMT, 20 were found positive by Digestion and 25 by D + P. The Compressor identified DMS in seven of the 19 tested samples. The Digestion and D + P methods gave similar intensities (P = 0.506), i.e. 1.4 and 1.3 DMS respectively, but the AMT detected seven times higher number of parasites. The probability of detection of DMS in the meat sample by the Digestion or by D + P was higher than 0.5 when at least seven (Digestion) or five (D + P) DMS were present in the sample (AMT). The Compressor was the least sensitive method: at least 14 DMS must be present in the meat sample for detection. AMT should be considered the most accurate method of DMS detection.

Background Trachyspermum ammi (commonly known as Ajwain), a medicinal plant of the Apiaceae family is scientifically acknowledged to harbor potential bioactive compounds for the treatment of gastrointestinal issues, loss of appetite, bronchial difficulties, cough, inflammation, diarrhoea, headache, hypertension, stomach discomfort, bronchitis and influenza. Candida albicans is generally a commensal fungus found in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems. Objective This study was focused on secondary metabolites of T. ammi and its effects towards candidiasis infection as caused by C. albicans. Methods Phytochemical components of T. ammi as a crude extract were extracted through maceration method using three polar (ethanol, methanol and water) and two non-polar (chloroform and diethyl ether) solvents and subjected to 14 phytochemical tests. Further, the crude extract of T. ammi was analyzed over gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Evaluation of antimicrobial property of the extract was carried out by minimum fungal concentration (MFC) and minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). In addition, cell reduction assay was performed using flowcytometry to confirm the antifungal effect of Ajwain crude extract. Results The aqueous extract showed high presence of phytochemicals including alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, resins, steroids, tannins, inorganic acids, organic acids, phenolic compounds, amino acids, protein and coumarins. GCM S analysis revealed seven bioactive compounds, in which thymol was detected in significant amount in the chromatogram. FTIR performance showed the presence of various stretching vibration including O H, C H, C C, C O, C N and C O C. However, the MFC and MIC of Ajwain extracts using different solvent showed that the methanolic extract possesses maximum antifungal efficacy at 250 μg/ml and 15.6 μg/ml, respectively. In addition, cell reduction assay exhibited significant cell reduction in Ajwain methanolic extract compared to the other crude extracts used in the study. Conclusion Overall, the findings revealed that Ajwain methanolic crude extract has antifungal activity against C. albicans; however, that further needs to be established at molecular level.

The present study. has successfully identified the nitrate reducing bacteria present in the cooling water system and also investigated the performance of industrially applied biocide and inhibitor on the bacterial inhibition. In order to carry out the objective of this study, facilities and methods such as 16S rRNA gene sequencing, Lowry assay, SEM, EIS, ICP-MS and weight loss analysis were being utilized. In this study, two out of the five morphologically dis- similar colonies identified through 16S rRNA gene sequencing, namely the Massilia timonae and the Pseudomonas, were being utilized in the biocorrosion study on copper metal. From the surface analysis using SEM demonstrated the phenomenon of biofilm formation on the copper surface. 2-methylbenzimidazole has the addition of methyl group in the diazole ring position of benzimidazole it has create basicity environment and inhibit the metal deterioration. Meanwhile, it is also deducible from the EIS and protein analysis that com- bination of biocide with either of the inhibitors gives rise to better biocorrosion suppression (0.00178 mpy and 0.00171mpy) as compared to the sole effect of either biocide or inhibitor (0.00219 mpy, 0.00162 and 0.00143). Biocorrosion system biocide with MBM was found to exhibit 65% corrosion inhibition efficiency. Moreover, adoption of 2-Methylbenzimidazole seems to display better performance as compared to Multionic 8151, which is adopted in cooling water system.

In early September 2019, a morbidity and mortality event affecting California tiger salamanders (Ambystoma californiense) and Santa Cruz long-toed salamanders (Ambystoma macrodactylum croceum) in late stages of metamorphosis was reported at a National Wildlife Refuge in Santa Cruz County, California, U.S.A. During the postmortem disease investigation, severe integumentary metacercarial (Class: Trematoda) infection, associated with widespread skin lesions, was observed. Planorbid snails collected from the ponds of the refuge within seven days of the mortality event were infected with Ribeiroia ondatrae, a digenetic trematode that can cause malformation and death in some amphibians. We suggest sustained seasonal high-water levels due to active habitat management along with several years of increased rainfall led to increased bird visitation, increased over-wintering of snails, and prolonged salamander metamorphosis, resulting in a confluence of conditions and cascading of host-parasite dynamics to create a hyper-parasitized state.

This study compares the oncolytic effect of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) wild type and M51R M-protein on the colorectal tumors of different invasive intensity on SW480 and HCT116 cell lines and 114 fresh colorectal cancer primary cell cultures. Fresh tumor samples were divided into two groups of lower stages (I/II) and higher stages (III/IV) regarding the medical records. The presence of two mutations in the PIK3CA gene and the expression of NEBL and AKT1 genes were evaluated. The cells were transfected with a plasmid encoding VSV wild-type and M51R mutant M-protein. Results showed either wild type or M51R mutant can kill SW480 and stage I/II primary cultures while mutant M-protein had no apoptotic effects on HCT116 cells and stage III/IV primary cultures. NEBL and AKT1 expression were significantly higher in resistant cells. Elevated caspase-9 activity confirmed that the intrinsic apoptosis pathway is the reason for cell death in lower-stage cells. Different tumors from the same cancer exhibit different treatment sensitivity due to genetic difference. NEBL and AKT1 gene expression may be responsible for this difference, which may be the target of future investigations. Therefore, tumor staging should be considered in oncolytic viral treatment as an interfering factor., Graphical Abstract, There are controversial reports about the effectiveness of a same oncolytic virus on a certain cancer type. This study explains a probable mechanism for this difference as the effect of cancer differentiation stages. NEBL and Akt1 are introduced as a molecular difference between resistant and sensitive cells to the treatment.

