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Abstract The debates over the requirement of the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (ICNafp) for a viable specimen to represent the name-bearing type material for a species or infraspecific taxon have a long history. Taxonomy of fungi commonly studied as living cultures exemplified by yeasts and moulds, strongly depend on viable reference material. The availability of viable cultures is also particularly useful for several groups of filamentous and dimorphic fungi. While the preservation of metabolically inactive cultures is permitted and recommended by the ICNafp, there is room for improvement. Below, we review the history and current status of cultures as the name-bearing type material under the Code. We also present a roadmap with tasks to be achieved in order to establish a stable nomenclatural system that properly manages taxa typified by viable specimens. Furthermore, we propose setting up rules and defining the nomenclatural status of ex-type cultures under Chapter F, the section of the ICNafp that includes provisions specific to names of fungi.

Osteoporosis represents a widespread and debilitating chronic bone condition that is increasingly prevalent globally. Its hallmark features include reduced bone density and heightened fragility, which significantly elevate the risk of fractures due to the decreased presence of mature osteoblasts. The limitations of current pharmaceutical therapies, often accompanied by severe side effects, have spurred researchers to seek alternative strategies. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) hold considerable promise for tissue repair, albeit they encounter obstacles such as replicative senescence in laboratory conditions. In comparison, employing ADSCs within three-dimensional (3D) environments provides an innovative solution, replicating the natural extracellular matrix environment while offering a controlled and cost-effective in vitro platform. Moreover, the utilization of photobiomodulation (PBM) has emerged as a method to enhance ADSC differentiation and proliferation potential by instigating cellular stimulation and facilitating beneficial performance modifications. This literature review critically examines the shortcomings of current osteoporosis treatments and investigates the potential synergies between 3D cell culture and PBM in augmenting ADSC differentiation towards osteogenic lineages. The primary objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of combined 3D environments and PBM in enhancing ADSC performance for osteoporosis management. This research is notably distinguished by its thorough scrutiny of the existing literature, synthesis of recent advancements, identification of future research trajectories, and utilization of databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for this literature review. Furthermore, the exploration of biomechanical and biophysical stimuli holds promise for refining treatment strategies. The future outlook suggests that integrating PBM with ADSCs housed within 3D environments holds considerable potential for advancing bone regeneration efforts. Importantly, this review aspires to catalyse further advancements in combined therapeutic strategies for osteoporosis regeneration.

Summary: Background: Inflammation and immune dysregulation are hypothesized contributors to endometrial carcinogenesis; however, the precise underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: We measured pre-diagnostically 152 plasma protein biomarkers in 624 endometrial cancer case-control pairs nested within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) cohort. Odds ratios (ORs) were estimated using conditional logistic regression, accounting for confounding and multiple comparisons. Proteins considered as associated with endometrial cancer risk were further tested in a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using summary data from the UK Biobank (n = 52,363) and the Endometrial Cancer Association Consortium (12,270 cases and 46,126 controls). Findings: In the EPIC nested case-control study, IL-6 [OR per NPX (doubling of concentration) = 1.28 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03–1.57)], HGF [1.48 (1.06–2.07)], PIK3AP1 [1.22 (1.00–1.50)] and CLEC4G [1.52 (1.00–2.32)] were positively associated; HSD11B1 [0.67 (0.49–0.91)], SCF [0.68 (0.49–0.94)], and CCL25 [0.80 (0.65–0.99)] were inversely associated with endometrial cancer risk; all estimates had multiple comparisons adjusted P-value > 0.05. In complementary MR analysis, IL-6 [OR per inverse-rank normalized NPX = 1.19 (95% CI 1.04–1.36)] and HSD11B1 [0.91 (0.84–0.99)] were associated with endometrial cancer risk. Interpretation: Altered IL-6 signalling and reduced glucocorticoid activity via HSD11B1 might play important roles in endometrial carcinogenesis. Funding: Funding for IIG_FULL_2021_008 was obtained from Wereld Kanker Onderzoek Fonds (WKOF), as part of the World Cancer Research Fund International grant programme; Funding for INCA_15849 was obtained from Institut National du Cancer (INCa).

