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Introduction: Candidemia, a bloodstream infection predominantly affecting critically ill patients, poses a significant global health threat especially with the emergence of non-albicans Candida species, including drug-resistant strains. In Brazil, limited access to advanced diagnostic tools and trained microbiologists hampers accurate identification of Candida species and susceptibility to antifungals testing hindering surveillance efforts. Methods: We conducted a systematic review spanning publications from 2017 to 2023 addressing Candida species distribution and antifungal susceptibility among Brazilian patients with candidemia. Results: Despite initially identifying 7075 records, only 16 met inclusion criteria providing accurate information of 2305 episodes of candidemia. The predominant species were C. albicans, C. parapsilosis, and C. tropicalis, followed by notable proportions of Nakaseomyces glabratus. Limited access to diagnostic tests was evident as only 5 out of 16 studies on candidemia were able to report antifungal susceptibility testing results. In vitro resistance to echinocandins was rare (only 6/396 isolates, 1,5%). In counterpart, fluconazole exhibited resistance rates ranging from 0 to 43%, with great heterogeneity among different studies and species of Candida considered. Conclusion: Our review underscores the critical need for enhanced surveillance and research efforts to address the evolving landscape of candidemia and antifungal resistance in Brazil. Despite some limitations, available data suggest that while resistance to echinocandins and amphotericin B remains rare, there is a growing concern regarding resistance to fluconazole among Candida species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dermatophytoses are fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails that affect approximately 25% of the global population. Occlusive clothing, living in a hot humid environment, poor hygiene, proximity to animals, and crowded living conditions are important risk factors. Dermatophyte infections are named for the anatomic area they infect, and include tinea corporis, cruris, capitis, barbae, faciei, pedis, and manuum. Tinea incognito describes steroid-modified tinea. In some patients, especially those who are immunosuppressed or who have a history of corticosteroid use, dermatophyte infections may spread to involve extensive skin areas, and, in rare cases, may extend to the dermis and hair follicle. Over the past decade, dermatophytoses cases not responding to standard of care therapy have been increasingly reported. These cases are especially prevalent in the Indian subcontinent, and Trichophyton indotineae has been identified as the causative species, generating concern regarding resistance to available antifungal therapies. Antifungal-resistant dermatophyte infections have been recently recognized in the United States. Antifungal resistance is now a global health concern. When feasible, mycological confirmation before starting treatment is considered best practice. To curb antifungal-resistant infections, it is necessary for physicians to maintain a high index of suspicion for resistant dermatophyte infections coupled with antifungal stewardship efforts. Furthermore, by forging partnerships with federal agencies, state and local public health agencies, professional societies, and academic institutions, dermatologists can lead efforts to prevent the spread of antifungal-resistant dermatophytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungi constitute one of the most pivotal components of our planet's ecosystems, playing multifaceted roles crucial to the environment, industries, agriculture, and beyond. Despite their profound significance, mycological research in Egypt has, to some extent, been overlooked. Over an extended period, crucial information concerning scientific activity and publication rates has been lacking. It is imperative to integrate advancements in statistical analysis with scientific research to discern future research directions and potential limitations. This review undertakes a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of mycological research trends in Egypt. Our study employs innovative bibliometric tools, such as bibliometrix and VOSviewer, to analyze data extracted from three databases (Scopus, Web of Science, & CABI). The study highlights the peak publishing periods, with the highest rates observed between 2012-2022 for Web of Science and 2013-2021 for Scopus & CABI. Consequently, the review enables the identification of knowledge gaps and monitoring the dynamics of research activity, fostering the growth of mycological research, and contributing to the conservation of fungi in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virulent infectious fungal diseases, in natural and managed landscapes, are increasing. Fungal diseases in humans, animals and plants have caused die-off and extinction events and have become a threat to food security. A caving expedition in Yunnan Province, China, revealed two bat carcasses covered in fungal mycelia. Eleven fungal isolates were obtained from these bat carcasses, and morphological observations and multigene phylogenetic analyses revealed they were Fusarium incarnatum, Mucor hiemalis and Trichoderma harzianum and four new species, Mortierella rhinolophicola, M. multispora, M. yunnanensis and Neocosmospora pallidimors. One of the more alarming findings is that a number of infections related to Neocosmospora, previously associated with human and animal mycotoxicoses, are reported to be increasing, and here we present a new species from this genus, isolated from dead bats. Due to the ecosystem services provided by bats, and the close relationship between bats and humans, future research should focus on the impacts and significance of N. pallidimors to human and animal health, examining its pathogenicity and secondary metabolites. Taxonomic descriptions, color images of the habitat, in situ samples, microstructures and cultures are presented. SEM photographs of microstructures and phylogenetic trees showing the placement of new and known species are also provided.

The article focuses on a randomized clinical trial conducted to examine the impact of oral ibrexafungerp, the first triterpenoid class antifungal, with placebo in treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) in women. The study found that ibrexafungerp is safe and effective, with side effects including mild abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea.

BACKGROUND:DNA metabarcoding, commonly used in exploratory microbial ecology studies, is a promising method for the simultaneous in planta-detection of multiple pathogens associated with disease complexes, such as the grapevine trunk diseases. Profiling of pathogen communities associated with grapevine trunk diseases is particularly challenging, due to the presence within an individual wood lesion of multiple co-infecting trunk pathogens and other wood-colonizing fungi, which span a broad range of taxa in the fungal kingdom. As such, we designed metabarcoding primers, using as template the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer of grapevine trunk-associated ascomycete fungi (GTAA) and compared them to two universal primer widely used in microbial ecology. RESULTS:We first performed in silico simulations and then tested the primers by high-throughput amplicon sequencing of (i) multiple combinations of mock communities, (ii) time-course experiments with controlled inoculations, and (iii) diseased field samples from vineyards under natural levels of infection. All analyses showed that GTAA had greater affinity and sensitivity, compared to those of the universal primers. Importantly, with GTAA, profiling of mock communities and comparisons with shotgun-sequencing metagenomics of field samples gave an accurate representation of genera of important trunk pathogens, namely Phaeomoniella, Phaeoacremonium, and Eutypa, the abundances of which were over- or under-estimated with universal primers. CONCLUSIONS:Overall, our findings not only demonstrate that DNA metabarcoding gives qualitatively and quantitatively accurate results when applied to grapevine trunk diseases, but also that primer customization and testing are crucial to ensure the validity of DNA metabarcoding results.

