Fungal Planet description sheets: 1478-1549

Novel species of fungi described in this study include those from various countries as follows: Australia, Aschersonia mackerrasiae on whitefly, Cladosporium corticola on bark of Melaleuca quinquenervia, Penicillium nudgee from soil under Melaleuca quinquenervia, Pseudocercospora blackwoodiae on leaf spot of Persoonia falcata, and Pseudocercospora dalyelliae on leaf spot of Senna alata. Bolivia, Aspicilia lutzoniana on fully submersed siliceous schist in high-mountain streams, and Niesslia parviseta on the lower part and apothecial discs of Erioderma barbellatum on a twig. Brazil, Cyathus bonsai on decaying wood, Geastrum albofibrosum from moist soil with leaf litter, Laetiporus pratigiensis on a trunk of a living unknown hardwood tree species, and Scytalidium synnematicum on dead twigs of unidentified plant. Bulgaria, Amanita abscondita on sandy soil in a plantation of Quercus suber. Canada, Penicillium acericola on dead bark of Acer saccharum, and Penicillium corticola on dead bark of Acer saccharum. China, Colletotrichum qingyuanense on fruit lesion of Capsicum annuum. Denmark, Helminthosphaeria leptospora on corticioid Neohypochnicium cremicolor. Ecuador (Galapagos), Phaeosphaeria scalesiae on Scalesia sp. Finland, Inocybe jacobssonii on calcareous soils in dry forests and park habitats. France, Cortinarius rufomyrrheus on sandy soil under Pinus pinaster, and Periconia neominutissima on leaves of Poaceae. India, Coprinopsis fragilis on decaying bark of logs, Filoboletus keralensis on unidentified woody substrate, Penicillium sankaranii from soil, Physisporinus tamilnaduensis on the trunk of Azadirachta indica, and Poronia nagaraholensis on elephant dung. Iran, Neosetophoma fici on infected leaves of Ficus elastica. Israel, Cnidariophoma eilatica (incl. Cnidariophoma gen. nov.) from Stylophora pistillata. Italy, Lyophyllum obscurum on acidic soil. Namibia, Aureobasidium faidherbiae on dead leaf of Faidherbia albida, and Aureobasidium welwitschiae on dead leaves of Welwitschia mirabilis. Netherlands, Gaeumannomycella caricigena on dead culms of Carex elongata, Houtenomyces caricicola (incl. Houtenomyces gen. nov.) on culms of Carex disticha, Neodacampia ulmea (incl. Neodacampia gen. nov.) on branch of Ulmus laevis, Niesslia phragmiticola on dead standing culms of Phragmites australis, Pseudopyricularia caricicola on culms of Carex disticha, and Rhodoveronaea nieuwwulvenica on dead bamboo sticks. Norway, Arrhenia similis half-buried and moss-covered pieces of rotting wood in grass-grown path. Pakistan, Mallocybe ahmadii on soil. Poland, Beskidomyces laricis (incl. Beskidomyces gen. nov.) from resin of Larix decidua ssp. polonica, Lapidomyces epipinicola from sooty mould community on Pinus nigra, and Leptographium granulatum from a gallery of Dendroctonus micans on Picea abies. Portugal, Geoglossum azoricum on mossy areas of laurel forest areas planted with Cryptomeria japonica, and Lunasporangiospora lusitanica from a biofilm covering a biodeteriorated limestone wall. Qatar, Alternaria halotolerans from hypersaline sea water, and Alternaria qatarensis from water sample collected from hypersaline lagoon. South Africa, Alfaria thamnochorti on culm of Thamnochortus fraternus, Knufia aloeicola on Aloe gariepensis, Muriseptatomyces restionacearum (incl. Muriseptatomyces gen. nov.) on culms of Restionaceae, Neocladosporium arctotis on nest of cases of bag worm moths (Lepidoptera, Psychidae) on Arctotis auriculata, Neodevriesia scadoxi on leaves of Scadoxus puniceus, Paraloratospora schoenoplecti on stems of Schoenoplectus lacustris, Tulasnella epidendrea from the roots of Epidendrum × obrienianum, and Xenoidriella cinnamomi (incl. Xenoidriella gen. nov.) on leaf of Cinnamomum camphora. South Korea, Lemonniera fraxinea on decaying leaves of Fraxinus sp. from pond. Spain, Atheniella lauri on the bark of fallen trees of Laurus nobilis, Halocryptovalsa endophytica from surface-sterilised, asymptomatic roots of Salicornia patula, Inocybe amygdaliolens on soil in mixed forest, Inocybe pityusarum on calcareous soil in mixed forest, Inocybe roseobulbipes on acidic soils, Neonectria borealis from roots of Vitis berlandieri × Vitis rupestris, Sympoventuria eucalyptorum on leaves of Eucalyptus sp., and Tuber conchae from soil. Sweden, Inocybe bidumensis on calcareous soil. Thailand, Cordyceps sandindaengensis on Lepidoptera pupa, buried in soil, Ophiocordyceps kuchinaraiensis on Coleoptera larva, buried in soil, and Samsoniella winandae on Lepidoptera pupa, buried in soil. Taiwan region (China), Neophaeosphaeria livistonae on dead leaf of Livistona rotundifolia. Türkiye, Melanogaster anatolicus on clay loamy soils. UK, Basingstokeomyces allii (incl. Basingstokeomyces gen. nov.) on leaves of Allium schoenoprasum. Ukraine, Xenosphaeropsis corni on recently dead stem of Cornus alba. USA, Nothotrichosporon aquaticum (incl. Nothotrichosporon gen. nov.) from water, and Periconia philadelphiana from swab of coil surface. Morphological and culture characteristics for these new taxa are supported by DNA barcodes. Citation: Crous PW, Osieck ER, Shivas RG, et al. 2023. Fungal Planet description sheets: 1478-1549. Persoonia 50: 158- 310. https://doi.org/10.3767/persoonia.2023.50.05.

