Articles tagged with Bacterial Infections
Researchers at UC San Diego have found a new mechanism that allows bacteria to survive antibiotics by controlling magnesium ion uptake. This discovery could lead to new treatments for infectious diseases and boost the potency of existing antibiotic drugs.
Hospital admissions for drug-related infective endocarditis increased by 436% at a medical center in the US, with heroin implicated in most cases. Patients who inject drugs are at risk of developing this condition due to contaminated needles introducing bacteria into their bloodstream.
A new study found that diagnostic uncertainty in febrile children results in increased observation times, inpatient admissions, and precautionary use of antibiotics. The development of rapid diagnostic tests could significantly reduce financial burden on the NHS and avoid unnecessary distress to children and parents.
Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a new way to destroy bacteria that can prevent wounds from healing. By using electroceutical bandages, the team found that electrical impulses can break down biofilms and kill bacteria, leading to faster wound healing.
A randomized clinical trial found that daily bathing with chlorhexidine (CHG) and nasal antibiotic mupirocin significantly reduced bloodstream infections and antibiotic-resistant bacteria in patients with medical devices. However, no significant benefit was seen for the overall population.
New technology from the University of South Australia uses silver-loaded microneedle patches to create a 24-hour bacteria-free zone around the injection site, reducing infection risk. The dissolvable feature ensures no reuse and eliminates one of the greatest causes of infection.
Researchers found that using antibiotic soap and nasal ointment reduces infections in non-ICU patients with medical devices. The study showed a 30% decrease in bloodstream infections and nearly 40% decrease in antibiotic-resistant bacteria infections.
The ABATE Infection Trial found that daily antiseptic bathing with nasal ointment reduced hospital-acquired bloodstream infections by 30% in patients with central venous catheters, a high-risk group. This intervention also decreased antibiotic-resistant organisms, including MRSA and vancomycin-resistant enterococcus, in this patient po...
New study finds that within two to three years after first infection, Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria adapt rapidly, growing slower and optimizing fitness to survive. Clinicians can monitor bacterial traits such as attachment to surfaces and aggregation in biofilms to detect early chronic infections.
Researchers at UC Riverside have identified a regulatory genetic mechanism in plants that enables them to fight bacterial infections. The Argonaute protein is controlled by post-translational modification during bacterial infection, allowing plants to regulate their immune response.
Researchers discovered a new species of bacterium, Chryseobacterium nematophagum, that can digest roundworm parasites from the inside out. The bacteria produce specific enzymes that break down chitin and collagen, making them effective against various parasitic nematodes.
Researchers at the Advanced Science Research Center discovered a unique protein sensing and signaling process in bacteria Erythrobacter litoralis that responds to blue light. This finding could help develop new drugs targeting related signaling processes in pathogenic bacteria.
Researchers have identified a novel messenger protein that rapidly alarms neighboring cells, enabling a swift response against bacterial and viral infections. This discovery holds promise for understanding and treating infectious diseases, including autoimmune conditions such as Lupus.
New research finds that triclosan exposure increases bacterial survival rates, making it harder for antibiotics to kill bacteria. The study suggests that widespread use of triclosan in consumer products may contribute to the rise of antibiotic-resistant infections.
Changes to standard urine orders led to a 45% reduction in unnecessary tests for asymptomatic patients. Nurses play a crucial role in antimicrobial stewardship, and practical guidance is needed to integrate them into efforts.
Researchers identified specific genes in three Salmonella serotypes that enable the bacteria to survive in poultry and infect humans. The study aims to develop a vaccine by generating mutant forms of these bacteria.
Researchers developed a new protocol to identify febrile infants under 60 days old who are at low risk of serious bacterial infections. The study showed that using simple laboratory tests, such as urinalysis and blood cell count, can confidently exclude these cases, reducing unnecessary invasive procedures and hospitalizations.
Researchers at McMaster University have identified a simple mechanism used by bacteria to resist antibiotics. By understanding this mechanism, scientists can design better drugs to fight infection. The study found that when bacteria become resistant, their membrane becomes more rigid and harder for the drug to penetrate.
A $3.34M NIH grant will aid in understanding how bacteria resist antibiotics by targeting cell-wall strengthening machinery in B. multivorans and identifying peptide-based inhibitors to block this process. Novel peptides may enhance the immune response and synergize with existing antibiotics to treat drug-resistant infections.
Researchers developed a new protocol to rule out life-threatening bacterial infections in infants with fevers, avoiding spinal taps and antibiotics. The study found accuracy rates of 97% in ruling out serious bacterial infections.