Background: Kerion is an inflammatory type of tinea capitis manifesting as boggy crusted nodules. Diagnosis of kerion is often challenging due to high rates of false‐negative mycological samples. Methods: A retrospective study among children with kerion, prior to antifungal treatment, was conducted to assess rates of false‐negative mycological samples. Specimens for direct microscopy and fungal culture were collected at baseline and after administration of an oral antibiotic course, with or without an oral steroid course. Kerion was categorized as highly inflammatory when a painful, moist scalp nodule with spontaneous purulent discharge or exuberant crust was present, or mildly inflammatory when an erythematous, dry scalp nodule was seen. Results: Twenty‐three children (mean age 7.9 ± 3.0 years) were included in the study. Trichophyton tonsurans was the most common species isolated (69.6%). Highly inflammatory kerions were significantly more likely to be culture negative before treatment than mildly inflammatory kerions (80% vs. 16.7%, p <.01). Non‐inflammatory tinea capitis lesions (n = 13) were culture positive in all cases. Following a combined oral antibiotic and steroid course given to most highly inflammatory kerions (n = 11/13), higher rates of positive fungal cultures were found compared to baseline (90.9% vs. 18.2%, p <.01). Conclusion: High rates of negative fungal cultures were found only in highly inflammatory kerion. Sampling a highly inflammatory kerion after a combined oral antibiotic and steroid course improved rates of positive fungal cultures. In addition, sampling of non‐inflammatory tinea capitis lesions (when present in addition to the kerion) had the highest culture sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: An increase in numbers of cutaneous fungal infections is being observed around the world. Dermatomycoses occur in every age group and can significantly decrease quality of life. Examining the prevalence and epidemiological trends of cutaneous fungal infections is necessary for developing new effective preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic methods. Many factors can influence the growth and patterns of global spread of the different species of fungi. Aim: To investigate the differences between the prevalence of dermatophytes and cutaneous fungal infections observed at two mycological laboratories and their plausible causes. Material and methods: Mycological examination was performed in 7324 patients in Gdansk, Poland and in 4729 patients in Grodno, Belarus who exhibited clinical signs and symptoms of cutaneous fungal infections. Direct preparations was made in 20% KOH with 40% DMSO. Additionally cultures were prepared on modified Sabouraud dextrose agar. Results: Dermatophytes were cultured in 642 (53.58%) cases in Gdansk. The most common species of dermatophytes were Trichophyton rubrum (306 cases), Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. granulosum (193 cases) and Microsporum canis (127 cases). Yeasts were isolated in 531 (44.40%) cases out of which Candida albicans was the most frequently identified in 323 cases. Similarly, dermatophytes were the most common in 1158 (68.72%) cases in Grodno. Candida were isolated in 527 (31.28%) cases. Analysing the localization of dermatomycoses onychomycosis was observed in majority of the infected patients in Gdansk. In Grodno the most common location of superficial cutaneous infection was tinea corporis In the Gdansk region dermatomycoses were observed in 688 female patients and in 508 male patients. In Grodno the prevalence is inverted with the majority of cases observed in 921 males and 764 females. Conclusions: The prevalence of superficial fungal infections is higher in Grodno, Belarus when compared to Gdansk, Poland. Similarly, dermatophytes were most commonly observed in both Laboratories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nineteen isolates representing a candidate for a novel yeast species belonging to the genus Spencermartinsiella were recovered from rotting wood samples collected at different sites in Atlantic Rainforest and Amazonian Forest ecosystems in Brazil. Similarity search of the nucleotide sequence of the intergenic spacer (ITS)-5.8S and large subunit D1/D2 regions of the ribosomal gene cluster showed that this novel yeast is closely related to Spencermartinsiella cellulosicola . The isolates differ by four nucleotide substitutions in the D1/D2 domain and six substitutions and 31 indels in the ITS region from the holotype of S. cellulosicola . Phylogenomic analysis based on 1474 single-copy orthologues for a set of Spencermartinsiella species whose whole genome sequences are available confirmed that the novel species is phylogenetically close to S. cellulosicola . The low average nucleotide identity value of 83% observed between S. cellulosicola and the candidate species confirms that they are distinct. The novel species produced asci with hemispherical ascospores. The name Spencermartinsiella nicolii sp. nov. is proposed. The holotype is CBS 14238 T . The MycoBank number is MB855027. Interestingly, the D1/D2 sequence of the S. nicolii was identical to that of an uncultured strain of Spencermartinsiella causing systemic infection in a male adult crocodile ( Crocodylus niloticus ). The characterization of some virulence factors and antifungal susceptibility of S. nicolii isolates suggest that this yeast may be an opportunistic pathogen for animals, including humans; the isolates grow at 37 °C.

Two yeast strains, NYNU 236122 and NYNU 236180, were isolated from plant leaves collected in Tianchi Mountain, Henan Province, central China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses revealed the closest relatives of the strains are three described Kondoa species, Kondoa chamaenerii , Kondoa miscanthi , and Kondoa subrosea . Genetically, the isolated strains differed from the type strains of their three related species by 2-11(0.2-1.8%) base substitutions in the D1/D2 domain, 16-40 (2.6-5.6%) base mismatches in the internal transcribed spacer region, and more than 10.1% base substitutions in the partial RPB2 gene. Furthermore, the two strains differ physiologically from their closest related species, K. chamaenerii , in their ability to assimilate dl-lactate, nitrite, and l-lysine and their inability to assimilate nitrate. Additionally, they differ from K. miscanthi and K. subrosea in their ability to assimilate inulin, d-gluconate, and l-lysine. The species name of Kondoa tianchiensis f.a., sp. nov. is proposed with holotype CICC 33616 T (Mycobank MB 853544).

Cryptococcus neoformans is primarily responsible for cases of cryptococcal meningitis in individuals with HIV/AIDS. This study evaluated the susceptibility of C. neoformans obtained from individuals with cryptococcal meningitis associated with HIV/AIDS in Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil, against the action of the antifungals amphotericin B, flucytosine, fluconazole, itraconazole and posaconazole and analyzed it using Multilocus Sequence Typing (MLST) in order to identify the Sequence Types (STs). We analyzed 30 isolates of C. neoformans, from 24 HIV/AIDS patients diagnosed with cryptococcosis from 2017 to 2019 in a reference hospital, in addition to 3 environmental isolates: 1 isolate obtained in the home of a patient and 2 isolates obtained from neighboring homes of patients. 86.6% (n = 26/30) of the clinical isolates were identified as C. neoformans VNI ST93, 6.6% (n = 2/30) as C. neoformans VNI ST5, 3.3% (n = 1/30) as C. neoformans VNI ST32 and 3.3% (n = 1/30) as C. neoformans VNB ST232. The environmental isolates were identified as C. neoformans VNI ST93 (n = 3/3). 96.6% (n = 29/30) isolates were sensitive to amphotericin B, though there was variation in the MIC. 60% (n = 18/30) presented a MIC above the proposed epidemiological cutoff values for one or more antifungals. All environmental isolates were sensitive to the tested antifungals. The MLST showed that there is an important relationship between C. neoformans VNI ST93 and individuals with HIV/AIDS, including in the environmental isolates analyzed. C. neoformans VNB ST232 was observed for the first time in Amazonas. Amphotericin B was proven to be the best drug, but fluconazole and posaconazole also showed relevant action., (© 2024. The Author(s) under exclusive licence to Sociedade Brasileira de Microbiologia.)