Fungal Planet description sheets: 1550-1613

Novel species of fungi described in this study include those from various countries as follows: Argentina, Neocamarosporium halophilum in leaf spots of Atriplex undulata. Australia, Aschersonia merianiae on scale insect (Coccoidea), Curvularia huamulaniae isolated from air, Hevansia mainiae on dead spider, Ophiocordyceps poecilometigena on Poecilometis sp. Bolivia, Lecanora menthoides on sandstone, in open semi-desert montane areas, Sticta monlueckiorum corticolous in a forest, Trichonectria epimegalosporae on apothecia of corticolous Megalospora sulphurata var. sulphurata, Trichonectria puncteliae on the thallus of Punctelia borreri. Brazil, Catenomargarita pseudocercosporicola (incl. Catenomargarita gen. nov.) hyperparasitic on Pseudocercospora fijiensis on leaves of Musa acuminata, Tulasnella restingae on protocorms and roots of Epidendrum fulgens. Bulgaria, Anthracoidea umbrosae on Carex spp. Croatia, Hymenoscyphus radicis from surface-sterilised, asymptomatic roots of Microthlaspi erraticum, Orbilia multiserpentina on wood of decorticated branches of Quercus pubescens. France, Calosporella punctatispora on dead corticated twigs of Aceropalus. French West Indies (Martinique), Eutypella lechatii on dead corticated palm stem. Germany, Arrhenia alcalinophila on loamy soil. Iceland, Cistella blauvikensis on dead grass (Poaceae). India, Fulvifomes maritimus on living Peltophorum pterocarpum, Fulvifomes natarajanii on dead wood of Prosopis juliflora, Fulvifomes subazonatus on trunk of Azadirachta indica, Macrolepiota bharadwajii on moist soil near the forest, Narcissea delicata on decaying elephant dung, Paramyrothecium indicum on living leaves of Hibiscus hispidissimus, Trichoglossum syamviswanathii on moist soil near the base of a bamboo plantation. Iran, Vacuiphoma astragalicola from stem canker of Astragalus sarcocolla. Malaysia, Neoeriomycopsis fissistigmae (incl. Neoeriomycopsidaceae fam. nov.) on leaf spots on flower Fissistigma sp. Namibia, Exophiala lichenicola lichenicolous on Acarospora cf. luederitzensis. Netherlands, Entoloma occultatum on soil, Extremus caricis on dead leaves of Carex sp., Inocybe pseudomytiliodora on loamy soil. Norway, Inocybe guldeniae on calcareous soil, Inocybe rupestroides on gravelly soil. Pakistan, Hymenagaricus brunneodiscus on soil. Philippines, Ophiocordyceps philippinensis parasitic on Asilus sp. Poland, Hawksworthiomyces ciconiae isolated from Ciconia ciconia nest, Plectosphaerella vigrensis from leaf spots on Impatiens noli-tangere, Xenoramularia epitaxicola from sooty mould community on Taxus baccata. Portugal, Inocybe dagamae on clay soil. Saudi Arabia, Diaporthe jazanensis on branches of Coffea arabica. South Africa, Alternaria moraeae on dead leaves of Moraea sp., Bonitomyces buffels-kloofinus (incl. Bonitomyces gen. nov.) on dead twigs of unknown tree, Constrictochalara koukolii on living leaves of Itea rhamnoides colonised by a Meliola sp., Cylindromonium lichenophilum on Parmelina tiliacea, Gamszarella buffelskloofina (incl. Gamszarella gen. nov.) on dead insect, Isthmosporiella africana (incl. Isthmosporiella gen. nov.) on dead twigs of unknown tree, Nothoeucasphaeria buffelskloofina (incl. Nothoeucasphaeria gen. nov.), on dead twigs of unknown tree, Nothomicrothyrium beaucarneae (incl. Nothomicrothyrium gen. nov.) on dead leaves of Beaucarnea stricta, Paramycosphaerella proteae on living leaves of Protea caffra, Querciphoma foliicola on leaf litter, Rachicladosporium conostomii on dead twigs of Conostomium natalense var. glabrum, Rhamphoriopsis synnematosa on dead twig of unknown tree, Waltergamsia mpumalanga on dead leaves of unknown tree. Spain, Amanita fulvogrisea on limestone soil, in mixed forest, Amanita herculis in open Quercus forest, Vuilleminia beltraniae on Cistus symphytifolius. Sweden, Pachyella pulchella on decaying wood on sand-silt riverbank. Thailand, Deniquelata cassiae on dead stem of Cassia fistula, Stomiopeltis thailandica on dead twigs of Magnolia champaca. Ukraine, Circinaria podoliana on natural limestone outcrops, Neonematogonum carpinicola (incl. Neonematogonum gen. nov.) on dead branches of Carpinus betulus. USA, Exophiala wilsonii water from cooling tower, Hygrophorus aesculeticola on soil in mixed forest, and Neocelosporium aereum from air in a house attic. Morphological and culture characteristics are supported by DNA barcodes. Citation: Crous PW, Costa MM, Kandemir H, et al. 2023. Fungal Planet description sheets: 1550-1613. Persoonia 51: 280-417. doi: 10.3767/persoonia.2023.51.08.

