MedWorm: MRSA

'Economy class' DVT syndrome myth busted

NHS News Feed — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:30:00 +0100

“Sitting in a window seat during a long flight can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis,” according to The Daily Telegraph. It has long been known that flying is associated with an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a type of serious blood clot in a major vein, but new US guidance has looked at a range of factors that could potentially raise the risk. Those of you thinking of booking your summer holiday might be interested to know that flying in cramped budget seats, while often annoying, presented no greater risk than flying in business class. And while overpriced booze available during a flight can prove wallet-damaging, the guidelines say there was no firm evidence that drinking it could bring on DVT. However, sitting by a window during a long-haul flight was associa...

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Correction: Screening and control of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in 186 intensive care units: different situations and individual solutions

BioMed Central — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Following publication of our article [1], Dr Christine Geffers has been removed as co-author. (Source: BioMed Central)

Three-Dimensional Solution Structure of Bottromycin A(2): A Potent Antibiotic Active against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci.

Chemical and Pharmaceutical Bulletin — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:06:02 +0100

Authors: Gouda H, Kobayashi Y, Yamada T, Ideguchi T, Sugawara A, Hirose T, Omura S, Sunazuka T, Hirono S Abstract The three-dimensional (3D) structure of bottromycin A(2), a natural anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and anti-vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) agent consisting of seven amino acids, has been investigated through NMR spectroscopy. On the basis of 57 experimental constraints, a total of 34 converged structures were obtained. The average pairwise atomic root mean square difference is 0.74±0.59 Å for all heavy atoms. The resulting structure indicates an interesting feature in that the three C-terminal residues of bottromycin A(2) fold back on the 12-membered cyclic skeleton made by the four N-terminal residues. Thus, MePro(2) and Thia-β-Ala-O...

Virulence Strategies of the Dominant USA300 Lineage of Community Associated Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA‐MRSA)

FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractMethicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a serious threat to worldwide health. Historically, MRSA clones have strictly been associated with hospital settings and most hospital‐associated MRSA (HA‐MRSA) disease resulted from a limited number of virulent clones. Recently, MRSA has spread into the community causing disease in otherwise healthy people with no discernible contact with healthcare environments. These community‐associated (CA‐MRSA) are phylogenetically distinct from traditional HA‐MRSA clones and CA‐MRSA strains seem to exhibit hyper virulence and more efficient host:host transmission. Consequently, CA‐MRSA clones belonging to the USA300 lineage have become dominant sources of MRSA infections in North America. The rise of this successful USA...

MRSA becoming more common in the community

Nursing Times Breaking News — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:48:00 +0100

Cases of MRSA in the UK are becoming more common outside of hospitals, experts have said. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

Vaccine development: Man vs MRSA

Nature — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:26:31 +0100

Nature 482, 7383 (2012). http://www.nature.com/doifinder/10.1038/482023a Author: Maryn McKenna For decades, Robert Daum has studied the havoc wreaked by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Now he thinks he can stop it for good. (Source: Nature)

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Averting Drug Resistance

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Bacterial resistance to antibiotics is growing exponentially, contributing to an estimated 99,000 deaths from hospital-associated infections in the U.S. annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One reason that this is happening is that drug resistant proteins are transporting "good" antibiotics, or inhibitors, out of the cells, leaving them to mutate. In a paper recently published in the journal Nature, Professor of Biochemistry Dorothee Kern and collaborators including former postdoctoral student Katherine A... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

More with Maryn: McKenna on Antibiotic Resistance

Scientific American - Official RSS Feed — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:10:08 +0100

Journalist and author Maryn McKenna talks about antibiotic resistance in agriculture and human health, MRSA, and a brief return to the subject of fecal transplants. [More] (Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed)

Peritonitis in recent years: clinical findings and predictors of treatment response of 170 episodes at a single Brazilian center

International Urology and Nephrology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:17:01 +0100

Conclusions The current clinical characteristics and outcome suggest a greater severity of peritonitis episodes and higher risk of death, possibly due to bacterial resistance. Older age is a risk factor for death. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Nephrology – Original PaperPages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s11255-011-0107-7Authors Luiz Gustavo Oliveira, Department of Internal Medicine, Botucatu Medical School, Sao Paulo State University-UNESP, Botucatu, Sao Paulo 18618-970, BrazilJuliana Luengo, Department of Internal Medicine, Botucatu Medical School, Sao Paulo State University-UNESP, Botucatu, Sao Paulo 18618-970, BrazilJacqueline C. T. Caramori, Department of Internal Medicine, Botucatu Medical School, Sao Paulo State University-UNESP, Botucatu, Sao Paulo 18618-970, Braz...

Should we really fear 'new flesh-eating bacteria'?

NHS News Feed — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:15:00 +0100

Conclusion This interesting study helps explain why healthcare-acquired MRSA infections are rarely found in healthy individuals. It found that expression of a gene that produces one of the proteins responsible for MRSA’s antibiotic resistance caused it to be less toxic. It also showed that typical community-acquired MRSA strains express less of this antibiotic-resistance protein, but are more toxic. However, this intriguing lab study did not investigate the transmission, effects or number of cases of community-acquired MRSA in the UK, discussion of which formed the majority of the news reports. On this basis, the research itself does not support the claims that we are under siege from an ‘airborne, bacteria-resistant, flesh-eating superbug’, as newspapers have today suggested. Links...

More Evidence That Honey Can Treat Antibiotic Resistant Infections

Forbes.com Healthcare News — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:07:18 +0100

One of the more fascinating ways that medical researchers are looking in to fighting antibiotic resistant bacteria is through the use of Manuka honey. Last year, some research was published evidencing some effectiveness against MRSA. Now a team from the Cardiff School of Health Sciences has demonstrated the effectiveness of this honey against Streptococcus pyogenes, an antibiotic resistant bacteria that often infects wounds and can prevent skin grafts from forming. (Source: Forbes.com Healthcare News)

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MRSA strain USA300: Flesh-eating bug spread by coughs and sneezes 'has spread from U.S. to UK'

the Mail online | Health — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:29:45 +0100

The deadly strain of MRSA, (pictured) called USA300 is easily passed through skin-to-skin contact. However it also survives on surfaces so can be picked up on public transport, say experts from the University of Bath. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Shedding New Light On The Way Superbugs Such As MRSA Are Able To Become Resistant To Treatment With Antibiotics

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Scientists have shed new light on the way superbugs such as MRSA are able to become resistant to treatment with antibiotics. Researchers have mapped the complex molecular structure of an enzyme found in many bacteria. These molecules - known as restriction enzymes - control the speed at which bacteria can acquire resistance to drugs and eventually become superbugs. The study, carried out by an international team including scientists from the University of Edinburgh, focused on E. coli, but the results would apply to many other infectious bacteria... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Early prediction of response to Vorinostat in an orthotopic rat glioma model

NMR in Biomedicine — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Glioblastoma is the most common primary brain tumor and is uniformly fatal despite aggressive surgical and adjuvant therapy. As survival is short, it is critical to determine the value of therapy early on in treatment. Improved early predictive assessment would allow neuro‐oncologists to personalize and adjust or change treatment sooner to maximize the use of efficacious therapy. During carcinogenesis, tumor suppressor genes can be silenced by aberrant histone deacetylation. This epigenetic modification has become an important target for tumor therapy. Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA, Vorinostat, Zolinza) is an orally active, potent inhibitor of histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity. A major shortcoming of the use of HDAC inhibitors in the treatment of patients with brain tumors is t...

