Researchers discovered that volatile compounds from Pseudomonas aeruginosa stimulate the growth of Aspergillus fumigatus, a fungus found in lung infections. The most potent signal was dimethyl sulfide, which is taken up by the fungus to support growth.
A new study published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy found that patients taking oxacillin had lower rates of potassium imbalances and kidney damage compared to those on nafcillin. Oxacillin was also associated with fewer treatment discontinuations, highlighting its potential as a safer alternative.
Whole-genome sequencing reveals the emergence and spread of the virulent Salmonella strain DT104 over 40 years in 21 countries. The strain's resistance to five antibiotics and ability to infect multiple livestock species contributed to its success.
A new study suggests that Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) develops mutations that make the virus less virulent during an outbreak, challenging current vaccine strategies. The study found two specific point mutations in the viral spike protein that impaired fitness and virulence.
A team of Danish investigators has created a modeling system that actually mimics indoor fungal aerosols, studying the impact of residential mold on human health. The system, published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology, contains at least eleven species of fungus associated with water damage, found in both Danish and US buildings.
Scientists have isolated a new type of herpes virus from bat cells, providing insights into the biology of these viruses and their potential to transmit to humans. The discovery could aid in understanding why bats are often associated with viral infections that can be transmitted to humans.
Researchers developed a real-time system to track Ebola virus particles' interaction with human cells, revealing crucial host and viral proteins involved in fusion. The study identifies specific cellular proteins required for fusion, offering insights into designing future drugs or vaccines.
A new study reveals that the transition to family foods drives gut microbiota development in infants, rather than maternal obesity. The study found that breastfeeding duration and complementary diet composition played key roles in shaping the infant's gut microbiome.
A team of Dutch investigators has identified NS4B as a potential target for antiviral drug development against dengue virus. A metabolite of acetaminophen, AM404, inhibits replication of the virus. The researchers found that mutations in the viral NS4B protein render the virus insensitive to AM404.
Researchers have discovered a natural clay deposit that exhibits strong antibacterial activity against the ESKAPE group of bacterial pathogens, including MRSA and other antibiotic-resistant strains. The clay, named Kisameet clay, has been used for centuries by indigenous communities to treat various ailments.
A team of researchers has successfully inserted the gene for Bt into a harmless bacterium, which can be used to deliver the protein to people afflicted with roundworms through dairy products or probiotics. This could provide an inexpensive treatment option for millions of people worldwide infected with intestinal nematodes and roundworms.
Researchers discovered that yeasts used to ferment cocoa can modify aroma, enabling creation of unique flavors in boutique chocolates. The findings could lead to a wider range of flavors similar to wines and coffee.
A study found that coconut oil consumption reduced gastrointestinal colonization by C. albicans in mice, suggesting a potential way to prevent invasive infections. The researchers plan to launch a clinical trial testing coconut oil in hospitalized infants at high-risk for developing systemic candidiasis.
Researchers have identified Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola as the definitive cause of snake fungal disease (SFD) in eastern US snakes. The fungus causes skin lesions and can lead to mortality rates of up to 100% in some species, threatening extinction.
Scientists have developed a fast method to sequence irradiated anthrax spores, which can aid in tracking biocrimes. The new approach uses computer programming to reconstruct full DNA sequences from broken fragments.
Researchers have discovered a new technique that can prevent biofilms on catheters and medical implants by coating them with tissue plasminogen activator. This method has the potential to reduce hospital-acquired infections and save thousands of lives annually.
Australian researchers have found a way to boost influenza A vaccine effectiveness by adding an adjuvant, which stimulates both innate and adaptive immunity. The additive provides cross-protective capabilities, reducing the ability of the virus to infect cells and spread.
A new phage treatment has shown strong anti-microbial activity against Cronobacter sakazakii, a bacterium that can kill up to 40% of infected infants. The treatment, CR5, killed the bacteria quickly and effectively, without producing toxins or virulence factors.
A new laboratory study finds that mothers taking certain medications during pregnancy may be at risk of birth defects or stunted fetal growth. The research highlights the need for more detailed knowledge of placental drug transport to preserve fetal health.
A study found that Listeria monocytogenes grew rapidly on unrefrigerated caramel apples with sticks, increasing 1,000-fold in just three days. Refrigeration significantly slowed growth, and bacteria were killed by hot caramel, highlighting the need for improved food safety measures.
Research reveals that certain vaginal bacteria species can trap HIV particles, while others allow them to diffuse freely. The study suggests that altering a woman's vaginal microbiota could improve protection against STIs by increasing the barrier properties of cervicovaginal mucus.
Researchers found exotic ticks carrying disease-causing bacteria on thousands of migratory birds arriving in the US each spring. The estimated 19 million exotic ticks introduced annually pose a potential threat to the ecosystem and human health.
Researchers have created new crosses among relevant yeasts to open up new horizons of taste in lager beers. Genetic studies showed a lack of genetic diversity among lager yeasts, resulting from only two parent yeast species.
A study published in mBio found that children with cerebral malaria have an accumulation of white blood cells and platelets in the brain, which is more severe in HIV-positive children. This discovery may lead to better treatment algorithms for CM.
An outbreak of Bordetella parapertussis was reported in southeastern Minnesota in 2014, with all affected children up to date on pertussis vaccines. The finding suggests that the vaccine may not protect against this lesser-known species.
A phase 2 clinical study shows finafloxacin was more effective than ciprofloxacin in treating complicated urinary tract infections and acute pyelonephritis. Finafloxacin demonstrated rapid antimicrobial activity against resistant pathogens, including ESBL-producing bacteria.