Fungal Planet description sheets: 1284-1382

Novel species of fungi described in this study include those from various countries as follows: Antartica, Cladosporium austrolitorale from coastal sea sand. Australia, Austroboletus yourkae on soil, Crepidotus innuopurpureus on dead wood, Curvularia stenotaphri from roots and leaves of Stenotaphrum secundatum and Thecaphora stajsicii from capsules of Oxalis radicosa. Belgium, Paraxerochrysium coryli (incl. Paraxerochrysium gen. nov.) from Corylus avellana. Brazil, Calvatia nordestina on soil, Didymella tabebuiicola from leaf spots on Tabebuia aurea, Fusarium subflagellisporum from hypertrophied floral and vegetative branches of Mangifera indica and Microdochium maculosum from living leaves of Digitaria insularis. Canada, Cuphophyllus bondii from a grassland. Croatia, Mollisia inferiseptata from a rotten Laurus nobilis trunk. Cyprus, Amanita exilis on calcareous soil. Czech Republic, Cytospora hippophaicola from wood of symptomatic Vaccinium corymbosum. Denmark, Lasiosphaeria deviata on pieces of wood and herbaceous debris. Dominican Republic, Calocybella goethei among grass on a lawn. France (Corsica), Inocybe corsica on wet ground. France (French Guiana), Trechispora patawaensis on decayed branch of unknown angiosperm tree and Trechispora subregularis on decayed log of unknown angiosperm tree. Germany, Paramicrothecium sambuci (incl. Paramicrothecium gen. nov.) on dead stems of Sambucus nigra. India, Aureobasidium microtermitis from the gut of a Microtermes sp. termite, Laccaria diospyricola on soil and Phylloporia tamilnadensis on branches of Catunaregam spinosa. Iran, Pythium serotinoosporum from soil under Prunus dulcis. Italy, Pluteus brunneovenosus on twigs of broadleaved trees on the ground. Japan, Heterophoma rehmanniae on leaves of Rehmannia glutinosa f. hueichingensis. Kazakhstan, Murispora kazachstanica from healthy roots of Triticum aestivum. Namibia, Caespitomonium euphorbiae (incl. Caespitomonium gen. nov.) from stems of an Euphorbia sp. Netherlands, Alfaria junci, Myrmecridium junci, Myrmecridium juncicola, Myrmecridium juncigenum, Ophioceras junci, Paradinemasporium junci (incl. Paradinemasporium gen. nov.), Phialoseptomonium junci, Sporidesmiella juncicola, Xenopyricularia junci and Zaanenomyces quadripartis (incl. Zaanenomyces gen. nov.), from dead culms of Juncus effusus, Cylindromonium everniae and Rhodoveronaea everniae from Evernia prunastri, Cyphellophora sambuci and Myrmecridium sambuci from Sambucus nigra, Kiflimonium junci, Sarocladium junci, Zaanenomyces moderatricis-academiae and Zaanenomyces versatilis from dead culms of Juncus inflexus, Microcera physciae from Physcia tenella, Myrmecridium dactylidis from dead culms of Dactylis glomerata, Neochalara spiraeae and Sporidesmium spiraeae from leaves of Spiraea japonica, Neofabraea salicina from Salix sp., Paradissoconium narthecii (incl. Paradissoconium gen. nov.) from dead leaves of Narthecium ossifragum, Polyscytalum vaccinii from Vaccinium myrtillus, Pseudosoloacrosporiella cryptomeriae (incl. Pseudosoloacrosporiella gen. nov.) from leaves of Cryptomeria japonica, Ramularia pararhabdospora from Plantago lanceolata, Sporidesmiella pini from needles of Pinus sylvestris and Xenoacrodontium juglandis (incl. Xenoacrodontium gen. nov. and Xenoacrodontiaceae fam. nov.) from Juglans regia. New Zealand, Cryptometrion metrosideri from twigs of Metrosideros sp., Coccomyces pycnophyllocladi from dead leaves of Phyllocladus alpinus, Hypoderma aliforme from fallen leaves Fuscopora solandri and Hypoderma subiculatum from dead leaves Phormium tenax. Norway, Neodevriesia kalakoutskii from permafrost and Variabilispora viridis from driftwood of Picea abies. Portugal, Entomortierella hereditatis from a biofilm covering a deteriorated limestone wall. Russia, Colpoma junipericola from needles of Juniperus sabina, Entoloma cinnamomeum on soil in grasslands, Entoloma verae on soil in grasslands, Hyphodermella pallidostraminea on a dry dead branch of Actinidia sp., Lepiota sayanensis on litter in a mixed forest, Papiliotrema horticola from Malus communis, Paramacroventuria ribis (incl. Paramacroventuria gen. nov.) from leaves of Ribes aureum and Paramyrothecium lathyri from leaves of Lathyrus tuberosus. South Africa, Harzia combreti from leaf litter of Combretum collinum ssp. sulvense, Penicillium xyleborini from Xyleborinus saxesenii, Phaeoisaria dalbergiae from bark of Dalbergia armata, Protocreopsis euphorbiae from leaf litter of Euphorbia ingens and Roigiella syzygii from twigs of Syzygium chordatum. Spain, Genea zamorana on sandy soil, Gymnopus nigrescens on Scleropodium touretii, Hesperomyces parexochomi on Parexochomus quadriplagiatus, Paraphoma variabilis from dung, Phaeococcomyces kinklidomatophilus from a blackened metal railing of an industrial warehouse and Tuber suaveolens in soil under Quercus faginea. Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Inocybe nivea associated with Salix polaris. Thailand, Biscogniauxia whalleyi on corticated wood. UK, Parasitella quercicola from Quercus robur. USA, Aspergillus arizonicus from indoor air in a hospital, Caeliomyces tampanus (incl. Caeliomyces gen. nov.) from office dust, Cippumomyces mortalis (incl. Cippumomyces gen. nov.) from a tombstone, Cylindrium desperesense from air in a store, Tetracoccosporium pseudoaerium from air sample in house, Toxicocladosporium glendoranum from air in a brick room, Toxicocladosporium losalamitosense from air in a classroom, Valsonectria portsmouthensis from air in men's locker room and Varicosporellopsis americana from sludge in a water reservoir. Vietnam, Entoloma kovalenkoi on rotten wood, Fusarium chuoi inside seed of Musa itinerans, Micropsalliota albofelina on soil in tropical evergreen mixed forests and Phytophthora docyniae from soil and roots of Docynia indica. Morphological and culture characteristics are supported by DNA barcodes. Citation: Crous PW, Osieck ER, Jurjević Ž, et al. 2021. Fungal Planet description sheets: 1284-1382. Persoonia 47: 178-374. https://doi.org/10.3767/persoonia.2021.47.06.