Progress Made in Developing Community-Acquired MRSA Vaccine

Scientific American - Official RSS Feed — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:00:00 +0100

By Maryn McKenna of Nature magazineOver the years, Robert Daum has learned to respect his adversary. [More] (Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed)

MRSA: Risk Factors for Household Transmission

AAP Grand Rounds — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: AAP Grand Rounds)

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[Evaluation of four methods for detecting methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates from clinical specimens at a regional hospital in Mexico].

Salud Publica de Mexico — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: All methods are very good for detecting MRSA, choosing a method to use will depend on each laboratory infrastructure. PMID: 22286822 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Salud Publica de Mexico)

Effects of Cranberry Extracts on Growth and Biofilm Production of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus species

Phytotherapy Research — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This study evaluated the effects of three proprietary PAC‐standardized cranberry extracts on the inhibition of bacterial growth and biofilm production against a panel of clinically relevant pathogens: Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, clinical methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA), Staphylococcus saprophyticus and Escherichia coli. The extracts inhibited the growth of the Gram‐positive bacteria (Staphylococcus spp.) but not the Gram‐negative species (E. coli) with minimum inhibitory concentrations in the range 0.02–5 mg/mL. The extracts also inhibited biofilm production by the Gram‐positive bacteria but did not eradicate their established biofilm. These results suggest that cranberry may have beneficial effects against the growth and biofilm producing capabi...

In vitro Activities of Nisin Alone or in Combination with Vancomycin and Ciprofloxacin against Methicillin-Resistant and Methicillin-Susceptible Staphylococcus aureus Strains

Chemotherapy — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 23:00:00 +0100

Chemotherapy 2011;57:511–516 (DOI:10.1159/000335598) (Source: Chemotherapy)

Protein study gives fresh impetus in fight against superbugs

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Edinburgh) Scientists have shed new light on the way superbugs such as MRSA are able to become resistant to treatment with antibiotics. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Role of Mixed Ion Channel Effects in the Cardiovascular Safety Assessment of the Novel Anti‐MRSA Fluoroquinolone JNJ‐Q2

British Journal of Pharmacology — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions and Implications: Based on the nonclinical and clinical cardiovascular safety assessment, JNJ‐Q2 has a safe cardiovascular profile for administration in humans with comparable or reduced potential to prolong the QT interval compared to moxifloxacin. The results demonstrate the importance of compensatory sodium and calcium channel activity in offsetting potassium channel activity for compounds with a fluoroquinolone core. (Source: British Journal of Pharmacology)

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Does Dual Antibiotic Prophylaxis Better Prevent Surgical Site Infections in Total Joint Arthroplasty?

Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: The addition of vancomycin as a prophylactic antibiotic agent apparently did not reduce the rate of SSI compared to cefazolin alone. Use of vancomycin in addition to cefazolin appeared to reduce the incidence of MRSA infections; however, the number needed to treat to prevent a single MRSA infection was very high. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. PMID: 22290130 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research)

Impact of surgical site infection after colorectal surgery on hospital stay and medical expenditure in Japan

Surgery Today — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 06:32:12 +0100

Conclusions SSI clearly prolonged the hospital stay and increased medical costs. The numerical values revealed by this study reinforce the medical-economic importance of instigating preventive measures against SSI. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s00595-012-0126-8Authors Nobuichi Kashimura, Department of Surgery, Teine Keijinkai Hospital, 1-12 Maeda Teine-ku, Sapporo, 006-8555 JapanShinya Kusachi, Department of Surgery, Toho University, Medical Center Ohashi Hospital, Tokyo, JapanToshiro Konishi, Department of Surgery, NTT Medical Center Tokyo, Tokyo, JapanJunzo Shimizu, Department of Surgery, Toyonaka Municipal Hospital, Toyonaka, JapanMasato Kusunoki, Department of Gastrointestinal and Pediatric Surgery, Mie University Grad...

Nanoparticles Functionalized with Ampicillin Destroy Multiple Antibiotic Resistant Isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter aerogenes and Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Applied and Environmental Microbiology — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Brown A, Smith K, Samuels TA, Lu J, Obare S, Scott ME Abstract Here we show that silver nanoparticles (AgNP) were intrinsically antibacterial while gold nanoparticles (AuNP) were antimicrobial only when ampicillin was bound to their surface. Both AuNP and AgNP functionalized with ampicillin were effective broad-spectrum bactericides against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Most important, when AuNP and AgNP were functionalized with ampicillin they became potent bactericidal agents with unique properties that subverted antibiotic resistance mechanisms of multiple drug resistant bacteria. PMID: 22286985 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied and Environmental Microbiology)

Dry collection and culture methods for recovery of methicillin-susceptible and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus from indoor home environments.

Applied and Environmental Microbiology — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Davis MF, Baron P, Price LB, Williams D, Jeyaseelan S, Hambleton I, Diette GB, Breysse PN, McCormack MC Abstract Staphylococcus aureus in home environments may serve as a reservoir for human colonization, making sampling of indoor surfaces relevant to exposure assessment. Using laboratory experiments and application to homes of asthmatic children in Barbados, we characterize microbiological methods adapted for settings with transportation delays between sampling and initiation of culture. PMID: 22286979 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied and Environmental Microbiology)

[Media Watch] Partnering to heal

The Lancet Infectious Diseases — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:05:13 +0100

We are introduced to a postsurgery ward in an American hospital, to which a healthy young female student has been admitted after an appendectomy. She acquires an intravenous-line-associated infection caused by meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and dies. The video then retraces the choices and actions of five individuals on the ward who collectively and unwittingly facilitated this outcome. These people include a family member of another patient with MRSA, the physician manager of the ward responsible for implementing and leading safety initiatives, the infection control practitioner providing support for the ward, a third-year medical student, and a registered nurse. (Source: The Lancet Infectious Diseases)

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Rapid confirmation of suspected methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus colonies on chromogenic agars by a new commercial PCR assay, the GenomEra MRSA/SA Diagnose

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 06:56:37 +0100

Abstract A new automated closed tube PCR assay, the GenomEra™ MRSA/SA Diagnose (Abacus Diagnostica Oy, Finland) was evaluated for rapid confirmation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) from cultured screening specimens. The ability of the assay to detect genotypically different MRSA strains was studied with a collection of 304 MRSA isolates covering 68 spa types. The specificity was investigated with a collection of 146 non-MRSA staphylococcus isolates. The usefulness of the assay for clinical purposes was assessed by a sequential combination of MRSA screening culture and confirmation of the colonies with the GenomEra MRSA/SA Diagnose assay. A total of 145 suspected MRSA colonies on chromogenic plates were analyzed this way. All MRSA isolates from the cul...

