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Rezafungin is a long-acting, intravenously administered echinocandin for the treatment of candidemia and invasive candidiasis (IC). Non-inferiority of rezafungin vs caspofungin for the treatment of adults with candidemia and/or IC was demonstrated in the Phase 3 ReSTORE study based on the primary endpoints of day 14 global cure and 30-day all-cause mortality. Here, an analysis of ReSTORE data evaluating efficacy outcomes by baseline Candida species is described. Susceptibility testing was performed for Candida species using the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute reference broth microdilution method. There were 93 patients in the modified intent-to-treat population who received rezafungin; 94 received caspofungin. Baseline Candida species distribution was similar in the two treatment groups; C. albicans (occurring in 41.9% and 42.6% of patients in the rezafungin and caspofungin groups, respectively), C. glabrata (25.8% and 26.6%), and C. tropicalis (21.5% and 18.1%) were the most common pathogens. Rates of global cure and mycological eradication at day 14 and day 30 all-cause mortality by Candida species were comparable in the rezafungin and caspofungin treatment groups and did not appear to be impacted by minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for either rezafungin or caspofungin. Two patients had baseline isolates with non-susceptible MIC values (both in the rezafungin group: one non-susceptible to rezafungin and one to caspofungin, classified as intermediate); both were candidemia-only patients in whom rezafungin treatment was successful based on the day 30 all-cause mortality endpoint. This analysis of ReSTORE demonstrated the efficacy of rezafungin for candidemia and IC in patients infected with a variety of Candida species.

Wild pigs are among the most widespread invasive vertebrate species, having been introduced across the globe as a source of food and for sport hunting. Over the last few decades, the growing ecological and economic impacts of wild pigs have precipitated a shift in the perception and management of this species from a desired game animal to a destructive invasive species, resulting in substantial investments in wild pig management. Most notably, in 2014 the National Feral Swine Damage Management Program was established by the U.S. Congress, representing one of the most extensive management programs for a single invasive species in North America to date. This infusion of interest in wild pig control and resources to carry out these programs has spurred technological innovation, resulting in new and enhanced tools for locating, capturing, and removing wild pigs, as well as a surge in research on this species across its range. These investments have resulted in the elimination or presumed elimination of wild pigs from 12 U.S. States in the last decade. However, several significant hurdles remain that must be addressed to achieve long term success in the management of invasive wild pigs. The lack of unified management goals both within and between many agencies is probably the most important factor limiting widespread control efforts, as there is still no standardized legalized classification of this species in the U.S., and some states continue to actively manage wild pigs as a game species. The lack of concordance in management goals underscores the need for better educational programs targeting the public, legislators, and even wildlife professionals. Further, illegal movement of pigs remains a major contributor to the continued establishment of wild pig populations in new areas. As control efforts shift into states with abundant wild pig populations and an entrenched culture of wild pig hunting, new approaches to management, expanded educational campaigns, more unified management goals, and additional investments in control efforts will be needed. While complete elimination of wild pigs from their invasive range is unlikely, adoption of these strategies should facilitate further contraction of their range, benefiting native wildlife, ecosystems, and humans.

A better understanding of the genetic and ecological factors underlying successful invasions is critical to mitigate the negative impacts of invasive species. Here, we study the invasion history of Helianthus annuus populations from Argentina, with particular emphasis on the role of post‐introduction admixture with cultivated sunflower (also H. annuus) and climate adaptation driven by large haploblocks. We conducted genotyping‐by‐sequencing of samples of wild populations as well as Argentinian cultivars and compared them with wild (including related annual Helianthus species) and cultivated samples from the native range. We also characterised samples for 11 known haploblocks associated with environmental variation in native populations to test whether haploblocks contributed to invasion success. Population genomics analyses supported two independent geographic sources for Argentinian populations, the central United States and Texas, but no significant contribution of related annual Helianthus species. We found pervasive admixture with cultivated sunflower, likely as result of post‐introduction hybridization. Genomic scans between invasive populations and their native sources identified multiple genomic regions of divergence, possibly indicative of selection, in the invaded range. These regions significantly overlapped between the two native‐invasive comparisons and showed disproportionally high crop ancestry, suggesting that crop alleles contributed to invasion success. We did not find evidence of climate adaptation mediated by haploblocks, yet outliers of genome scans were enriched in haploblock regions and, for at least two haploblocks, the cultivar haplotype was favoured in Argentina. Our results show that admixture with cultivated sunflower played a major role in the establishment and spread of H. annuus populations in Argentina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf chlorophyll is vital for plants because it helps them get energy through the process of photosynthesis. The present review thus examines various leaf chlorophyll content estimation techniques in laboratories and outdoor field conditions. The review consists of two sections: (1) destructive and (2) nondestructive methods for chlorophyll estimation. Through this review, we could find that Arnon's spectrophotometry method is the most popular and simplest method for the estimation of leaf chlorophyll under laboratory conditions. While android-based applications and portable equipment for the quantification of chlorophyll content are useful for onsite utilities. The algorithm used in these applications and equipment is trained for specific plants rather than being generalized across all plants. In the case of hyperspectral remote sensing, more than 42 hyperspectral indices were observed for chlorophyll estimations, and among these red-edge-based indices were found to be more appropriate. This review recommends that hyperspectral indices such as the three-band hyperspectral vegetation index, Chlgreen, Triangular Greenness Index, Wavelength Difference Index, and Normalized Difference Chlorophyll are generic and can be used for chlorophyll estimations of various plants. It was also observed that Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)-based algorithms such as Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, and Artificial Neural Network regressions are the most suited and widely applied algorithms for chlorophyll estimation using the above hyperspectral data. It was also concluded that comparative studies are required in order to understand the advantages and disadvantages of reflectance-based vegetation indices and chlorophyll fluorescence imaging methods for chlorophyll estimations to comprehend their efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In developed cities, bird communities are typically comprised of a few dominant invasive species that can cause considerable social and economic costs. While various studies advocate restricting anthropogenic food as a suitable management approach, a significant knowledge gap persists regarding how these species interact and respond to such an intervention. Here, we evaluate whether limiting a shared food resource may affect their abundances similarly and assess whether such limitations influence their niche dynamics.In Singapore, open food centres for people, colloquially known as hawker centres, serve as key food sources for three highly adapted urban birds: feral pigeons, Javan mynas and house crows. We counted these three species across 63 hawker centres and analysed their niche dynamics across different phases—before, during COVID‐19 social restrictions when dining‐in was prohibited, and during an enforcement phase mandating the return of crockery. We modelled their counts, diet niche widths and niche overlaps, considering predictors which include the sampling phases, food availability, structural characteristics of hawker centres and spatial attributes such as distance to public housing.During social restrictions, feral pigeon and Javan myna counts showed a significant decline, while the count proportions of the three species compared to each other remained relatively stable. Hawker centres closer to bridges and public housing, and those that structurally more open, attracted more birds.The niche widths of feral pigeons and Javan mynas significantly narrowed during social restrictions due to reduced food availability. However, their niche overlaps remained consistent across sampling phases, indicating resource partitioning strategies to cope with extreme