The Free-Living Amoeba species, Naegleria fowleri is the causative agent of a lethal encephalitis known as Primary Amoebic Encephalitis (PAM). Moreover, most of the reported cases are often related to swimming and/or diving in aquatic environments. In addition, the current therapeutic options against PAM are not fully effective and hence, there is an urgent need to develop novel therapeutic agents against this disease. Previously isobenzofuranones compounds have been reported to present antiprotozoal and antifungal activity among others. However, to the best of our knowledge, these molecules have not been previously tested against N. fowleri. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the activity of 14 novel isobenzofuranones against this pathogenic amoeba. The most active and less toxic molecules, were assayed in order to check induction of Programmed Cell Death (PCD) in the treated amoebae. The obtained results showed that these molecules were able to eliminate N. fowleri trophozoites and also induced PCD. Therefore, the tested isobenzofuranones could be potential therapeutic candidates for the treatment of PAM., Graphical abstract Image 1, Highlights • A library of 14 new-aryl substituted isobezofuranones have been synthetized. • 8 isobenzofuranones showed high activity against Naegleria fowleri. • QOET-1, QOET-3, QOET-34 induced programmed cell death in treated amoebae.

Graphical abstract, Natural products and traditional medicine are rich sources for developing therapeutics for chronic inflammatory diseases. However, the way from natural products/traditional medicines to Western pharmaceutical practices is not always straightforward. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), chronic diseases are the greatest threat to human health. 3 of 5 people die due to chronic inflammatory disorders worldwide like chronic respiratory diseases, stroke, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and obesity. Various nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to reduce inflammation and pain, but there are many side effects of these drugs' administration. Medicinal plants have therapeutic anti-inflammatory effects with low or no side effects. Ziziphus plant species are generally safe and not toxic to humans. Many studies on the Ziziphus species have shown that their therapeutic properties are attributed to the roots, leaves and fruits. Unfortunately, Ziziphus species from different regions worldwide with anti-inflammatory properties have not been documented in a single review paper. Therefore, it is crucial to establish ethnobotanical knowledge and applications of Ziziphus species against chronic inflammatory diseases. The current article exhaustively reviews phytochemical profile, pharmacological studies, toxicological effects, and ethnobotanical uses of Genus Ziziphus in chronic anti-inflammatory diseases. The present review article also highlights the most promising experimental data on Ziziphus extracts and pure compounds active in clinical trials and animal models of chronic inflammatory diseases. This review would be a valuable resource for contemporary researchers in the field to understand the promising role of the Ziziphus genus in chronic inflammatory disorders.

Background Progressive decline of immune response in HIV patients makes them susceptible to frequent bacterial infections. High usage of antibiotics influences the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria and worsens the clinical outcomes. In this study, the occurrence of drug-resistant genes in Gram-negative bacterial isolates from HIV patients in South India was analyzed. Methods A total of 173 Gram-negative bacterial (GNB) isolates from HIV patients were screened for antibiotic susceptibility profile using the Kirby-Bauer diskdiffusion method. Positivity of drug-resistant genes was analyzed using polymerase chain reaction method. Results In this study, 72.8% of bacterial isolates were obtained from urine specimens, and Escherichia coli (47.4%) was the predominantly isolated bacterium. Overall, 87.3% and 83.2% of GNB were resistant to 3rd generation cephalosporin antibiotics such as cefotaxime and ceftazidime, respectively, 56.6% were resistant to cephamycin (cefoxitin) and 43% to carbapenem (imipenem) antibiotics. Extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) production was noted among 79.5% of GNB isolates, followed by AmpC (57.1%) and Metallo β-lactamases (37.3%). Molecular analysis revealed that ESBL genes such as blaTEM (94.1%), blaCTX-M (89.2%), and blaSHV (24.2%) were detected at higher levels among GNB isolates. Carbapenemase-producing genes such as blaOXA-48 (20%), blaOXA-23 (2.6%), and both blaOXA-23 and blaOXA-51 like genes (2.6%) and AmpC producing genes such as blaCIT (26.7%), blaDHA (3.6%), and blaACC (1.8%) were detected at low-level. Conclusions This study concludes that ESBL producing genes are detected at high level among gram-negative bacterial isolates from HIV patients in South India.

Glossogobius sparsipapillus is one of the gobies that inhabits brackish and freshwater regions in the Mekong Delta. However, data on the biological parameters of this species population are limited. Therefore, the present study aims to provide the necessary knowledge on the fishing status of this goby living in freshwater (Cai Rang, Can Tho: CR) and brackish water regions (Long Phu, Soc Trang: LP). Data analysis results of 1379 individuals showed that males outnumbered females in LP (374 males: 288 females); the reverse case was found in CR (351 males: 366 females). There were five-six classes of length frequency, with the highest values between 8 and 12 cm (1122 individuals, 81.36%). The von Bertalanffy curve was L = 15.75(1 − e−0.62(t + 0.30)) in CR and L = 15.85(1 − e−0.83(t + 0.23)) in LP. Its longevity was 4.84 yrs in CR and 3.61 yrs in LP. The growth performance was 2.19 in CR and 2.32 in LP. The total, natural, and fishing mortalities were 2.17 yr−1, 1.49 yr−1, and 0.68 yr−1 in CR; 3.46 yr−1, 1.68 yr−1, and 1.78 yr−1 in LP, respectively. The fish stock has not been overexploited as E (0.31 in CR and 0.51 in LP) were lower than E0.1 (0.465 in CR and 0.652 in LP) 0.3.46 yr−1, 1.68 yr−1, and 1.78 yr−1 in LP, respectively. The fish stock has not been overexploited as E (0.31 in CR and 0.51 in LP) were lower than E0.1 (0.465 in CR and 0.652 in LP).