A decolonization protocol, including antiseptic soap, mouthwash, and nose ointment, was found to reduce MRSA infections by 30% compared to hygiene education alone. Patients who adhered to the regimen had significantly fewer MRSA infections, with a 44% reduction in those who missed no doses.
A recent study found that about half of US consumers have positive attitudes towards genetically modified food, while nearly 14% have negative perceptions. The survey also revealed that demographics such as age and education level play a role in shaping opinions on GM science.
A study by CDDEP researchers found that investing in an effective antibiotic for Staphylococcus aureus infections can save millions of lives during a pandemic. The value of such investment is estimated to be between $3 and $4 billion, highlighting the importance of conserving antibiotics in preparedness plans.
A Rutgers-led team has discovered two genes that make some strains of Staphyloccocus aureus resistant to treatment by copper. The discovery may open new paths for the development of antibacterial drugs and could lead to higher resistance to antibiotics.
Researchers found that omega-3 fatty acids can prevent pregnancy complications, including preterm birth and stillbirth, in mice infected with a common oral bacteria. The study suggests a new strategy for protecting pregnancy in women and may lead to the development of a prophylactic treatment.
Scientists at the University of Toronto are developing a new nanoparticle sensor technology to detect and visually identify pathogens that cause Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs). The system, called OptiSolve Insight, will enable rapid detection and effective decontamination of surfaces, potentially reducing illness rates.
A new study reveals that certain children with strep throat are more susceptible to repeated tonsil infections due to smaller germinal centers in their tonsils and lower antibody levels against a key bacterial toxin. Genetic variations have also been identified as a risk factor for the disease.
Researchers have developed a new gene therapy treatment for Chlamydia using nanotechnology, achieving a 65% success rate in preventing infection on a single dose. The treatment targets the PDGFR-beta gene to prevent Chlamydia bacteria from entering cells.
Scientists have identified four new anti-CRISPR proteins that can regulate CRISPR-Cas9 systems better. These proteins were found in soil and human gut samples, suggesting they are widespread in nature.
A new microchip technology can identify the optimal medication and dosage for effective treatment of bacterial infections in six to seven hours. The microchip's innovative design features enable it to determine the minimum inhibitory dosage that prevents bacterial growth, a crucial step in treating life-threatening infections.
New research found a high prevalence of Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) in sink drains near patient toilets, posing a risk of infection transmission. The study suggests that sinks next to toilets may be reservoirs for KPC, highlighting the importance of improved hand hygiene and disinfection protocols.
Researchers have discovered the structure of a virus that infects bacteria thriving in 160-degree hot springs, which could enhance targeted drug delivery and lead to breakthroughs in DNA sequencing technology.
Amprologix Limited, a University of Plymouth spinout, has secured a £1.2 million contract to accelerate development of its lead antibiotic candidate epidermicin NI01 to tackle antimicrobial resistance. The company aims to make the nasal cream ready for human clinical trials by early 2021.
Researchers have identified a protein, nemuri, that promotes sleep after sleep deprivation or infection in fruit flies. The protein also increases the ability of flies to survive bacterial infections. This dual action suggests a link between sleep and immune function.
Researchers identified interleukin 10 receptor (IL-10R) as key player in regulating immune response to parasitic whipworms. The discovery helps understand the signalling mechanism maintaining a balance between host, parasite, and gut bacteria.
Researchers found a significant increase in infection-related stroke hospitalizations from 1993 to 2015, with the greatest increases seen in women and young people. The study suggests that addressing the opioid epidemic is crucial in reducing this public health problem.
Researchers found that vaccination with Streptococcus mitis boosted production of IgG and IgA antibodies, as well as Th17 cells, offering protection against certain serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae. The study suggests that this natural human colonizer could be used to develop a safe vaccine against the disease.
A study published in the Emergency Medicine Journal found that paramedics' hand hygiene compliance is remarkably low, with only 15% of instances adhering to recommended standards. The over-reliance on gloves indicates a tendency towards self-protection rather than patient protection.
Researchers discovered a significant rise in infective endocarditis among Ontarians who inject drugs, with hydromorphone prescriptions linked to the increased risk. The study found that reusing injection equipment, common among opioid users, allows for bacterial contamination and increases the chances of heart infection.
A study of people who inject drugs found a significant increase in the risk of infective endocarditis, a serious infection of the heart lining, possibly linked to increasing use of hydromorphone. The risk rose from 13.4 to 35.1 admissions per three months between 2011 and 2015.