food shortages—feral pigeons adapted by foraging more on grass verges outside, while Javan mynas frequented tray return stations. This resilience in maintaining species proportions and the absence of significant niche overlap suggested the existence of an ecological balance despite substantial reductions in available food.Synthesis and applications. Our study underscores the importance of controlling human‐provided food to collectively manage dominant urban bird commensals. Beyond the two social restriction phases, curbing the availability of anthropogenic food through enforcement also kept nuisance birds away, validating a cost‐effective approach in reducing their counts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: Thyroid disorders are common in Indian adult population. Current management guidelines from the American Thyroid Association (ATA) recommend diagnostic ultrasonography for all patients with thyroid nodules. However, suspicious and few overlapping characteristics of benign and malignant thyroid nodules makes FNAC unquestionable. Unwanted suspicion leads to excessive unnecessary biopsies and insufficient lower suspicion leads to under-diagnosis or missing of thyroid malignancies. Hence, making accurate decision of whether a nodule is potentially malignant or not is crucial. Aims and objectives: To study the USG features of thyroid lesions in patients with thyroid disorders and correlate these USG findings with FNAC in the diagnosis of thyroid lesions. Methods: The cross-sectional study was done for 18 months among patients of thyroid disorders coming to the Radio-diagnosis department of Muzaffarnagar Medical College for routine USG scan for thyroid lesions. A sample of 50 patients was taken among the age group of 10-75years who gave consent for FNAC and did not have any bleeding disorders. Sonographic evaluation of the thyroid gland was done by characterising its size, shape, echogenicity, vascularity and presence or absence of nodules. The respective nodules were assed for suspicious patterns and FNAC of the nodules was done to correlate the radiological with pathological diagnosis. Results: As per the study, with good sensitivity and specificity, radiological examination of thyroid lesions by USG showed significant correlation with pathological evaluation of thyroid lesions by FNAC examination. A strong positive correlation between the two diagnostic procedures was seen. The correlation was statistically significant, with a P < 0.05. Conclusion: Thyroid gland ultrasound is a non-invasive, cost-effective and patient compliant technique in assessing and diagnosing thyroid swellings which can be performed as the initial investigation before FNAC examination for quickly assessing thyroid nodules, their vascularity and identifying benign from malignant lesions. This would avoid unnecessary invasion and its related complications like puncturing an highly vascular nodule which could be determined on USG itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical ventilation is a common invasive intervention in intensive care units. While respiratory failure remains the most common indication for mechanical ventilation, the application and indications of this intervention are far more variable. Ventilation causes marked alteration to human physiology and is associated with complications and iatrogenic injuries. This article highlights practical aspects of patient management during invasive ventilation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding causes of insect population declines is essential for the development of successful conservation plans, but data limitations restrict assessment across spatial and temporal scales. Museum records represent a source of historical data that can be leveraged to investigate temporal trends in insect communities. Native lady beetle decline has been attributed to competition with established alien species and landscape change, but the relative importance of these drivers is difficult to measure with short‐term field‐based studies. We assessed distribution patterns for native lady beetles over 12 decades using museum records, and evaluated the relative importance of alien species and landscape change as factors contributing to changes in communities. We compiled occurrence records for 28 lady beetle species collected in Ohio, USA, from 1900 to 2018. Taxonomic beta‐diversity was used to evaluate changes in lady beetle community composition over time. To evaluate the relative influence of temporal, spatial, landscape, and community factors on the captures of native species, we constructed negative binomial generalized additive models. We report evidence of declines in captures for several native species. Importantly, the timing, severity, and drivers of these documented declines were species‐specific. Land cover change was associated with declines in captures, particularly for Coccinella novemnotata which declined prior to the arrival of alien species. Following the establishment and spread of alien lady beetles, processes of species loss/gain and turnover shifted communities toward the dominance of a few alien species beginning in the 1980s. Because factors associated with declines in captures were highly species‐specific, this emphasizes that mechanisms driving population losses cannot be generalized even among closely related native species. These findings also indicate the importance of museum holdings and the analysis of species‐level data when studying temporal trends in insect populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Camera traps have become a crucial tool for monitoring predators and are frequently deployed with lures to boost detection. Feral cats, a problematic invasive species in Australia, are commonly monitored using camera traps with lures. Despite the additional effort required for lure deployment, it remains unclear which lures are effective for monitoring feral cats. Aims. Our study aimed to address this knowledge gap and assess the impact of various lure treatments on feral cat detection and activity. We also examined the response of other predators, such as Tasmanian devils and spotted-tailed quolls, to the lures and explored how their activity influenced feral cat visitation. Methods. We deployed food, olfactory and visual lures, along with a null treatment across four grids of 16 camera traps over a period of 4 months in south-eastern Tasmania. Key results. We observed increased feral cat detection with food (odds ratio = 3.69, 97.5% CI = 1.04, 13.2) and visual lures (odds ratio = 5.95, CI = 1.75, 20.2), but not olfactory lures (odds ratio = 1.88, CI = 0.55, 6.51). Examining only sites where cats were detected, food (odds ratio = 3.35, CI = 1.27, 8.9), visual (odds ratio = 3.39, CI = 1.41, 8.1) and olfactory (odds ratio = 2.7, CI = 1.02, 7.1) lures all increased feral cat visitation to the camera traps. Tasmanian devil and spotted-tailed quoll activity increased 4.85-fold (CI = 2.89, 8.1) and 4.94-fold (CI = 2.92, 8.4) when using the food lure, and 4.24-fold (CI = 2.5, 7.2) and 3.49-fold (CI = 2.03, 6.0) when using the olfactory lure. Whereas a positive relationship existed between devil and cat activity overall (β = 0.49, s.e. = 0.15, P ≤ 0.001), negative associations were found between devil and cat activity in the presence of food (β = −0.36, s.e. = 0.19, P = 0.057) and olfactory (β = −0.42, s.e. = 0.20, P = 0.026) lures. Conclusions. Our findings demonstrated the effectiveness of lures in temperate environments for feral cat monitoring but highlighted potential interspecific interactions that reduce feral cat visitation. Implications. We recommend a thoughtful consideration of the environment and resident species to ensure effective lure use and to minimise unintended negative influences on the capture of target species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avocado lace bug, Pseudocysta perseae (Heidemann) (Hemiptera: Tingidae), is a sap-feeding insect that feeds on the underside of avocado leaves. First observed in 2019, P. perseae has spread throughout the Hawaiian islands, causing premature leaf drop and decrease in avocado yield. Due to Hawai'i's approximately 200 cultivars comprised of all 3 avocado races with extensive racial hybrids, we were able to investigate whether certain cultivars were more prone to experiencing higher P. perseae abundances and infestations compared to others. We conducted longitudinal abundance surveys on Hawai'i Island across several common avocado varieties monitoring changes in P. perseae abundance. These surveys were supplemented with longitudinal infestation severity surveys across 4 avocado lineages (Mexican, Guatemalan, West Indian, and Guatemalan × West Indian hybrid). Additionally, we collected leaves of 'Sharwil', 'Hass', 'Kahalu'u', and 'Nishikawa' cultivars looking at associations between P. perseae abundance and cultivar, herbivory-related biomechanical traits, and soluble sugar content. We found that some cultivars, such as 'Malama', typically experience lower P. perseae abundances compared to cultivars such as 'Kahalu'u', 'Beshore', and 'Sharwil'. Guatemalan × West Indian hybrid trees were also shown to have a higher probability of experiencing more severe P. perseae infestations compared to other lineages. Lastly, soluble sugar content, specifically fructose content, had a positive effect on juvenile P. perseae abundance. These findings suggest that cultivar differences in P. perseae infestations may exist, but tree-to-tree leaf compositional differences, such as soluble sugar content, may be a large driver of variation in P. perseae abundance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-native, invasive