Fungal Planet description sheets: 1284-1382

Novel species of fungi described in this study include those from various countries as follows: Antartica, Cladosporium austrolitorale from coastal sea sand. Australia, Austroboletus yourkae on soil, Crepidotus innuopurpureus on dead wood, Curvularia stenotaphri from roots and leaves of Stenotaphrum secundatum and Thecaphora stajsicii from capsules of Oxalis radicosa. Belgium, Paraxerochrysium coryli (incl. Paraxerochrysium gen. nov.) from Corylus avellana. Brazil, Calvatia nordestina on soil, Didymella tabebuiicola from leaf spots on Tabebuia aurea, Fusarium subflagellisporum from hypertrophied floral and vegetative branches of Mangifera indica and Microdochium maculosum from living leaves of Digitaria insularis. Canada, Cuphophyllus bondii from a grassland. Croatia, Mollisia inferiseptata from a rotten Laurus nobilis trunk. Cyprus, Amanita exilis on calcareous soil. Czech Republic, Cytospora hippophaicola from wood of symptomatic Vaccinium corymbosum. Denmark, Lasiosphaeria deviata on pieces of wood and herbaceous debris. Dominican Republic, Calocybella goethei among grass on a lawn. France (Corsica), Inocybe corsica on wet ground. France (French Guiana), Trechispora patawaensis on decayed branch of unknown angiosperm tree and Trechispora subregularis on decayed log of unknown angiosperm tree. Germany, Paramicrothecium sambuci (incl. Paramicrothecium gen. nov.) on dead stems of Sambucus nigra. India, Aureobasidium microtermitis from the gut of a Microtermes sp. termite, Laccaria diospyricola on soil and Phylloporia tamilnadensis on branches of Catunaregam spinosa. Iran, Pythium serotinoosporum from soil under Prunus dulcis. Italy, Pluteus brunneovenosus on twigs of broadleaved trees on the ground. Japan, Heterophoma rehmanniae on leaves of Rehmannia glutinosa f. hueichingensis. Kazakhstan, Murispora kazachstanica from healthy roots of Triticum aestivum. Namibia, Caespitomonium euphorbiae (incl. Caespitomonium gen. nov.) from stems of an Euphorbia sp. Netherlands, Alfaria junci, Myrmecridium junci, Myrmecridium juncicola, Myrmecridium juncigenum, Ophioceras junci, Paradinemasporium junci (incl. Paradinemasporium gen. nov.), Phialoseptomonium junci, Sporidesmiella juncicola, Xenopyricularia junci and Zaanenomyces quadripartis (incl. Zaanenomyces gen. nov.), from dead culms of Juncus effusus, Cylindromonium everniae and Rhodoveronaea everniae from Evernia prunastri, Cyphellophora sambuci and Myrmecridium sambuci from Sambucus nigra, Kiflimonium junci, Sarocladium junci, Zaanenomyces moderatricis-academiae and Zaanenomyces versatilis from dead culms of Juncus inflexus, Microcera physciae from Physcia tenella, Myrmecridium dactylidis from dead culms of Dactylis glomerata, Neochalara spiraeae and Sporidesmium spiraeae from leaves of Spiraea japonica, Neofabraea salicina from Salix sp., Paradissoconium narthecii (incl. Paradissoconium gen. nov.) from dead leaves of Narthecium ossifragum, Polyscytalum vaccinii from Vaccinium myrtillus, Pseudosoloacrosporiella cryptomeriae (incl. Pseudosoloacrosporiella gen. nov.) from leaves of Cryptomeria japonica, Ramularia pararhabdospora from Plantago lanceolata, Sporidesmiella pini from needles of Pinus sylvestris and Xenoacrodontium juglandis (incl. Xenoacrodontium gen. nov. and Xenoacrodontiaceae fam. nov.) from Juglans regia. New Zealand, Cryptometrion metrosideri from twigs of Metrosideros sp., Coccomyces pycnophyllocladi from dead leaves of Phyllocladus alpinus, Hypoderma aliforme from fallen leaves Fuscopora solandri and Hypoderma subiculatum from dead leaves Phormium tenax. Norway, Neodevriesia kalakoutskii from permafrost and Variabilispora viridis from driftwood of Picea abies. Portugal, Entomortierella hereditatis from a biofilm covering a deteriorated limestone wall. Russia, Colpoma junipericola from needles of Juniperus sabina, Entoloma cinnamomeum on soil in grasslands, Entoloma verae on soil in grasslands, Hyphodermella pallidostraminea on a dry dead branch of Actinidia sp., Lepiota sayanensis on litter in a mixed forest, Papiliotrema horticola from Malus communis, Paramacroventuria ribis (incl. Paramacroventuria gen. nov.) from leaves of Ribes aureum and Paramyrothecium lathyri from leaves of Lathyrus tuberosus. South Africa, Harzia combreti from leaf litter of Combretum collinum ssp. sulvense, Penicillium xyleborini from Xyleborinus saxesenii, Phaeoisaria dalbergiae from bark of Dalbergia armata, Protocreopsis euphorbiae from leaf litter of Euphorbia ingens and Roigiella syzygii from twigs of Syzygium chordatum. Spain, Genea zamorana on sandy soil, Gymnopus nigrescens on Scleropodium touretii, Hesperomyces parexochomi on Parexochomus quadriplagiatus, Paraphoma variabilis from dung, Phaeococcomyces kinklidomatophilus from a blackened metal railing of an industrial warehouse and Tuber suaveolens in soil under Quercus faginea. Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Inocybe nivea associated with Salix polaris. Thailand, Biscogniauxia whalleyi on corticated wood. UK, Parasitella quercicola from Quercus robur. USA, Aspergillus arizonicus from indoor air in a hospital, Caeliomyces tampanus (incl. Caeliomyces gen. nov.) from office dust, Cippumomyces mortalis (incl. Cippumomyces gen. nov.) from a tombstone, Cylindrium desperesense from air in a store, Tetracoccosporium pseudoaerium from air sample in house, Toxicocladosporium glendoranum from air in a brick room, Toxicocladosporium losalamitosense from air in a classroom, Valsonectria portsmouthensis from air in men's locker room and Varicosporellopsis americana from sludge in a water reservoir. Vietnam, Entoloma kovalenkoi on rotten wood, Fusarium chuoi inside seed of Musa itinerans, Micropsalliota albofelina on soil in tropical evergreen mixed forests and Phytophthora docyniae from soil and roots of Docynia indica. Morphological and culture characteristics are supported by DNA barcodes. Citation: Crous PW, Osieck ER, Jurjević Ž, et al. 2021. Fungal Planet description sheets: 1284-1382. Persoonia 47: 178-374. https://doi.org/10.3767/persoonia.2021.47.06.