Neonatal Purpura Fulminans Due to Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Pediatric Dermatology — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Abstract: Neonatal purpura fulminans is rare and may be inherited or acquired. It may ultimately lead to multiorgan failure and death. Purpura fulminans in a premature neonate resulting from Staphylococcus aureus septicemia is illustrated. Unfortunately, the baby succumbed to septicemia. (Source: Pediatric Dermatology)

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections among HIV‐infected persons in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy: a review of the literature

HIV Medicine — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsHIV‐infected persons have a propensity for MRSA SSTI and a high rate of recurrent disease. The reasons for the elevated rates of MRSA infections among HIV‐infected persons appear to be multifactorial, but may be mitigated with optimized HIV control and reductions in associated risk factors. (Source: HIV Medicine)

What is the optimum antibiotic prophylaxis in patients undergoing implantation of a left ventricular assist device?

Interactive CardioVascular and Thoracic Surgery — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

A best evidence topic was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was what the optimum antibiotic prophylaxis in patients undergoing implantation of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is. A total of 373 papers were found, of which 11 represented the best evidence. The authors, date, journal, study type, population, main outcome measures and results are tabulated. Eight retrospective and two prospective studies, including one randomized controlled trial (RCT), were identified. Although highly variable, the prophylactic antibiotic protocols employed in these studies generally favour the use of vancomycin, a cephalosporin, beta-lactam and quinolone, with the option of additional fluconazole and mupirocin. However, the lack of standardized definitions for infect...

Antimicrobial Scrubs May Counter MRSAAntimicrobial Scrubs May Counter MRSA

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:44:29 +0100

Healthcare workers wearing antimicrobial-impregnated scrubs had lower burdens of MRSA compared with control participants. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

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MRSA, In Pork Products

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:00:00 +0100

According to a study by the University of Iowa College of Public Health and the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (MRSA) in retail pork products in the U.S. is higher than researchers originally thought. The study represents the largest sampling of raw meat products for MRSA contamination to date, and is published online in the journal PLoS ONE. It is estimated that MRSA - which can occur in raw meat products and in the environment - is responsible for approximately 185,000 cases of food poisoning each year... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Post-operative wound infection in salvage laryngectomy: does antibiotic prophylaxis have an impact?

European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:27:15 +0100

Abstract Salvage laryngectomy carries a high risk of post-operative infection with reported rates of 40–61%. The purpose of this study was to analyse infections in our own patients and review the potential impact of our current antibiotic prophylaxis (AP). A retrospective analysis of infection in 26 consecutive patients between 2000 and 2010 undergoing salvage total laryngectomy (SL) following recurrent laryngeal cancer after failed radiotherapy or chemo-radiation was undertaken. The antibiotic prophylaxis was intravenous teicoplanin, cefuroxime and metronidazole at induction and for the following 24 h. Infection was defined by Tabet and Johnson’s grade 5, categorized as pharyngocutaneous fistula. Fifteen patients (58%) developed a post-operative wound infection, ...

Retail Meat Products Found To Contain High Levels Of MRSA Bacteria

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Retail pork products in the United States have a higher prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (MRSA) than previously identified, according to new research by the University of Iowa College of Public Health and the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy. MRSA can occur in the environment and in raw meat products, and is estimated to cause around 185,000 cases of food poisoning each year. The bacteria can also cause serious, life-threatening infections of the bloodstream, skin, lungs, and other organs. MRSA is resistant to a number of antibiotics... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Comparative genomic analysis of the genus Staphylococcus including Staphylococcus aureus and its newly described sister species Staphylococcus simiae

BMC Genomics - Latest articles — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Comparative genomic analyses across 12 Staphylococcus species provide hypotheses about lineages in which human adaptation has taken place and contributions of horizontal transfer in pathogenesis. (Source: BMC Genomics - Latest articles)

Indications for antimicrobial prescribing in European nursing homes: results from a point prevalence survey

Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsThe indications for antimicrobial prescribing varied markedly between countries. We identified uroprophylaxis as a possible target for quality improvement. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. (Source: Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety)

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A liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assay for the determination of nemonoxacin (TG-873870), a novel nonfluorinated quinolone, in human plasma and urine and its application to a single-dose pharmacokinetic study in healthy Chinese volunteers.

Biomedical Chromatography : BMC — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Guo B, Zhang J, Yu J, Wu X, Shi Y, Tsai CY Abstract Nemonoxacin (TG-873870) is a novel C-8-methoxy nonfluorinated quinolone with higher activity than ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin and moxifloxacin against Gram-positive pathogens including methicillin-susceptible or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae with various resistant phenotypes. A rapid, sensitive and selective liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated to determine the concentration of nemonoxacin in human plasma and urine. Protein precipitation and liquid-liquid extraction were employed for plasma and urine sample preparations, respectively, and extract was then injected into the system. Separation was performed on a C(18) reverse...