plants are increasingly common in Eastern North American forests, but their impact on soil fungi remains unclear. We used DNA metabarcoding to investigate the effects of nativity, plant mycorrhizal type and soil factors on root-associated fungal communities. We focused on understory woody plants in a deciduous forest tract in central New York state, and included three plant types, invasive arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM), native AM, and native ectomycorrhizal (EM), each represented by 3–5 species. We found lower fungal operational taxonomic unit (OTU) diversity in EM than AM plants, but no OTU diversity difference between native and invasive AM species. Pathogen OTU richness and relative abundance were not distinct between plant types. OTU composition was influenced by host mycorrhizal type and by AM plant nativity, with mycorrhizal fungi being important drivers in both cases. The relationships of soil characteristics (e.g., pH) with OTU composition were independent of plant nativity and mycorrhizal type. Specific root length of native AM species was lower than that of invasive AM plants, while EM plants were intermediate. Irrespective of plant type, OTU composition was distinct among plant species, particularly in fungal communities associated with the invader Rhamnus cathartica. These results suggest that invasive AM plants may shift fungal composition relative to native AM and EM plants, with potential long-term consequences for soil biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A statewide genomic surveillance system for invasive Group A Streptococcus was implemented in Arizona in June 2019, resulting in 1046 isolates being submitted for genomic analysis to characterize emm types and identify transmission clusters. Eleven of the 32 identified distinct emm types comprised >80% of samples, with 29.7% of all isolates being typed as emm 49 (and its genetic derivative emm 151). Phylogenetic analysis initially identified an emm 49 genomic cluster of 4 isolates that rapidly expanded over subsequent months (June 2019 to February 2020). Public health investigations identified epidemiologic links with 3 different long-term care facilities, resulting in specific interventions. Unbiased genomic surveillance allowed for identification and response to clusters that would have otherwise remained undetected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A breast cancer (BC) diagnosis may negatively affect health-related quality of life (HRQoL). However, there are few comparisons of HRQoL at several time points for women with BC, and particular when subdivided into invasive and in situ tumors. The purpose of this study was to investigate various aspects of HRQoL in women recently diagnosed with invasive BC or ductal carcinoma in situ (in situ) compared to age-matched BC free controls in a population-wide sample recruited through the Cancer Registry of Norway. Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized HRQoL data collected in 2020–2022 from a digital survey including 4117 cases (3867 women with invasive BC and 430 with in situ) and 2911 controls. HRQoL was assessed ≥ 21 days after diagnosis, using EORTC QLQ-C30. This includes scores assessing global quality of life (gHRQoL) and HRQoL functions and symptoms. Multivariable regression analyses were used to compare HRQoL between cases and controls and to identify factors associated with gHRQoL and fatigue. Additionally, HRQoL 14 months after diagnosis was analyzed in 1989 of the included cases and in 1212 of the controls. Score differences of ≥ 10 points were considered clinically relevant and thus presented in the results. Results: Invasive BC cases had lower gHRQoL, role- and social functioning in addition to more fatigue than controls. In situ cases had lower role—and social functioning than controls. Invasive BC cases scored worse than in situ on all domains, but the differences were not considered clinically relevant. Physical activity was associated with better gHRQoL and less fatigue in invasive BC, in situ and controls. Both invasive BC and in situ cases improved their role- and social functioning scores from diagnosis to 14 months follow-up, however no improvement was seen for fatigue. Conclusion: Women with invasive BC and in situ reported lower role- and social functioning scores than controls right after diagnosis with improvements 14 months after diagnosis. Physical activity was associated with better gHRQoL and less fatigue and should, whenever possible, play a key role in the care for BC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report biosecurity interceptions of Oryctes rhinoceros in Australia, New Zealand, Guam, United States, and other jurisdictions to provide the first such published assessment for this highly invasive species. Between 2003 and July 2023 New Zealand found O. rhinoceros 13 times. Between 2002 and July 2023 Australia found Oryctes rhinoceros 14 times. Since 2017 inspections in Guam detected individuals twice. Between 2003 and 2014, beetles were found eight times at ports in the United States. No credible interceptions were made in the European Union. Four other intercepts were reported from two other jurisdictions. There were very little commonalities among the intercept data. All but one detection were of adults, and of the 14 adults that were sexed, eight were female and six were male. From the Australian data, which included month of detection, there was no seasonality associated with detections. Detections were associated with a broad array of commodities or situations. Oryctes rhinoceros appears to be a generalist passenger, being accidentally transported by a wide variety of means at any time. This finding indicates that there is little possibility of focusing on any specific commodity, packaging, vessel, or season to detect accidental transport of this species. Instead, biosecurity vigilance is required on all goods and vessels arriving at, or leaving, destinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a potentially life-threatening complication of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analyses of studies on acute leukemia in children aged 0–17 years since 2000. Findings were reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. We included 24 studies with 3661 ALL patients and 1728 AML patients. IA cumulative incidence varied (0%–10% for ALL and 0%–18% for AML) across the studies. Pooled cumulative IA incidences were estimated at 3.2% (95% CI: 1.8%–5.8%) in ALL and 5.2% (95% CI: 3.1%–8.6%) in AML, with corresponding case fatality rates of 13.3% (95% CI: 6.3%–25.9%), and 7.8% (95% CI: 0.7%–51.2%), respectively. Our analysis highlights the impact of IA in childhood leukemia, underscoring the need to address strategies for prevention, early detection, and treatment of IA in pediatric leukemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In India, breast cancer forms the most common malignancy, accounting for 28.2% of all female cancers. Breast cancer consists of phenotypically diverse group of diseases. Due to different relapse abilities, doubling times, and different infiltrative capacities, it is important to identify potential biomarkers that could be used to screen high-risk patient and predict breast cancer prognosis in conjunction with classical pathological parameters. Aims and Objectives: The present study was conducted to evaluate immunohistochemical expression of CD44 in breast carcinoma and to correlate CD44 expression with other clinicopathological parameters and molecular classification of carcinoma breast. Materials and Methods: The present study was a prospective descriptive study conducted on 100 cases of carcinoma breast diagnosed on modified radical mastectomy specimens that were submitted to the Department of Pathology, Pt. B. D. Sharma, PGIMS, Rohtak, Haryana, over the period of 2 years. Results: Out of 100, 64 cases (64%) were CD44 positive. Out of these 64 cases, 9 (9%) cases were 1+, 34 (34%) cases were 2+, and 21 (21%) cases showed 3+ positive expression of CD44 in tumor cells. Loss of CD44 expression was seen in 36 (36%) cases. A statistically significant association of CD44 was seen with multifocality of the tumor, negative estrogen receptor/progesterone receptor (ER/PR) expression, and molecular subtypes. No statistically significant association of CD44 was seen with age, side of tumor, lymph node metastasis, lymphovascular invasion, ductal carcinoma in situ and Ki67, and HER2neu expression. Conclusion: A high CD44 expression in breast carcinoma correlates with aggressive tumor characteristics such as multifocality, negative ER/PR expression, and belonging to the basal subtype which is associated with poor prognosis. Conversely, low CD44 expression is linked to Luminal A and Luminal B subtypes which have good prognosis. These indicate the role of CD44 as a prognostic biomarker in the carcinoma breast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outbreaks of insects and diseases are part of the natural disturbance regime of all forests. However, introduced pathogens have had outsized impacts on many dominant forest tree species over the past century. Mitigating these impacts and restoring these species are dilemmas of the modern era. Here, we review the ecological and economic impact of introduced pathogens, focusing on examples in North America. We then synthesize the successes and challenges of past biotechnological approaches and discuss the integration of genomics and biotechnology to help mitigate the effects of past and future pathogen invasions. These questions are considered in the context of the transgenic American chestnut, which is the most comprehensive