Study finds that infections are common in ICUs worldwide
An international study found that 51% of ICU patients were infected, with lung infections accounting for 64%, and infection rates varied by region and healthcare expenditure
Antibiotics
Articles tagged with Antibiotics
Study shows antibiotic unsuccessful in preventing preterm labor
A recent study conducted in Southern Malawi found that azithromycin antibiotic had no significant impact on reducing the risk of preterm labour. The research suggests that infection may not be the primary cause of preterm birth and highlights the need for further investigation into other factors contributing to this issue.
Scientists get up close to bacteria's toxic pumps
Researchers are gaining insights into how Gram-negative bacteria infect host cells and spread antibiotic resistance. The crystal structure of the outer membrane part of type IV secretion systems has been revealed, offering potential targets for novel antibiotics.
A second skin
A Tel Aviv University-developed dressing can eradicate infection-causing bacteria after just two days, protecting wounds until they heal. The biodegradable, antibiotic-infused material mimics skin's protective properties and helps doctors administer high doses of antibiotics locally, reducing toxicity issues.
SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Biomedical Materials Research·DateNov 17, 2009
November/December 2009 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet
New studies reveal the high costs of implementing performance-reporting requirements for primary care practices, which can range from $1,000 to $11,100 per practitioner. Researchers also warn that undisclosed changes made to clinical trial outcomes threaten the integrity of scientific research. In contrast, early abortion care in famil...
New imagining technique could lead to better antibiotics and cancer drugs
A new imaging technique developed by a team of researchers could lead to the discovery of new antibiotics, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-cancer drugs. The method uses mass spectrometry to analyze chemical communication between microorganisms.
Perceived parent-pressure causes excessive antibiotic prescription
A study in Italy found that pediatricians over-prescribe antibiotics due to perceived parental expectations, particularly if parents expect a prescription for respiratory tract infections. The main factors associated with actual practices were discharge from the child's ear and parental expectation of a prescription.
Progress made on Group B streptococcus vaccine
A Phase II clinical study found that a vaccine candidate can cause a modest but sustained reduction in genital and gastrointestinal GBS bacterial colonization. The vaccine was also found to be safe and well-tolerated, eliciting a strong immune response.
Tufts CTSI and Tufts University receive 4 NIH supplemental grant awards
Tufts Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) has received four NIH supplemental grant awards, totaling $1.73 million, to expand its community engagement program, improve BPD predictors, search for Lyme disease persistence, and develop a pilot project mechanism.
Deadly stomach infection rising in community settings, Mayo Clinic study finds
A Mayo Clinic study found that Clostridium difficile infections are rising in outpatient settings, with a higher proportion of cases in younger populations. The study suggests that antibiotic use may be contributing to the increased incidence and severity of C. difficile infections.
3-day course of antibiotics may be sufficient following tonsillectomy
A new study suggests that a shorter course of antibiotics following tonsillectomy may be just as effective in reducing pain and promoting recovery. The research found no significant differences between children who received a 3-day versus 7-day course of postoperative antibiotics.
New old drug fights colon cancer
A Tel Aviv University drug based on an older generation antibiotic shows promise in treating colon cancer by suppressing polyp growth and repairing genes. Preclinical studies have shown a 80% reduction in polyp size and a 30% increase in mouse lifespan.
Promising results for rapid viral diagnosis tests in emergency rooms
Researchers found promising results for rapid viral diagnosis tests, reducing use of antibiotics and other blood tests in children with respiratory symptoms. Larger trials are needed to confirm the finding and evaluate cost-effectiveness.
McMaster researchers discover a new antibacterial lead
Researchers at McMaster University have identified a novel chemical compound that targets drug-resistant bacteria, offering a promising solution to combat resistant infections. The discovery provides a new approach to tackle antibiotic resistance by blocking a specific step in the development of bacterial cell surfaces.
September/October 2009 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet
Researchers found that universal health insurance reduces income inequities in healthcare access, but education-related disparities persist. Insured children with uninsured parents are more likely to experience unmet healthcare needs and lack preventive services.
Scientists discover mechanism to make existing antibiotics more effective at lower doses
Researchers at NYU Langone Health have found a mechanism that makes human pathogens like MRSA and anthrax resistant to numerous antibiotics. By eliminating the oxidative stress caused by many antibiotics, NO can be neutralized, rendering existing antibiotics more potent at lower doses.