Background: Although some evidence is available from low- and middle-income countries, no South African data are available on how women experience healthcare during treatment for an incomplete miscarriage. Aim: This study sets out to explore and describe the experiences of healthcare among women who suffered an incomplete spontaneous miscarriage in the Witzenberg subdistrict, a rural area in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Setting: Witzenberg subdistrict, Western Cape province, South Africa. Methods: This study used a descriptive exploratory qualitative study design. In-person interviews were held with women who experienced a miscarriage. Interviews followed a semi-structured format by a single interviewer to explore the various aspects involving experiences of healthcare. Results: Eight interviews were conducted and analysed. The five themes that arose from transcribed data were: (1) a need for safety, (2) pain management, (3) moderating behaviours and attitudes, (4) disorienting healthcare systems and (5) abandonment. Several factors contributed to the loss of physical and emotional safety in the emergency centre environment. Timeous emotional and pharmacological pain management were found to be a gap while patients awaited care. Clear communication and staff attitude were found to be integral to the patient’s experience and could avoid the perception of abandonment. Conclusion: There is a universal need for basic respectful, supportive and safe care in patients who attend an emergency centre for early pregnancy complications in rural South African. Specific focus should be given to clear communication and appropriate emotional support during and after the miscarriage. Contribution: This study can be used as a guide to improve services by ensuring respectful, transparent, informed, and appropriate continuity of care.

Improved sequencing technologies have profoundly altered global views of fungal diversity and evolution. High-throughput sequencing methods are critical for studying fungi due to the cryptic, symbiotic nature of many species, particularly those that are difficult to culture. However, the low coverage genome sequencing (LCGS) approach to phylogenomic inference has not been widely applied to fungi. Here we analyzed 171 Kickxellomycotina fungi using LCGS methods to obtain hundreds of marker genes for robust phylogenomic reconstruction. Additionally, we mined our LCGS data for a set of nine rDNA and protein coding genes to enable analyses across species for which no LCGS data were obtained. The main goals of this study were to: 1) evaluate the quality and utility of LCGS data for both phylogenetic reconstruction and functional annotation, 2) test relationships among clades of Kickxellomycotina, and 3) perform comparative functional analyses between clades to gain insight into putative trophic modes. In opposition to previous studies, our nine-gene analyses support two clades of arthropod gut dwelling species and suggest a possible single evolutionary event leading to this symbiotic lifestyle. Furthermore, we resolve the mycoparasitic Dimargaritales as the earliest diverging clade in the subphylum and find four major clades of Coemansia species. Finally, functional analyses illustrate clear variation in predicted carbohydrate active enzymes and secondary metabolites (SM) based on ecology, that is biotroph versus saprotroph. Saprotrophic Kickxellales broadly lack many known pectinase families compared with saprotrophic Mucoromycota and are depauperate for SM but have similar numbers of predicted chitinases as mycoparasitic.

Worldwide, osteoporosis is the utmost predominant degenerative bone condition. Stem cell regenerative therapy using adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) is a promising therapeutic route for osteoporosis. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has sparked considerable international appeal due to its’ ability to augment stem cell proliferation and differentiation properties. Furthermore, the differentiation of ADMSCs into osteoblast cells and cellular proliferation effects have been established using a combination of osteogenic differentiation inducers and PBM. This in vitro study applied dexamethasone, β-glycerophosphate disodium, and ascorbic acid as differentiation inducers for osteogenic induction differentiation media. In addition, PBM at a near-infrared (NIR) wavelength of 825 nm, a green (G) wavelength of 525 nm, and the novel combination of both these wavelengths using a single fluence of 5 J/cm2 had been applied to stimulate proliferation and differentiation effectivity of immortalised ADMSCs into early osteoblasts. Flow cytometry and ELISA were used to identify osteoblast antigens using early and late osteoblast protein markers. Alizarin red Stain was employed to identify calcium-rich deposits by cells within culture. The morphology of the cells was examined, and biochemical assays such as an EdU proliferation assay, MTT proliferation and viability assay, Mitochondrial Membrane Potential assay, and Reactive Oxygen Species assay were performed. The Central Scratch Test determined the cells' motility potential. The investigative outcomes revealed that a combination of PBM treatment and osteogenic differentiation inducers stimulated promising early osteogenic differentiation of immortalised ADMSCs. The NIR-Green PBM combination did appear to offer great potential for immortalised ADMSC differentiation into early osteoblasts amongst selected assays, however, further investigations will be required to establish the effectivity of this novel wavelength combination. This research contributes to the body of knowledge and assists in the establishment of a standard for osteogenic differentiation in vitro utilising PBM.