example to date of how biotechnological tools have been used to address the impacts of introduced pathogens on naïve forest ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological alterations of the gill and digestive gland were studied in Magallana gigas from areas with different degrees of human activity over one year. For that, the height of the plicas and filaments of the gill and the mean epithelial thickness were measured, the ratio of cell type and tissue composition analyzed of the digestive gland as well as alterations in the pattern of structural organization in these organs were assessed. The specimens were collected in November 2021, and February, May and August 2022 from two representative sampling sites of distinct anthropic pressures in the coastal area of Buenos Aires Province: Arroyo Parejas (AP, 38° 55′ S, 62° 04′ W) and Pehuén-Có (PC, 39° 01′ S; 61° 32' W). The results of the morphological parameters, ratio of cell-type, tissue composition, and histological alterations of M. gigas showed differences between the studied areas and seasons, suggesting a negative relationship between human activity and the health of the gills and digestive gland of the oyster. Understanding the gill and digestive gland morphology of oysters, as well as their response to varying levels of human activity in the study region, could help mitigate the impacts of this non-native species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their richness in organic substances and nutrients, seaweed (macroalgae) harbor a large number of epiphytic bacteria on their surfaces. These bacteria interact with their host in multiple complex ways, in particular, by producing chemical compounds. The released metabolites may have biological properties beneficial for applications in both industry and medicine. In this study, we assess the diversity of culturable bacterial community of the invasive alga Codium fragile ssp. fragile with the aim to identify key groups within this epiphytic community. Seaweed samples were collected from the Northern Tunisian coast. A total of fifty bacteria were isolated in pure culture. These bacterial strains were identified by amplification of the ribosomal intergenic transcribed spacer between the 16S and the 23S rRNA genes (ITS-PCR) and by 16S rRNA sequencing. Antimicrobial activity, biochemical, and antibiotic resistance profile characterization were determined for the isolates. Isolated strains were tested for their antimicrobial potential against human and fish bacterial pathogens and the yeast Candida albicans, using the in vitro drop method. About 37% of isolated strains possess antibacterial activity with a variable antimicrobial spectrum. Ba1 (closely related to Pseudoalteromonas spiralis), Ba12 (closely related to Enterococcus faecium), and Bw4 (closely related to Pseudoalteromonas sp.) exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against E. coli. The isolated strain Ba4, closely related to Serratia marcescens, demonstrated the most potent activity against pathogens. The susceptibility of these strains to 12 commonly used antibiotics was investigated. Majority of the isolates were resistant to oxacillin, cefoxitin, tobramycin, and nitrofurantoin. Ba7 and Ba10, closely related to the Vibrio anguillarum strains, had the highest multidrug resistance profiles. The enzymes most commonly produced by the isolated strains were amylase, lecithinase, and agarase. Moreover, nine isolates produced disintegration zones around their colonies on agar plates with agarolitic index, ranging from 0.60 to 2.38. This investigation highlighted that Codium fragile ssp. fragile possesses an important diversity of epiphytic bacteria on its surface that could be cultivated in high biomass and may be considered for biotechnological application and as sources of antimicrobial drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first study providing an up-to-date account of the alien flora in Uzbekistan and analyzing the relationship between the invasion status (casual, naturalized, invasive) of alien plants in this country and their life histories, regions of origin, and habitat affiliations. The data were collected from literature, herbaria, and field surveys. The checklist includes 252 species, of which 44 are invasive (17.5%), 177 naturalized non-invasive (70.2%, giving 220 naturalized species in total), and 31 casual aliens (12.3%). The family with the highest number of alien species is Asteraceae (53, or 21% of all recorded species), followed by Brassicaceae (21), Poaceae (19), and Solanaceae (15). The most represented genera in the alien flora of Uzbekistan are Amaranthus (8 species), Centaurea, Malva, Solanum, and Vicia (5 each). The majority of the alien flora of Uzbekistan are annuals (138 species, i.e., 57% of the total), followed by perennials (52 species, 21.5%). There are only 13 alien woody species recorded. Invasive species originating from Africa, temperate Asia, and Europe are over-represented, as are naturalized species native to Northern America and Southern America. The majority of species are affiliated with agricultural (204 species) and ruderal habitats (164 species); riparian habitats (68 species) and grasslands (38 species) are also well represented. The pattern of invasions in the country is determined by the interaction of source species pools arriving from native regions, their habitat affiliations, and land use. Our study provides the first step toward science-based management of plant invasions in Uzbekistan. It can support policymakers, authorities, and managers in mitigating the current and future impacts of alien species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver Carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) populations have established and expanded throughout the lower Mississippi River basin (LMRB). Information pertaining to Silver Carp population mixing among rivers within the LMRB is lacking. Documented relations between Silver Carp otolith and river water barium (Ba) and strontium (Sr) microchemical signatures may enable estimation of origins of Silver Carp in the LMRB. Replicate water samples and otoliths from 308 Silver Carp were collected from the Cache, Arkansas, White, Yazoo, St. Francis, L'Anguille, and Mississippi rivers, and Merrisach Lake (situated along a canal connecting the lower reaches of the Arkansas and White rivers) within the LMRB. Water and carp otolith microchemical signatures exhibited consistent differences among water bodies. A classification and regression tree model exhibited 80% accuracy when assigning carp collected from the White, Arkansas, and Mississippi rivers based on fish-water microchemical signatures. Model accuracy decreased as smaller rivers were incorporated into models. Predicted natal origin based on otolith microchemical signatures suggested the White River (43%) and the lower Mississippi River (39%) were the likely origins for ~ 82% of the Silver Carp sampled. Despite the prevalence of adult Silver Carp within the Arkansas River system, fewer (18%) appeared to have originated there compared to the White and Mississippi rivers. Long-term water sampling and additional isotopic measurements may refine analyses to better determine the relative contributions of Silver Carp from the smaller river systems. Population mixing of Silver Carp among tributary rivers appears to be common within the LMRB, and removal efforts may benefit from evaluating the magnitude of fish movement and connectivity among rivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Purpose A breast cancer (BC) diagnosis may negatively affect health-related quality of life (HRQoL). However, there are few comparisons of HRQoL at several time points for women with BC, and particular when subdivided into invasive and in situ tumors. The purpose of this study was to investigate various aspects of HRQoL in women recently diagnosed with invasive BC or ductal carcinoma in situ (in situ) compared to age-matched BC free controls in a population-wide sample recruited through the Cancer Registry of Norway. Methods This cross-sectional study utilized HRQoL data collected in 2020–2022 from a digital survey including 4117 cases (3867 women with invasive BC and 430 with in situ) and 2911 controls. HRQoL was assessed ≥ 21 days after diagnosis, using EORTC QLQ-C30. This includes scores assessing global quality of life (gHRQoL) and HRQoL functions and symptoms. Multivariable regression analyses were used to compare HRQoL between cases and controls and to identify factors associated with gHRQoL and fatigue. Additionally, HRQoL 14 months after diagnosis was analyzed in 1989 of the included cases and in 1212 of the controls. Score differences of ≥ 10 points were considered clinically relevant and thus presented in the results. Results Invasive BC cases had lower gHRQoL, role- and social functioning in addition to more fatigue than controls. In situ cases had lower role—and social functioning than controls. Invasive BC cases scored worse than in situ on all domains, but the differences were not considered clinically relevant. Physical activity was associated with better gHRQoL and less fatigue in invasive BC, in situ and controls. Both invasive BC and in situ cases improved their role- and social functioning scores from diagnosis to 14 months follow-up, however no improvement was seen for fatigue. Conclusion Women with invasive BC and in situ reported lower role- and social functioning scores than controls right after diagnosis with improvements 14 months after diagnosis. Physical activity was associated with better gHRQoL and less fatigue and should, whenever possible, play a key role in the care for BC patients.