Background Biomedical research, recently, focus more on searching for biomasses that contain extractable biologically active components for formulating new drugs. Halophytes growing in hyper saline conditions are expected to produce stress alleviating bioactive compounds. These phytochemicals could be the better raw materials for formulating new drugs. Methods The purpose of this work was to describe physiologically active compounds from Acanthus ilicifolius and Heliotropium curassavicum that had antimicrobial, antioxidant and nutraceutical properties utilizing a variety of solvents. Analysis of bioactive compounds included the application of common phytochemical screening assays, proximate analysis, FTIR analysis and antioxidant assays. The disc diffusion technique was used to determine the antibacterial activity of the plant extracts. Results Highest extraction yield was observed with methanol. A. ilicifolius methanolic extracts included a variety of bioactive components, including alkaloids, saponins, phenolics, flavonoids, steroids, cardiac glycosides, tannins, and terpenoids. H. curassavicum extracts showed the presence of all the phytochemicals except cardiac glycosides. The overall phenolic concentration and antioxidant capacity of A. ilicifolius were substantially greater. The antimicrobial assays explored that among the tested bacterial pathogens viz., Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, significant level of control was observed in E. coli, K. pneumoniae and B. subtilis, which were significantly susceptible to both the plant extracts at a concentration of 50 μg/ml. Conclusion The reports from the current investigation explored the possibility of utilizing these halophytes in nutraceutical formulations. The current study sheds light on the possibility of halophytes as natural secondary metabolites and bioactive chemicals with potential for antimicrobials.

Emerging artemisinin resistance in Plasmodium falciparum malaria has the potential to become a global public health crisis. In Southeast Asia, this phenomenon clinically manifests in the form of delayed parasite clearance following artemisinin treatment. Reduced artemisinin susceptibility is limited to the early ring stage window, which is sufficient to allow parasites to survive the short half-life of artemisinin exposure. A screen of known clinically-implemented antimalarial drugs was performed to identify a drug capable of enhancing the killing activity of artemisinins during this critical resistance window. As a result, lumefantrine was found to increase the killing activity of artemisinin against an artemisinin-resistant clinical isolate harboring the C580Y kelch13 mutation. Isobologram analysis revealed synergism during the early ring stage resistance window, when lumefantrine was combined with artemether, an artemisinin derivative clinically partnered with lumefantrine. These findings suggest that lumefantrine should be clinically explored as a partner drug in artemisinin-based combination therapies to control emerging artemisinin resistance., Graphical abstract Image 1, Highlights • Artemisinin booster compound screening targeting the early ring resistance window in Plasmodium falciparum was performed. • Lumefantrine improves the activity of artesunate against the parasite during the resistance window. • Artemether and lumefantrine are synergistic during the early ring stage resistance window.

The discovery of novel biocontrol agents requires the continuous scrutiny of native microorganisms to ensure that they will be useful on a regional scale. The goal of the present work was to discover novel antagonistic bacteria against Fusarium oxysporum ff. spp. lycopersici race 3 (Fol R3) and radicis-lycopersici (Forl) causing Fusarium wilt disease and Fusarium crown and root rot of tomatoes, respectively. High-throughput liquid antagonism screening of 1,875 rhizospheric bacterial strains followed by dual confrontation assays in 96-well plates was used to select bacteria exhibiting > 50% fungal growth inhibition. In a second dual confrontation assay in 10-cm Petri dishes, bacteria showing > 20% Fol R3 or Forl growth inhibition were further screened using a blood hemolysis test. After discarding β-hemolytic bacteria, a seedling antagonistic assay was performed to select five potential antagonists. A phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA identified one strain as Acinetobacter calcoaceticus (AcDB3) and four strains as members of the genus Bacillus (B. amyloliquefaciens BaMA26, Bacillus siamensis BsiDA2, B. subtilis BsTA16 and B. thuringiensis BtMB9). Greenhouse assays demonstrated that BsTA16 and AcDB3 were the most promising antagonists against Fol R3 and Forl, respectively. Pathogen biocontrol and growth promotion mechanisms used by these bacteria include the production of siderophores, biofilm, proteases, endoglucanases and indole acetic acid, and phosphate solubilization. These five bacteria exerted differential responses on pathogen control depending on the tomato hybrid, and on the growth stage of tomatoes. We report for the first time the use of an Acinetobacter calcoaceticus isolate (AcDB3) to control Forl in tomato under greenhouse conditions.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between cefiderocol pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) target attainment and microbiological outcome in critically ill patients affected by extensively drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (XDR-AB) bloodstream infection (BSI) and/or ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Methods: Patients who received compassionate use of cefiderocol to treat documented XDR-AB infections at the intensive care unit of the IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero–Universitaria of Bologna and who underwent therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) from 15 March 2021 to 30 April 2021 were retrospectively assessed. Cefiderocol trough concentration (Cmin) was determined at steady-state, and the free fraction (fCmin) was calculated according to a plasma protein binding of 58%. The fCmin/MIC ratio was selected as a pharmacodynamic parameter of cefiderocol efficacy and was defined as optimal if ≥4, quasi-optimal if between 1 and 4, and suboptimal if

