Articles tagged with Bacterial Infections
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A bacterial outbreak of Burholderia cepacia complex was linked to contaminated nasal spray products, leading to a national recall. The investigation highlighted the need for improved testing protocols in the production and distribution of over-the-counter pharmaceuticals.
Bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses a toxin delivery system called Type VI secretion system (T6SS) to break down rival bacteria's protective barriers. The mechanism also helps the bacterium protect itself from its own toxins, making it a major public health concern.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have developed a molecule that blocks the damaging actions of Chlamydia by disarming its self-defense mechanisms. The therapy will disarm CPAF, a central weapon of Chlamydia, allowing the body to take care of the rest and ultimately lead to the death of the infected cell and the bacteria.
Researchers developed maltodextrin-based imaging probes that can detect bacterial infections in animals with high sensitivity and specificity. These probes distinguish bacterial infections from other inflammatory conditions, such as cancer, and can detect as few as one million viable bacteria cells.
Researchers have identified genetic similarities between Streptococcus pyogenes and Streptococcus equi, two bacteria that cause potentially fatal infections in humans and horses. The study suggests a shared strategy for causing disease and offers hope for developing novel vaccines for both species.
Researchers discovered a new enzyme called SidD used by Legionella pneumophila to control its host cell and replicate. This finding provides insight into bacterial infection mechanisms and could lead to the design of a new therapy to save lives.
Researchers found that early infection with H. pylori bacteria impairs immune system maturation and triggers the accumulation of regulatory T-cells that suppress asthma. Mice infected at an early age enjoyed effective protection, but lost resistance if antibiotics were used later.
Scientists use a novel technique to analyze virus-bacterium associations in living organisms, revealing one-to-one correspondence and potential ancient infections. The study opens new avenues for understanding coevolution between viruses and their hosts.
A new rapid test can accurately diagnose bacterial and viral infections, allowing for timely treatment. The test exploits differences in immune system responses to distinguish between the two types of infections.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute engineer Cynthia Collins will study the effects of microgravity on Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis. The research aims to understand how biofilms form in space, which could help protect astronauts from infections.
A study by Cedars-Sinai surgeon Shirin Towfigh found that daily probing of wounds with a dry cotton swab after surgery dramatically reduced infections in post-operative incision sites. The technique resulted in significantly shorter hospital stays and better cosmetic healing.
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center identified a collagen-binding protein allowing Streptococcus mutans to invade heart tissue, causing endocarditis. The discovery may lead to a screening tool to gauge dental patients' vulnerability.
A meta-analysis of bacterial-virus interactions reveals a nested structure, with hard-to-infect bacteria infected by generalist viruses and easy-to-infect bacteria attacked by both generalist and specialist viruses. This discovery could improve predictions of microbial population dynamics and community assembly.
A study found that infection with influenza likely increases the incidence of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD). Influenza infection may increase the short-term risk of bacterial invasion in individuals already colonized with Streptococcus pneumoniae, which causes IPD. This suggests that some cases of IPD could be attributable to inf...
Researchers have identified a new target for combating cystitis: the thread-like structures on E. coli bacteria that adhere to bladder cells. Understanding this mechanism can lead to the development of new antibiotics, offering hope for treating recurring urinary tract infections.
The majority of potential patients are eager for fecal microbiota transplantation to become available, despite concerns about donor selection and screening. Patients view the treatment as 'natural' and easier than currently available therapies.
Researchers at University College London and Birkbeck have discovered the structure of FimD, a protein complex that assembles pili on cystitis bacteria. This breakthrough provides insights into pilus biogenesis and has potential applications in developing new antibiotics that target cystitis.
Scientists have discovered how bacteria produce and secrete pili, which help them attach to human cells and cause infection. The research provides new insights into the mechanism of pilus formation and suggests potential targets for antibacterial drugs.
A study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that fire stations are contaminated with MRSA, with the most common areas being medic trucks and kitchens. The research suggests that transmission between personnel and environmental surfaces may be occurring, highlighting the need for further studies.
In a breakthrough study, three young children with severe hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS) after an EHEC infection have been successfully treated with eculizumab. The treatment, which targets the immune system's destructive reactions, led to dramatic improvements in kidney function and neurological disorders.
Researchers analyzed 35 highly-cited studies and found that fewer than half of biomarkers had statistically significant associations with disease risk in larger follow-up studies. Only one in five original studies increased a patient's relative risk for a condition by more than 1.37.