Background: In India, breast cancer forms the most common malignancy, accounting for 28.2% of all female cancers. Breast cancer consists of phenotypically diverse group of diseases. Due to different relapse abilities, doubling times, and different infiltrative capacities, it is important to identify potential biomarkers that could be used to screen high-risk patient and predict breast cancer prognosis in conjunction with classical pathological parameters. Aims and Objectives: The present study was conducted to evaluate immunohistochemical expression of CD44 in breast carcinoma and to correlate CD44 expression with other clinicopathological parameters and molecular classification of carcinoma breast. Materials and Methods: The present study was a prospective descriptive study conducted on 100 cases of carcinoma breast diagnosed on modified radical mastectomy specimens that were submitted to the Department of Pathology, Pt. B. D. Sharma, PGIMS, Rohtak, Haryana, over the period of 2 years. Results: Out of 100, 64 cases (64%) were CD44 positive. Out of these 64 cases, 9 (9%) cases were 1+, 34 (34%) cases were 2+, and 21 (21%) cases showed 3+ positive expression of CD44 in tumor cells. Loss of CD44 expression was seen in 36 (36%) cases. A statistically significant association of CD44 was seen with multifocality of the tumor, negative estrogen receptor/progesterone receptor (ER/PR) expression, and molecular subtypes. No statistically significant association of CD44 was seen with age, side of tumor, lymph node metastasis, lymphovascular invasion, ductal carcinoma in situ and Ki67, and HER2neu expression. Conclusion: A high CD44 expression in breast carcinoma correlates with aggressive tumor characteristics such as multifocality, negative ER/PR expression, and belonging to the basal subtype which is associated with poor prognosis. Conversely, low CD44 expression is linked to Luminal A and Luminal B subtypes which have good prognosis. These indicate the role of CD44 as a prognostic biomarker in the carcinoma breast.

Candida auris is an emerging fungal pathogen responsible for health care-associated outbreaks that arise from persistent surface and skin colonization. We characterized the arsenal of adhesins used by C. auris and discovered an uncharacterized adhesin, Surface Colonization Factor (Scf1), and a conserved adhesin, Iff4109, that are essential for the colonization of inert surfaces and mammalian hosts. SCF1 is apparently specific to C. auris, and its expression mediates adhesion to inert and biological surfaces across isolates from all five clades. Unlike canonical fungal adhesins, which function through hydrophobic interactions, Scf1 relies on exposed cationic residues for surface association. SCF1 is required for C. auris biofilm formation, skin colonization, virulence in systemic infection, and colonization of inserted medical devices.

Fusarium is a soil fungus and plant pathogen. Invasive infections by this fungus have been reported in immunocompromised patients. Here, we report a case of obstructive uropathy by Fusarium solani infection in an immunocompetent young woman who was misdiagnosed as urolithiasis of the right pelvicalyceal system in ultrasonogram. Later, on removal, it was proved to be F. solani infection.

ABSTRACTIntroduction The escalating prevalence of infectious diseases is an important cause of concern in society. Particularly in several developing countries, infectious diarrhea poses a major problem, with a high fatality rate, especially among young children. The condition is divided into four classes, namely, acute diarrhea, invasive diarrhea, acute bloody diarrhea, and chronic diarrhea. Various pathogenic agents, such as bacteria, viruses, protozoans, and helminths, contribute to the onset of this condition.Areas covered The review discusses the scenario of infectious diarrhea, the prevalent types, as well as approaches to management including preventive, therapeutic, and vaccination strategies. The vaccination techniques are extensively discussed including the available vaccines, their advantages as well as limitations.Expert opinion There are several approaches available to develop new-improved vaccines. In addition, route of immunization is important and aerosols/nasal sprays, oral route, skin patches, powders, and liquid jets to minimize needles can be used. Plant-based vaccines, such as rice, might save packing and refrigeration costs by being long-lasting, non-refrigerable, and immunogenic. Future research should utilize predetermined PCR testing intervals and symptom monitoring to identify persistent pathogens after therapy and symptom remission.

The Gulf toadfish (Opsanus beta) is a soniferous and abundant species native to Gulf of Mexico estuarine environments—now considered a likely invasive species in coastal Brazil. Males produce distinctive boatwhistle calls during their reproduction behaviors, offering an acoustic cue for ecological functions such as mate selection, prey detection, and predator avoidance. Their calls can also be readily detected with passive acoustics to monitor Gulf toadfish distributions and serve as acoustic indicators for their preferred nesting habitats. In this study, we describe the spatial, annual, seasonal, monthly, daily, daytime, and diel variation of Gulf toadfish call occurrence in Cedar Key, Florida (USA), with multiple sampling efforts at seagrass and dock sampling locations in the years 2019–2022. From April through June during our dock sampling, calls were detected across almost all our sampled dates and often every hour of the day, with daily and diel fluctuations in call occurrence. In our seagrass meadow sampling, call occurrence showed some positive correlation with manatee grass (Syringodium filiforme) and salinity. Moreover, snapshot recordings as short as 5 min were sufficient to detect calls in 37 of our 45 sampling events compared to only five where trawls captured Gulf toadfish. Our findings demonstrate the efficacy of listening to Gulf toadfish calls for monitoring applications and can support future efforts seeking to understand the availability of a prevalent acoustic cue in estuarine soundscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is an important pharmacological constituent of Glycyrrhiza glabra, which possesses a range of physiological and pharmacological activities, as well as significant antitumor activity, and can be used as a potential drug for targeted cancer therapy. LINC01503 is an oncogene, which has been closely associated with the malignant biological processes of many cancers. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ISL on the proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and migration of lung squamous carcinoma cells by regulating LINC01503. Methods Plasma was collected from lung squamous carcinoma patients and healthy individuals treated at Tangshan People's Hospital from January 2021 to December 2022. The expression of LINC01503 in lung squamous carcinoma plasma, tissues and cells was detected by real-time quantitative fluorescence polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Lung squamous carcinoma cells were treated with different concentrations of ISL for 24 h, and LINC01503 expression was detected by qRT-PCR. The cells were treated in groups: si-NC group, si-LINC01503 group, DMSO (0.1% dimethyl sulfone) group, ISL group, pc DNA3.1(+)-NC group, pc DNA3.1(+)-LINC01503 group, ISL+pc DNA3.1(+)-NC group and ISL+pc DNA3.1(+)- LINC01503 groups. CCK-8 assay, clone formation assay, flow cytometry, Transwell assay and scratch assay were used to explore the effect of LINC01503 on the functional phenotype of lung squamous carcinoma cells. Results Fluorescence in situ hybridization results showed that the average fluorescence intensity of LINC01503 in tissue microarrays of lung squamous carcinoma patients was higher than that in paracancerous tissues (P

Abstract Background Honey bees are the principal commercial pollinators. Along with other arthropods, they are increasingly under threat from anthropogenic factors such as the incursion of invasive honey bee subspecies, pathogens and parasites. Better tools are needed to identify bee subspecies. Genomic data for economic and ecologically important organisms is increasing, but in its basic form its practical application to address ecological problems is limited. Results We introduce HBeeID a means to identify honey bees. The tool utilizes a knowledge-based network and diagnostic SNPs identified by discriminant analysis of principle components and hierarchical agglomerative clustering. Tests of HBeeID showed that it identifies African, Americas-Africanized, Asian, and European honey bees with a high degree of certainty even when samples lack the full 272 SNPs of HBeeID. Its prediction capacity decreases with highly admixed samples. Conclusion HBeeID is a high-resolution genomic, SNP based tool, that can be used to identify honey bees and screen species that are invasive. Its flexible design allows for future improvements via sample data additions from other localities.