Epizootic lymphangitis (EL) is a highly prevalent and contagious infectious disease affecting horses in many parts of Ethiopia caused by Histoplasma capsulatum sensu lato ('var. farciminosum'). In this study, 12 suspected isolates of H. capsulatum sensu lato or yeasts unidentified by conventional biochemical tests isolated from Ethiopian horses with EL were characterised by internal transcribed spacer sequencing. Six of the 12 isolates were identified to be members of H. capsulatum sensu lato and the other six were Pichia kudriavzevii (synonym: Candida krusei) (n = 3), Trichosporon asahii (n = 1), Geotrichum silvicola (n = 1) and Moesziomyces aphidis (n = 1), respectively. The six H. capsulatum sensu lato isolates were further characterised by multilocus sequence analysis. Four distinct gene loci (arf [462 bases], H-anti [410 bases], ole1 [338 bases] and tub1 [272 bases]) of these six isolates as well as those of two H. capsulatum sensu lato ('var. farciminosum') reference strains (ATCC 58332 and ATCC 28798) were polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-amplified and sequenced. Phylogenetic analyses of their concatenated nucleotide sequences showed that three of the isolates and the reference strain ATCC 58332 were identical and belonged to the Eurasia clade within Latin American (LAm) A (H. suramericanum), and those of the other three isolates and the reference strain ATCC 28798 were identical and belonged to the Africa clade. At least two distinct phylogenetic clades of H. capsulatum sensu lato were circulating in Ethiopian horses with EL. Advanced molecular technologies and bioinformatics tools are crucial for the accurate identification and typing of pathogens as well as the discovery of novel microorganisms in veterinary microbiology., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The International Society for Human and Animal Mycology.)

Cryptococcosis is an important fungal infection for both humans and cats, but molecular epidemiological studies on strains isolated from cats are limited. We conducted multi-locus sequence typing analysis and antifungal susceptibility testing of 14 Cryptococcus spp. strains from domestic cats in Japan and one strain isolated from a cat in Singapore. All 14 strains from domestic cats in Japan were identified as Cryptococcus neoformans molecular type VNI. The sequence types (STs) included eight cases of ST5, five cases of ST31, and one novel ST. VNI ST5 is the most frequently isolated strain in Japanese patients as well, while there are no records of VNI ST31 being isolated from Japanese patients. The Singaporean cat strain was identified as C. gattii VGIIb (C. deuterogattii), ST7. We compared these results with strains previously reported to have been isolated from cats. This comparison suggested that molecular types of Cryptococcus spp. isolated from cats may differ depending on the country. In the antifungal susceptibility testing of C. neoformans, one strain each exceeded the epidemiological cutoff value (ECV) for amphotericin B and 5-fluorocytosine, while two strains exceeded the ECV for fluconazole. This study reveals the molecular epidemiology of Cryptococcus spp. isolated from cats with cryptococcosis in Japan. It suggests that investigating Cryptococcus spp. carried by cats, which share close living environments with humans, may contribute to the health of both cats and human populations., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The International Society for Human and Animal Mycology.)

Two yeast strains were isolated from rotting wood samples collected on Qingyuan Mountain, Fujian Province, PR China. Phylogenetic analysis, based on the concatenated sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and the D1/D2 domain of the large subunit rRNA gene, revealed that these two strains represent a novel species of the genus Cyberlindnera . The proposed name for this new species is Cyberlindnera qingyuanensis f.a., sp. nov. (holotype: GDMCC 2.300; ex-type: PYCC 9925) although the formation of ascospores was not observed. The novel species differs from its close relative Cyberlindnera galapagoensis by 7.7% sequence divergence (37 substitutions and seven indels) in the D1/D2 domain and 9.7% sequence divergence (42 substitutions and 34 indels) in the ITS region, respectively. Additionally, Cyb. qingyuanensis differs from its close relative Cyb. galapagoensis by its ability to grow in cellobiose, l-rhamnose, ribitol, galactitol, and dl-lactate, its growth at 37 °C, and its inability to ferment raffinose. The Mycobank number is MB 854693.

Background: Fungi clinically relevant to human skin comprise prevalent commensals and well-known pathogens. Only rarely human skin harbours fungi that evade identification., Objective: To characterise an enigmatic specimen isolated from a skin lesion., Methods: A comprehensive clinical and mycological workup including conventional methods for phenotypic characterisation and sequencing based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit (LSU) regions to infer a phylogenetic tree., Results: Cultures on common solid media were macroscopically inconspicuous initially until mycelial tufts developed on the surface, notably on potato dextrose agar. Polymorphous chlamydospores were detected but no aleurospores and ascomata. At 26°C, the isolate grew on standard agars, plant materials and garden soil and utilised peptone, keratins, lipids, inulin, erythrocytes and cellulose. It also grew at 5°C and at 37°C. Nucleotide sequences of its ITS region showed 93% similarity to sequences of different Malbranchea species. The closest matches among LSU rRNA sequences were obtained with the genera Amauroascus, Arthroderma, Auxarthronopsis and Malbranchea (93%-95%). A combined phylogenetic analysis placed the fungus in a sister clade to Neogymnomycetaceae, classified as incertae sedis in Onygenales, on a large distance to either Diploospora rosea or 'Amauroascus' aureus., Conclusions: The genus Inopinatus gen. nov. (MB854685) with the species Inopinatus corneliae sp. nov. (MB854687) is introduced to accommodate our isolate (holotype: DSM 116806; isotypes: CBS 151104, IHEM 29063). Probably Inopinatus corneliae is a geophilic species that, although potentially harmful, was no relevant pathogen in our case. Its ecology, epidemiology and pathogenicity need to be further clarified., (© 2024 The Author(s). Mycoses published by Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

Background Current treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is largely limited to azole therapy. Ibrexafungerp is a first-in-class triterpenoid antifungal with broad-spectrum anti- Candida fungicidal activity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ibrexafungerp compared with placebo in patients with acute VVC. Methods Patients were randomly assigned 2:1 to receive ibrexafungerp (300 mg twice for 1 day) or placebo. The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients with a clinical cure (complete resolution of vulvovaginal signs and symptoms [VSS] = 0) at test-of-cure (day 11 ± 3). Secondary endpoints included the percentage of patients with mycological eradication, overall success (clinical cure and mycological eradication), clinical improvement (VSS ≤ 1) at test-of-cure, and symptom resolution at follow-up (day 25 ± 4). Results Patients receiving ibrexafungerp had significantly higher rates of clinical cure (50.5% [95/188] vs 28.6% [28/98]; P =.001), mycological eradication (49.5% [93/188] vs 19.4% [19/98]; P <.001), and overall success (36.0% [64/178] vs 12.6% [12/95]; P <.001) compared with placebo. Symptom resolution was sustained and further increased with ibrexafungerp compared with placebo (59.6% [112/188] vs 44.9% [44/98]; P =.009) at follow-up. Post hoc analysis showed similar rates of clinical cure and clinical improvement at test-of-cure for Black patients (54.8% [40/73] and 63.4% [47/73], respectively) and patients with a body mass index >35 (54.5% [24/44] and 68.2% [30/44], respectively) compared with overall rates. Ibrexafungerp was well tolerated. Adverse events were primarily gastrointestinal and mild in severity. Conclusions Ibrexafungerp provides a promising safe and efficacious oral treatment that mechanistically differs from current azole treatment options for acute VVC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoriasis is one of the most common dermatoses worldwide. It is a chronic, immunologically mediated, inflammatory disease associated with the polygenic predisposition and stimulated by environmental factors. The most characteristic skin lesions include well-demarcated, erythematous plaques with silvery-white scales. Psoriasis is often misdiagnosed with other skin conditions, particularly dermatitis and fungal infections. Their coexistence is also possible. We present a case of a 23-year-old patient with a history of recurrent skin lesions with accompanying mild pruritus. The first lesions were diagnosed as allergic dermatitis and successfully treated with topical steroids several times. Three years after the first episode, the exacerbation of skin lesions resistant to previous treatment occurred. The direct mycological examination was positive. Fungal cultures indicated Trichophyton verrucosum and Candida spp. The patient was treated systemically with terbinafine and topical ciclopirox olamine. Although clinical improvement was achieved after a few weeks, still partial activity with papules within the residual lesions remained. The performed skin biopsy ruled out fungal infection and pointed to psoriasis. The antipsoriatic treatment resulted in remission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The caterpillar fungus Ophiocordyceps sinensis (previously called Cordyceps sinensis) has been used for centuries in Asia as a tonic to improve health and longevity. Recent studies show that O. sinensis produces a wide range of biological effects on cells, laboratory animals and humans, including anti-fatigue, anti-infection, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-tumor activities. In view of the rarity of O. sinensis fruiting bodies in nature, cultivation of its anamorph mycelium represents a useful alternative for large-scale production. However, O. sinensis fruiting bodies harvested in nature harbor several fungal contaminants, a phenomenon that led to the isolation and characterization of a large number of incorrect mycelium strains. We report here the isolation of a mycelium from a fruiting body of O. sinensis and we identify the isolate as O. sinensis' anamorph (also called Hirsutella sinensis) based on multi-locus sequence typing of several fungal genes (ITS, nrSSU, nrLSU, RPB1, RPB2, MCM7, β-tubulin, TEF-1α, and ATP6). The main characteristics of the isolated mycelium, including its optimal growth at low temperature (16°C) and its biochemical composition, are similar to that of O. sinensis fruiting bodies, indicating that the mycelium strain characterized here may be used as a substitute for the rare and expensive O. sinensis fruiting bodies found in nature.