Researchers identified Porphyromonas gingivalis as a bacterial pathogen driving Alzheimer's disease pathology in the brains of patients. The study found that Pg infection led to increased production of amyloid beta and neuroinflammation.
Scientists used a genetic tool to identify 72 key genes in group A strep that contribute to necrotizing myositis, a devastating human infection with high mortality rates. The study provides a genetic roadmap for developing new vaccines and treatments.
Basophils, a rare type of white blood cell, have been found to play a crucial role in preventing sepsis. By releasing protein tumor necrosis factor (TNF), basophils trigger an immune response that helps protect against infection and prevents the progression to sepsis.
Researchers found that super-donors have stool rich in bacteria that enhance metabolism and can provide the necessary chemicals to restore gut balance. Fecal transplants from these 'super-donors' achieve clinical remission rates double those of other donors, offering new hope for treating a range of conditions.
Researchers developed a rapid whole genome sequencing method that can identify specific antibiotic-resistant bacteria strains in under a day, reducing treatment time by at least 20 hours. The technology has the potential to speed personalized treatment of drug-resistant infections, which claim thousands of lives annually.
A new antibiotic called Ramizol shows promise in treating drug-resistant bacteria in the intestines, particularly for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). The research indicates that Ramizol is well-tolerated and effective against lethal doses of the bacteria.
A new class of centyrins shows promise in blocking the effects of severe S. aureus bacterial infections in mice and human cell experiments. Nearly all centyrins that bind to leukotoxins prevent toxins from attaching to and destroying cells, potentially addressing antibiotic resistance.
A team of researchers analyzed the immune system of P. aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis patients, finding diverse bacterial populations with varying responses to viruses. The study's findings have implications for phage therapy and understanding infectious disease.
A new study identified a unique strain of CA-MRSA driving antimicrobial resistance and spread, particularly in vulnerable populations. Genomic surveillance played a crucial role in tracking the outbreak and informing infection control strategies.
Researchers have developed a highly specific anti-Wolbachia drug candidate that could provide a safe oral treatment for worm infections in just 7 days. The new therapy has superior efficacy and favorable drug properties compared to existing options, which typically take 4-6 weeks to treat similar conditions.
A clinical trial tested the effectiveness of topical antibiotic mupirocin in eliminating Staphylococcus aureus colonization in hospitalized infants. The study found that mupirocin is safe and highly effective in reducing SA infection, with over 90% of treated infants testing negative for SA after treatment.
Researchers discovered the pathway that causes dermal fibroblasts to lose their ability to convert into fat cells as people age. This process affects the skin's ability to fight infections, particularly bacterial ones like MRSA. The study may lead to new treatments for obesity, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases.
A new study found that antibiotics are being overused in up to 50% of patients undergoing common urological procedures, with extended use following the procedure being the main issue. This excessive use can promote antibiotic resistance and expose patients to potential harm.
A SLU researcher suggests focusing on high-risk tuberculosis patients to improve treatment completion rates and accelerate the US goal of eliminating the disease. By identifying latent patients at highest risk of active infection, doctors can better communicate the importance of completing treatment regimens.
Researchers developed an AI model to predict the risk of developing a serious infection from Staphylococcus epidermidis genomic features. The model uses large-scale population genomics and machine learning to identify high-risk genotypes, which could lead to proactive identification of individuals at risk before surgical procedures.
Researchers found that certain E. coli strains trigger protective immune responses while others evade them, leading to recurrent infections. The study suggests developing broad-spectrum vaccines should consider the diverse pathogens encountered in the community.
Researchers discovered that septins can detect where bacteria will split for division and prevent it from doing so by forming cage-like structures around the bacteria. This finding provides new clues to stop the spread of deadly infections, including Shigella, a 'superbug' deemed a priority by the World Health Organization.
A study found that face mask use significantly reduces the likelihood of finding drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in hog farm workers' nasal swabs. Household members of consistent face mask users also showed a significant reduction in bacterial colonization.
A study at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that mice infected with H. pylori bacteria and lacking claudin 18 developed precancerous cells and polyps. The loss of claudin 18 alone was enough to prompt precancerous cell development, indicating a new strategy to inhibit gastric cancer progression.
A DNA study found that stethoscopes are loaded with diverse bacteria, including those that cause healthcare-associated infections. Standardized cleaning methods were more effective in removing bacteria than practitioners' usual methods.