Fungal Planet description sheets: 951-1041

Novel species of fungi described in this study include those from various countries as follows: Antarctica, Apenidiella antarctica from permafrost, Cladosporium fildesense from an unidentified marine sponge. Argentina, Geastrum wrightii on humus in mixed forest. Australia, Golovinomyces glandulariae on Glandularia aristigera, Neoanungitea eucalyptorum on leaves of Eucalyptus grandis, Teratosphaeria corymbiicola on leaves of Corymbia ficifolia, Xylaria eucalypti on leaves of Eucalyptus radiata. Brazil, Bovista psammophila on soil, Fusarium awaxy on rotten stalks of Zea mays, Geastrum lanuginosum on leaf litter covered soil, Hermetothecium mikaniae-micranthae (incl. Hermetothecium gen. nov.) on Mikania micrantha, Penicillium reconvexovelosoi in soil, Stagonosporopsis vannaccii from pod of Glycine max. British Virgin Isles, Lactifluus guanensis on soil. Canada, Sorocybe oblongispora on resin of Picea rubens. Chile, Colletotrichum roseum on leaves of Lapageria rosea. China, Setophoma caverna from carbonatite in Karst cave. Colombia, Lareunionomyces eucalypticola on leaves of Eucalyptus grandis. Costa Rica, Psathyrella pivae on wood. Cyprus, Clavulina iris on calcareous substrate. France, Chromosera ambigua and Clavulina iris var. occidentalis on soil. French West Indies, Helminthosphaeria hispidissima on dead wood. Guatemala, Talaromyces guatemalensis in soil. Malaysia, Neotracylla pini (incl. Tracyllales ord. nov. and Neotracylla gen. nov.) and Vermiculariopsiella pini on needles of Pinus tecunumanii. New Zealand, Neoconiothyrium viticola on stems of Vitis vinifera, Parafenestella pittospori on Pittosporum tenuifolium, Pilidium novae-zelandiae on Phoenix sp. Pakistan, Russula quercus-floribundae on forest floor. Portugal, Trichoderma aestuarinum from saline water. Russia, Pluteus liliputianus on fallen branch of deciduous tree, Pluteus spurius on decaying deciduous wood or soil. South Africa, Alloconiothyrium encephalarti, Phyllosticta encephalarticola and Neothyrostroma encephalarti (incl. Neothyrostroma gen. nov.) on leaves of Encephalartos sp., Chalara eucalypticola on leaf spots of Eucalyptus grandis × urophylla, Clypeosphaeria oleae on leaves of Olea capensis, Cylindrocladiella postalofficium on leaf litter of Sideroxylon inerme, Cylindromonium eugeniicola (incl. Cylindromonium gen. nov.) on leaf litter of Eugenia capensis, Cyphellophora goniomatis on leaves of Gonioma kamassi, Nothodactylaria nephrolepidis (incl. Nothodactylaria gen. nov. and Nothodactylariaceae fam. nov.) on leaves of Nephrolepis exaltata, Falcocladium eucalypti and Gyrothrix eucalypti on leaves of Eucalyptus sp., Gyrothrix oleae on leaves of Olea capensis subsp. macrocarpa, Harzia metrosideri on leaf litter of Metrosideros sp., Hippopotamyces phragmitis (incl. Hippopotamyces gen. nov.) on leaves of Phragmites australis, Lectera philenopterae on Philenoptera violacea, Leptosillia mayteni on leaves of Maytenus heterophylla, Lithohypha aloicola and Neoplatysporoides aloes on leaves of Aloe sp., Millesimomyces rhoicissi (incl. Millesimomyces gen. nov.) on leaves of Rhoicissus digitata, Neodevriesia strelitziicola on leaf litter of Strelitzia nicolai, Neokirramyces syzygii (incl. Neokirramyces gen. nov.) on leaf spots of Syzygium sp., Nothoramichloridium perseae (incl. Nothoramichloridium gen. nov. and Anungitiomycetaceae fam. nov.) on leaves of Persea americana, Paramycosphaerella watsoniae on leaf spots of Watsonia sp., Penicillium cuddlyae from dog food, Podocarpomyces knysnanus (incl. Podocarpomyces gen. nov.) on leaves of Podocarpus falcatus, Pseudocercospora heteropyxidicola on leaf spots of Heteropyxis natalensis, Pseudopenidiella podocarpi, Scolecobasidium podocarpi and Ceramothyrium podocarpicola on leaves of Podocarpus latifolius, Scolecobasidium blechni on leaves of Blechnum capense, Stomiopeltis syzygii on leaves of Syzygium chordatum, Strelitziomyces knysnanus (incl. Strelitziomyces gen. nov.) on leaves of Strelitzia alba, Talaromyces clemensii from rotting wood in goldmine, Verrucocladosporium visseri on Carpobrotus edulis. Spain, Boletopsis mediterraneensis on soil, Calycina cortegadensisi on a living twig of Castanea sativa, Emmonsiellopsis tuberculata in fluvial sediments, Mollisia cortegadensis on dead attached twig of Quercus robur, Psathyrella ovispora on soil, Pseudobeltrania lauri on leaf litter of Laurus azorica, Terfezia dunensis in soil, Tuber lucentum in soil, Venturia submersa on submerged plant debris. Thailand, Cordyceps jakajanicola on cicada nymph, Cordyceps kuiburiensis on spider, Distoseptispora caricis on leaves of Carex sp., Ophiocordyceps khonkaenensis on cicada nymph. USA, Cytosporella juncicola and Davidiellomyces juncicola on culms of Juncus effusus, Monochaetia massachusettsianum from air sample, Neohelicomyces melaleucae and Periconia neobrittanica on leaves of Melaleuca styphelioides × lanceolata, Pseudocamarosporium eucalypti on leaves of Eucalyptus sp., Pseudogymnoascus lindneri from sediment in a mine, Pseudogymnoascus turneri from sediment in a railroad tunnel, Pulchroboletus sclerotiorum on soil, Zygosporium pseudomasonii on leaf of Serenoa repens. Vietnam, Boletus candidissimus and Veloporphyrellus vulpinus on soil. Morphological and culture characteristics are supported by DNA barcodes.

Chemical characterization of diesel and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) soot after reactive gas probing using diffuse reflectance FTIR spectroscopy (DRIFTS)

A chemical characterization of diesel and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) soot has been developed using diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) before and after the reaction with different probe gases. Samples were generated under combustion conditions corresponding to an urban operation mode of a diesel engine and were reacted with probe gas-phase molecules in a Knudsen flow reactor. Specifically, NH₂OH, O₃ and NO₂ were used as reactants (probes) and selected according to their reactivities towards specific functional groups on the sample surface. Samples of previously ground soot were diluted with KBr and were introduced in a DRIFTS accessory. A comparison between unreacted and reacted soot samples was made in order to establish chemical changes on the soot surface upon reaction. It was concluded that the interface of diesel and HVO soot before reaction mainly consists polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, nitro and carbonyl compounds, as well as ether functionalities. The main difference between both soot samples was observed in the band of the C=O groups that in diesel soot was observed at 1719 cm^-1 but not in HVO soot. After reaction with probe gases, it was found that nitro compounds remain on the soot surface, that the degree of unsaturation decreases for reacted samples, and that new spectral bands such as hydroxyl groups are observed.

The use of heterogeneous chemistry for the characterization of functional groups at the gas/particle interface of soot from a diesel engine at a particular running condition

Two gases, O3 and NO2, were selected to probe the surface of a diesel fuel combustion aerosol sample, diesel soot, and amorphous carbon nanoparticles (PRINTEX XE2-B) using heterogeneous (i.e., gas-surface reactions). The gas uptake to saturation of the probes was measured under molecular flow conditions using a Knudsen flow reactor in order to quantify and characterize surface functional groups. Specifically, O3 and NO2 are used for the titration of oxidizable groups. Diesel soot samples interacted with the probe gases to various extents which points to the coexistence of different functional groups on the same aerosol surface such as reduced groups. The carbonaceous particles displayed significant differences: PRINTEX XE2-B amorphous carbon had a significantly lower surface functional group density of both total and strongly reducing groups despite its significantly larger internal surface area, compared to diesel soot. The uptake kinetics of the gas-phase probe molecules (uptake probabilities) were also measured in order to obtain further information on the reactivity of emitted soot aerosols in order to enable the potential prediction of health effects.