Infliximab/steroids: MRSA infection: case report

Reactions — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:35:21 +0100

(Source: Reactions)

High Levels of MRSA Bacteria in Meat Products

Disabled World — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:52:10 +0100

Retail pork products in the United States. have a higher prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (MRSA) than previously identified, according to new research by the University of Iowa College of Public Health and the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy. (Source: Disabled World)

Use Of Antimicrobial Scrubs May Reduce Bacterial Burden On Health Care Worker Apparel

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0100

The use of antimicrobial impregnated scrubs combined with good hand hygiene is effective in reducing the burden of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) on health care workers' apparel and may potentially play a role in decreasing the risk of MRSA transmission to patients, according to a new study from Virginia Commonwealth University researchers... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

A 24-Year-Old Man With Cough, Rhabdomyolysis, and Pneumomediastinum

Journal of Intensive Care Medicine — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Community-acquired MRSA pneumonia is a growing health threat that typically presents in young adults after, or in conjunction with, a flu-like illness. It is characterized by a rapidly progressive deteriorating clinical course. (Source: Journal of Intensive Care Medicine)

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Caco-2 cells cytotoxicity of nifuroxazide derivatives with potential activity against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Toxicology in Vitro — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This study was designed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of new nifuroxazide derivatives with potential activity against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in Caco-2 cells to select analogues for further in vitro permeability analyses. In this study, nitrofurantoin and nifuroxazide, in addition to 6 furanic and 6 thiophenic nifuroxazide derivatives were tested at 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10μg/mL. In vitro cytotoxicity assays were performed according to the MTT (methyl tetrazolium) assay protocol described in ISO 10993-5. The viability of treated Caco-2 cells was greater than 83% for all tested nitrofurantoin concentrations, while those treated with nifuroxazide at 2, 4 and 6μg/mL had viabilities greater than 70%. Treatment with the nifuroxazide analogues resulted in viability values gr...

High levels of MRSA bacteria in U.S. retail meat products, study suggests

ScienceDaily Headlines — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 23:24:24 +0100

Retail pork products in the U.S. have a higher prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (MRSA) than previously identified, according to new research. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

High levels of MRSA bacteria in retail meat products

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Iowa Health Care) Retail pork products in the US have a higher prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (MRSA) than previously identified, according to new research by the University of Iowa College of Public Health and the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Enhanced staphylolytic activity of the Staphylococcus aureus bacteriophage vB_SauS-phiIPLA88 HydH5 virion associated peptidoglycan hydrolase: fusions, deletions and synergy with LysH5.

Applied and Environmental Microbiology — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Rodríguez-Rubio L, Martínez B, Rodríguez A, Donovan DM, García P Abstract Virion-associated peptidoglycan hydrolases have a potential as antimicrobial agents due to their ability to lyse Gram positive bacteria on contact. In this work, our aim was to improve the lytic activity of HydH5, a virion associated peptidoglycan hydrolase from the Staphylococcus aureus bacteriophage vB_SauS-phi-IPLA88. Full-length HydH5 and two truncated derivatives containing only the CHAP domain exhibited high lytic activity against live S. aureus cells. In addition, three different fusion proteins were created between lysostaphin and HydH5, each of which showed higher staphylolytic activity than the parental enzyme or its deletion construct. Both parental and fusion proteins lysed S. aureus ...

Complicated secondary pneumonia after Swine-origin influenza a virus infection in an immunocompetent patient.

Herpes — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 03:30:02 +0100

We report an immunocompetent patient with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Herpes simplex virus (HSV) pneumonia secondary to S-OIV infection. A 57-year-old man previously without major medical illness was admitted to our hospital with severe pneumonia accompanied by ARDS due to S-OIV. In his clinical course, anti-influenza treatment was not effective. Sputum culture revealed the presence of MRSA, and HSV was isolated in broncho-alveoler lavage (BAL) fluid. Administration of an antiviral agent (acyclovir), an antibacterial agent (linezolid), and a corticosteroid (methylprednisolone) successfully improved the pneumonia and ARDS. HSV pneumonia can scarcely be seen in healthy people. However recently it has been recognized as a ventilator-associated pneumonia. Although co...

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VCU study suggests antimicrobial scrubs may reduce bacteria

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Virginia Commonwealth University) The use of antimicrobial impregnated scrubs combined with good hand hygiene is effective in reducing the burden of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus on healthcare workers' apparel and may potentially play a role in decreasing the risk of MRSA transmission to patients, according to a new study from Virginia Commonwealth University researchers. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Change in meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus clones at a tertiary care hospital in the United Arab Emirates over a 5-year period

Journal of Clinical Pathology — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions The emergence of CA-MRSA clones with subsequent entry to and spread within the hospital has contributed to the increasing incidence of MRSA observed in Tawam Hospital and probably also in other hospitals in the UAE. (Source: Journal of Clinical Pathology)

Production, purification, and characterization of the cecropin from Plutella xylostella, pxCECA1, using an intein-induced self-cleavable system in Escherichia coli.

Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In this study, we expressed and characterized the cecropin from Plutella xylostella (pxCECA1) using an intein-dependent expression system in Escherichia coli. We cloned the pxCECA1 gene from larva by RT-PCR and fused the encoding sequence of mature pxCECA1 with an intein gene and a chitin-binding domain gene (CBD) in pTWIN1 plasmid. The fusion protein CBD-intein-pxCECA1 was expressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3) and separated by flowing cell extracts through a chitin column. Subsequently, self-cleavage of the intein at its C-terminus was induced in a temperature- and pH-dependent manner, resulting in the release of mature pxCECA1. The optimal conditions for self-cleavage were determined to be pH 6.0 for 48 h at 4°C, under which 12.3 mg of recombinant pxCECA1 could be recovered from 1 l of E. ...

Detection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Iberian pigs

Letters in Applied Microbiology — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 02:49:00 +0100

Conclusions: Despite limited contact with humans, pigs raised outdoors are colonized by an MRSA population that genetically overlaps with that of intensively farmed pigs, though antimicrobial resistance is lower.Significance and impact of the study: To our knowledge, this is the first detection of MRSA in food animals raised in free‐range conditions.© 2012 The Authors Letters in Applied Microbiology © 2012 The Society for Applied Microbiology (Source: Letters in Applied Microbiology)

Detection of Staphylococcus aureus cell walls by enzyme-linked immunoassay using antibodies prepared from a semi-synthetic peptidoglycan precursor

RSC - Analyst latest articles — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:44:02 +0100

Analyst, 2012, Advance ArticleDOI: 10.1039/C2AN16036F, PaperSandeep Sandhu, James A. Schouten, Julie Thompson, Mark Davis, Timothy D. H. BuggWe prepare UDPMurNAc-decapeptide peptidoglycan precursor found in S. aureus (MRSA), and report the detection of the staphylococcal peptidoglycan monomer and staphylococcal cell walls using antibodies raised to this antigen.To cite this article before page numbers are assigned, use the DOI form of citation above.The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry (Source: RSC - Analyst latest articles)

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When Staph Won't Go Away: Recurrent BoilsWhen Staph Won't Go Away: Recurrent Boils

Medscape Today Headlines — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 16:35:53 +0100

When skin and soft tissue infections due to MRSA won't go away, what is the clinician to do? Paul G. Auwaerter, MD, comments. Medscape Infectious Diseases (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Detecting Staph Infections With Mass Spectrometry

