Chemical identification of an active component and putative neural mechanism for repellent effect of a native ant's odor on invasive species.

The invasive Argentine ants () and the red imported fire ants () constitute a worldwide threat, causing severe disruption to ecological systems and harming human welfare. In view of the limited success of current pest control measures, we propose here to employ repellents as means to mitigate the effect of these species. We demonstrate that cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) used as nestmate-recognition pheromone in the Japanese carpenter ant (), and particularly its ()-9-tricosene component, induced vigorous olfactory response and intense aversion in these invasive species.

Environmental DNA detection of an invasive ant species (Linepithema humile) from soil samples.

Alien ant species (Formicidae, Hymenoptera) cause serious damage worldwide. Early detection of invasion and rapid management are significant for controlling these species. However, these attempts are sometimes hindered by the need for direct detection techniques, such as capture, visual observation, or morphological identification.

Endoscopic classification of chronic gastritis based on a pilot study by the research society for gastritis.

Background:  Various types of classification of gastritis have been proposed, but no plausible classification has been available until now. The Research Society for Gastritis performed a pilot study to establish an endoscopic classification, taking into consideration the following: (i) ease of use; (ii) permitting everyone the common image; and (iii) presence of histopathological evidence.

Methods:  One hundred and fifty-five patients were enrolled and underwent gastroscopy.