Cryptococcosis is an important fungal infection in immunocompromised individuals, especially those infected with HIV. In Brazil, despite the free availability of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the public health system, the mortality rate due to Cryptococcus neoformans meningitis is still high. To obtain a more detailed picture of the population genetic structure of this species in southeast Brazil, we studied 108 clinical isolates from 101 patients and 35 environmental isolates. Among the patients, 59% had a fatal outcome mainly in HIV-positive male patients. All the isolates were found to be C. neoformans var. grubii major molecular type VNI and mating type locus alpha. Twelve were identified as diploid by flow cytometry, being homozygous (AαAα) for the mating type and by PCR screening of the STE20, GPA1, and PAK1 genes. Using the ISHAM consensus multilocus sequence typing (MLST) scheme, 13 sequence types (ST) were identified, with one being newly described. ST93 was identified from 81 (75%) of the clinical isolates, while ST77 and ST93 were identified from 19 (54%) and 10 (29%) environmental isolates, respectively. The southeastern Brazilian isolates had an overwhelming clonal population structure. When compared with populations from different continents based on data extracted from the ISHAM-MLST database (mlst.mycologylab.org) they showed less genetic variability. Two main clusters within C. neoformans var. grubii VNI were identified that diverged from VNB around 0.58 to 4.8 million years ago.

Background: Due to the increasing prevalence of candidiasis, early detection of the causative agents may pave the way for the management of this infection. The present study aimed to assess the discriminative power of the six isoenzymatic systems for differentiating the Candida species. Materials and Methods: Sixteen standard Candida albicans and Candida dubliniensis strains and 30 fluconazole-sensitive and fluconazole-resistant clinical strains of Candida albicans were analyzed using a Multilocus Enzyme Electrophoresis (MLEE) method, including six enzymatic systems consisting of malate dehydrogenase (MDH), phosphoglucomutase (PGM), glucose-phosphate isomerase (GPI), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH), 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD), and malic enzyme (ME). Results: Among the six enzymatic systems, ME showed no diagnostic activity, whereas MDH provided the best species-specific pattern for species discrimination. In addition, the MDH and G6PD systems provided a discriminatory pattern for differentiating C. dubliniensis from C. albicans isolates. The same isoenzymatic activity was detected in all 36 standard and clinical isolates. Moreover, the results showed no correlation between the isoenzymatic profiles and drug resistance. Conclusion: Among the investigated MLEE systems, MDH was able to differentiate between Candida albicans and Candida dubliniensis. Although no association was detected between isoenzyme patterns and fluconazole resistance in this investigation, isoenzyme patterns are likely correlated with virulence factors between species and even within species. To answer these questions, additional studies should be done on more strains.

Objectives: To present the demographic, etiological, clinical, and mycological characteristics and treatment results of fungal keratitis patients admitted to our clinic. Materials and Methods: The medical records of patients diagnosed with fungal keratitis between October 2012 and 2018 were reviewed. The diagnosis of fungal keratitis was confirmed mycologically and/or cytologically. Treatment response was defined as complete infiltrate resolution and re-epithelization with medical treatment and minor surgical interventions. Patients who underwent penetrating keratoplasty or evisceration due to clinical deterioration despite treatment were classified as treatment nonresponders and were compared with responders in terms of demographic, etiological, and clinical characteristics. Results: Seventy-two (12.8%) of 559 patients diagnosed with microbial keratitis in the 6-year period were fungal keratitis. Of these, 38 cases (38 eyes) without polymicrobial etiology were included in the study. The patients' mean age was 44.9±19.0 years (range: 2-80) and males predominated (14 females [36.8%], 24 males [63.2%]). Trauma (63.6%) was the most common predisposing factor in patients younger than 40 years old, whereas pathologies impairing ocular surface immunity were the leading risk factor (48.1%) in patients older than 40 years. Filamentous fungi were detected in 34 (89.5%) cases, while yeasts were found in 4 (10.5%) cases. Among 26 cases with positive cultures, Aspergillus species were the most common pathogens (42.3%). Infiltrate size before treatment was larger in nonresponders (14/38, 36.8%) compared to treatment responders (19/38, 50%) (p=0.049). In addition, rates of treatment response were higher in cases in which the infiltrate was located paracentrally compared to other cases (p=0.036). Conclusion: Fungal keratitis is an important public health problem in our region. Ocular trauma is a leading etiology in men under the age of 40 years. In the 6-year period, we observed that the main causes of fungal keratitis were filamentous fungi, and most commonly Aspergillus species. In cases presenting with large and central lesions, aggressive treatment options should be considered and these patients should be followed up more closely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Whether nail psoriasis can increase the risk of onychomycosis is still being debated, and data relating to the prevalence of onychomycosis among psoriasis patients receiving different treatments is limited. Objectives. To investigate the overall prevalence and prevalence compared among psoriasis treatments of onychomycosis in patients with nail psoriasis and fungal involvement. Methods. A prospective study of three groups of nail psoriasis being treated with only topical medication, methotrexate, or biologics (25 patients per group, 150 nails) was conducted at Siriraj Hospital (Bangkok, Thailand) during November 2018 to September 2020. Demographic data, psoriasis severity, and nail psoriasis severity were recorded. The nail most severely affected with psoriasis on each hand was selected for mycological testing. Potassium hydroxide, periodic acid-Schiff stain, and fungal culture were performed. Results. The prevalence of onychomycosis in nail psoriasis was 35.3%. Among the treatment groups, the prevalence of onychomycosis was significantly higher in the methotrexate group than in the topical treatment and biologic treatment groups (p = 0.014). Candida spp. was the main causative organism, followed by Trichophyton rubrum. Thumb was most commonly affected (59.3%). The most common abnormality of the nail matrix and the nail bed was pitted nail (71.3%) and onycholysis (91.3%), respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed diabetes, wet-work exposure, and methotrexate treatment to be predictors of onychomycosis. Conclusions. Several factors, including psoriasis treatment, were shown to increase the risk of onychomycosis in nail psoriasis. Further research is needed to determine whether biologic agents, especially interleukin-17 inhibitors, can increase risk of onychomycosis and Candida infection/colonization of the nails. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptococcosis is one of the major life-threatening opportunistic/systemic fungal diseases of worldwide occurrence, which can be asymptomatic or establish pneumonia and meningoencephalitis mainly in immunosuppressed patients, caused by the Cryptococcus neoformans and C. gattii species complexes. Acquisition is by inhaling fungal propagules from avian droppings, tree hollows and decaying wood, and the association of the molecular types with geographic origin, virulence and antifungal resistance have epidemiological importance. Since data on cryptococcosis in Alagoas are limited, we sought to determine the molecular types of etiological agents collected from clinical and environmental sources. We evaluated 21 isolates previously collected from cerebrospinal fluid and from environment sources (pigeon droppings and tree hollows) in Maceió-Alagoas (Brazil). Restriction fragment length polymorphism of URA5 gene was performed to characterize among the eight standard molecular types (VNI-VNIV and VGI-VGIV). Among isolates, 66.67% (14) were assigned to C. neoformans VNI - 12 of them (12/14) recovered from liquor and 2 from a tree hollow (2/14). One isolate from pigeon droppings (4.76%) corresponded to C. neoformans VNIV, while five strains from tree hollows and one from pigeon droppings (6, 28.57%) to C. gattii VGII. VNI-type was present in clinical and environmental samples and most C. neoformans infections were observed in HIV-positive patients, while types VNIV and VGII were prevalent in environmental sources in Alagoas. This is the first molecular characterization of Cryptococcus spp. in Alagoas, our study provides additional information on the ecoepidemiology of Cryptococcus spp. in Brazil, contributing to a closer view of the endemic species., (© 2024. The Author(s) under exclusive licence to Sociedade Brasileira de Microbiologia.)