A study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that patient cell phones were more likely to contain potentially dangerous bacteria than those of healthcare workers. The researchers also discovered seven patient phones with multidrug-resistant pathogens, highlighting a potential risk for nosocomial infections.
Researchers found that cooperative bacteria can evolve behaviors that eliminate fitness advantages derived from cheating within social groups. The 'policing' mechanism allows cooperators to outcompete cheaters in mixed groups, but also strongly benefits cooperator cells in certain contexts.
Three teams of Tufts graduate students have won $10,000 from the Dow Sustainability Innovation Student Challenge Award program for their research on clean water, renewable energy, and green medical technologies. The winners will use their prize money to develop solutions to pressing global challenges.
A study found that infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori can lead to Parkinson's disease symptoms in mice, and researchers suggest that this may be due to a modified cholesterol produced by the bacteria. The findings could have implications for understanding the development of neurodegenerative disorders.
Researchers found Wolbachia bacteria can significantly reduce Plasmodium falciparum levels in Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes. The bacteria also killed mosquitoes after feeding on blood, potentially providing a strategy to control malaria.
Monitoring healthcare worker adherence to mandatory hand-washing protocols is crucial in preventing outbreaks of the opportunistic C. diff bacteria. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend vigorous washing with soap for 15 seconds before leaving a patient's room.
Researchers found that extracts from six Indian wild plants effectively killed bacteria and fungi, including E. coli, S. aureus, and Candida. These natural remedies offer hope against resistant species, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Researchers found that gut bacteria can influence brain chemistry and behavior, with changes in bacteria disrupting behavior and increasing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Disrupting the normal bacterial content of the gut with antibiotics also produced changes in behavior.
Scientists at the University of Alberta discovered the first step in a bacterial immune response, where RNA is cut into pieces to target invading viruses. This finding has implications for controlling bacterial growth and fighting human infections.
A new study found that bacterial infection alone is not a reliable indicator of poor lung function in adolescents with cystic fibrosis. Instead, early childhood factors such as body mass index and nutritional status appear to play a significant role in determining lung function later in life.
Research suggests that linezolid is a more effective treatment than vancomycin for ventilator-associated pneumonia caused by MRSA. Linezolid showed higher clinical and microbiologic success rates, with cure rates being higher at the end of treatment.
Scientists have identified a class of naturally occurring bacteria that can strongly inhibit malaria-causing parasites in Anopheles mosquitoes. The study found that Enterobacter inhibits parasite growth by producing short-lived molecules known as reactive oxygen species (ROS), reducing malaria infection by 98-99%.
Researchers at Boston University discovered that adding sugar to antibiotics increases their effectiveness in targeting 'persisters' - bacteria that survive antibiotic onslaughts. This approach has the potential to improve lives and reduce healthcare costs for millions.
A study of 150 children on temporary breathing devices found that shorter antibiotic courses were just as effective in treating respiratory infections without increasing the risk of drug-resistant infections. Careful evaluation of the need for antibiotics and shortest treatment duration are recommended to curb antibiotic resistance.
Researchers have developed a low-cost sensor that can identify infectious bacteria by smell, offering a faster diagnosis than traditional methods. The sensor uses a printed pigment array to detect unique chemical signatures from each bacterium, identifying specific species and strains in just a few hours.
A study published in Pediatric Pulmonology found that azithromycin can reduce the risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm infants colonized or infected with Ureaplasma bacteria. The treatment showed a 21% reduction in BPD development and death rates in treated infants, compared to placebo.
Fusobacterium nucleatum, a common oral bacteria, facilitates disease and infection spreading from the mouth through the bloodstream. This bacterium is linked to increased risk of pregnancy complications, including miscarriage, preterm birth, and stillbirth.
Researchers at Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research found a new Salmonella infection mechanism targeting the actin cytoskeleton and exploiting myosin II motor protein. This approach allows bacteria to pull themselves into host cells without forming ruffles, expanding the known invasion strategies.
Patients with inflammatory bowel disease face a sixfold greater risk of death from Clostridium difficile infection if admitted to hospital, according to a new study. The researchers recommend proactive screening for IBD patients on admission to protect them from serious illness.
A team of researchers at the University of Guelph has developed a potential vaccine against Helicobacter pylori, a common bacterium linked to stomach cancer. The sugar-based antigen caused mice to develop antibodies against the bacteria.