FTIR gas-phase kinetic study on the reactions of some acrylate esters with OH radicals and Cl atoms

Acrylate esters are α,β-unsaturated esters that contain vinyl groups directly attached to the carbonyl carbon. These compounds are widely used in the production of plastics and resins. Atmospheric degradation processes of these compounds are currently not well understood. The kinetics of the gas phase reactions of OH radicals with methyl 3-methylacrylate and methyl 3,3-dimethylacrylate were determined using the relative rate technique in a 50 L Pyrex photoreactor using in situ FTIR spectroscopy at room temperature (298 ± 2 K) and atmospheric pressure (708 ± 8 Torr) with air as the bath gas. Rate coefficients obtained were (in units cm(3) molecule(-1) s(-1)): (3.27 ± 0.33) × 10(-11) and (4.43 ± 0.42) × 10(-11), for CH3CH═CHC(O)OCH3 and (CH3)2CH═CHC(O)OCH3, respectively. The same technique was used to study the gas phase reactions of hexyl acrylate and ethyl hexyl acrylate with OH radicals and Cl atoms. In the experiments with Cl, N2 and air were used as the bath gases. The following rate coefficients were obtained (in cm(3) molecule(-1) s(-1)): k3 (CH2═CHC(O)O(CH2)5CH3 + Cl) = (3.31 ± 0.31) × 10(-10), k4(CH2═CHC(O)OCH2CH(CH2CH3)(CH2)3CH3 + Cl) = (3.46 ± 0.31) × 10(-10), k5(CH2═CHC(O)O(CH2)5CH3 + OH) = (2.28 ± 0.23) × 10(-11), and k6(CH2═CHC(O)OCH2CH(CH2CH3)(CH2)3CH3 + OH) = (2.74 ± 0.26) × 10(-11). The reactivity increased with the number of methyl substituents on the double bond and with the chain length of the alkyl group in -C(O)OR. Estimations of the atmospheric lifetimes clearly indicate that the dominant atmospheric loss process for these compounds is their daytime reaction with the hydroxyl radical. In coastal areas and in some polluted environments, Cl atom-initiated degradation of these compounds can be significant, if not dominant. Maximum Incremental Reactivity (MIR) index and global warming potential (GWP) were also calculated, and it was concluded that these compounds have significant MIR values, but they do not influence global warming.

Prevalence of the crayfish plague pathogen Aphanomyces astaci in invasive American crayfishes in the Czech Republic

In Central Europe invasive North American crayfishes are carriers of the oomycete Aphanomyces astaci, which causes crayfish plague. This lethal disease currently represents one of the major threats to native European crayfishes. We used molecular methods-species--specific amplification and sequencing of the pathogen DNA--to investigate the prevalence of individuals latently infected with A. astaci in 28 populations of two invasive American crayfish species (6 of the signal crayfish [Pacifastacus leniusculus] and 22 of the spiny-cheek crayfish [Orconectes limosus]) in the Czech Republic. The pathogen occurred in 17 investigated populations. We recorded a high variation in positive reactions, ranging from 0% to 100%, in populations of O. limosus. In P. leniusculus, however, only one individual out of 124 tested positive for the pathogen. There was a clear relationship between the water body type and pathogen prevalence in O. limosus. Infection ratios in isolated standing waters were usually low, whereas in running waters, pathogen prevalence often exceeded 50%. Other evaluated characteristics of potential plague pathogen carriers (size, sex, and the presence of melanized spots in the cuticle) seemed to be unrelated to infection. Our data suggest that in contrast to other European countries, O. limosus seems to be the primary reservoir of crayfish plague in the Czech Republic. Although all populations of alien American crayfishes may be potential sources of infections and should be managed as such, knowledge on the prevalence of the plague pathogen at various localities may allow managers to focus conservation efforts on the most directly endangered populations of native crayfishes.

[Airtraq optical laryngoscopy]

Endotracheal intubation using direct laryngoscopy continues to be the "gold standard" amongst all the techniques for isolating the airway. Generally this is a secure manoeuvre, but it might become a situation of extreme emergency when dealing with an unexpected difficult airway. The Airtraq laryngoscope (Prodol Meditec, Vizcaya, Spain) is a new tool for use with the patient. The fact that it is easy to learn to use and simple to handle makes it a practical device in many situations where managing the airway is indicated. Its advantages over the Macintosh laryngoscope have been demonstrated in patients with an airway that it is difficult to manage and in adverse situations outside the surgical setting, when endotracheal intubation has been achieved in a simple way following unsuccessful attempts with conventional laryngoscopes. The greatest benefits in using the Airtraq laryngoscope have been shown in patients with a pronounced limitation of cervical mobility, and in those where the airway is distorted for anatomical reasons, such as pregnant women and obese patients.

[Prognostic factors in patients with non-active treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate factors associated with poor survival in patients with non-active treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Between May 2003 and June 2005, 50 patients with HCC were deemed unsuitable for active treatment, following the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system. Symptomatic treatment was provided. Kaplan-Meier curves were constructed and compared by the log-rank test to identify factors associated with poor survival. Independent factors predictive of survival were evaluated by multivariate Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

The mean age was 65.6 +/- 11.9 years and 84% of the patients were men. Forty-eight percent of the patients had hepatitis C infection and 58% were Child-Pugh grade A. HCC was multinodular in 54% and the total tumor size was more than 5 cm in 90% of patients. Thirty-four percent of the patients had malignant portal thrombosis and four patients had metastases. Thirty-eight percent of the patients had received previous treatment. The median follow-up was 9.2 months and 1- and 2-year survival was 46% and 17.5%, respectively. Poor survival was associated with male sex, alpha-fetoprotein values of > 400 ng/ml, albumin levels of < 3 g/dl, and metastases. Independent predictors identified by multivariate Cox regression analysis were male sex, albumin levels of < 3 g/dl, and alpha-fetoprotein values of > 400 ng/ml. The median survival in patients with two or more independent factors was significantly lower than that in patients with none or only one factor (14.2 vs. 4.1 months).

CONCLUSION

Survival in patients with non-active treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma can be estimated and the factors involved allow separate groups of patients with different short- to medium-term prognoses to be identified.

[Consequences of heroin consumption: compartmental syndrome and rhabdomyolysis]

Compartment syndrome is a condition in which increased pressure within a limited space compromises tissue perfusion with the development of rhabdomyolysis. The causes can be physical, such as the pressure exerted on an anatomical region, or it can be associated with the consumption of illegal drugs, especially heroin. In this latter case, toxic and immunological mechanisms are involved in the physiopathology. Acute renal failure develops in 30% of cases of rhabdomyolysis. Its treatment includes efficient volume replacement, forcing urinary alkalinization and the administering of furosemide and mannitol, with certain precautions. No benefit has been shown in dopamine. When a heroin addict patient shows a clinical pattern of tumescence of his extremities, with or without a period of unconsciousness, the presence of compartment syndrome is to be suspected.