During an epidemiological survey, a potential novel species within the basidiomycetous yeast genus Trichosporon was observed. The clinical strain was obtained from a urine sample taken from a Brazilian kidney transplant recipient. The strain was molecularly identified using the intergenic spacer (IGS1) ribosomal DNA locus and a subsequent phylogenetic analysis showed that multiple strains that were previously reported by other studies shared an identical IGS1-genotype most closely related to that of Trichosporon inkin. However, none of these studies provided an in-depth characterization of the involved strains to describe it as a new taxon. Here, we present the novel clinically relevant yeast for which we propose the name Trichosporon austroamericanum sp. nov. (holotype CBS H-24937). T. austroamericanum can be distinguished from other siblings in the genus Trichosporon using morphological, physiological, and phylogenetic characters., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Four yeast strains belonging to the basidiomycetous yeast genus Mrakia were isolated from diverse habitats in the Ny-Ålesund region (Svalbard, High Arctic): two from vascular plants, one from seawater and one from freshwater. Phylogenetic analysis, based on the ITS region and the D1/D2 domain of the 28S rRNA gene, identified these four strains as representing two novel species within the genus Mrakia . The names Mrakia polaris sp. nov. (MycoBank number: MB 852063) and Mrakia amundsenii sp. nov. (MycoBank number: MB 852064) are proposed. These two new species show distinct psychrophilic adaptations, as they exhibit optimal growth at temperatures between 10 and 15°C, while being unable to grow at 25°C. The holotype of M. polaris sp. nov. is CPCC 300345 T , and the holotype of M. amundsenii sp. nov. is CPCC 300572 T .

Two isolates representing a novel species of the genus Wickerhamiella were obtained in India from nectar of flowers of Lantana camara , an ornamental exotic species native to Central and South America. Phylogenetic analyses of the D1/D2 domain of the 26S large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene, internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, and physiological characteristics, supported the recognition of the novel species, that we designate Wickerhamiella lachancei sp. nov (MycoBank no. MB851709), with MCC 9929 T as the holotype and PYCC 10003 T as the isotype. Considering pairwise sequence similarity, the type strain of the novel species differs from the type strain of the most closely related species, Wickerhamiella drosophilae CBS 8459 T , by 16 nucleotide substitutions and two gaps (3.9 % sequence variation) in the D1/D2 region (560 bp compared) and 28 nucleotide substitutions and five gaps (7.22 % sequence variation) in the ITS region (444 bp compared).

The genus Exophiala is polymorphic, able to transition between yeast, hyphal and pseudohyphal forms. Species of the genus Exophiala are ubiquitous fungi that are distributed in various environments around the world. During a survey of fungal diversity in the gut of amphipods ( Floresorchestia amphawaensis and undescribed Dogielinotid amphipods) from the Amphawa estuary, Samut Songkhram province, Thailand, five black yeast strains (DMKU-MG01, DMKU-MG07, DMKU-MG08, DMKU-HG10 and DMKU-FG04) were identified as representing a novel taxon on the basis of a combination of morphological and molecular phylogenetic features. The five strains did not produce filamentous hyphae or pseudohyphae. Only budding yeast cells were observed. On the basis of the phenotypic characteristics and the results of molecular analyses of the D1/D2 region of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, the five strains were identified as representing a novel species via applied nucleotide pairwise analysis. They differed from the most closely related species Exophiala alcalophiala by 3.54 % nucleotide substitutions (20 nucleotide substitutions in 572 bp) in the D1/D2 domains of the LSU rRNA gene. Moreover, the sequences of the ITS region of the five strains differed from those of the most closely related species E. alcalophiala , by 7.44-9.62 % nucleotide substitutions, and Exophiala halophiala , by 7.2-7.53 % nucleotide substitutions. The results of phylogenetic analyses based on the concatenated sequences of the ITS regions and the D1/D2 domains of the LSU rRNA gene confirmed that the five black yeast strains represented a single novel species of the genus Exophiala . In this study, Exophiala amphawaensis sp. nov. is proposed to accommodate these strains. The holotype is TBRC 15626 T and the isotype is PYCC9020. The MycoBank accession number of the novel species is MB 851477.

Four yeast strains, representing a novel anamorphic species, were isolated in Thailand. The two strains (ST-3660 T and ST-3647) were obtained from two different estuarine water samples in a mangrove forest. Strain DMKU-FW1-37 was derived from a grease sample, and another strain (TSU57) was isolated from a fruiting body of Phallus sp. Pairwise sequence analysis showed that the four strains had identical or differed by only one nucleotide substitution in the D1/D2 domains of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene, and differed by one to three nucleotide substitutions in the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions. Savitreea pentosicarens is the most closely related species to the four strains, but with 9-10 (1.57-1.72 %) nucleotide substitutions in the D1/D2 domains of the LSU rRNA gene and 29-31 (4.22-4.45 %) nucleotide substitutions in the ITS regions. Phylogenetic analyses based on the concatenated sequences of the ITS regions and the D1/D2 domains of the LSU rRNA gene showed that the four strains form a well-separated lineage from S. pentosicarens with high bootstrap support, confirming that they represent a distinct species. Therefore, the four strains are assigned as representives of a novel species of the genus Savitreea , for which the name Savitreea siamensis sp. nov. is proposed. The holotype is TBRC 4481 T and the ex-type is PYCC 9794 T (=ST-3660 T ). The MycoBank number of the novel species is MB 851951.