Osteoporosis and other degenerative bone diseases pose significant challenges to global healthcare systems due to their prevalence and impact on quality of life. Current treatments often alleviate symptoms without fully restoring damaged bone tissue, highlighting the need for innovative approaches like stem cell therapy. Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) are particularly promising due to their accessibility, abundant supply, and strong differentiation potential. However, ADMSCs tend to favor adipogenic pathways, necessitating the use of differentiation inducers (DIs), three-dimensional (3D) hydrogel environments, and photobiomodulation (PBM) to achieve targeted osteogenic differentiation. This study investigated the combined effects of osteogenic DIs, a fast-dextran hydrogel matrix, and PBM at specific wavelengths and fluences on the proliferation and differentiation of immortalized ADMSCs into osteoblasts. Near-infrared (NIR) and green (G) light, as well as their combination, were used with fluences of 3 J/cm2, 5 J/cm2, and 7 J/cm2. The results showed statistically significant increases in alkaline phosphatase levels, a marker of osteogenic differentiation, with G light at 7 J/cm2 demonstrating the most substantial impact on ADMSC differentiation. Calcium deposits, visualized by Alizarin red S staining, appeared as early as 24 h post-treatment in PBM groups, suggesting accelerated osteogenic differentiation. ATP luminescence assays indicated increased proliferation in all experimental groups, particularly with NIR and NIR-G light at 3 J/cm2 and 5 J/cm2. MTT viability and LDH membrane permeability assays confirmed enhanced cell viability and stable cell health, respectively. In conclusion, PBM significantly influences the differentiation and proliferation of hydrogel-embedded immortalized ADMSCs into osteoblast-like cells, with G light at 7 J/cm2 being particularly effective. These findings support the combined use of 3D hydrogel matrices and PBM as a promising approach in regenerative medicine, potentially leading to innovative treatments for degenerative bone diseases.

Background: Previous studies have shown that meal timing, poor sleep quality, and chronotype may play a relevant role in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, its relationship with macronutrients by eating occasions has not been explored deeply. Objective: Our aim was to estimate the association between chrono-nutrition, sleep quality, chronotype, and the prevalence of T2DM. Methods: This cross-sectional study included a subset of 3465 middle-aged Caucasian adults (2068 women) from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) Spain cohort study. In the 2017–18 follow-up, we assessed chronotype, sleep quality, diet, and sociodemographic data using validated questionnaires. Further, we used blood samples to determine serum levels of glucose. We defined a case of T2DM when serum glucose concentration was ≥126 mg/dL or when participants self-reported diabetes. Results: A higher prevalence of T2DM was associated with poor sleep quality (ORpoorvsgood = 2.90, 95% CI = 1.30, 6.28). Carbohydrate intake at breakfast was inversely associated with the prevalence of T2DM (OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.66, 0.85). Finally, lipid intake at breakfast was associated with a 13% higher prevalence of T2DM (OR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.01, 1.26) for each 1 standard deviation (1-SD) increase. Conclusions: This study concludes that a higher content of carbohydrates at breakfast is correlated with a reduced prevalence of T2DM, while higher lipids intake at breakfast is associated with a higher prevalence of T2DM. Furthermore, poor sleep quality is a potential factor associated with an elevated prevalence of T2DM. Our results emphasize the need for prospective studies to validate and strengthen these observed associations.

Members of the fungal genus Phyllosticta can colonize a variety of plant hosts, including several Citrus species such as Citrus sinensis (orange), Citrus limon (lemon), and Citrus maxima (pomelo). Some Phyllosticta species have the capacity to cause disease, such as Citrus Black Spot, while others have only been observed as endophytes. Thus far, genomic differences underlying lifestyle adaptations of Phyllosticta species have not yet been studied. Furthermore, the lifestyle of Phyllosticta citrichinaensis is ambiguous, as it has been described as a weak pathogen but Koch's postulates may not have been established and the presence of this species was never reported to cause any crop or economic losses. Here, we examined the genomic differences between pathogenic and endophytic Phyllosticta spp. colonizing Citrus and specifically aimed to elucidate the lifestyle of Phyllosticta citrichinaensis. We found several genomic differences between species of different lifestyles, including groups of genes that were only present in pathogens or endophytes. We also observed that species, based on their carbohydrate active enzymes, group independent of their phylogenetic association, and this clustering correlated with trophy prediction. Phyllosticta citrichinaensis shows an intermediate lifestyle, sharing genomic and phenotypic attributes of both pathogens and endophytes. We thus present the first genomic comparison of multiple citrus-colonizing pathogens and endophytes of the genus Phyllosticta, and therefore provide the basis for further comparative studies into the lifestyle adaptations within this genus.

Abstract The eternal pursuit to prevent ageing and maintain a youthful appearance has resulted in a rapidly expanding cosmeceutical industry. Cosmeceutical products, particularly of natural origin, are in high demand due to claims of efficacy for signs of ageing and other skin conditions. Consumers often include cosmeceutical products in their skin care regime as they are readily available, and a more affordable option compared to prescription products. However, many cosmeceutical ingredients lack clinical evidence regarding their efficacy and safety as these products are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This review provides a brief overview of several popular cosmeceutical ingredients with regards to their potential indications, targets and mechanisms of action.