Serosurvey of Aujeszky’s disease virus infection in European wild boar in Spain

Serum samples from 693 hunted wild boar (Sus scrofa) were analysed by means of a blocking ELISA technique, and the mean (se) prevalence of antibodies to Aujeszky's disease virus was 44 (4) per cent. All the seropositive wild boar were from south central Spain, except for one from central Spain, close to the main positive area. In this area, where large game species are increasingly managed for hunting, the seroprevalence was affected by the type of management. More intensively managed populations had a higher prevalence than wild boar living in natural situations, and the seroprevalence increased with the age of the animals; the seroprevalence was higher in females in all age groups. The seroprevalence in males more than one year old peaked after the breeding season, whereas females of the same age had a higher and constant seroprevalence throughout the year.

Cutaneous lesions in experimental acute and subacute African swine fever: an immunohistopathological and ultrastructural study

Histopathological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural cutaneous changes are described in acute and subacute forms of experimental African Swine Fever (ASF). Fourteen 3-month-old Large White cross pigs were infected intramuscularly with the Dominican Republic 78 (DR78) ASF virus isolate and euthanized in pairs on alternatives days (3 to 17) post-inoculation (dpi). Three pigs were found dead at 8, 10 and 13 dpi, respectively. Antibodies against viral antigen Vp73, human fibrinogen, glycoprotein IIIa and Factor VIII-ra were used to evaluate viral antigen distribution, fibrin microthrombi and platelets in dermal vessels, respectively. Cutaneous lesions were characterised by vascular changes ranging from hyperaemia, mild oedema, scarce fibrin microthrombi and microhaemorrhages in euthanized animals, to generalized fibrin microthrombosis and microhaemorrhages in dead pigs. Secondary pustules and superficial folliculitis were observed in two animals dead at 10 and 13 dpi. Diffuse cytoplasmic Vp73 labelling was found in numerous intravascular monocytes and dermal macrophages. Ultrastructural studies showed mature viral particles in the lumen of dermal vessels but viral replication was not observed; nonetheless, microtubuloreticular structures were observed in the cytoplasm of some endothelial cells and macrophages which showed cytopathic effects, signs of cell activation or degeneration. Morphological and immunohistochemical evidences of platelet activation, degranulation and consumption were observed from 5 dpi onward.

First Report of Rhizoctonia solani AG-3 on Potato in Catalonia (NE Spain)

During the last 3 years, potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) with symptoms typical of Rhizoctonia canker and black scurf have been found in Catalonia; from 21,546 samples submitted to the official diagnostic laboratory (Laboratori de Sanitat Vegetal, DARP, Generalitat de Catalunya), 20% were infected with R. solani. Also, basidia and basidiospores of Thanatephorus cucumeris (A.B. Frank) Donk, the teleomorph of R. solani, have been observed frequently on stems near the soil surface. Previous work (1) has reported R. solani in the same geographic area, but anastomosis groups (AG) were not identified. Isolates (103) were collected from damaged roots, mature or progeny tubers, soil, debris, and weeds (roots and stem of Oxalis latifolia, Diplotaxis eurocoides, Solanum nigrum, Sorghum halepense, and Chenopodium album) in fields where potatoes were cultivated. All isolates were multinucleate, variable in number of nuclei (mean = 12, range = 7 to 19), and with morphological features typical of R. solani (3). Following the procedure of Parmeter et al. (2), all isolates (84) were identified as R. solani AG-3. Thirty-two isolates were evaluated for pathogenicity on potato plants at 20 to 25°C in the greenhouse. Germinated tubers (sprout length 3 cm) free of Rhizoctonia were placed in pea-sand mix (3:1, vol/vol; Compo Sana Universal, Barcelona, Spain) at 5-cm depth and inoculated by placing a 5-mm-diameter plug cut from 1-week-old cultures of each isolate adjacent to the sprouts. Potatoes were harvested 20 days after planting, and both emerged and nonemerged sprouts were examined for lesions and rated using a 0 to 4 scale. The AG-3 isolates caused major damage to roots and shoots (average disease rating 3.4). R. solani isolates were recovered from diseased plants and identified as AG-3. Preliminary field studies in Catalonia (Baix Llobregat and Maresme, unpublished) indicate that disease severity is not dependent on cultivar or related to yield reduction (10 to 65%), but is related to soil and seed contamination with sclerotia and mycelium. This is the first reported occurrence of R. solani AG-3 on potato in Catalonia. References: (1) Cebolla et al. Actas del III Congreso de la SECH, 1989. (2) Parmeter et al. Phytopathology 59:1270, 1969. (3) Sneh et al. Identification of Rhitzoctonia species. American Phytopathological Society, St. Paul, MN, 1991.

Immunohistochemical study of the inflammatory infiltrate associated with equine squamous cell carcinoma

The distribution of T (CD3), B (CD79) lymphocytes, immunoglobulin (IgG, IgM and IgA)-producing plasma cells, macrophages (lysozyme, Mac387) and MHC Class II antigen was analysed in the inflammatory infiltrate associated with 19 equine squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) and six cases of precancerous lesions (actinic keratosis). The SCCs came from the penis (11 cases), conjunctiva (four), skin (two), nasal cavity (one) and oral cavity (one). Seven cases were well-differentiated and 12 moderately differentiated. Nine cases showed no invasion of peritumoral deep tissues (locally invasive), whereas the remaining 10 cases were highly invasive. An abundant inflammatory infiltrate was associated with the majority of the SCCs and with lesions of actinic keratosis. This infiltrate was composed mainly of CD3(+)T lymphocytes, CD79(+)B cells and numerous IgG(+)plasma cells; IgM- and IgA-producing plasma cells were scarce and variable, respectively. Macrophages were usually numerous. Macrophages, lymphocytes, intra-epithelial dendritic cells and fibroblasts expressed MHC Class II antigen. No significant correlation was found between the nature of the inflammatory infiltrate and the SCC histological grade or degree of invasion, suggesting that the local anti-tumour immune response failed to prevent tumour invasion or metastasis. MHC Class II was expressed by a variable number of neoplastic epithelial cells in four SCCs, all of which were only locally invasive. In addition, in areas where SCC cells expressed Class II antigen, numerous CD3(+)T lymphocytes were present and some of them were associated with degenerate tumour cells. These findings suggest that the expression of MHC Class II by neoplastic cells induces an improved local anti-tumour immune response.