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 17:00:00 +0100

Researchers have designed a new laboratory test that can quickly identify the bacterium that causes Staphylococcus aureus infections. The findings have been published in the January issue of the journal Molecular and Cellular Proteomics. The researchers, from the Georgia Institute of Technology and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have based their test on unique isotopic labeling combined with specific bacteriophage amplification to rapidly identify Staphylococcus aureus by using mass spectrometry to quantify the number of S... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Genome‐scale metabolic representation of Amycolatopsis balhimycina

Biotechnology and Bioengineering — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In this study, we performed genome sequencing, assembly and annotation analysis of A. balhimycina and further used these annotated data to reconstruct a genome‐scale metabolic model for the organism. Here we generated an almost complete A. balhimycina genome sequence comprising 10,562,587 base pairs assembled into 2,153 contigs. The high GC‐genome (∼69%) includes 8,585 open reading frames (ORFs). We used our integrative toolbox called SEQTOR for functional annotation and then integrated annotated data with biochemical and physiological information available for this organism to reconstruct a genome‐scale metabolic model of A. balhimycina. The resulting metabolic model contains 583 ORFs as protein encoding genes (7% of the predicted 8,585 ORFs), 407 EC numbers, 647 metabolites and 1...

Antimicrobial and Anticoagulant Activity of N-chlorotaurine (NCT), N,N-dichloro-2,2-dimethyltaurine (NVC-422) and N-monochloro-2,2-dimethyltaurine (NVC-612) in Human Blood.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Martini C, Hammerer-Lercher A, Zuck M, Jekle A, Debabov D, Anderson M, Nagl M Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the potential application of N-chlorotaurine (NCT), N,N-dichloro-2,2- dimethyltaurine (NVC-422) and N-chloro-2,2-dimethyltaurine (NVC-612) as catheter-lock solutions for the prevention of catheter blockage and catheter-related bloodstream infections by testing their anticoagulant and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity in human blood.NCT, NVC-422 and NVC-612 and control compounds were serially diluted in fresh human blood to evaluate the effects on prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, thrombin time, fibrinogen, and direct thrombin inhibition. Quantitative killing assays against pathogens including methicillin-resistant Staphylo...

MupB, a New High-Level Mupirocin Resistance Mechanism in Staphylococcus aureus.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In this study we describe high-level mupirocin resistance mediated by a novel locus, mupB. The mupB gene (3,102 bp) shared 65.5% sequence identity with mupA but only 45.5% identity with ileS. The deduced MupB protein shared 58.1% identity (72.3 % similarity) and 25.4% identity (41.8 % similarity) with MupA and IleS, respectively. Despite this limited homology, MupB contained conserved motifs found in class I tRNA synthetases. Attempts to transfer high-level mupirocin resistance via conjugation or transformation (using plasmid extracts from a mupB containing strain) were unsuccessful. However, by cloning mupB gene into a shuttle vector, it was possible to transfer the resistant phenotype to susceptible S. aureus by electroporation, proving that mupB was responsible for the high-level mupiro...

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Management of the dialysis patient in general intensive care

British Journal of Anaesthesia — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The incidence of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is rising and represents an important group of patients admitted to intensive care units (ICU). ESRD patients have significant co-morbidities and specific medical requirements. Renal replacement therapy (RRT), cardiovascular disease, disorders of electrolytes, drug metabolism, and sepsis are discussed. This review provides a practical approach to problems specific to the ESRD patient and common problems on ICU that require special consideration in ESRD patients. ESRD patients are at risk of hyperkalaemia. I.V. insulin and nebulized salbutamol lower serum potassium until definitive treatment with RRT is instituted. ESRD patients are prone to hypocalcaemia, which requires i.v. replacement if associated with complications. Midazolam has delayed ...

New Year ambitions to reduce healthcare associated infections

NHS Networks — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

If delivered, there would be a further 29% reduction in MRSA bloodstream infections and a further 18% reduction in Clostridium difficile infections by April 2013 – bringing annual numbers of MRSA bloodstream infections down to 880 and reducing Clostridium difficile infections from 19,754 to 16,100. The latest monthly statistics show that, for the first time since mandatory surveillance began in 2001, MRSA bloodstream infections across the NHS have been sustained at under 100 reported cases per month for the last six months. (Source: NHS Networks)

Studies on the biosynthesis of the lipodepsipeptide antibiotic Ramoplanin A2.

Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Hoertz AJ, Hamburger JB, Gooden DM, Bednar MM, McCafferty DG Abstract Ramoplanin, a non-ribosomally synthesized peptide antibiotic, is highly effective against several drug-resistant Gram-positive bacteria, including vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), two important opportunistic human pathogens. Recently, the biosynthetic cluster from the ramoplanin producer Actinoplanes ATCC 33076 was sequenced, revealing an unusual architecture of fatty acid and non-ribosomal peptide synthetase biosynthetic genes (NRPSs). The first steps towards understanding how these biosynthetic enzymes cooperatively interact to produce the depsipeptide product are expression and isolation of each enzyme to probe its specificity and ...

Up to one third of the MRSA drug market will be dominated by Teflaro and tedizolid by 2020

PharmacoEconomics and Outcomes News — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 04:11:42 +0100

(Source: PharmacoEconomics and Outcomes News)

Successful Treatment Regimens for Hospital and Community Acquired MRSA

Journal of Surgical Research — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 22:30:14 +0100

(Source: Journal of Surgical Research)

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Potential for Pet Animals to Harbour Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus When Residing with Human MRSA Patients

Zoonoses and Public Health — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 08:08:45 +0100

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the prevalence of and risk factors for MRSA carriage by pets residing in households with an MRSA‐infected person. From 66 households in which an MRSA‐infected patient resided, we screened 47 dogs and 52 cats using a swab protocol. Isolates from pets and humans were genotyped using two techniques and compared for concordance. Human participants completed a 22‐question survey of demographic and epidemiologic data relevant to staphylococcal transmission. Eleven of 99 pets (11.5%) representing 9 (13.6%) of households were MRSA‐positive, but in only six of these households were the human and animal‐source strains genetically concordant. Human infection by strain USA 100 was significantly associated with pet carriage [OR = 11.4 (95% CI ...