Two yeast strains, designated as 19-39-3 and 19-40-2, obtained from the fruiting bodies of Trametes versicolor and Marasmius siccus collected in Yunwu Mountain Forest Park, PR China, have been identified as representing a novel asexual ascomycetous yeast species. From the results of phylogenetic analyses of the sequences of the D1/D2 domains of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA, small subunit (SSU) rRNA and translation elongation factor 1-α ( TEF1 ) genes, it was determined that these strains represent a member of the genus Wickerhamomyces, with Wickerhamomyces alni and Candida ulmi as the closest relatives. The novel species exhibited 6.6 and 6.7% differences in the D1/D2 domains compared with W. alni and C. ulmi , respectively. Additionally, distinct biochemical and physiological differences were observed between the novel species and its related counterparts. No sexual reproduction was observed in these strains, leading to the proposal of the name Wickerhamomyces corioli f.a., sp. nov. for this newly discovered species.

Molecular types of the Cryptococcus neoformans/Cryptococcus gattii species complex that infect dogs and cats differ regionally and with host species. Antifungal drug susceptibility can vary with molecular type, but the susceptibility of Cryptococcus isolates from dogs and cats is largely unknown. Cryptococcus isolates from 15 dogs and 27 cats were typed using URA5 restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis (RFLP), PCR fingerprinting, and multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Susceptibility was determined using a microdilution assay (Sensititre YeastOne; Trek Diagnostic Systems). MICs were compared among groups. The 42 isolates studied comprised molecular types VGI (7%), VGIIa (7%), VGIIb (5%), VGIIc (5%), VGIII (38%), VGIV (2%), VNI (33%), and VNII (2%), as determined by URA5 RFLP. The VGIV isolate was more closely related to VGIII according to MLST. All VGIII isolates were from cats. All sequence types identified from veterinary isolates clustered with isolates from humans. VGIII isolates showed considerable genetic diversity compared with other Cryptococcus molecular types and could be divided into two major subgroups. Compared with C. neoformans MICs, C. gattii MICs were lower for flucytosine, and VGIII MICs were lower for flucytosine and itraconazole. For all drugs except itraconazole, C. gattii isolates exhibited a wider range of MICs than C. neoformans. MICs varied with Cryptococcus species and molecular type in dogs and cats, and MICs of VGIII isolates were most variable and may reflect phylogenetic diversity in this group. Because sequence types of dogs and cats reflect those infecting humans, these observations may also have implications for treatment of human cryptococcosis.

As part of a long-term study aiming to isolate and identify yeast species that inhabit the surface of leaves and fruits of native fine-aroma cacao in the department of Amazonas, Peru, we obtained multiple isolates of Hannaella species. Yeasts of the genus Hannaella are common inhabitants of the phyllosphere of natural and crop plants. On the basis of morphological, and physiological characteristics, and sequence analysis of the D1/D2 domains of the large subunit rRNA gene (LSU) and the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), we identified five species of Hannaella from the phyllosphere of Peruvian cacao. Four have been previously described: H. phyllophila (isolates KLG-073, KLG-091), H. pagnoccae (KLG-076), H. sinensis (KLG-121), and H. taiwanensis (KLG-021). A fifth, represented by eight isolates (KLG-034, KLG-063, KLG-074, KLG-078, KLG-79, KLG-082, KLG-084, KLG-085), is not conspecific with any previously described Hannaella species, and forms the sister clade to H. surugaensis in the phylogenetic analysis. It has 2.6-3.9% (18-27 substitutions, 2-4 deletions, and 1-3 insertions in 610-938 bp-long alignments), and 9.8-10.0% nucleotide differences (37 substitutions and 14 insertions in 511-520 bp-long alignments) in the LSU and ITS regions, respectively, to H. surugaensis type strain, CBS 9426. Herein, the new species Hannaella theobromatis sp. nov. is described and characterised. The species epithet refers to its epiphytic ecology on its host Theobroma cacao., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

A yeast strain (CGMCC 2.6937 T ) belonging to the ascomycetous yeast genus Saturnispora was recently isolated from soil collected in Xinghuacun, Shanxi Province, PR China. The strain produces one or two ellipsoid or spherical ascospores in asci formed by the conjugation between a cell and its bud. Phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and the D1/D2 domain of the large subunit rRNA gene suggest that this strain is conspecific with strains NYNU 14639 isolated from rotten wood collected in Funiu Mountain, Henan province and ES13S05 from soil collected in Nantou County, Taiwan. The CGMCC 2.6937 T group is most closely related to Saturnispora dispora and Saturnispora zaruensis . However, strain CGMCC 2.6937 T differs from S. dispora by 17 (3.2 %, 13 substitutions and four gaps) and 77 (18.8 %, 52 substitutions and 25 gaps) mismatches, and from S. zaruensis by 15 (2.9 %, 12 substitutions and three gaps) and 64 (15.6 %, 44 substitutions and 20 gaps) mismatches, in the D1/D2 domain and ITS region, respectively. The results suggest that the CGMCC 2.6937 T group represents an undescribed species in the genus Saturnispora , for which the name Saturnispora sinensis sp. nov. is proposed. The holotype strain is CGMCC 2.6937 T .

Three yeast isolate candidates for a novel species were obtained from rotting wood samples collected in Brazil and Colombia. The Brazilian isolate differs from the Colombian isolates by one nucleotide substitution in each of the D1/D2 and small subunit (SSU) sequences. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and translation elongation factor 1-α gene sequences of the three isolates were identical. A phylogenetic analysis showed that this novel species belongs to the genus Ogataea . This novel species is phylogenetically related to Candida nanaspora and Candida nitratophila . The novel species differs from C. nanaspora by seven nucleotides and two indels, and by 17 nucleotides and four indels from C. nitratophila in the D1/D2 sequences. The ITS sequences of these three species differ by more than 30 nucleotides. Analyses of the sequences of the SSU and translation elongation factor 1-α gene also showed that these isolates represent a novel species of the genus Ogataea . Different from most Ogataea species, these isolates did not assimilate methanol as the sole carbon source. The name Ogataea nonmethanolica sp. nov. is proposed to accommodate these isolates. The holotype of Ogataea nonmethanolica is CBS 13485 T . The MycoBank number is MB 851195.

Two novel ascomycetous yeast species of the genus Wickerhamiella are proposed based on isolates obtained in Thailand from food waste and the fruiting body of a polypore fungus, and on a combination of conventional DNA-barcode sequence analyses and whole-genome phylogenies. We focus on a particular subclade of the genus Wickerhamiella that contains species found in anthropic environments and describe Wickerhamiella limtongiae sp. nov. (DMKU-FW31-5 T =PYCC 9022 T =TBRC 15055 T ), found on food waste samples. In an adjacent clade, we describe Wickerhamiella koratensis sp. nov. (DMKU-KO16 T =PYCC 8908 T =TBRC 14869 T ), which represents the closest relative of Wickerhamiella slavikovae and was isolated from the fruiting body of Bjerkandera sp. In the subclade of W. limtongiae sp. nov., we propose that Wickerhamiella infanticola should be regarded as a synonym of Wickerhamiella sorbophila and that Wickerhamiella tropicalis should be regarded as a synonym of Wickerhamiella verensis .