La educación superior se ha visto afectada por la aparición de la Covid-19, siendo necesaria la adaptación y transformación de la docencia presencial a una modalidad no-presencial. Esta adaptación no solamente afectó la docencia en general sino a las estrategias docentes, entre las cuales se encuentran las metodologías activas. La finalidad de la investigación ha sido estudiar el uso y adaptación de las metodologías activas durante la docencia no-presencial en los grados de Derecho, Educación y Enfermería de dos universidades públicas, desde el punto de vista del alumnado y el profesorado. En este estudio cuantitativo mediante encuesta online han participado 162 personas, entre alumnado (n=118) y profesorado (n=44). Los resultados identifican que la adaptación de las metodologías activas en el nuevo escenario de docencia online ha sido desigual. El alumnado valora positivamente los cambios, si bien señala la necesidad de mejorar su uso y la calidad de estas adaptaciones. La falta de participación y algunas dificultades personales, por parte del alumnado, ha interferido significativamente en su participación. El impacto del uso de estas metodologías activas ha tenido efectos negativos en cuanto al aprendizaje y la implicación del alumnado, como la sobrecarga en las tareas del alumnado y profesorado, así como el tiempo dedicado a estas. En conclusión, las metodologías activas promueven la participación, la implicación y la motivación del alumnado en escenarios de no-presencialidad, si bien se hace necesario continuar estudiando cómo mejorar la adaptación de estas metodologías para superar sus limitaciones prácticas en los contextos de docencia no-presencial.

Photobiomodulation, originally used red and near-infrared lasers, can alter cellular metabolism. It has been demonstrated that the visible spectrum at 451–540 nm does not necessarily increase cell proliferation, near-infrared light promotes adipose stem cell proliferation and affects adipose stem cell migration, which is necessary for the cells homing to the site of injury. In this in vitro study, we explored the potential of adipose-derived stem cells to differentiate into neurons for future translational regenerative treatments in neurodegenerative disorders and brain injuries. We investigated the effects of various biological and chemical inducers on trans-differentiation and evaluated the impact of photobiomodulation using 825 nm near-infrared and 525 nm green laser light at 5 J/cm2. As adipose-derived stem cells can be used in autologous grafting and photobiomodulation has been shown to have biostimulatory effects. Our findings reveal that adipose-derived stem cells can indeed trans-differentiate into neuronal cells when exposed to inducers, with pre-induced cells exhibiting higher rates of proliferation and trans-differentiation compared with the control group. Interestingly, green laser light stimulation led to notable morphological changes indicative of enhanced trans-differentiation, while near-infrared photobiomodulation notably increased the expression of neuronal markers. Through biochemical analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, we observed marked improvements in viability, proliferation, membrane permeability, and mitochondrial membrane potential, as well as increased protein levels of neuron-specific enolase and ciliary neurotrophic factor. Overall, our results demonstrate the efficacy of photobiomodulation in enhancing the trans-differentiation ability of adipose-derived stem cells, offering promising prospects for their use in regenerative medicine for neurodegenerative disorders and brain injuries.

Tropical forests take up more carbon (C) from the atmosphere per annum by photosynthesis than any other type of vegetation. Phosphorus (P) limitations to C uptake are paramount for tropical and subtropical forests around the globe. Yet the generality of photosynthesis-P relationships underlying these limitations are in question, and hence are not represented well in terrestrial biosphere models. Here we demonstrate the dependence of photosynthesis and underlying processes on both leaf N and P concentrations. The regulation of photosynthetic capacity by P was similar across four continents. Implementing P constraints in the ORCHIDEE-CNP model, gross photosynthesis was reduced by 36% across the tropics and subtropics relative to traditional N constraints and unlimiting leaf P. Our results provide a quantitative relationship for the P dependence for photosynthesis for the front-end of global terrestrial C models that is consistent with canopy leaf measurements.