Haemosporidian parasites are responsible for anemia, acute tissue degeneration, and depopulation in wild birds. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of haemosporidians and also morphologic and molecular evaluation of tissue stages of Haemoproteus sp. in common buzzards (Buteo buteo). Eleven free-living common buzzards were referred to the Avian Clinic of Veterinary School of Lorestan University with lethargy, weight loss, and ataxia. Gametocytes of Leucocytozoon buteonis were found in blood smears of six (54.5 %) birds, while one had simultaneous infection with blood stages of Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon. During histopathological examinations, exo-erythrocytic stages of the genus Haemoproteus were seen in the lung and kidney of a dead bird. This study is the first report of exo-erythrocytic infection of Haemoproteus in common buzzards. Molecular assays confirmed the infection of Haemoproteus sp. (lineage BUTBUT15) in tissue samples. Phylogenetic analysis using cytochrome b gene suggested that BUTBUT15 was more closely related to the lineages isolated from the family Falconidae in contrast to the Accipitridae.

A high concentration of nitrate and total nitrogen (N) in Chinese violet (CV) weed (Asystasia gangetica) has a potential benefit as a digestible protein source for ruminant production in humid tropical regions. We conducted a study using twelve Kacang goats in a crossover design to investigate the effect of CV weed on intake, nutrient utilization, and growth. Four dietary treatments were tested: Guinea grass (Panicum maximum) ad libitum (GG), GG ad libitum and CV (1% live weight, LW) (GG + CV), CV ad libitum (CV), and CV ad libitum plus cassava chip (1% LW) (CV + CC) (dry matter, DM basis). No sign of nitrite toxicity was observed when the goat fed CV diet while intake, N retention, and LW gain was higher than goats on the GG and GG + CV diets (P

Five cartilaginous fish species were recognized and identified as by-catch species during studying the catch of gill nets operated in the coastal area of Alexandria City from the Egyptian Mediterranean Waters during the study periods from Feb. 2018 to June 2018 and from Dec. 2019 to Nov. 2020. The by-catch included the first record of Pteroplatytrygon violacea, the closely related species Dasyatis pastinaca and Dasyatis tortonesei, the rarely found species Rhinoptera marginata, and the blackchin guitarfish Glaucostegus cemiculus. Among these five species, four species are listed in the IUCN Red List; as least concern for P. violacea, data deficient for D. pastinaca in the Mediterranean Sea, near threatened for R. marginata, and critically endangered for G. cemiculus. Morphological characters and morphometric measurements were studied to provide identification of these species. The species have been dissected for more biological information.

Lake Bardawil, similar to the other Mediterranean Egyptian lakes, is a unique wetland, separated from the Mediterranean Sea by a narrow sandbar with very restricted water exchange that allowed the development of a shallow-hypersaline lagoon. Late Pleistocene tectonics activities divided the lake into two main basins; the eastern and western basins. Twelve surface sediment samples were collected along the Lake and subjected to sediment texture and benthic foraminiferal analyses. In general, benthic foraminifera were abundant in the surface sediments of Lake Bardawil and were characterized by low diversity. The statistical analysis revealed two biotopes that distinguished between the eastern and western basins' environments. The eastern basin biotopes were characterized by fine bottom sediments with the predominance of salinity-tolerant assemblages, thus demonstrating hypersaline stressful restricted environment. The western biotope exhibited coarser bottom sediments associated with relatively narrow salinity-tolerant assemblages. This reflected sandy and less saline sediment of uncontaminated environments, as the western basin was exposed to active hydrodynamic regime that developed more magnitudes of water exchange with the Eastern Mediterranean Sea through the western inlet. Based on the results of this study, the biomonitoring of Lake Bardawil could be assessed by the analysis of its benthic foraminifera as a bioindicator tool that may help in the improvement of the Lake's conditions.

Breast implant-associated infections (BIAI) occur in approximately 2% of patients after augmentation mammoplasty. In some cases, BIAI can be treated conservatively, whereas others need implant removal. Knowledge of uncommon potential pathogens in BIAI is important to ensure optimal treatment of BIAI. In the present case report, we describe a case of bilateral late Campylobacter jejuni mastitis in a 34-year-old woman without previous symptoms of gastroenteritis. While Staphylococci are common causative pathogens in BIAI, there are numerous potential pathogens. This case highlights the importance of careful consideration of antibiotic treatment and switch to broad-spectrum antibiotic regimen in BIAI not responding to initial treatment.

The apicomplexan parasite Neospora caninum is an important causative agent of congenital neosporosis, resulting in abortion, birth of weak offspring and neuromuscular disorders in cattle, sheep, and many other species. Among several compound classes that are currently being developed, two have been reported to limit the effects of congenital neosporosis: (i) bumped kinase inhibitors (BKIs) target calcium dependent protein kinase 1 (CDPK1), an enzyme that is encoded by an apicoplast-derived gene and found only in apicomplexans and plants. CDPK1 is essential for host cell invasion and egress; (ii) endochin-like quinolones (ELQs) are inhibitors of the cytochrome bc1 complex of the mitochondrial electron transport chain and thus inhibit oxidative phosphorylation. We here report on the in vitro and in vivo activities of BKI-1748, and of ELQ-316 and its respective prodrugs ELQ-334 and ELQ-422, applied either as single-compounds or ELQ-BKI-combinations. In vitro, BKI-1748 and ELQ-316, as well as BKI-1748 and ELQ-334, acted synergistically, while this was not observed for the BKI-1748/ELQ-422 combination treatment. In a N. caninum-infected pregnant BALB/c mouse model, the synergistic effects observed in vitro were not entirely reproduced, but 100% postnatal survival and 100% inhibition of vertical transmission was noted in the group treated with the BKI-1748/ELQ-334 combination. In addition, the combined drug applications resulted in lower neonatal mortality compared to treatments with single drugs., Graphical abstract Image 1, Highlights • BKI-1748 is a bumped kinase inhibitor with anti-Neospora activity in vitro and in vivo • Endochin-like quinolones target the cytochrome bc1 complex and exhibit anti-Neospora properties. • Single and combined applications of these two compound classes do not interfere in pregnancy outcome in mice • BKI-1748/ELQ-334 combination treatment results in 100% postnatal survival and blocks vertical transmission in the neosporosis mouse model