A new probiotic treatment has been shown to reduce the rate of recurrent urinary tract infections in women. The study found that women who received a Lactobacillus crispatus intravaginal suppository had lower infection rates compared to those who received a placebo.
A NIH study found that active surveillance for bacteria and barrier precautions did not reduce the transmission of two important antibiotic-resistant bacteria in hospital-based settings. The use of gloves and gowns was also not sufficient to prevent bacterial spread.
A new research study found that a commonly used strategy to reduce the spread of resistant bacteria in hospital ICUs had no significant effect. The study, which used active surveillance and expanded use of barrier precautions, did identify a large subgroup of patients not previously known to be colonized with MRSA or VRE.
Researchers found that manuka honey can inhibit bacterial attachment to tissues and make MRSA more sensitive to antibiotics, reversing antibiotic resistance. This discovery could lead to the development of cheaper and more effective treatments for wound infections.
Scientists have successfully mutated specific genes of Chlamydia bacteria using a new approach called Targeting Induced Local Lesions in Genomes (TILLING). This breakthrough could lead to better understanding of the infections and develop new strategies to prevent and control them.
Research suggests that stress alters the balance of intestinal bacteria, leading to increased levels of immune biomarkers and priming the innate immune system. The study found that antibiotics can reduce this effect, highlighting the role of gut bacteria in modulating stress-induced immune responses.
Researchers have found that flu virus infection is necessary for pneumococcal bacteria to efficiently spread between individuals. The study has implications for managing influenza pandemics and reducing pneumococcal infections in young children, who are highly susceptible.
Research suggests that probiotic E. coli Nissle 1917 can reduce negative effects of AIEC in Crohn's patients, modulating inflammatory immune proteins. The study emphasizes the potential of EcN in IBD treatment and its use as a therapeutic option for CD patients with pathogenic AIEC.
A recent study by Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that hands-free electronic water faucets are more likely to be contaminated with Legionella bacteria compared to old-style fixtures. The study found that these new devices pose a problem in preventing Legionella infections in hospitals, despite reducing daily water consumption by over half.
Researchers detected high numbers of CRKP in long-term acute care hospitals, with 42% of cases occurring in these settings. The study highlights the need for heightened surveillance to monitor emerging pathogens like CRKP.
A new study published in Pain journal finds that acupuncture has little convincing evidence of effectiveness in reducing pain, while causing serious adverse effects. The authors call for better training of acupuncturists to minimize avoidable harm.
Researchers found that zeta toxins convert a compound required for bacterial cell wall synthesis into a poison that kills bacteria from within. The toxin-antitoxin systems, which are normally dormant under normal conditions, can be activated to trigger programmed cell death in response to stress.
Researchers found potentially pathogenic microbes on at least 50% of orthodontic retainers, with Candida and Staphylococcus species commonly present. Biofilms on the retainer can be difficult to remove and have high levels of resistance to antimicrobials.
Dr. Susan Huang and researchers from the Translational Research Prevention Epicenter - Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, Inc. will study prevention and treatment of hospital-borne microbial infections caused by MRSA and other pathogens. The goal is to identify effective strategies to reduce MRSA infection and hospitalization.
Research found that used woodwind and brass instruments are heavily contaminated with bacteria and fungi, including species of Staphylococcus and molds. Proper sanitation and regular cleaning are crucial to prevent the spread of illness and infection in children who play these instruments.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine are developing new approaches to reduce health-care-associated infections. Investigating the use of probiotics to prevent pneumonia in ventilated patients and evaluating the effectiveness of a new antibiotic in preventing Clostridium difficile infection are two key areas of focus.
Scientists at NIAID discovered how E. coli O157:H7 infects humans by altering the host's immune responses, allowing it to evade elimination and prolong survival. This mechanism could be relevant to other pathogens involved in foodborne diseases, such as Shigella and Salmonella.
Researchers at UTHealth discovered that children with asymptomatic H. pylori infections have lower iron levels compared to those without the infection. The study found that even in healthy children, the bacterium causes a decrease in iron storage, which may have long-term health consequences.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that community gym surfaces do not appear to be reservoirs for MRSA transmission. The researchers collected 240 samples from three local gyms and found none to be positive for MRSA or MSSA, suggesting that aggressive disinfection programs may not be warranted.