Marine fungi remain poorly covered in global genome sequencing campaigns; the 1000 fungal genomes (1KFG) project attempts to shed light on the diversity, ecology and potential industrial use of overlooked and poorly resolved fungal taxa. This study characterizes the genomes of three marine fungi: Emericellopsis sp. TS7, wood-associated Amylocarpus encephaloides and algae-associated Calycina marina. These species were genome sequenced to study their genomic features, biosynthetic potential and phylogenetic placement using multilocus data. Amylocarpus encephaloides and C. marina were placed in the Helotiaceae and Pezizellaceae (Helotiales), respectively, based on a 15-gene phylogenetic analysis. These two genomes had fewer biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) and carbohydrate active enzymes (CAZymes) than Emericellopsis sp. TS7 isolate. Emericellopsis sp. TS7 (Hypocreales, Ascomycota) was isolated from the sponge Stelletta normani. A six-gene phylogenetic analysis placed the isolate in the marine Emericellopsis clade and morphological examination confirmed that the isolate represents a new species, which is described here as E. atlantica. Analysis of its CAZyme repertoire and a culturing experiment on three marine and one terrestrial substrates indicated that E. atlantica is a psychrotrophic generalist fungus that is able to degrade several types of marine biomass. FungiSMASH analysis revealed the presence of 35 BGCs including, eight non-ribosomal peptide synthases (NRPSs), six NRPS-like, six polyketide synthases, nine terpenes and six hybrid, mixed or other clusters. Of these BGCs, only five were homologous with characterized BGCs. The presence of unknown BGCs sets and large CAZyme repertoire set stage for further investigations of E. atlantica. The Pezizellaceae genome and the genome of the monotypic Amylocarpus genus represent the first published genomes of filamentous fungi that are restricted in their occurrence to the marine habitat and form thus a valuable resource for the community that can be used in studying ecological adaptions of fungi using comparative genomics.

Abstract Background The Mediterranean diet has been associated with lower risk of breast cancer (BC) but evidence from prospective studies on the role of Mediterranean diet on BC survival remains sparse and conflicting. We aimed to investigate whether adherence to Mediterranean diet prior to diagnosis is associated with overall and BC-specific mortality. Methods A total of 13,270 incident breast cancer cases were identified from an initial sample of 318,686 women in 9 countries from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study. Adherence to Mediterranean diet was estimated through the adapted relative Mediterranean diet (arMED), a 16-point score that includes 8 key components of the Mediterranean diet and excludes alcohol. The degree of adherence to arMED was classified as low (score 0–5), medium (score 6–8), and high (score 9–16). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyze the association between the arMED score and overall mortality, and Fine-Gray competing risks models were applied for BC-specific mortality. Results After a mean follow-up of 8.6 years from diagnosis, 2340 women died, including 1475 from breast cancer. Among all BC survivors, low compared to medium adherence to arMED score was associated with a 13% higher risk of all-cause mortality (HR 1.13, 95%CI 1.01–1.26). High compared to medium adherence to arMED showed a non-statistically significant association (HR 0.94; 95% CI 0.84–1.05). With no statistically significant departures from linearity, on a continuous scale, a 3-unit increase in the arMED score was associated with an 8% reduced risk of overall mortality (HR3-unit 0.92, 95% CI: 0.87–0.97). This result sustained when restricted to postmenopausal women and was stronger among metastatic BC cases (HR3-unit 0.81, 95% CI: 0.72–0.91). Conclusions Consuming a Mediterranean diet before BC diagnosis may improve long-term prognosis, particularly after menopause and in cases of metastatic breast cancer. Well-designed dietary interventions are needed to confirm these findings and define specific dietary recommendations.

ABSTRACT Following a request from the European Commission (EC), the EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the revision of the tolerable upper intake level (UL) for folic acid/folate. Systematic reviews of the literature were conducted to assess evidence on priority adverse health effects of excess intake of folate (including folic acid and the other authorised forms, (6S)‐5‐methyltetrahydrofolic acid glucosamine and l‐5‐methyltetrahydrofolic acid calcium salts), namely risk of cobalamin‐dependent neuropathy, cognitive decline among people with low cobalamin status, and colorectal cancer and prostate cancer. The evidence is insufficient to conclude on a positive and causal relationship between the dietary intake of folate and impaired cognitive function, risk of colorectal and prostate cancer. The risk of progression of neurological symptoms in cobalamin‐deficient patients is considered as the critical effect to establish an UL for folic acid. No new evidence has been published that could improve the characterisation of the dose–response between folic acid intake and resolution of megaloblastic anaemia in cobalamin‐deficient individuals. The ULs for folic acid previously established by the Scientific Committee on Food are retained for all population groups, i.e. 1000 μg/day for adults, including pregnant and lactating women, 200 μg/day for children aged 1–3 years, 300 μg/day for 4–6 years, 400 μg/day for 7–10 years, 600 μg/day for 11–14 years and 800 μg/day for 15–17 years. A UL of 200 μg/day is established for infants aged 4–11 months. The ULs apply to the combined intake of folic acid, (6S)‐5‐methyltetrahydrofolic acid glucosamine and l‐5‐methyltetrahydrofolic acid calcium salts, under their authorised conditions of use. It is unlikely that the ULs for supplemental folate are exceeded in European populations, except for regular users of food supplements containing high doses of folic acid/5‐methyl‐tetrahydrofolic acid salts.