Immunohistochemical study of the inflammatory infiltrate associated with feline cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas and precancerous lesions (actinic keratosis)

The distribution of T lymphocytes (CD3+), B lymphocytes (CD79+), immunoglobulin-containing plasma cells (IgG, IgM and IgA), macrophages (Mac387+) and MHC Class II antigen was analysed in the inflammatory infiltrate associated with cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) from 23 cats. Peri-tumoural skin (12 cases) and precancerous lesions of actinic keratosis (nine cases) were also evaluated for the expression of MHC Class II. The results revealed that an abundant inflammatory infiltrate was associated with the majority of SCC. This infiltrate was composed mainly of CD3+ T lymphocytes, B cells (CD79+) and IgG-bearing plasma cells, and the intensity of infiltration increased with the degree of invasiveness of the tumour. The number of CD3+ T cells and CD79+ cells was significantly increased in well-differentiated SCC compared with moderately differentiated tumours, whereas the number of IgM+, IgA+ plasma cells and Mac387+ macrophages was low or moderate and did not change significantly with histologic grade or invasiveness. MHC Class II antigen was expressed by infiltrating lymphocytes and macrophages, and by fibroblasts. A variable number of neoplastic cells (10% to 80%) in 10 SCC, and keratinocytes of basal layers in seven of nine cases of actinic keratosis also expressed MHC Class II, whereas keratinocytes of normal skin were always negative for this antigen. These results suggest that CD3+ T lymphocytes, CD79+ B cells and IgG-bearing plasma cells may participate in down-regulation of tumour growth, since these cell types were particularly numerous in well-differentiated and mildly invasive SCC, as well as in actinic keratosis. The expression of MHC Class II by neoplastic cells could enhance this local anti-tumour immune response.

Right-sided heart failure in a dog with primary cardiac rhabdomyosarcoma

A seven-year-old, female German shepherd mixed-breed dog was presented with weakness, inappetence, and a distended abdomen. Right-sided heart failure with pleural, pericardial, and abdominal effusions; dyspnea; and tachycardia were identified. The radiographic and electrocardiographic examinations did not allow a conclusive diagnosis. Echocardiographic findings included a mass in the wall of both the right atrium and right ventricle, partially occupying the right heart cavities. A diagnosis of cardiac tumor was made, and the owner elected euthanasia. The necropsy confirmed a tumor mass located in the right atrium and right ventricle. A definitive diagnosis of primary cardiac rhabdomyosarcoma was based on histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses.

Ovine cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma: immunohistochemical expression of CD3, CD4, CD8 and MHC class II antigens in the associated inflammatory infiltrate

The immunohistochemical expression of CD3, CD4, CD8 and MHC class II antigens in the cellular inflammatory infiltrate associated with early and advanced ovine squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC), as well as actinic keratosis was analyzed. The majority of the peritumoral and intratumoral lymphocytes reacted with the anti-human CD3 polyclonal antibody. The number of CD8+ T lymphocytes increased in advanced OSCC compared with that of actinic keratosis and early OSCC, whereas the number of CD4+ lymphocytes was similar in early and advanced OSCC. Tumor cells were unreactive with the anti-MHC class II antibody, but the majority of the mononuclear cellular infiltrate expressed this antigen in early and advanced tumors.

Clinicopathological study of an outbreak of squamous cell carcinoma in sheep

This paper describes the clinical and histopathological features of an outbreak of cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas in a flock of Berrichon du Cher sheep in south-western Spain. The outbreak was unusual because of the high prevalence recorded (15 to 18 per cent over the last two years) and because the majority of the lesions involved the eyelids. Adult and old sheep were the most commonly affected, and the largest numbers of cases were recorded in summer and autumn. The initial lesions were non-specific and consisted of erythema, hyperkeratosis, actinic keratosis, periocular dermatitis and conjunctivitis. The tumours grew slowly but progressively over a period of one to two years, with frequent complications by bacterial infections or secondary myiasis. Histopathological examination of the tumours revealed well-differentiated squamous cell carcinomas, surrounded by a moderate to abundant infiltrate of lymphocytes, plasma cells and macrophages. The overlying epidermis was frequently ulcerated and inflamed. The possible relationships between the high prevalence of the condition and the poorly pigmented skin of this breed, the extensive farming system employed and the exposure of the animals to ultraviolet radiation were analysed.

Haematopoietic transplantation in pulmonary alveolar proteinosis associated with chronic myelogenous leukaemia

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a disease of unknown etiopathogenesis sometimes associated with malignant haematological disorders. The potential reversibility of the process in these cases seems to be related to recovery from the underlying disease. GM-CSF has acquired an important, potentially pathogenic role and BMT presents one therapeutic option effective in certain forms of human PAP. We present the case of a 43-year-old female patient with Ph+ CML. During pretransplantation evaluation, unexpected pulmonary infiltrates were noted in the chest X-ray, PAP being diagnosed on biopsy. In view of the progressive respiratory symptomatology and her CML being in accelerated phase, the patient underwent haematopoietic transplantation. She died on day +12 from invasive pulmonary aspergillosis before a response could be observed. Pathogenic implications in PAP and the role of haematopoietic transplantation in this disease are discussed.

Ovine squamous cell carcinoma: immunocharacterisation of neoplastic cells and peritumoural cellular infiltrate

An immunohistochemical characterisation of neoplastic cells and peritumoural cellular infiltrate of ovine squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC) in different stages of growth was carried out using a commercially-available panel of seven antibodies, and formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue samples. Neoplastic cells reacted with the anti-keratin monoclonal antibody RCK-102 and with an anti-keratin polyclonal antibody, whereas they were unreactive with the anti-keratin monoclonal antibody NCL-5D3. The tumour cells were unreactive with the anti-vimentin polyclonal antibody. Increased numbers of CD3+ T-lymphocytes, IgG-containing plasma cells and lysozyme+ macrophages were associated with precancerous lesions (actinic keratosis) and with early OSCC. These results show that early lesions of OSCC induce an in situ cellular and humoral immune response. In advanced OSCC, the number of CD3+ T-lymphocytes and macrophages in the peri- and intratumoural cellular infiltrate remained high, whereas a significant decrease of IgG-containing plasma cells was found compared with early OSCC. This finding suggests an in situ decrease in the humoral immune response in advanced OSCC.

Visceral leishmaniasis in haemophiliac patients with HIV: four case reports

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), an endemic parasitosis in Spain, is increasing as an important opportunistic infection in AIDS patients. We describe four cases of severe haemophilic patients with end-stage HIV disease who present with visceral leishmaniasis. We report the clinical course, methods of diagnosis and response to therapy. From the assessed clinical data it does not appear to be any difference with regard to VL either in other HIV risk groups or in immunocompetent groups. In contrast with previous reports, we have found that despite their immunodepressed state, positive serology for Leishmania was found in three of the four cases. A similar observation has been made in patients with VL who are immunodepressed because of other reasons. We also confirm previous reports of poor response and intolerance of antimony treatment, the deteriorating course of the disease in AIDS patients and that there is only a slight relationship between the disease and the cause of patient death. We agree with the proposition that this pathology ought to be included in the definition critera for AIDS.