Two yeast strains designated as 20-27-1 and 20-28 were isolated from the fruiting bodies of Tricholoma gambosum and Marasmius maximus, respectively, which were collected in Wudaogou, Weichang county, Chengde area, Hebei Province, China. The multi-locus analysis of the sequences of the rDNA ITS, D1/D2 LSU, and SSU regions, together with partial sequences of two protein-coding genes RPB1 and TEF1 indicates that the two strains are closely related to Nakazawaea ernobii and Nakazawaea holstii, showing the similarity values of 99.3-98.7%, 97.2-97.1%, 91.9-92.5%, and 84.6% in D1/D2 LSU, ITS, TEF1, and RPB1, respectively. Physiologically, the two strains are different from N. ernobii and N. holstii in the assimilation of melibiose, inulin, and DL-lactic acid. Both the phenotypic and phylogenetic analyses indicate that those two strains represent a novel species in the genus Nakazawaea, for which the name Nakazawaea tricholomae f.a., sp. nov. (Fungal Names: FN 571492) is proposed., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

A new species of the yeast genus Blastobotrys was discovered on ancient ship timbers in the Netherlands. The species had developed on the wood of a river barge dating to the Roman period. The growth occurred after the preservative polyethylene glycol (PEG 4000) was washed out of some of the timbers due to an undetected leak in the storage unit. Mycological analysis of various timber samples revealed the presence of Microascus melanosporus (predominant), Microascus paisii, a member of the Acremonium chrysogenum-clade, and a new Blastrobotrys species. The new species produced sporothrix-like conidiophores with clavate blastoconidia (3-7 × 1-3.5 μm) and was found to be osmotolerant, capable of growth on low water activity media like malt yeast 50% glucose agar (MY50G). In this article we formally describe and introduce Blastrobotrys nigripullensis (CBS 17879  T ) based on its morphology, physiology and phylogenetic placement., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

Three yeast isolates, NBRC 115909 T , NBRC 115910 and NBRC 116270, were isolated from Trifolium pratense (red clover) flowers collected from Kisarazu, Chiba, Japan. Analysis of the sequences of the D1/D2 domains of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions revealed that these isolates represent a single novel species within the genus Starmerella . Also, no ascospore formation was observed. The yeast isolates were closely related to Starmerella vitae UWOPS 00-107.2 T and Starmerella bombi NRRL Y-17081 T . They differed from S. vitae , the most closely related species with a validly published name, by ten nucleotide substitutions with two gaps in the D1/D2 domains and 20 nucleotide substitutions in the ITS region. Moreover, the three isolates exhibited distinct phenotypic characteristics from the closely related species. Therefore, we suggest that these three isolates represent a novel species, designated as Starmerella kisarazuensis f.a., sp. nov. The holotype is NBRC 115909 T (isotype: CBS 18485 T ).

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The study included isolating and diagnosing of Tinea capitis fungi isolated from clinical samples who are visited the outpatient clinics in Babylon / Hilla province. 50 samples were collected 40 clinical samples (hairs and scales), and 10 hair samples as control group. The results showed that: numbers of dermatophytes fungi were identified based on microscopic and Molecular criteria. T. mentagrophytes, T. tonsurans, M. audounii, M. canis. Also two yeast species were identified: Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are chronic, relapsing, immune-based diseases. Psoriatic patients may have nail involvement in 50 to 80% of cases, and this may reach 85% in patients with joint disease, in spite of the fact that the relationship between psoriasis and onychomycosis is not well established. The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of onychomycosis in patients with nail disorders and diagnosis of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. This was a cross-sectional study in which 38 patients diagnosed with psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis were interviewed and had altered nail samples analysed by mycological and histopathological exams. Twenty-two (57.89%) patients had a confirmed diagnosis for onychomycosis. Seventeen (44.8%) had a positive direct mycological examination, 16 (42.1%) had positive cultures, and 12 (31.6%) were positive for fungi by histopathological examination. Dermatophytes were identified in nine (56.3%) cultures, and of these, eight were Trichophyton rubrum and one T. tonsurans. Yeasts were isolated in seven patients (43.75%), which included four Candida parapsilosis and three C. albicans. Six patients (15.78%) were not using immunosuppressive therapy, and the others were using methotrexate, etanercept, adalimumab, infliximab, secukinumab, or golimumab, in monotherapy or in combination with other drugs. The confirmed onychomycosis rate in patients using methotrexate alone was 92.8% (n = 13). We concluded that it is possible that there is a positive relationship between psoriatic disease and onychomycosis. And we highlight that it is also worth investigating in the future the possible role of immunosuppressive therapy (mainly methotrexate) as a predisposing factor for the development of fungal infections in psoriatic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Candida auris has recently emerged as a global cause of multidrug resistant fungal outbreaks. An outbreak occurred at a tertiary care center in London in 2016. Transmission characteristics, interventions, patient outcomes and cost of resources are described.Methods: Outbreak interventions included patient isolation, contact screening, single-use equipment, environmental screening and decontamination, staff education, and enhanced surveillance. Risk factors for infection were recorded. Survival probabilities of patients with C. auris and other Candida bloodstream infections (BSI) were calculated. Antifungal susceptibility and epidemiological typing were performed. Actual and opportunity costs of interventions were determined.Results: 34 patients acquired the organism including 8 with BSI. Clinical infection was significantly associated with prolonged hospital stay, haemodialysis and antifungal therapy. Variable susceptibility to amphotericin and the triazoles was seen and isolates clustered with the South Asian strains. No significant difference was detected in the survival probabilities of C. auris BSI compared to other candidemias. Outbreak control cost in excess of £1 million and £58,000/month during the subsequent year.Conclusion: C. auris outbreaks can be controlled by a concerted infection control strategy but can be expensive. Transmission maybe prolonged due to patient movements and unidentified transmission mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of Candida species are known as non-pathogenic yeasts and rarely involved in human diseases. However, recently case reports of human infections caused by non-albicans Candida species have increased, mostly in immunocompromised hosts. Our study aimed to describe and characterize as thoroughly as possible, a new species of the Metschnikowia clade, named here Candida massiliensis (PMML0037), isolated from a clinical sample of human sputum. We targeted four discriminant genetic regions: "Internal Transcribed Spacers" of rRNA, D1/D2 domains (28S large subunit rRNA) and part of the genes encoding Translation Elongation Factor 1-α and β-tubulin2. The genetic data were compared to morphological characters, from scanning electron microscopy (TM 4000 Plus, SU5000), physiological, including the results of oxidation and assimilation tests of different carbon sources by the Biolog system, and chemical mapping by Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy. Lastly, the in vitro antifungal susceptibility profile was performed using the E-test™ exponential gradient method. The multilocus analysis supported the genetic position of Candida massiliensis (PMML0037) as a new species of the Metschnikowia clade, and the phenotypic analysis highlighted its unique morphological and chemical profile when compared to the other Candida/Metschnikowia species included in the study., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