BackgroundPseudocercospora fijiensis is the causal agent of the black leaf streak disease (BLSD) of banana. Bananas are important global export commodities and a major staple food. Their susceptibility to BLSD pushes disease management towards excessive fungicide use, largely relying on multisite inhibitors and sterol demethylation inhibitors (DMIs). These fungicides are ubiquitous in plant disease control, targeting the CYP51 enzyme. We examined sensitivity to DMIs in P. fijiensis field isolates collected from various major banana production zones in Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, the Philippines, Guadalupe, Martinique and Cameroon and determined the underlying genetic reasons for the observed phenotypes.ResultsWe observed a continuous range of sensitivity towards the DMI fungicides difenoconazole, epoxiconazole and propiconazole with clear cross-sensitivity. Sequence analyses of PfCYP51 in 266 isolates showed 28 independent amino acid substitutions, nine of which correlated with reduced sensitivity to DMIs. In addition to the mutations, we observed up to six insertions in the Pfcyp51 promoter. Such promoter insertions contain repeated elements with a palindromic core and correlate with the enhanced expression of Pfcyp51 and hence with reduced DMI sensitivity. Wild-type isolates from unsprayed bananas fields did not contain any promoter insertions.ConclusionThe presented data significantly contribute to understanding of the evolution and global distribution of DMI resistance mechanisms in P. fijiensis field populations and facilitate the prediction of different DMI efficacy. The overall reduced DMI sensitivity calls for the deployment of a wider range of solutions for sustainable control of this major banana disease. © 2021 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Recent publications have argued that there are potentially serious consequences for researchers in recognising distinct genera in the terminal fusarioid clade of the family Nectriaceae. Thus, an alternate hypothesis, namely a very broad concept of the genus Fusarium was proposed. In doing so, however, a significant body of data that supports distinct genera in Nectriaceae based on morphology, biology, and phylogeny is disregarded. A DNA phylogeny based on 19 orthologous protein-coding genes was presented to support a very broad concept of Fusarium at the F1 node in Nectriaceae. Here, we demonstrate that re-analyses of this dataset show that all 19 genes support the F3 node that represents Fusarium sensu stricto as defined by F. sambucinum (sexual morph synonym Gibberella pulicaris). The backbone of the phylogeny is resolved by the concatenated alignment, but only six of the 19 genes fully support the F1 node, representing the broad circumscription of Fusarium. Furthermore, a re-analysis of the concatenated dataset revealed alternate topologies in different phylogenetic algorithms, highlighting the deep divergence and unresolved placement of various Nectriaceae lineages proposed as members of Fusarium. Species of Fusarium s. str. are characterised by Gibberella sexual morphs, asexual morphs with thin- or thick-walled macroconidia that have variously shaped apical and basal cells, and trichothecene mycotoxin production, which separates them from other fusarioid genera. Here we show that the Wollenweber concept of Fusarium presently accounts for 20 segregate genera with clear-cut synapomorphic traits, and that fusarioid macroconidia represent a character that has been gained or lost multiple times throughout Nectriaceae. Thus, the very broad circumscription of Fusarium is blurry and without apparent synapomorphies, and does not include all genera with fusarium-like macroconidia, which are spread throughout Nectriaceae (e.g., Cosmosporella, Macroconia, Microcera). In this study four new genera are introduced, along with 18 new species and 16 new combinations. These names convey information about relationships, morphology, and ecological preference that would otherwise be lost in a broader definition of Fusarium. To assist users to correctly identify fusarioid genera and species, we introduce a new online identification database, Fusarioid-ID, accessible at www.fusarium.org. The database comprises partial sequences from multiple genes commonly used to identify fusarioid taxa (act1, CaM, his3, rpb1, rpb2, tef1, tub2, ITS, and LSU). In this paper, we also present a nomenclator of names that have been introduced in Fusarium up to January 2021 as well as their current status, types, and diagnostic DNA barcode data. In this study, researchers from 46 countries, representing taxonomists, plant pathologists, medical mycologists, quarantine officials, regulatory agencies, and students, strongly support the application and use of a more precisely delimited Fusarium (= Gibberella) concept to accommodate taxa from the robust monophyletic node F3 on the basis of a well-defined and unique combination of morphological and biochemical features. This F3 node includes, among others, species of the F. fujikuroi, F. incarnatum-equiseti, F. oxysporum, and F. sambucinum species complexes, but not species of Bisifusarium [F. dimerum species complex (SC)], Cyanonectria (F. buxicola SC), Geejayessia (F. staphyleae SC), Neocosmospora (F. solani SC) or Rectifusarium (F. ventricosum SC). The present study represents the first step to generating a new online monograph of Fusarium and allied fusarioid genera (www.fusarium.org).