Children's Hospital receives federal contract to study antibiotic use in children with UTIs
Pediatric researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia will investigate the most beneficial method of using antibiotics to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) in children. The goal is to determine if a shorter treatment period can reduce drug resistance while effectively treating UTIs.
Safety, efficacy of corneal transplant procedure confirmed; an antibiotic can cause double vision
A comprehensive review confirms the safety and efficacy of Descemet's Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK) as a treatment for corneal endothelial diseases, which affect 85% of corneal transplants in the US. In contrast, a type of antibiotic fluoroquinolone has been linked to double vision in some patients.
Distribution of antibiotic for eye disease linked to low death risk among Ethiopian children
A study found that children in Ethiopia who received azithromycin for trachoma had a 49% lower odds of death compared to those who didn't receive the antibiotic. The treatment may have reduced mortality from pneumonia, diarrhea, and malaria, major causes of death in children in trachoma-endemic areas.
UF scientists construct 'off switch' for Parkinson therapy
Researchers have discovered a way to regulate gene therapy for Parkinson's disease by introducing an 'off switch' using the antibiotic doxycycline. This breakthrough addresses safety concerns and paves the way for safer treatment options.
Princeton team learns why some drugs pack such a punch
A Princeton-led team has discovered how some antibiotics kill bacteria by jamming the translocator, a protein-producing machine. The researchers also found that a specific protein called YccA protects the translocator from destruction, similar to a human protein of interest in cancer research.
Universal influenza vaccination may reduce antibiotic use
A new study found that universal influenza vaccination in Ontario, Canada, led to a 64% decline in antibiotic prescriptions and a 39% reduction in influenza-associated mortality. This suggests that increasing flu vaccination rates could help combat antibiotic overuse and related public health concerns.
Misuse of common antibiotic is creating resistant TB
Widespread misuse of fluoroquinolones is creating a strain of fluoroquinolone-resistant TB, according to new research. Patients who use fluoroquinolones within 12 months of diagnosis are almost five times more likely to have resistant TB.
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 10, 2009
Pinhead-size worms + robot = new antibiotics
Scientists used a whole-animal infection model to screen 37,000 potential drugs on infected C. elegans worms, identifying 28 new antimicrobials with novel mechanisms of action.
Kefir, although rich in probiotics, didn't prevent diarrhea in children using antibiotics
A clinical trial of kefir in young children using antibiotics found no benefit in preventing diarrhea. However, the study suggests that kefir may help healthier children, and more research is needed to confirm this finding.
SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateAug 3, 2009
Structure of antibiotic ramoplanin reveals promising mechanism
Researchers at Duke University have solved the structure of Ramoplanin A2, a candidate antibiotic that can kill pathogenic bacteria by interrupting cell membrane formation. The molecule forms U-shaped structures that bind to Lipid II, preventing its participation in membrane synthesis and leading to bacterial death.
Test helps in fight against lung infections and for treating other life-threatening infections
Innovotech's bioFILM PA test helps doctors select effective antibiotic treatment for serious, chronic infections. The test has shown positive results in selecting proper antibiotic treatment for patients with Cystic Fibrosis and other chronic infections.
Resistance to antibiotics: When 1+1 is not 2
Research reveals that bacteria's survival rate increases when resistant to two antibiotics, contrary to expected outcomes. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding genetic interactions in determining antibiotic resistance.
C. difficile spores spread superbug
Researchers have found that antibiotic treatment can induce the transmission of C. difficile by creating a 'supershedder state' in mice, where they shed high levels of spores even without symptoms. This suggests widening infection control measures to include all patients receiving antibiotics could be necessary.
Munich researchers discover new target for tailored antibiotics
Researchers at TUM have identified a unique pathway in aggressive microorganisms, such as tuberculosis and malaria pathogens, that may be vulnerable to custom-tailored antibiotics. The discovery opens a promising approach for developing new reaction steps vital to microorganisms but irrelevant in humans.
Antibiotics-resistant gulls worry scientists
A new study by Uppsala University researchers has discovered nearly half of Mediterranean gulls in southern France exhibit antibiotic resistance. The bacteria in question are capable of spreading rapidly and have broken down powerful antibiotics.