A novel budding yeast species was isolated from a soil sample collected in the United States of America. Phylogenetic analyses of multiple loci and phylogenomic analyses conclusively placed the species within the genus Pichia. Strain yHMH446 falls within a clade that includes Pichia norvegensis, Pichia pseudocactophila, Candida inconspicua, and Pichia cactophila. Whole genome sequence data were analyzed for the presence of genes known to be important for carbon and nitrogen metabolism, and the phenotypic data from the novel species were compared to all Pichia species with publicly available genomes. Across the genus, including the novel species candidate, we found that the inability to use many carbon and nitrogen sources correlated with the absence of metabolic genes. Based on these results, Pichia galeolata sp. nov. is proposed to accommodate yHMH446 T (=NRRL Y-64187 = CBS 16864). This study shows how integrated taxogenomic analysis can add mechanistic insight to species descriptions., (© 2023 The Authors. Yeast published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Six strains representing two novel ascomycetous yeast species were isolated from mushroom fruiting bodies and cocoa leaves collected in Thailand. Analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions and the D1/D2 domains of the large subunit rRNA gene sequences showed that the six strains were divided into two groups. The first group consisted of four strains (DMKU-SSK46, DMKU-SK1, SCCL3-5 and SCCL19-3), that were closely related to the type strains of Candida conglobata , Candida insectorum , Yamadazyma dushanensis , Yamadazyma mexicana and Yamadazyma riverae , but with 12-14 (2.5-2.9 %) and 28-50 (5.4-8.8 %) nucleotide substitutions in the D1/D2 domains and the ITS regions, respectively. However, two strains (DMKU-KMY40 and DMKU-KO18) of the second group differed from a group of described species, Candida diddensiae , Candida dendronema , Candida germanica , Candida kanchanaburiensis , Candida naeodendra , Candida vaughaniae and Yamadazyma siamensis by 8-15 (1.5-2.8 %) and 45-53 (8.2-9.6 %) nucleotide substitutions in the D1/D2 domains and the ITS regions, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis based on the concatenated sequences of the ITS regions and D1/D2 domains showed that these strains represented two species of the Yamadazyma clade that were distinct from the other related species. Based on the phylogenetic analysis and phenotypic characteristics, these six strains were assigned to two novel species of the genus Yamadazyma , although formation of ascospores was not observed. Yamadazyma sisaketensis f.a., sp. nov., is proposed for the first group (four strains). The holotype is TBRC 17139 T (ex-type culture: PYCC 9797). The MycoBank number is MB 849637. Yamadazyma koratensis f.a., sp. nov. is proposed for the second group (two strains). The holotype is TBRC 14868 T (ex-type culture: PYCC 8907). The MycoBank number is MB 849638. In addition, it is proposed that Candida andamanensis , Candida jaroonii and Candida songkhlaensis are reassigned to the genus Yamadazyma as Yamadazyma andamanensis comb. nov., Y. jaroonii comb. nov. and Y. songkhlaensis comb. nov., respectively.

Two strains (NYNU 218101 and NYNU 218104) of an asexual yeast species were isolated from insect frass collected in insect tunnels of red leaf plum trees in the Henan Province, central China. Molecular phylogenetic analysis of the D1/D2 domain of the large subunit rRNA gene and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region showed that these two strains belonged to the genus Danielozyma , with Danielozyma litseae as the closest known species. They differed from the type strain of D. litseae by 0.6 % substitutions (three substitutions and one gap) in the D1/D2 domain and by 5.1 % substitutions (19 substitutions and six gaps) in the ITS region, respectively. When compared with the partial ACT1 , TEF1 and RPB1 gene sequences, they differed by 3 % (26 substitutions), 2.7 % (25 substitutions) and 9 %(54 substitutions) from D. litseae NRRL YB-3246 T in these regions. Physiologically, they also differed from its closest known species D. litseae based on the ability to assimilate inulin and galactitol, as well as to grow in 0.1 % cycloheximide and its inability to ferment maltose and raffinose. In order to classify the two new isolates based on morphological and molecular evidence, we proposed the description of a novel species Danielozyma pruni sp. nov. with strain JCM 35735 T as holotype (Mycobank MB 849101).

Three yeast isolates were obtained from soil and rotting wood samples collected in an Amazonian rainforest biome in Brazil. Comparison of the intergenic spacer 5.8S region and the D1/D2 domains of the large subunit rRNA gene showed that the isolates represent a novel species of the genus Saccharomycopsis . A tree inferred from the D1/D2 sequences placed the novel species near a subclade containing Saccharomycopsis lassenensis , Saccharomycopsis fermentans , Saccharomycopsis javanensis , Saccharomycopsis babjevae , Saccharomycopsis schoenii and Saccharomycopsis oosterbeekiorum , but with low bootstrap support. In terms of sequence divergence, the novel species had the highest identity in the D1/D2 domains with Saccharomycopsis capsularis , from which it differed by 36 substitutions. In contrast, a phylogenomic analysis based on 1061 single-copy orthologs for a smaller set of Saccharomycopsis species whose whole genome sequences are available indicated that the novel species represented by strain UFMG-CM-Y6991 is phylogenetically closer to Saccharomycopsis fodiens and Saccharomycopsis sp. TF2021a (= Saccharomycopsis phalluae ). The novel yeast is homothallic and produces asci with one spheroidal ascospore with an equatorial or subequatorial ledge. The name Saccharomycopsis praedatoria sp. nov. is proposed to accommodate the novel species. The holotype of Saccharomycopsis praedatoria is CBS 16589 T . The MycoBank number is MB849369. S. praedatoria was able to kill cells of Saccharomyces cerevisiae by means of penetration with infection pegs, a trait common to most species of Saccharomycopsis .

Three strains belonging to the basidiomycetous yeast genus Vishniacozyma were isolated from marine water samples collected from intertidal zones in Liaoning province, northeast China. Phylogenetic analyses based on the sequences of the small subunit (SSU) ribosomal DNA (rDNA), the D1/D2 domain of the large subunit (LSU) ribosomal DNA (rDNA), the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), the two subunits of DNA polymerase II ( RPB1 and RPB2 ), the translation elongation factor 1-α ( TEF1 ), and the mitochondrial gene cytochrome b ( CYTB ) showed that these strains together with 20 strains from various geographic and ecological origins from other regions of the world represent a novel species in the genus Vishniacozyma . We propose the name Vishniacozyma pseudocarnescens sp. nov. (holotype CGMCC 2.6457) for the new species, which differs phenotypically from its close relatives V. carnescens , V. tephrensis , and V. victoriae by its ability to grow at 30 °C and on 50 % (w/v) glucose-yeast extract agar.

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Streptococcus salivarius K12 as an adjuvant in treating oral candidiasis. Methods: A total of 56 patients were participated in the randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled clinical trial. The S. salivarius K12 or placebo lozenges plus nystatin tablets were given for up to 4 weeks at 1‐week interval and then followed up for 1 week thereafter. We collected and analyzed the mycological and clinical data, treatment course, and safety data. Results: At the end of the treatment, significant differences were found in the mycological cure rates between K12 group and control group (90.48% and 55.56%, respectively, p = 0.008). Survival analysis demonstrated no statistical difference in overall cure rates comprehensively considering mycological cure, clinical improvement, and recurrence (p = 0.078), while statistical difference was found in mycological cure (p = 0.013) between the two groups. The median treatment courses of K12 group and control group were 3 weeks and 4 weeks, respectively. No severe events were reported during the study. Conclusion: Streptococcus salivarius K12 exhibited potential efficacy and safety as an adjuvant in treating oral candidiasis by enhancing mycological cure and shortening the treatment course of conventional antifungal therapy in this randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled clinical trial. Further large‐scale clinical studies are desired to accumulate more evidence for its clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]