Researchers found that patients with lower baseline microbial diversity are more likely to develop infections during chemotherapy. Monitoring the microbiome could help doctors predict infection risk and reduce antibiotic overuse.
The introduction of both pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) and rotavirus vaccines (RVs) led to a significant reduction in hospital admissions for winter diarrhea and respiratory infections. Within <5 years post-vaccine introduction, hospital admissions dropped by 78% for rotavirus diarrhea and 46% for pneumonia.
Researchers compared clinical outcomes between patients receiving nafcillin and cefazolin for MSSA bacteremia, finding that cefazolin had similar treatment failure rates but fewer adverse events. The study suggests that cefazolin may be a cost-effective alternative to nafcillin due to lower costs.
The silicone vaginal ring delivers hydrophilic molecules like tenofovir and acyclovir for extended periods, preventing viral infections such as HIV-1, hepatitis B, and genital herpes. Preliminary results demonstrate its potential to prevent STIs in young women with high risk of exposure.
The Women's Antiretroviral Efficacy and Safety Study found that women receiving Stribild had a higher rate of HIV suppression compared to those on ritonavir-boosted atazanavir plus Truvada. No one on Stribild developed resistant mutations, in contrast to three women in the comparator group.
People fed β-glucan-enriched pasta for two months showed increased populations of beneficial Lactobacilli and reduced LDL cholesterol. The study also found an increase in certain short-chain fatty acids with anti-inflammatory activity.
Researchers found that individuals with distinct skin microbiomes can effectively clear chancroid-causing bacteria. The study suggests that specific bacteria in the skin microbiome may help the immune system clear pathogens, paving the way for potential probiotic therapies.
Periodontitis has been shown to increase the expression of pro-inflammatory angiopoietin 2, while decreasing anti-inflammatory angiopoietin 1 in aortic smooth muscle cells, leading to increased inflammation and atherosclerosis. This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms linking periodontitis to heart disease.
A study by American Society for Microbiology found that decontamination protocols effectively eliminated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and antibiotic-resistant Enterobacteriaceae bacteria from a pig farm. The protocol involved high-pressure cleaning, disinfection, and treatment with complex solutions.
Researchers found that DMPA use is associated with an increased risk of HIV infection, especially in women with vaginal infections or disturbed microbiota. The study suggests that hormonal contraceptives can exacerbate the suppression of immune systems, making women more vulnerable to HIV.
Research found that oysters serve as a major reservoir for noroviruses, with over 80% of human norovirus genotypes detected in oyster samples. This highlights the importance of surveillance and safe handling of oysters to prevent transmission.
Researchers identified a new virus, phopivirus, in seals genetically similar to hepatitis A, suggesting it may have originated in animals. The discovery provides clues on the emergence of hepatitis A and highlights the importance of studying wildlife reservoirs of zoonotic viruses.
A study compared the population dynamics of MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV infections, finding that MERS-CoV predominantly affects males with multiple chronic conditions. This research highlights key differences between the two diseases, including mortality rates and transmission patterns.
A recent study found that influenza vaccines offer moderate, sustained protection up to 6 months post-vaccination, suggesting yearly vaccination may be prudent. Administering vaccines early in the fall can still prevent the greatest number of infections.
Research detects RSV on personal clothing and high-touch areas of NICU, highlighting the need for frequent cleaning and visitor screening. Hand hygiene practices are crucial in mitigating transmission of respiratory viruses like RSV.
Researchers discovered a significant increase in antibiotic resistance genes among Swedish exchange students returning from India and central Africa. The study highlights the role of human gut microbiomes in dispersing resistant bacteria, emphasizing the need for societal-level interventions to reduce further spread.
Researchers found that group B streptococcus mutations can promote virulence in infants, particularly after the first few days of life. The study identified specific genomic changes associated with increased virulence, highlighting the need for better therapeutic interventions against neonatal GBS infections.
A team of scientists has identified a novel tungsten-containing enzyme in the bacterium Caldicellulosiruptor bescii, which shows potential for converting plant biomass into useful chemicals and fuels. The discovery could lead to more efficient production of commercial renewable fuels and reduce greenhouse emissions.
Researchers discovered that Listeria monocytogenes can grow on refrigerated smoked salmon by utilizing different metabolic pathways than those used in laboratory media. This finding could lead to the development of inhibitors to control pathogen growth on foods and improve risk assessments.
A team of scientists has identified potential probiotics for frogs to combat the devastating chytrid fungus. The researchers found dominant bacterial species that may provide disease resistance and antifungal properties to their host. This discovery holds promise for protecting vulnerable amphibian populations worldwide.
Researchers found that CF microbes thrive in saliva and mucus with limited oxygen, leading to severe symptoms. Hydrogen sulfide levels in sputum samples correlated with less severe disease.
Researchers create a virus-like particle vaccine cocktail that expresses different subtypes of the hemagglutinin protein, providing cross-protective immunity against multiple subtypes. The study shows that 95% of mice vaccinated with the investigational cocktail were protected against eight different influenza strains.
Researchers discovered a messenger molecule that encourages bacteria to colonize catheters in mice, forming biofilms. The study highlights the importance of understanding biofilm formation to develop more effective therapies for infections like those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
A recent study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology suggests that dairy products can boost the effectiveness of probiotics. The researchers found that mice fed milk with the probiotic Lactobacillus casei BL23 had reduced symptoms compared to those without the probiotic.