Antibiotics take toll on beneficial microbes in gut
A study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that two types of antibiotics can cause moderate to wide-ranging changes in the ranks of helpful guardians in the gut. The armada of good bacteria did not recover its former diversity even many weeks after a course of antibiotics was over.
Dangerous liaisons: Bacterial 'sex' causes antibiotic resistance
Researchers studied DNA from 1,930 pneumococcus strains and found a link between bacterial recombination and antibiotic resistance. Bacteria that undergo sex with other species are more likely to develop resistance to antibiotics, making treatment increasingly difficult.
New antibiotics could come from a DNA binding compound that kills bacteria in 2 minutes
Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a synthetic DNA binding compound that effectively kills bacteria within two minutes. The compound's ability to target and coil DNA makes it a promising approach to combatting drug-resistant bacteria.
Antibiotics, antimicrobials and antifungals in waterways
A recent review of contaminated waters found high concentrations of pharmaceuticals, including antibiotics, in natural and drinking waters. The study warns that increased farm usage of anti-infectives may augment levels in future agricultural wastewater, posing a risk to aquatic biota and human health.
Public health campaign associated with major reduction in antibiotic use
A nationwide French public health campaign from 2002 to 2007 led to a marked reduction of unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions, particularly in children, with a decline of over 25% compared to the preintervention period. The greatest decrease was observed among young children aged 6–11 years.
Researchers find 'surprising link' leads toward a new antibiotic
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a 'surprising link' between three processes in cell wall synthesis, which could lead to the development of a new antibiotic. This breakthrough provides a novel method for searching for small molecule drugs targeting these pathways.
Aerosolized nanoparticles show promise for delivering antibiotic treatment
Delivery of antibiotics via nanoparticles has shown promise in treating pulmonary infections. Treated mice had a significant survival advantage, decreased lung bacterial burden, and spread compared to control mice. The once-daily dosing regimen increased compliance, offering a potential means to improve patient outcomes.
Theory shows mechanism behind delayed development of antibiotic resistance
A new study by Uppsala University reveals a mechanism to delay the development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Inhibiting drug efflux pumps can mask the effect of mutations that reduce antibiotic binding, providing clues to delaying resistance development.
New, more effective nisin antibiotics combat superbugs and food diseases
Researchers have developed a new generation of natural antibiotics using bioengineering, targeting harmful micro-organisms like MRSA and Listeria monocytogenes. These enhanced nisin variants possess greater activities against clinical pathogens and could become acceptable alternatives to current antimicrobials.
Community spread of trachoma could be stopped by treating all household members
Researchers found that within-household transmission of trachoma is more efficient than community transmission, accounting for almost three quarters of new infections. Treating all infected household members during mass antibiotic administration can prevent rapid re-infection and slow community spread.
SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMar 30, 2009
Spreading antibiotics in the soil affects microbial ecosystems
Repeatedly, molecular microbiological techniques have found changes in soil bacterial communities after antibiotic use in intensive livestock production. Bacteria involved in the nitrogen cycle are particularly affected, with persistent changes even after antibiotics break down.
More frequent treatment of children with trachoma could more effectively reduce infection
A randomized trial found that frequent treatment of children under 10 years old with azithromycin can decrease infection prevalence in older individuals and adults, demonstrating herd protection. Treatment frequency four times a year is comparable to treating the entire population once a year.
Queen's scientists find new way to battle MRSA
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have developed new antimicrobial agents to combat hospital-acquired infections. The agents, made of ionic liquids, kill colonies and prevent bacterial growth in biofilms, providing a promising solution for MRSA and other resistant microbes.
Einstein researchers develop novel antibiotics that don't trigger resistance
The study developed three transition state analogs that disrupt quorum sensing in Vibrio cholerae and E. coli 0157:H7, reducing the risk of bacterial resistance. The compounds were tested on 26 successive generations and showed no signs of resistance development.