A new species, Indigofera jaisalmerica CS Purohit and RN Kulloli. sp nov. from Indian desert (Jaisalmer district, Rajasthan, India) is described and illustrated. The new species is closely related with Indigofera cordifolia Roth, but differs in having a leaf more than 2 cm long with scattered hairs on both surfaces, trichomes antler shape on leaf surface, inflorescence axillary spicate with 14–17 flowers, calyx slightly longer than flower, fruit strictly one-seeded and enclosed by calyx lobes. Detailed taxonomic description along with colored photo plate, distribution map, SEM study of leaf and seeds, and associates are provided here for its easy identification.

The present study makes an attempt to describe spectral characteristics of the surface features in some parts of the Khuzestan region, using reflectance spectroscopy and ASTER data related to the hydrocarbon micro-seepage in Maroun and Mansouri oil fields. The study involves surface sediment sampling with appropriate dispersion of the samples, and laboratory analysis in terms of sediment and mineralogy through spectroscopy analysis and geological map. Soil samples were collected from 45 and 20 locations points for Maroun and Mansouri oilfields, respectively. ASD-Fieldspec3 spectroradiometer and The Spectral Geologist (TSG) software were used to determine the hydrocarbon absorptions and their mineral constituents. Four classes were identified as hydrocarbon absorption ranges, i.e.: 1220–1320 and 1350–1550 nm indicating presence of light hydrocarbons; 1700–1750 and 2290–2360 nm pertaining to heavy hydrocarbons. Results suggest that Maroun oilfield samples have stronger absorptions in heavy hydrocarbons absorption but weaker for the Mansouri oilfield samples. The Mansouri samples have an acceptable absorption in light hydrocarbons absorption (1175 nm). Furthermore, these spectra were used as ground truth for creating mineral zonation maps using Spectral Angle Mapper (SAM) classification applied to ASTER data. The results also suggest that surface indicators of hydrocarbon are associated with alteration minerals such as kaolinite, siderite and goethite for the Maroun oilfield whereas Mansouri oilfield exhibits only kaolinite group of minerals. In addition, a comparison by reflectance between the contaminated and uncontaminated soil samples was also carried out.

The Eurasian lynx (Lynx) is a medium-sized wild cat species distributed throughout Eurasia. There has been no report on Taenia species (Cestoda: Cyclophyllidea) infecting this felid in China. In this study, 24 tapeworms were found in two Eurasian lynxes (#1 and #2) in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (XUAR), northwestern China. Based on the number, measurements and the shape of rostellar hooks, these tapeworms belong to two Taenia species. According to the number (n = 32) and length (185–194 μm) of small hooks, the first Taenia species (n = 1, found in #2 lynx) was identified as Taenia laticollis. Phylogenetically, this species was clustered with T. laticollis genotype C (JX860623) based on its cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) and 16S rDNA sequences. The second Taenia species (n = 23, provisionally named as “Taenia sp.“) may represent a potentially novel tapeworm species, because of its obvious differences in the shape and lengths (174–182 μm, 98–113 μm) of large and small rostellar hooks in comparison with ten taxonomically related species. Molecular and phylogenetic analyses of the cox1 gene revealed that “Taenia sp.” has the highest rate of sequence identity (92.93%, 368/396 bp) with Taenia hydatigena reported from sheep (Ovis aries) in Slovakia. To sum up, a potentially novel tapeworm species, “Taenia sp.“, is found in Eurasian lynx. In addition, T. laticollis was found for the first time in China., Graphical abstract Image 1, Highlights • Taenia. laticollis was found for the first time in China. • “Taenia sp.” is a potential novel tapeworm species found in Eurasian lynx. • Pairwise comparisons of the shape of the large rostellar hooks in Taenia sp. and the related species.

The mitochondrial genetic markers are considered useful tools for discrimination between more closely related lepidopteran taxa. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the role of mitochondrial (mt) 16 s rRNA gene in the determination of the taxonomic position for two moth species within Ditrysia clade. Maximum likelihood analysis has indicated a well-supported dendrogram based on the Tamura-Nei model for the recovered lepidopterans. The mt 16 s rRNA query sequences from 24 species within seven families were analyzed. This analysis and bootstrap confidence revealed two major clades representing Glossata suborder within Lepidoptera, with a close relationship of Noctuoidea + (Pyraloidea (Hesperioidea + Papilionoidea)). The subfamily Heliothinae forming a sister group with Risobinae (Noctinae + Hadeninae). In addition, there is a clear observation about the close relation between Phycitinae + Galleriinae within Pyraloidea and Cyrestinae + Limenitidinae within Papilionoidea. The present study supported that the Helicoverpa and Meroptera species are the first accounts of these genera inhabiting Saudi Arabia.