Among larger species of fish found in Punatsang chhu, Brown trout (Salmo trutta) and Snow trout (Schizothorax richardsonii) are notable species. Snow trout is a native species, whereas Brown trout is an introduced species. Brown trout is noted to have a negative impact on the population of native species worldwide. This study studied the population dynamics and structure of these species to detect if the introduced species affected the native species adversely. The study was conducted on a 30 km stretch of Punatsang chhu including its major and minor tributaries at about their confluences. In total, 56 sample plots of a 200 m sampling stretch were studied with a 200 m distance between each stretch. Length, weight, maturity, and sex data for both species were collected along with the habitat and water parameters. The two species were found to prefer different areas within a single stretch with a rare overlap. Snow trout were found to be distributed widely within the basin whereas Brown trout were only found in altitudes higher than 1,000 masl (x̅ = 1,231.77) and in turbid waters (p = 0.009). Recruitment of Snow trout was not good whereas recruitment of Brown trout was good. Length-frequency graphs indicated good inverse J distribution for the Snow trout population and sporadic for Brown trout. There is an effect of Brown trout introduction to the Snow trout living in the study area. Places invaded by Brown trout have a lesser presence of Snow trout compared to places not invaded by these species.

Abstract Objective To reveal the contributing effects of MTDH gene SNPs in the risk of invasive ductal breast cancer (IDC). Patients and methods A case–control study was conducted, recruiting a total of 300 cases of IDC and 565 cancer-free controls from East China. Genotyping of three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the MTDH gene was performed. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples of patients. The three SNPs (rs1311 T > C, rs16896059 G > A, rs2449512 A > G) in the MTDH gene were selected for detection using a TaqMan real-time polymerase chain reaction assay. The association between MTDH and the risk of IDC was analyzed employing an epidemiology case–control study and a multinomial logistic regression model. Results Among the three evaluated SNPs, rs1311 T > C, rs16896059 G > A, and rs2449512 A > G demonstrated a significant association with an increased risk of IDC. Furthermore, stratified analysis revealed that individuals carrying the rs1311 CC genotype, rs16896059 GA/AA genotypes, and rs2449512 GG genotype were more susceptible to developing IDC in subgroups of patients younger than 53 years, without family history of IDC, pre-menopause status, clinical stage 2, high grade, with no distant metastasis or invasion, Her2-positive type, ER positive, PR positive, and Ki67 cells less than 10%. However, carriers of the rs16896059 GA/AA genotypes and rs2449512 GG genotype had an elevate the risk of IDC in patients with tumor size larger than 2 cm, post-menopause status, clinical stage 3, with invasion, lymph node infiltration, ER negative, PR negative, Her2 negative, and Ki67 cells exceeding 10%. Compared to the reference haplotype TGA, haplotypes TAA, TAG, and TGG were significantly associated with an increased IDC risk. Conclusion In this study, we demonstrated a significant association between MTDH gene polymorphisms and an increased risk of IDC. Moreover, our findings suggested that MTDH gene polymorphisms could serve as a potential biomarker for IDC subtyping and therapeutic selection.

Abstract Bird colonies on islands sustain elevated productivity and biomass on adjacent reefs, through nutrient subsidies. However, the implications of this localized enhancement on higher and often more mobile trophic levels (such as sharks and rays) are unclear, as spatial trends in mobile fauna are often poorly captured by traditional underwater visual surveys. Here, we explore whether the presence of seabird colonies is associated with enhanced abundances of sharks and rays on adjacent coral reefs. We used a novel long‐range water‐landing fixed‐wing unoccupied aerial vehicle (UAV) to survey the distribution and density of sharks, rays and any additional megafauna, on and around tropical coral islands (n = 14) in the Chagos Archipelago Marine Protected Area. We developed a computer‐vision algorithm to distinguish greenery (trees and shrubs), sand and sea glitter from visible ocean to yield accurate marine megafauna density estimation. We detected elevated seabird densities over rat‐free islands, with the commonest species, sooty tern, reaching densities of 932 ± 199 per km−2 while none were observed over former coconut plantation islands. Elasmobranch density around rat‐free islands with seabird colonies was 6.7 times higher than around islands without seabird colonies (1.3 ± 0.63 vs. 0.2 ± SE 0.1 per km2). Our results are evidence that shark and ray distribution is sensitive to natural and localized nutrient subsidies. Correcting for non‐sampled regions of images increased estimated elasmobranch density by 14%, and our openly accessible computer vision algorithm makes this correction easy to implement to generate shark and ray and other wildlife densities from any aerial imagery. The water‐landing fixed‐wing long‐range UAV technology used in this study may provide cost effective monitoring opportunities in remote ocean locations.

Invasive sino-orbital fungal infection is an uncommon, yet severe condition that predominantly affects individuals with compromised immune systems. In this study, we report the case of a 5-month-old immunocompetent infant who exhibited persistent dacryocystitis despite receiving broad-spectrum antibiotics. Subsequently, the patient developed ethmoiditis, orbital subperiosteal abscess, and ulceration of the hard palate. Mycological and histological samples were indicative of Candida infections. The patient underwent sinus surgery and surgical debridement, along with antifungal therapy. The treatment was successful, and the follow-up was uneventful for up to 6 months. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of invasive sino-orbital candidiasis in an immunocompetent infant with dacryocystitis as the entry point. This study explores the clinical features, management approaches, and outcomes of this potentially fatal disease.