Abstract Background Diet may impact important risk factors for endometrial cancer such as obesity and inflammation. However, evidence on the role of specific dietary factors is limited. We investigated associations between dietary fatty acids and endometrial cancer risk in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC). Methods This analysis includes 1,886 incident endometrial cancer cases and 297,432 non-cases. All participants were followed up for a mean of 8.8 years. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of endometrial cancer across quintiles of individual fatty acids estimated from various food sources quantified through food frequency questionnaires in the entire EPIC cohort. The false discovery rate (q-values) was computed to control for multiple comparisons. Results Consumption of n-6 γ-linolenic acid was inversely associated with endometrial cancer risk (HR comparing 5th with 1st quintileQ5−Q1=0.77, 95% CI = 0.64; 0.92, ptrend=0.01, q-value = 0.15). This association was mainly driven by γ-linolenic acid derived from plant sources (HRper unit increment=0.94, 95%CI= (0.90;0.98), p = 0.01) but not from animal sources (HRper unit increment= 1.00, 95%CI = (0.92; 1.07), p = 0.92). In addition, an inverse association was found between consumption of n-3 α-linolenic acid from vegetable sources and endometrial cancer risk (HRper unit increment= 0.93, 95%CI = (0.87; 0.99), p = 0.04). No significant association was found between any other fatty acids (individual or grouped) and endometrial cancer risk. Conclusion Our results suggest that higher consumption of γ-linolenic acid and α-linoleic acid from plant sources may be associated with lower risk of endometrial cancer.

We introduce the AusTraits database - a compilation of values of plant traits for taxa in the Australian flora (hereafter AusTraits). AusTraits synthesises data on 448 traits across 28,640 taxa from field campaigns, published literature, taxonomic monographs, and individual taxon descriptions. Traits vary in scope from physiological measures of performance (e.g. photosynthetic gas exchange, water-use efficiency) to morphological attributes (e.g. leaf area, seed mass, plant height) which link to aspects of ecological variation. AusTraits contains curated and harmonised individual- and species-level measurements coupled to, where available, contextual information on site properties and experimental conditions. This article provides information on version 3.0.2 of AusTraits which contains data for 997,808 trait-by-taxon combinations. We envision AusTraits as an ongoing collaborative initiative for easily archiving and sharing trait data, which also provides a template for other national or regional initiatives globally to fill persistent gaps in trait knowledge.

Seven new genera, 26 new species, 10 new combinations, two epitypes, one new name, and 20 interesting new host and / or geographical records are introduced in this study. New genera are: Italiofungus (based on Italiofungus phillyreae) on leaves of Phillyrea latifolia (Italy); Neolamproconium (based on Neolamproconium silvestre) on branch of Tilia sp. (Ukraine); Neosorocybe (based on Neosorocybe pini) on trunk of Pinus sylvestris (Ukraine); Nothoseptoria (based on Nothoseptoria caraganae) on leaves of Caragana arborescens (Russia); Pruniphilomyces (based on Pruniphilomyces circumscissus) on Prunus cerasus (Russia); Vesiculozygosporium (based on Vesiculozygosporium echinosporum) on leaves of Muntingia calabura (Malaysia); Longiseptatispora (based on Longiseptatispora curvata) on leaves of Lonicera tatarica (Russia). New species are: Barrmaelia serenoae on leaf of Serenoa repens (USA); Chaetopsina gautengina on leaves of unidentified grass (South Africa); Chloridium pini on fallen trunk of Pinus sylvestris (Ukraine); Cadophora fallopiae on stems of Reynoutria sachalinensis (Poland); Coleophoma eucalyptigena on leaf litter of Eucalyptus sp. (Spain); Cylindrium corymbiae on leaves of Corymbia maculata (Australia); Diaporthe tarchonanthi on leaves of Tarchonanthus littoralis (South Africa); Elsinoe eucalyptorum on leaves of Eucalyptus propinqua (Australia); Exophiala quercina on dead wood of Quercus sp., (Germany); Fusarium californicum on cambium of budwood of Prunus dulcis (USA); Hypomyces gamsii on wood of Alnus glutinosa (Ukraine); Kalmusia araucariae on leaves of Araucaria bidwillii (USA); Lectera sambuci on leaves of Sambucus nigra (Russia); Melanomma populicola on fallen twig of Populus canadensis (Netherlands), Neocladosporium syringae on branches of Syringa vulgarishorus (Ukraine); Paraconiothyrium iridis on leaves of Iris pseudacorus (Ukraine); Pararoussoella quercina on branch of Quercus robur (Ukraine); Phialemonium pulveris from bore dust of deathwatch beetle (France); Polyscytalum pinicola on needles of Pinus tecunumanii (Malaysia); Acervuloseptoria fraxini on Fraxinus pennsylvanica (Russia); Roussoella arundinacea on culms of Arundo donax (Spain); Sphaerulina neoaceris on leaves of Acer negundo (Russia); Sphaerulina salicicola on leaves of Salix fragilis (Russia); Trichomerium syzygii on leaves of Syzygium cordatum (South Africa); Uzbekistanica vitis-viniferae on dead stem of Vitis vinifera (Ukraine); Vermiculariopsiella eucalyptigena on leaves of Eucalyptus sp. (Australia).