Objectives We sought to integrate a VEB-1-encoding gene cassette into the integron of the MDR region of genomic islands (GIs) harboured by Proteus mirabilis strains after antibiotic exposure. Methods An IncP1 plasmid from Achromobacter xylosoxidans carrying the cassette array dfrA14–blaVEB-1–aadB was introduced by conjugation into five strains of P. mirabilis: PmBRI, PmABB, PmSCO and Pm2CHAMA harbouring Salmonella GI 1 and PmESC harbouring Proteus GI 1. Circular intermediates of the cassettes were amplified by PCR. blaVEB-harbouring P. mirabilis were exposed to increasing concentrations of ceftazidime each day. Presence of blaVEB-1 in the GI was assessed by PCR. The complete MDR regions were mapped and sequenced in positive clones. Results Circular intermediates were detected for dfrA14 and blaVEB-1–aadB and dfrA14–blaVEB-1–aadB cassettes arrays in A. xylosoxidans, and for aadA2 in P. mirabilis. Insertion of blaVEB-1 into the GIs occurred under ceftazidime pressure. In all cases, the three cassettes from IncP1 were integrated. They replaced the cassette array of PmBRI, PmABB and PmSCO in which floRc, tet(A)G and blaPSE-1 were conserved, whereas they replaced an integron and the IS26-flanked region in Pm2CHAMA. In PmESC, they only replaced aadB, with aadA2 being conserved. blaVEB-1 integration occurred just after conjugation for Pm2CHAMA but required ceftazidime exposure for the other strains. Conclusion Homologous recombination of gene cassettes conferring resistance to clinically important antibiotics may occur under antibiotic pressure between an integron located on a plasmid and a co-resident GI. This feature participates in the acquisition, maintenance and spread of antibiotic resistance genes.

The objective of this study is to determine the infection status of nematode larvae and record epidemiological molecular data in commercial fish from the southeast Pacific off the central coast of Peru. Anisakiasis is a fish-borne zoonosis caused by Anisakis larvae, parasites of relevance in the fishery resources that have negative impact on public health. Between January 2012 to December 2014, 345 specimens of four fish species (Trachurus symmetricus murphyi, Scomber japonicus peruanus, Merluccius gayi peruanus and Seriolella violacea) were examined for Anisakis sp. larvae. A total of 997 Anisakis sp. larvae were found in the body cavity of 196 fish (total prevalence 53.7%, total mean intensity 5.08). After morphological analysis, 958 (96.08%) larvae were identified as Type I and 39 (3.92%) as Type II. Specimens were identified by molecular analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit II (cox2) gene, confirming that A. pegreffii is the predominant species and the most important agent of human anisakiasis off the Peru Central Coast. In addition, we revealed the occurrence of A. physeteris (s.l.) in S. japonicus peruanus (P = 18.0%; MI = 2.17). Therefore, the results obtained in the present study improve the knowledge of the occurrence of Anisakis species in the commercial fish from the Southeastern Pacific Ocean, highlighting the importance of considering a potential hazard for humans and the necessity of further research in other fishes of greater preference by the Peruvian population., Graphical abstract Anisakis spp. larvae isolated from the body cavity of marine fish. All larvae were morphologically characterized as Anisakis Type I and II for molecular identification and phylogenetic analysis.Image 1, Highlights • Anisakiasis is a fish-borne zoonosis caused by larvae of the nematode Anisakis sp. present in fish. • The dominant species on the central coast of the Peruvian Sea is A. pegreffii. • A. physeteris (s.l.) was found parasitizing only one host with a low prevalence. • Widespread occurrence of Anisakis sp. in wild sea fish.

Objectives Ceftazidime-avibactam (CAZ-AVI) is a promising novel agent with activity against carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae. Here, we describe the dynamic evolution of a Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (KPC-Kp) infection in a critically ill patient treated with CAZ-AVI-tigecycline combination therapy. Methods Whole-genome sequencing was performed on longitudinal intrapatient KPC-Kp strains isolated from different sites during CAZ-AVI treatment. The pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) analysis was performed on the basis of therapeutic drug monitoring of ceftazidime. Results The development of resistance due to mutations in the blaKPC gene was observed in KPC-Kp strains isolated from bronchoalveolar lavage and blood during CAZ-AVI treatment. PK/PD analysis demonstrated that during the first days of treatment CAZ- AVI blood exposure was suboptimal (steady-state concentration/minimum inhibitory concentration ratio 2.85). Of note, the low antibiotic pressure may have selected hybrid subpopulations harboring blaKPC-3 and T243M mutation in KPC-Kp isolated from bronchoalveolar lavage and D179Y mutation in those isolated from blood. Conclusion These results suggest the high adaptability of KPC to CAZ-AVI due to the rapid evolution of resistance and highlight the importance of identifying the optimal PK/PD target to prevent such an event from occurring again in a critically ill patient with pneumonia due to KPC-Kp.

In fruit production, the application of the plant growth regulator 1-(2-chloro-4-pyridyl)-3-phenylurea (CPPU) dulls the fruit aroma. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and transcriptome analyses were performed on CPPU-treated and pollinated fruits to determine how CPPU affects the production of aroma in melon fruit. The results showed that the contents of two important esters (benzyl acetate and phenethyl acetate) in the CPPU-treated fruits were significantly lower than those in the pollinated fruits. Transcriptome sequencing data revealed that most differentially expressed genes were involved in “phenylalanine metabolism” pathway, and their expression was significantly decreased in the CPPU-treated fruits. Further analysis showed that the phenylalanine content in the CPPU-treated fruits was significantly higher than that in the pollinated fruits. In summary, CPPU application interferes with phenylalanine metabolism in melon fruits and affects the production of aromatic esters.