Daptomycin/linezolid: Thrombocytopenia and treatment failure in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: case report

Reactions — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 23:22:43 +0100

(Source: Reactions)

Scottish MRSA rate at 'lowest levels since records began'

Nursing in Practice — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:45:34 +0100

MRSA and MSSA infections are at their lowest levels in Scotland since records began in 2005 read more (Source: Nursing in Practice)

Search Method for Inhibitors of Staphyloxanthin Production by Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 09:48:02 +0100

Authors: Sakai K, Koyama N, Fukuda T, Mori Y, Onaka H, Tomoda H Abstract Staphyloxanthin, a yellow pigment produced by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), is a virulent factor escaping from the host immune system. A new screening method for inhibitors of staphyloxanthin production by MRSA was established using paper disks. By this screening method, inhibitors of staphyloxanthin production were selected from the natural product library (ca. 300) and from actinomycete culture broths (ca. 1000). From the natural product library, four known inhibitors of lipid metabolism, cerulenin, dihydrobisvertinol, xanthohumol and zaragozic acid, were found to inhibit staphyloxanthin production; however, typical antibiotics used clinically, including vancomycin, had no effect on sta...

Transcranial Doppler and Cerebral Augmentation in Acute Ischemic Stroke

Journal of Neuroimaging — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONTCD monitoring of patients treated with IABI may help in predicting outcome in this novel device. J Neuroimaging 2012;XX:1–6. (Source: Journal of Neuroimaging)

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Occurrence and Persistence of Bacterial Pathogens and Indicator Organisms in Beach Sand along the California Coast.

Applied and Environmental Microbiology — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This study documents the presence of fecal indicators and bacterial pathogens in sand at 53 California marine beaches using both culture-dependent and -independent (PCR and QPCR) methods. Fecal indicator bacteria were widespread in California beach sand, with Escherichia coli and enterococci detected at 68% and 94% of beaches surveyed, respectively. Somatic coliphages and a Bacteroidales human-specific fecal marker were detected at 43% and 13% of the beaches, respectively. Dry sand samples from almost 30% of the beaches contained at least one of the following pathogens: Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) which were detected at 15%, 13%,14%, and 3% of tested beaches, respectively. Fecal indicators and pathogens w...

Restriction modification (RM) tests associated to additional molecular markers for screening prevalent MRSA clones in Brazil

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:49:08 +0100

In this study, we associated the restriction modification (RM) tests to the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection of molecular markers (SCCmec III, seh, agr II-SCCmec IV, and lukSF) for revealing the main methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) clones circulating in Brazil. This simple and rapid approach allowed a precise classification of the MRSA analyzed when compared with pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) data. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ArticlePages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s10096-011-1534-1Authors C. O. Beltrame, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-902, BrazilA. M. N. Botelho, Instituto de Microbiologi...

A Time Course for Susceptibility to Staphylococcus aureus Respiratory Infection during Influenza in a Swine Model

Computational Intelligence and Neuroscience — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:11:41 +0100

Bacterial superinfections following influenza A virus (IAV) are predominant causes of morbidity in humans. The recent emergence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and highly virulent IAV strains has reduced treatment options. Development of an appropriate animal model to study secondary S. aureus infections may provide important information regarding disease pathogenesis. Pigs are natural hosts to both IAV and S. aureus and have respiratory physiology and immune response comparable to humans. To establish a time course of susceptibility to S. aureus after IAV infection, nursery pigs infected intranasally with IAV were challenged with MRSA at different time points. Lung pathology scores and MRSA CFU were evaluated in dual-infected animals after IAV infection. Flow cytomet...

Holo and apo-transferrins interfere with adherence to abiotic surfaces and with adhesion/invasion to HeLa cells in Staphylococcus spp.

Biometals — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Artini M, Scoarughi GL, Cellini A, Papa R, Barbato G, Selan L Abstract Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis are the major cause of infections associated with implanted medical devices. Colonization on abiotic and biotic surfaces is often sustained by biofilm forming strains. Human natural defenses can interfere with this virulence factor. We investigated the effect of human apo-transferrin (apo-Tf, the iron-free form of transferrin, Tf) and holo-transferrin (holo-Tf, the iron-saturated form) on biofilm formation by CA-MRSA S. aureus USA300 type (ST8-IV) and S. epidermidis (a clinical isolate and ATCC 35984 strain). Furthermore S. aureus adhesion and invasion assays were performed in a eukaryotic cell line. A strong reduction in biofilm formation with both T...

New treatments for emerging cystic fibrosis pathogens other than Pseudomonas.

Current Pharmaceutical Design — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Waters V Abstract The development of antimicrobial treatments for respiratory pathogens in cystic fibrosis (CF) has been an integral component to the increased survival of CF patients over the past fifty years. Despite significant treatment advances, however, respiratory failure secondary to chronic bacterial pulmonary infection remains the primary cause of death in CF patients. The purpose of this review is to discuss emerging pathogens (other than Pseudomonas) in CF by describing the characteristics of the organism, their clinical significance in CF, their mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance and the current treatment approaches including newer pharmaceutical modalities. This review will focus on the following pathogens: Burkholderia cepacia complex, Stenotrophomonas m...

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A USA300 variant and other human-related methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains infecting cats and dogs in France

Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Over a 5 year period, the proportion of MRSA infections in pets appears low (<2%) in France, but the distribution of the clones mostly mirrors the epidemiology of human invasive clones. These data highlight the role of pets as both victims and reservoirs of endemic, epidemic and/or invasive MRSA. (Source: Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy)

High prevalence of spa types associated with the clonal lineage CC398 among tetracycline-resistant methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains in a Spanish hospital

Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Tetracycline resistance could be a good marker for MRSA CC398, although this resistance can also be found in other lineages. (Source: Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy)

Detection of the novel vga(E) gene in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus CC398 isolates from cattle and poultry

Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy)

Comment on: Successful treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus mitral valve endocarditis with sequential linezolid and telavancin monotherapy following daptomycin failure

Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy)

Successful treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus mitral valve endocarditis with sequential linezolid and telavancin monotherapy following daptomycin failure--authors' response

Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy)

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Non-thermal atmospheric plasma rapidly disinfects multidrug-resistant microbes by inducing cell surface damage.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Kvam E, Davis B, Mondello F, Garner AL Abstract Plasma, a unique state of matter with properties similar to ionized gas, is an effective biological disinfectant. However, the mechanism through which non-thermal or "cold" plasma inactivates microbes on surfaces is poorly understood due, in part, to challenges associated with processing and analyzing live cells on surfaces rather than in aqueous solution. Here, we employ membrane-adsorption techniques to visualize the cellular effects of plasma on representative clinical isolates of drug-resistant microbes. Through direct fluorescent imaging, we demonstrate that plasma rapidly inactivates planktonic cultures, with >5-log(10) kill in 30 seconds, by damaging the cell surface in a time-dependent manner, resulting in a loss o...