Background Observational studies have shown that women with an early menopause are at higher risk of stroke compared with women with a later menopause. However, associations with stroke subtypes are inconsistent, and the causality is unclear. Methods and Results We analyzed data of the UK Biobank and EPIC‐CVD (European Prospective Investigation Into Cancer and Nutrition‐Cardiovascular Diseases) study. A total of 204 244 postmenopausal women without a history of stroke at baseline were included (7883 from EPIC‐CVD [5292 from the subcohort], 196 361 from the UK Biobank). Pooled mean baseline age was 58.9 years (SD, 5.8), and pooled mean age at menopause was 47.8 years (SD, 6.2). Over a median follow‐up of 12.6 years (interquartile range, 11.8–13.3), 6770 women experienced a stroke (5155 ischemic strokes, 1615 hemorrhagic strokes, 976 intracerebral hemorrhages, and 639 subarachnoid hemorrhages). In multivariable adjusted observational Cox regression analyses, the pooled hazard ratios per 5 years younger age at menopause were 1.09 (95% CI, 1.07–1.12) for stroke, 1.09 (95% CI, 1.06–1.13) for ischemic stroke, 1.10 (95% CI, 1.04–1.16) for hemorrhagic stroke, 1.14 (95% CI, 1.08–1.20) for intracerebral hemorrhage, and 1.00 (95% CI, 0.84–1.20) for subarachnoid hemorrhage. When using 2‐sample Mendelian randomization analysis, we found no statistically significant association between genetically proxied age at menopause and risk of any type of stroke. Conclusions In our study, earlier age at menopause was related to a higher risk of stroke. We found no statistically significant association between genetically proxied age at menopause and risk of stroke, suggesting no causal relationship.

Mycorrhizal fungi are mutualists that play crucial roles in nutrient acquisition in terrestrial ecosystems. Mycorrhizal symbioses arose repeatedly across multiple lineages of Mucoromycotina, Ascomycota, and Basidiomycota. Considerable variation exists in the capacity of mycorrhizal fungi to acquire carbon from soil organic matter. Here, we present a combined analysis of 135 fungal genomes from 73 saprotrophic, endophytic and pathogenic species, and 62 mycorrhizal species, including 29 new mycorrhizal genomes. This study samples ecologically dominant fungal guilds for which there were previously no symbiotic genomes available, including ectomycorrhizal Russulales, Thelephorales and Cantharellales. Our analyses show that transitions from saprotrophy to symbiosis involve (1) widespread losses of degrading enzymes acting on lignin and cellulose, (2) co-option of genes present in saprotrophic ancestors to fulfill new symbiotic functions, (3) diversification of novel, lineage-specific symbiosis-induced genes, (4) proliferation of transposable elements and (5) divergent genetic innovations underlying the convergent origins of the ectomycorrhizal guild.

Ecological diversity in fungi is largely defined by metabolic traits, including the ability to produce secondary or "specialized" metabolites (SMs) that mediate interactions with other organisms. Fungal SM pathways are frequently encoded in biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), which facilitate the identification and characterization of metabolic pathways. Variation in BGC composition reflects the diversity of their SM products. Recent studies have documented surprising diversity of BGC repertoires among isolates of the same fungal species, yet little is known about how this population-level variation is inherited across macroevolutionary timescales. Here, we applied a novel linkage-based algorithm to reveal previously unexplored dimensions of diversity in BGC composition, distribution, and repertoire across 101 species of Dothideomycetes, which are considered the most phylogenetically diverse class of fungi and known to produce many SMs. We predicted both complementary and overlapping sets of clustered genes compared with existing methods and identified novel gene pairs that associate with known secondary metabolite genes. We found that variation among sets of BGCs in individual genomes is due to nonoverlapping BGC combinations and that several BGCs have biased ecological distributions, consistent with niche-specific selection. We observed that total BGC diversity scales linearly with increasing repertoire size, suggesting that secondary metabolites have little structural redundancy in individual fungi. We project that there is substantial unsampled BGC diversity across specific families of Dothideomycetes, which will provide a roadmap for future sampling efforts. Our approach and findings lend new insight into how BGC diversity is generated and maintained across an entire fungal taxonomic class.