China is a center of diversity for Malus Mill. with 27 native species including 21 wild species and six domesticated species. We applied a set of 19 simple sequence repeat markers to genotype 798 accessions of 17 species (12 wild species and five cultivated species) of Malus originating from 14 provinces in China. A total of 500 alleles were detected. Diversity statistics indicated a high level of genetic variation as quantified by the average values of the effective allele number (Ne), expected heterozygosity (He), and Shannon’s Information Index (I) (10.309, 0.886, and 2.545, respectively). Malus sieversii (MSR; He=0.814, I=2.041, Ne=6.054), M. baccata (MBB; He=0.848, I=2.350, Ne=8.652), M. toringoides (MTH; He=0.663, I=1.355, Ne=3.332), and M. hupehensis (MHR; He=0.539, I=0.912, Ne=0.579) showed a higher level of genetic diversity in this study than the previous studies. MSR and MBB contributed to the origin and evolution of some accessions of M. domestica subsp. chinensis (MDC). However, other accessions of MDC showed a closer genetic distance with MBB and cultivated species, especially M. robusta (MRB), M. asiatica (MAN), and M. prunifolia (MPB). Not all accessions of MDC were descended from MSR in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China. This research provides novel insights into the genetic relationships of Malus native to China, which will be useful for genetic association studies, germplasm conservation, and breeding programs.

Background Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a re-emerging arbovirus associated with sporadic outbreaks in Cameroon since 2006. Viral whole genomes were generated to analyze the origins of evolutionary lineages, the potential of emergence/re-emergence, and to infer transmission dynamics of recent Cameroon CHIKV outbreak strains. Methods Samples collected between 2016 and 2019 during CHIKV outbreaks in Cameroon were screened for CHIKV using reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR), followed by whole genome sequencing of positive samples. Results Three coding-complete CHIKV genomes were obtained from samples, which belong to an emerging sub-lineage of the East/Central/South African genotype and formed a monophyletic taxon with previous Central African strains. This clade, which we have named the new Central African clade, appears to be evolving at 3.0 × 10−4 nucleotide substitutions per site per year (95% highest posterior density (HPD) interval of 1.94 × 10−4 to 4.1 × 10−4). Notably, mutations in the envelope proteins (E1-A226V, E2-L210Q, and E2-I211T), which are known to enhance CHIKV adaptability and infectious potential in Aedes albopictus, were present in all strains and mapped to established high-density Ae. albopictus populations. Conclusions These new CHIKV strains constitute a conserved genomic pool of an emerging sub-lineage, reflecting a putative vector host adaptation to Ae. albopictus, which has practically displaced Aedes aegypti from select regions of Cameroon.

In-pond raceway system technology (IPRS) was introduced in Pakistan in 2019 as solution for sustainable aquaculture approach by effectively increasing production, reducing pollution and facilitating feed and pond management. Fingerlings of GIFT Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) (n = 16,500 in each raceway, initial weight = 32.00 ± 1.26 g) were stocked in June 2019 in two IPRS raceways (area of each raceway = 220 m3) for 171 days until harvested on November 30, 2019. Fingerlings stocked in traditional earthen ponds (area of each pond = 6167 m3) were studied as control (n = 3000 in each pond, initial weight = 32.00 ± 1.26 g). Average harvested biomass from raceways was 57.33 kg/m3 with an average daily weight gain per fish of 4.47 g per day. On the other hand, average harvested biomass from control ponds was 0.38 kg/m3 with an average daily weight gain per fish of 4.60 g per day. Average feed conversion ratio (FCR) in both raceways and control ponds was recorded as 1.25 and 1.24, respectively. Overall survival rate in both raceways and control ponds was above 99%. No sign of any disease was noted at any stage in both study groups. Crude protein and fats contents did not reduce in any raceway despite of high stocking density and sharp seasonal changes. Profile of essential and non-essential amino acids were found to be upto nutritional requirements of adult human. High levels of n-3 and n-6 fatty acids in fish collected from raceways as compared to those in traditional earthen pond show that muscle quality was not compromised due to high stocking density in small area. Return on investment excluding capital cost was 47.05 which implies that IPRS technology can be economically feasible with further modifications.

Background Salmonellosis is a foodborne zoonosis leaving gastrointestinal illness and drug-resistant genes to the consumers. To prevent Salmonella contamination associated health issues in the chicken meat sold in Riyadh city in Saudi Arabia. The evaluation of the Salmonella isolates from the meat sample needs to be screened for the composition of Salmonella serotypes and antimicrobial resistance pattern at the molecular level. Methods and results Using specific growth media for Salmonella spp., swabs taken from the whole-body surfaces of 200 chilled broiler chickens from different vendors in the city of Riyadh, were screened for Salmonella contamination. Biochemical and molecular characterization of the isolates showed the presence of the serovars, Salmonella enterica, Salmonella Enteritidis, S. Typhimurium, S. Kentucky, and S. Tennessee. The isolated serovars exhibited multidrug resistance [MDR] resistance to antibiotics. Molecular characterization of the different serovars shows the presence of sixteen drug-resistant genes. The drug resistance mechanism at the molecular level varied with serotypes according to the nature of the antibiotics they encountered. A comparative study of the nature of the drug-resistant gene and the common antibiotics used in poultry farming in that province matches much, indicating adaptive variation in S. enterica serotypes to survive in the host's gut biome. The resistance genes from the chicken meat have every chance to get into the human system. The native microbes in consumers may acquire drug-resistant genes from S. entericus serovars. Such conditions may lead to treatment complications in the hosts. Conclusions The results indicated that Salmonella infections constituted a potential risk to consumers through chicken flocks and noted that the genotypic resistance pattern to antibiotics draws attention in terms of both human and animal health. Also, promote other options for poultry farming, avoiding antibiotics supplementation.

We report a severe case of rhinothecal cryptococcoma in a 13-year-old female African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus). The bird was born and bred in captivity in Portugal. The beak was deformed and showed several round soft masses, and microscopic examination revealed the presence of cells suggestive for Cryptococcus. Phenotypic and molecular analyses identified the obtained yeast culture as C. bacillisporus (AFLP5/VGIII). By phylogenetic analysis the parrot strain clustered with clinical C. bacillisporus strains from Mexico.