Antimicrobial Activity of the Investigational Pleuromutilin Compound BC-3781 Tested against Gram-positive Organisms Commonly Associated with Acute Bacterial Skin and Skin Structure Infections.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Sader HS, Biedenbach DJ, Paukner S, Ivezic-Schoenfeld Z, Jones RN Abstract BC-3781 is a novel semi-synthetic pleuromutilin antimicrobial agent which is developed as an intravenous and oral therapy for acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI) and respiratory tract infections (RTI). BC-3781 and comparator agents were tested against 1,893 clinical Gram-positive organisms predominantly causing ABSSSI by broth microdilution method. BC-3781 exhibited potent activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MIC(50/90), 0.12/0.25 μg/ml), coagulase-negative staphylococci (MIC(50/90), 0.06/0.12 μg/ml), β-haemolytic streptococci (MIC(50/90), 0.03/0.06 μg/ml), viridans group streptococci (MIC(50/90), 0.12/0.5 μg/ml) and Enterococcus faecium (includi...

Synergistic Activity of Ceftobiprole and Vancomycin in a Rat Model of Infective Endocarditis Caused by Methicillin-Resistant and Glycopeptide-Intermediate Staphylococcus aureus.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Fernandez J, Abbanat D, Shang W, He W, Amsler K, Hastings J, Queenan AM, Melton JL, Barron AM, Flamm RK, Lynch AS Abstract The therapeutic activity of ceftobiprole medocaril, the prodrug of ceftobiprole, was compared to vancomycin, daptomycin, and the combination of a sub-therapeutic dose of ceftobiprole and vancomycin in a rat model of infective endocarditis due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA ATCC 43300) or glycopeptide-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (GISA, NRS4, HIP 5836) strains. The minimum bactericidal concentrations of ceftobiprole, vancomycin, and daptomycin at bacterial cell densities similar to those encountered in the cardiac vegetation in the rat endocarditis model were 2, >64, and 8 μg/mL respectively for MRSA ATCC 43300 and 4, >...

Clinical usefulness of the new Japanese glomerular filtration rate equation for initial and individualized dosage adjustment concentrations of vancomycin.

Yakugaku Zasshi : Journal of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 06:00:04 +0100

Authors: Kuroda N, Ueshima S, Sato T, Kobiki E, Kawasaki Y, Matsunaga H, Nakura H, Sendo T Abstract To clarify whether the new Japanese glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) equation was able to accurately determine the initial and individualized dosage adjustment concentrations of vancomycin (VCM), the predictive performance for VCM concentrations using the eGFR and Cockcroft-Gault (CG) equations was compared. Data were retrospectively collected from clinical records of 90 patients with MRSA infection whose trough and peak VCM concentrations had been determined. The predicted VCM initial and individualized dosage adjustment concentrations were performed with the 2-compartment linear model using pharmacokinetic parameter means and their individual values via Bayesian estimation, respec...

Studies for the Development of Novel Anti-MRSA/VRE Drugs.

Yakugaku Zasshi : Journal of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 06:00:04 +0100

Authors: Hashizume H Abstract The widespread emergence of multidrug-resistant Gram-positive pathogens such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) is a high threat for human health. In the course of screening for active compounds against the above drug-resistant bacteria from microbial metabolites, we discovered three kinds of novel compounds designated tripropeptins, pargamicin, and amycolamicin. Tripropeptin C (TPPC), major component of tripropeptins, is the most promising compound because it is efficacious against MRSA and VRE both in vitro and in a mouse septicemia model, and shows no cross-resistance to available drugs including vancomycin. Studies of incorporation of radioactive macromolecular precursors and accumulatio...

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Mode of Action of Microbial Anti-MRSA Agents.

Yakugaku Zasshi : Journal of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 06:00:04 +0100

Authors: Tomoda H Abstract Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is known as a major nosocomial pathogen that has also developed resistance to many antibiotics. Moreover, MRSA resistance to a last-resort antibiotic, vancomycin, has been reported. Therefore, new anti-infectious agents to prevent and treat MRSA infection are needed. Based on this background, our group has focused on the discovery of new microbial agents active against MRSA infection. Viridicatumtoxin and spirohexaline, produced by Penicillium sp. FKI-3368, were isolated as inhibitors of undecaprenyl pyrophosphate (UPP) synthase of Staphylococcus aureus, which was involved in cell wall synthesis. Viridicatumtoxin and spirohexaline with a pentacyclic spiro skeleton inhibited UPP synthase activity with an I...

Astellas returns superbug-fighting drug to Theravance

bizjournals.com Health Care:Biotechnology headlines — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 23:55:56 +0100

Astellas Pharma Inc. ended its partnership Friday with South San Francisco’s Theravance Inc. around the antibiotic Vibativ. The decision ends an up-and-down partnership between the companies, including production problems at a contractor manufacturer in Ohio in November that halted manufacturing and caused a shortage of the drug. Rights to Vibativ, a once-daily injectable drug that was approved in the United States in September 2009 to treat serious skin infections caused by the MRSA “superbug,” will return to Theravance... (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Biotechnology headlines)

Inclusion of 30-Day Postdischarge Detection Triples the Incidence of Hospital-Onset Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol Latest Issue — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 22:56:51 +0100

Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, Volume 33, Issue 2, Page 114-121, February 2012. (Source: Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol Latest Issue)

Prior Vancomycin Use Is a Risk Factor for Reduced Vancomycin Susceptibility in Methicillin-Susceptible but Not Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol Latest Issue — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 22:56:43 +0100

Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, Volume 33, Issue 2, Page 160-166, February 2012. (Source: Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol Latest Issue)

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Commentary: The Art of Oversimplification: The Challenge of Measuring Hospital-Acquired MRSA

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol Latest Issue — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 22:56:30 +0100

Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, Volume 33, Issue 2, Page 122-123, February 2012. (Source: Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol Latest Issue)

Community-based educational intervention to limit the dissemination of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Northern Saskatchewan, Canada

BMC Public Health - Latest articles — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: These educational materials are all freely available (www.narp.ca) and will hopefully aid in increasing awareness of the importance of proper antimicrobial usage and hygiene in diminishing the spread of S. aureus and other infectious diseases in other communities. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles)

MRSA Post Tympanostomy Tube Placement Not Linked To Further Complications

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:00:00 +0100

According to an investigation published in the December issue of Archives of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, researchers have discovered that ear discharge and drainage (otorrhea) caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) after ear tube placement in children is not linked to an increased risk of needing further surgery or other complications, in comparison to a diagnosis of non-MRSA otorrhea... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Proteome of a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus clinical strain of sequence type ST398.