MIT, BU team combats antibiotic resistance with engineered viruses
Researchers developed a virus that knocks out bacterial defense systems, enhancing the effectiveness of antibiotics. The engineered virus targets specific bacterial genes, preventing resistance from developing and increasing survival rates in mice infected with resistant bacteria.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 2009
Research uncovers promising target to treat chronic abdominal pain
A recent study in mice found that high levels of EAAT2 protein decreased abdominal pain by 50-70%. The protein acts on glutamate, preventing it from interacting with receptors that send pain signals. Researchers hope EAAT2 may treat visceral pain associated with gastrointestinal disorders like IBS.
Two UT Southwestern researchers awarded Sloan fellowships
UT Southwestern researchers Dr. Jennifer Kohler and Dr. Joseph Ready have been awarded Sloan fellowships to support their research in chemistry. They will each receive $50,000 over two years to pursue innovative projects in carbohydrate interactions with cancer cells and antibiotic development.
Antibiotic combination defeats extensively drug-resistant TB
Scientists have found a two-drug combination that inhibits the growth of susceptible laboratory strains and 13 XDR-TB strains, offering a new hope for treating this deadly form of tuberculosis. The drugs work together to target a bacterial enzyme, β-lactamase, which shields TB bacteria from antibiotics.
Biodefense news tips
Researchers have developed new techniques to quickly identify bacterial infections and determine the best antibiotic treatment. A nanoparticle-based method can detect bacterial strains in hours, while scientists also uncovered genetic basis of morphological differences in anthrax letter material.
Duke software dramatically speeds enzyme design
A Duke University-led team has developed a computer program that can redesign enzymes to produce natural antibiotics. The algorithm, called K*, sorts through possible shapes and changes of the key enzyme that produces gramicidin S, a natural antibiotic. This new technique may pave the way for more automated redesign of old drugs.
Breaking the barrier: Discovery of anti-resistance factors and novel ocean drugs
Researchers have found several compounds exhibiting strong antibiotic, antifungal, and antiviral properties, as well as anti-cancer and angiogenesis activities. These novel antibiotics demonstrate no cytotoxic responses to human cells, minimizing negative side effects associated with current drugs.
Early switch from IV to oral meds is effective for children with acute bone infection
A large study found that early transition from intravenous to oral antibiotics in children with acute osteomyelitis is as effective as continued IV therapy. The study, conducted by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, showed a reduced risk of treatment failure and complications related to central venous catheters.
Nanoemulsion potent against superbugs that kill cystic fibrosis patients
Researchers have developed a nanoemulsion that effectively kills a wide range of bacteria resistant to antibiotics, including those causing cystic fibrosis. The treatment uses ultra-fine oil-and-water emulsions that disrupt bacterial outer membranes, making resistance unlikely and offering a potential alternative to antibiotics.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateFeb 4, 2009
Surgical implants coated with one of 'nature's antibiotics' could prevent infection: UBC study
Researchers at UBC discovered a mimic of nature's antibiotic that can protect surfaces from bacteria and fungi, potentially reducing medical problems like degeneration or rejection of implants. The synthetic peptides are active when attached to surfaces, killing harmful bacteria and fungus.
Call to action: Running out of options to fight ever-changing 'super bugs'
The lack of new antibiotics is exacerbating the antibiotic resistance crisis, with 'super bugs' becoming increasingly difficult to treat. The divide between research and development, and real-world application is hindering efforts to combat these life-threatening infections.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 28, 2009
New twist on old medical technology may prevent amputations
A new study suggests that a twist on old medical technology could save limbs by treating infections in soldiers with compound bone fractures. Colistin-laced bone cement may prevent the spread of deadly A. baumannii infections, which are widespread among US troops in Afghanistan.
SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateJan 27, 2009
Resources for the Future launches global antibiotic resistance initiative
Resources for the Future launches Global Antibiotic Resistance Partnership to explore incentives for slowing antibiotic resistance development and spread. The three-year initiative will build on the Extending the Cure project, focusing on five emerging economies with rapidly rising antibiotic use.
MRSA's 'weak point' visualized by scientists
Researchers have visualized the molecular structure of the LtaS enzyme, a key player in MRSA's growth and spread. The team hopes to develop a new antibiotic targeting this enzyme to combat the superbug.
SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 19, 2009
Free antibiotics: The wrong prescription for cold and flu season
Experts urge grocery stores to promote free flu vaccinations instead of free antibiotics during cold and flu season. A recent study shows that workers who received flu vaccine lost fewer days of work due to illness.