Background: Honey bees are the principal commercial pollinators. Along with other arthropods, they are increasingly under threat from anthropogenic factors such as the incursion of invasive honey bee subspecies, pathogens and parasites. Better tools are needed to identify bee subspecies. Genomic data for economic and ecologically important organisms is increasing, but in its basic form its practical application to address ecological problems is limited. Results: We introduce HBeeID a means to identify honey bees. The tool utilizes a knowledge-based network and diagnostic SNPs identified by discriminant analysis of principle components and hierarchical agglomerative clustering. Tests of HBeeID showed that it identifies African, Americas-Africanized, Asian, and European honey bees with a high degree of certainty even when samples lack the full 272 SNPs of HBeeID. Its prediction capacity decreases with highly admixed samples. Conclusion: HBeeID is a high-resolution genomic, SNP based tool, that can be used to identify honey bees and screen species that are invasive. Its flexible design allows for future improvements via sample data additions from other localities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For invasion biologists, the key question as to why only some alien species emerge as successful invaders as against a majority of other alien introduced species is still unclear. One of the best ways to resolve this question is to compare phylogenetically related alien invasive vs alien non-invasive species. Here we compared the allelopathic potential and phytochemical profiling of two congeneric species of Amaranthus (Amaranthus caudatus—invasive alien and non-invasive alien Amaranthus blitum. Petri dish bioassay followed by a pot experiment was used to evaluate the allelopathic effects of aqueous leaf and root extracts (1:10 w/v) of the said alien congeners on the germination and shoot length of Raphanus sativus. Petri dish bioassay results revealed that both species exhibited comparable levels of allelopathic activity; however, leaf extracts of both species showed significantly stronger inhibitory effects than root extracts, a trend corroborated by phenolic content assessments. However, no allelopathic effects on seed germination were observed in the pot culture bioassay. Comparative phytochemical profiling of these Amaranthus species, utilizing Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) and High-resolution liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (HR-LC-MS) identified diverse array of compounds including methyl 8,9-octadecadienoate, n-hexadecanoic acid, phytol, loliolide, stigmasta-7,16-dien-3-ol, catechol borane, ellagic acid etc. which are known for their role in allelopathic interactions and invasiveness of the alien plants. Phytochemical analysis unveiled comparable levels of phytochemicals in both the invasive alien and non-invasive alien species of Amaranthus. In conclusion, our study revealed that while allelopathy may contribute to the invasiveness of the Amaranthus species, it does not seem to be a unique characteristic feature for the invasiveness of invasive alien species (Amaranthus caudatus) in comparison with its non-invasive alien congener. The present study recommends that more congeneric comparisons are needed to understand the role of high chemical diversity in alien plant invasions, and whether it is linked to the origin of the plant species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of exotic species constitutes one of the main threats to biodiversity around the world. Spathodea campanulata is a tree species cultivated for its ornamental value, having toxic nectar with insecticidal properties, particularly against bees. In Argentina, its effects on the native entomofauna are unknown. This study explores the mortality effects of S. campanulata on the native entomofauna in a green area of Corrientes city. From the study of three trees, the percentage of flowers with dead entomofauna specimens inside was analyzed and the abundance of the taxa represented was determined. Diversity indices, species richness, inventory completeness and range-abundance curve were calculated. The results revealed the native bee Scaptotrigona jujuyensis was the most abundant, with a total of 46 specimens out of a total of 151 specimens, among which were founded representatives of the orders Himenoptera, Diptera, Coleoptera, Hemiptera, and Araneae. This exploratory study warns that S. campanulata is a potential threat to native entomofauna in urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When monitoring the health status of various woody host plants in urban areas in Serbia, symptoms indicative of Cryphonectria‐like infection were recorded on European hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) trees in the natural monument 'Arboretum of the Faculty of Forestry in Belgrade'. One tree was affected by crown dieback while another one showed dieback of branches. Bark lesions were found on stems which contained numerous stromata with fruiting bodies and orange tendrils. Conidiomata were recorded solely in the infected tissue, producing hyaline, aseptate and bacilloid‐shaped conidia with dimensions of 3.4 ± 0.46 × 1.2 ± 0.12 μm. In the isolation tests, all plated bark pieces were positive, and 25 isolates were obtained. Colonies on different agar media were white in the beginning, turning into orange‐red colour during ageing. Optimum temperature for growth was 25°C and no growth was recorded at 30°C. A GenBank blast search and a phylogenetic analysis of ITS rDNA sequences of five representative isolates revealed their identity as Cryphonectria carpinicola. To our knowledge, this is the first report of C. carpinicola on hornbeam trees in Serbia, and implications of this finding are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Approximately 40% of chronic low back pain patients have a discogenic origin. In relation to intervertebral disc injuries, most of them are in the posterior and lateral zone of the disc, involving the anterior lumbar roots and the spinal cord. Objective: The objective was to analyze and describe the accuracy and safety of a new ultrasound-guided approach to target the posterolateral part of the intervertebral lumbar discs in cadaveric specimens. Methods: A cross-anatomical study on sixty cadaver intervertebral lumbar discs was performed. A needle was introduced in the posterolateral part of the discs using ultrasound guidance. A transducer was placed in the anterior abdomen to visualize the discs in cross-section as well. A dissection of the specimen was performed to visualize the final position of the needle tip and its distance from the main lumbar structures. The angulation, length, and distance of the needle from the vertebral spine, the relevant ultrasound anatomical references, and the accuracy of the procedure were evaluated. Results: The needle tip reached the posterolateral part of the discs in 93.3% of the attempts. The mean length of the needle inserted was 79 ± 15 mm, the angulation 129 ± 20.2°, the distance from the spinous process was 77 ± 19 mm, and the distance of the needle to the nerve roots was 2.0 ± 1.2 mm. No statistically significant differences between genders were found. Conclusions: An ultrasound-guided technique can be an accurate and safe technique to perform invasive procedures on the posterolateral part of the intervertebral lumbar discs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the interactions among three nonindigenous coral species in a tropical marine fouling community. The study focuses on the Tubastraea species, which are invasive corals originally from the tropical Indo-Pacific. The researchers found that these invasive corals can coexist and interact with each other without causing harm. They also observed fusion between colonies of different Tubastraea species, creating chimeric colonies. The study highlights the importance of understanding the interactions between invasive and native species in marine ecosystems. [Extracted from the article]

Freshwater invaders threaten both natural ecosystems and human activities. An invasive freshwater sponge Heterorotula multidentata (Weltner, 1895) has been found for the first time in continental waters of Europe (Spain). It is a species native to Australia and New Zealand, from which it spread to Japan, being considered invasive. The species has been found in water intake grids of irrigation and drinking water systems in the basins of the Guadalquivir and Tajo rivers, affecting their hydrological functions. It has also been found growing on the invasive mussel Dreissena polymorpha in the Guadalquivir River. To assess the risks associated with invasive alien organisms, a detailed knowledge of their taxonomic status and distribution is necessary. A morphological and molecular evaluation confirmed that the specimens found in Spain belong to the Japanese type. A full morphological description and the fouling problems caused by the species are also provided. It is not yet clear how H. multidentata arrived at Spain, but indirect transport by other invasive freshwater species cannot be ruled out either, as H. multidentata has been found fouling the invasive species zebra mussel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most prevalent skin cancer and continues to witness a surge in incidence rates. The categorization of BCC subtypes into low or high risk, guided by recurrence and invasiveness metrics, underscores the need for precise differentiation. While the punch biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosis, its invasiveness prompts a need for non-invasive alternatives. Ultrasound (US) has emerged as a noteworthy candidate, gaining momentum in its potential to offer a less intrusive diagnostic approach. We conducted a systematic review regarding features of the high-risk subtypes of BCC on US. A thorough literature search of PubMed Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines and a total of nine studies meeting our inclusion criteria were included in this review. Evidence is still nascent but US features such as lesional shape, depth, hyperechoic spots, and color doppler may be helpful in differentiating high-risk BCC subtypes. However, further prospective studies with standardized interventions and outcome measures are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Substance use disorders are prevalent, causing extensive morbidity and mortality worldwide. Evidence-based treatments are of low to moderate effect size. Growth in the neurobiological understanding of addiction (e.g., craving) along with technological advancements in neuromodulation have enabled an evaluation of neurosurgical treatments for substance use disorders. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) involves surgical implantation of leads into brain targets and subcutaneous tunneling to connect the leads to a programmable implanted pulse generator (IPG) under the skin of the chest. DBS allows direct testing of neurobiologically-guided hypotheses regarding the etiology of substance use disorders in service of developing more effective treatments. Early studies, although with multiple limitations, have been promising. Still the authors express caution regarding implementation of DBS studies in this population and emphasize the importance of safeguards to ensure patient safety and meaningful study results. In this perspectives article, we review lessons learned through the years of planning an ongoing trial of DBS for methamphetamine use disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first documented instance of Sri Lanka’s endemic Macaca sinica (toque macaque) foraging on invasive Annona glabra (pond apple). We observed a troop of toque macaques (∼15) consuming A. glabra in a mangrove forest in Negombo lagoon in western Sri Lanka. This behaviour highlights the need to understand species interactions in the design of effective invasive species interventions for mangrove management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The standard of care for non-metastatic muscle invasive bladder cancer is either radical cystectomy or bladder preservation therapy, which consists of maximal transurethral bladder resection of the tumor followed by concurrent chemoradiation with a cisplatin-based regimen. However, for older cancer patients who are too frail for surgical resection or have decreased renal function, radiotherapy alone may offer palliation. Recently, immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) has emerged as a promising treatment when combined with radiotherapy due to the synergy of those two modalities. Transitional carcinoma of the bladder is traditionally a model for immunotherapy with an excellent response to Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) in early disease stages, and with avelumab and atezolizumab for metastatic disease. Thus, we propose an algorithm combining immunotherapy and radiotherapy for older patients with locally advanced muscle-invasive bladder cancer who are not candidates for cisplatin-based chemotherapy and surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To reveal the contributing effects of MTDH gene SNPs in the risk of invasive ductal breast cancer (IDC). Patients and methods: A case–control study was conducted, recruiting a total of 300 cases of IDC and 565 cancer-free controls from East China. Genotyping of three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the MTDH gene was performed. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples of patients. The three SNPs (rs1311 T > C, rs16896059 G > A, rs2449512 A > G) in the MTDH gene were selected for detection using a TaqMan real-time polymerase chain reaction assay. The association between MTDH and the risk of IDC was analyzed employing an epidemiology case–control study and a multinomial logistic regression model. Results: Among the three evaluated SNPs, rs1311 T > C, rs16896059 G > A, and rs2449512 A > G demonstrated a significant association with an increased risk of IDC. Furthermore, stratified analysis revealed that individuals carrying the rs1311 CC genotype, rs16896059 GA/AA genotypes, and rs2449512 GG genotype were more susceptible to developing IDC in subgroups of patients younger than 53 years, without family history of IDC, pre-menopause status, clinical stage 2, high grade, with no distant metastasis or invasion, Her2-positive type, ER positive, PR positive, and Ki67 cells less than 10%. However, carriers of the rs16896059 GA/AA genotypes and rs2449512 GG genotype had an elevate the risk of IDC in patients with tumor size larger than 2 cm, post-menopause status, clinical stage 3, with invasion, lymph node infiltration, ER negative, PR negative, Her2 negative, and Ki67 cells exceeding 10%. Compared to the reference haplotype TGA, haplotypes TAA, TAG, and TGG were significantly associated with an increased IDC risk. Conclusion: In this study, we demonstrated a significant association between MTDH gene polymorphisms and an increased risk of IDC. Moreover, our findings suggested that MTDH gene polymorphisms could serve as a potential biomarker for IDC subtyping and therapeutic selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive fungal disease causes high morbidity and mortality among immunocompromised patients. Resistance to conventional antifungal drugs and the toxicity associated with high doses highlight the need for effective antifungal therapies. In this study, the antifungal potential of the ethanolic extract of Anacardium occidentale (Cashew Leaf) leaves were evaluated against Candida albicans and C. auris. The antifungal activity was tested by the broth microdilution method and growth kinetic test. To further explore its antifungal action mode, spectrofluorophotometry, confocal microscopy and scanning and transmission electron microscopy were performed. Additionally, heterozygous knockout strains associated with resistance to oxidative stress were included in the study. We found that A. occidentale could inhibit the proliferation and growth of C. albicans at concentrations of 62.5 and 125 μg/mL. The doubling time was also drastically affected, going from 2.8 h to 22.5 h, which was also observed in C. auris. The extract induced the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, while it did not show cytotoxicity or hemolytic activity at the concentrations evaluated. Our work preliminarily elucidated the potential mechanisms of A. occidentale against C. albicans on a cellular level, and might provide a promising option for the design of a new treatment for invasive candidiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Symptoms consistent with polyphagous shot hole borer (Euwallacea fornicatus) and Fusarium dieback (Fusarium euwallaceae), recognised as high priority environmental pests for Australia, were observed on a single box elder (Acer negundo) tree in Sydney, New South Wales, in March 2022 during routine forest biosecurity surveillance. Delimiting surveys were undertaken around the Sydney basin, extending radially from the original box elder, resulting in the detection of a further three box elder and one tuckeroo (Cupaniopsis anacardioides) with suspicious symptoms. Samples were taken from the five trees and associated beetles diagnosed using morphological and molecular methods. Associated Fusarium-like fungi were identified according to phylogenetic inference using regions of the internal transcribed spacer, as well as the translation elongation factor 1-α and RNA polymerase II genes. The tea shot hole borer, Euwallacea perbrevis, was identified along with its known fungal mutualist, Fusarium obliquiseptatum. This pair have been reported in Queensland on avocado (Persea americana) and tuckeroo, and there are unpublished records of E. perbrevis from northern NSW, but this is the first report of both species occurring simultaneously in NSW. The biosecurity response following the initial detection, including the establishment of an Incident Management Team, surveillance, diagnostics, and stakeholder engagement, is discussed. This paper highlights the importance of surveillance for early detection of invasive pests and biosecurity systems and processes for enabling a timely response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A historically large percentage of the world's population has moved to urban areas in the past few decades, causing various negative effects for the environment, such as air, noise, water, and light pollution; land degradation; and biodiversity loss. Under the current climate crisis, cities are anticipated to play an essential part in adaptation strategies to extreme atmospheric events. This study aims at developing indicators at an urban scale that can highlight adaptation progress by investigating relevant data (especially in situ) and statistics at a pan-European level in support of the EU's strategy for adapting to the impacts of climate change. The proposed indicator, Urban Biodiversity Indicator for Trees (UBI4T), which can be derived from city tree inventories, assesses one essential component of urban biodiversity by computing the proportion of native, alien, invasive, and toxic tree species spatially across a city. According to our findings (applying the UBI4T for Amsterdam and exploring its policy potential for Barcelona), the UBI4T can offer crucial information for decision and policy makers, as well as stakeholders of a city, with the aim of conducting dedicated and effective strategic initiatives to restore, improve, and protect nature in the urban environment, thus contributing to adaptation and resilience to extreme atmospheric events in cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bioefficacy of an indigenous Spodoptera frugiperda nucleopolyhedrovirus (SpfrNPV) National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources 1 (NBAIR1) infecting maize fall armyworm (FAW) was evaluated under field conditions. In 2019, FAW infestation on maize was less after two sprays of emamectin benzoate (19.04%) followed by S. frugiperda nucleopolyhedrovirus ICAR-NBAIR1 (21.90%) and control (80.00%). In 2020, FAW infestation on maize was less after two sprays of emamectin benzoate (16.19%) followed by S. frugiperda nucleopolyhedrovirus ICAR-NBAIR1 (19.04%) and untreated control (69.52%). Field trial results revealed that there was 72.6% reduction in FAW infestation and 57.6% increase in the grain yield from the SpfrNPV NBAIR1-treated plots during 2019 and 2020. It is concluded that SpfrNPV NBAIR1 is a potential isolate to manage the FAW infestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]