Complex diseases caused by Meloidogyne incognita and Fusarium fungus in cucumber is the most destructive disease under polyhouses. The experiment was conducted in the polyhouse of the Department of Horticulture, CCS HAU, Hisar, Haryana, India during summer season (2015–16) to evaluate the potential of bacterial and fungal biocontrol agents against Meloidogyne incognita and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum in cucumber. Bioagents - Trichoderma viride (Tv), Pseudomonas fluorescence (Pf), Purpureocillium lilacinum (Pl) were taken 10 and 20 g kg−1 seed and bioagents liquid formulation, 10- and 15-ml kg−1 seed, were mixed with the potted soil. Chemical as well as untreated check were also maintained. All the treatments significantly improved the plant growth parameter, viz., shoot length (SL), root length (RL), fresh shoot weight (FSW), fresh root weight (FRW), dry shoot weight (DSW) and dry root weight (DRW) as compared to untreated check. However, significant reduction in nematode population and maximum improvement in plant growth parameter was recorded with carbofuran followed by higher dose of bioagents liquid formulation. Among the bioagents, bioagents liquid formulation was most effective in suppressing root knot nematode galling (43 / root system) and final population in soil (131 J2s / 200 cc soil) and fungus wilt incidence (25 %) at 30th day of after germination and significantly improved the plant growth parameters - shoot length (147.3 cm), fresh shoot weight (55.6 g), dry shoot weight (22.51 g) and dry root weight (4.50 g) from other bioagents. Bioagents liquid formulation was effective in suppression of root-knot nematode and fungus complex disease than the powder formulations of bioagents. More studies should be needed in future to evaluate the efficacy of bioagents as seed treatments and soil applications under field conditions.

Diarrhea is a prevalent gastrointestinal problem associated with fatal implications. It is a huge public health concern that requires better alternatives to current drugs. This study investigated the mechanisms involved in the antidiarrheal activity of Anacardium occidentale (Ao) stem bark extract, a plant commonly used in the management of diarrhea in Nigeria. Methanolic stem bark extract of the plant was partitioned into 3 fractions; hexane fraction (AoHF), ethyl acetate fraction (AoEF) and methanol fraction (AoMF). In vitro studies on the effect of these fractions using guinea pig ileum (GPI) muscle contraction, as well as the modulatory effect of standard agonists and antagonists on such contraction, revealed AoEF as the most active fraction. In vivo studies to assess the effect of AoEF on the dopaminergic, muscarinic and serotonergic pathways were carried out using gastric emptying (GE) and gastrointestinal transit (GT) as experimental end points. AoEF was subjected to GC-MS analysis, while the identified compounds were docked with the muscarinic acetylcholinesterase receptor (M3) using AutodockVina. Results indicated that AoEF inhibited GE and GT via inhibition of M3. In addition, GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 24 compounds in AoEF; while docking indicated that octadecanoic acid 2-(2-hydroxylethoxy) ethyl ester exhibited the highest binding affinity for M3. This study indicated that the antidiarrheal activity of Ao is through its antimotility effect via the inhibition of the muscarinic pathway. And since none of the identified compounds exhibited higher binding affinity for M3 relative to loperamide, the antimotility activity of these phytoconstituents may be via synergism.

The fauna of Kunashir Island and the islands of the Lesser Kuril Chain contains 47 species from 18 genera of Georissidae, Helophoridae, Hydrophilidae, Hydraenidae and Elmidae. Two species (Enochrus vilis (Sharp, 1884) and Ochthebius inermis Sharp, 1884) are recorded for Russia for the first time. Fifteen species are new to the fauna of Kunashir Island and the Lesser Kuriles. The article contains an annotated list of species, including the studied material and published records. The article is illustrated by photographs of habitats and species, maps of their distribution in Kunashir. The relationships between the species richness on an island area and the features of the fauna of Kunashir in comparison with Hokkaido are discussed. The species richness of the studied Polyphaga families in Kunashir is almost 2/3 of the fauna of Hokkaido, while the island's area is 55 times smaller. The reason for the absence of large species of the genera Hydrochara and Hydrophilus in Kunashir is hypothesized to be a restriction of the northern range species boundaries by the July isotherm of +16°С.

Fatal infections with Cytauxzoon felis are common in domestic cats, and jaguars (Panthera onca) are believed carriers of this protozoan. Fatal C. felis infections have never been described in jaguars before. Thus, this study describes such an infection in a 5-month-old captive-reared jaguar that presented hyporexia and died at 26 days after the first clinical signs. During necropsy, samples were taken from several tissues, some were fixed in 10% formalin and process for histopathological diagnosis, and some samples were used for DNA extraction, amplification via PCR and sequencing of the potential pathogens. Grossly, marked splenomegaly and icterus were observed. Histologically, numerous structures that are morphologically compatible with Cytauxzoon spp. schizonts obliterated multiple blood vessels in the brain, leptomeninges, spinal cord, lungs, heart, skeletal muscle, adrenal gland, kidneys, spleen, small intestine and pancreas. C. felis was identified by PCR in many organs. Thus, C. felis infection in jaguars can be fatal, and the clinicopathological findings are similar to those of cytauxzoonosis in other wild and domestic felid species., Graphical abstract Image 1, Highlights • Cytauxzoon felis causes fatal infection in jaguar (Panthera onca). • Clinicopathological findings are similar to the infection in other felids. • Cytauxzoonosis should be investigated in young jaguars with jaundice.