Journal of Proteomics — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Clinical Proteomics. PMID: 22245554 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Journal of Proteomics)

Varying fitness cost associated with resistance to fluoroquinolones governs clonal dynamic of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:00:03 +0100

Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of fluoroquinolone resistance on the existence and dynamic of MRSA clones. Resistance to ciprofloxacin was induced in strains of community-acquired (CA) MRSA from various sequence types and the fitness cost suffered by mutant derivatives measured in a propagation assay. In addition, the fitness of fluoroquinolone resistant health care-associated (HA) MRSA isolates from major clones prevalent in Hungary were compared with each other and with those of the CA-MRSA derivatives. The genetic background of fluoroquinolone resistance and fitness cost in CA-MRSA was investigated. The fitness cost observed in the CA-MRSA derivatives proved diverse; the derivatives of the ST30-MRSA-IV strain suffered significantly great...

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Prevalence and Characteristics of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Pigs and Pig Workers in Tenerife, Spain

Foodborne Pathogens and Disease — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:37:33 +0100

Foodborne Pathogens and Disease , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Foodborne Pathogens and Disease)

Bilateral methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus keratitis following hyperopic photorefractive surgery

International Ophthalmology — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:58:37 +0100

Abstract To report clinical manifestations of a female patient with bilateral bacterial keratitis following photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). Bilateral PRK was performed for moderate hyperopia. Bandage contact lenses were fitted at the conclusion of the surgery. Bilateral infectious keratitis with hypopion was diagnosed within 4 days after surgery. Smear and culture were obtained and showed the presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The patient was treated with systemic prednisone and topical antibiotics (vancomycin, tobramycin and netylmicin) and betamethasone. After 1 month corneal leukoma was still present and remained unchanged during the following 7 months. Infectious keratitis is a rare complication of PRK that appears early in...

Pathologic Fractures in Children with Acute Staphylococcus aureus Osteomyelitis.

The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American volume — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Staphylococcus aureus osteomyelitis is a serious infection that may predispose children to pathologic fractures. Protected weight-bearing and activity restriction are recommended in children with Staphylococcus aureus osteomyelitis who have the risk factors demonstrated in this study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. PMID: 22218380 [PubMed - in process] (Source: The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American volume)

Transferable multidrug resistance plasmid carrying cfr associated with tet(L), ant(4' )-Ia and dfrK genes from a clinical methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus ST125 strain.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Ruiz de Gopegui E, Juan C, Zamorano L, Pérez JL, Oliver A Abstract A multidrug resistance (MDR) conjugative plasmid of ca. 50 kb (designated pERGB) was detected in a linezolid and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strain with sequence type 125 (ST125-MRSA-IVc). This strain was detected in two patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, previously treated with multiple antimicrobials, including linezolid. pERGB was transferable by conjugation, and carried the resistance genes cfr (oxazolidinones, phenicols, lincosamides, pleuromutilins, and streptogramin A), ant(4' )-Ia (tobramycin), tet(L) (tetracycline), and dfrK (trimethoprim). A novel genetic structure, linking for the first time all these resistance genes, was elucidated through sequencing of a 15,2...

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MRSA Post Tympanostomy Tube Placement Does Not Mean More Surgery Or Complications

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 17:00:00 +0100

According to an investigation published in Archives of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, researchers have discovered that ear discharge and drainage (otorrhea) caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) after ear tube placement in children is not linked to an increased risk of needing further surgery or other complications, in comparison to a diagnosis of non-MRSA otorrhea... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Editorial

Journal of Cystic Fibrosis — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Eradication of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by early antibiotic treatment has been one of the major advances in the last decade for subjects with CF . This fantastic success has let many people to forget that this pathogen is not the only one present in CF airways. The study by Vanderhelst and colleagues puts the finger on another dangerous bacterium, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) which rose in prevalence in CF from 0.1% in 1995 to 22% in 2007. Using registry data from 2002 to 2010, their retrospective case–control study showed that the prevalence of MRSA in chronically S. aureus infected patients, was 15.2% from which 12.6% were chronically infected. Importantly, MRSA caused a more rapid lung function decline compared with controls. (Source: Journal of Cystic Fibrosis)

MRSA USA300 at Alaska Native Medical Center, Anchorage, Alaska, USA, 2000-2006.

Emerging Infectious Diseases — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: David MZ, Rudolph KM, Hennessy TW, Zychowski DL, Asthi K, Boyle-Vavra S, Daum RS Abstract To determine whether methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) USA300 commonly caused infections among Alaska Natives, we examined clinical MRSA isolates from the Alaska Native Medical Center, Anchorage, during 2000-2006. Among Anchorage-region residents, USA300 was a minor constituent among MRSA isolates in 2000-2003 (11/68, 16%); by 2006, USA300 was the exclusive genotype identified (10/10). PMID: 22264651 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Emerging Infectious Diseases)

[The current pathogen spectrum - what are we fighting against?].

Der Orthopade — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Scheithauer S, Häfner H, Lemmen SW Abstract Surgical site infections are mainly caused by bacteria from the patients' skin or gut flora representing endogenous infections. In orthopedic and trauma surgery the skin commensals dominate and as a consequence Gram-positive bacteria are the main pathogens, particularly S. aureus. Additionally and especially in the case of foreign body infections, less virulent pathogens, e.g. coagulase-negative staphylococci play an important role.Due to newer microbiological techniques in detecting pathogens the spectrum of causative organisms is steadily increasing. As known for other nosocomial infections the relevance of multidrug resistant bacteria in surgical site infections is growing and the key player is methicillin-resistant S. aureus...

Comparative Effectiveness of Antibiotic Treatment Strategies for Pediatric Skin and Soft-tissue Infections: Williams DJ, Cooper WO, Kaltenbach LA, et al. Pediatrics 2011;128:479–87.

The Journal of Emergency Medicine — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This was a retrospective cohort study of 47,501 children aged 0–17 years comparing the effectiveness of treatment with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) or a β-lactam vs. clindamycin in drained and undrained skin and soft-tissue infections (SSTI). Children with an SSTI and prescription for either clindamycin (reference treatment), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, or a β-lactam (penicillin or cephalosporin) filled within 2 days of the SSTI were included in the study and grouped based on drainage status. Exclusion criteria included: SSTI within the last 365 days, treatment with multiple agents, treatment with topical antibiotics, SSTI requiring hospital admission, burns, foreign bodies, or surgical-site infections. Effectiveness of each antibiotic therapy was defined with respect to ...

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A Hidden Reservoir of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus in Patients Newly Admitted to an Acute Rehabilitation Hospital

PM and R — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: We found a 16% incidence of a hidden reservoir of multiple drug-resistant organisms in patients admitted to rehabilitation hospitals. We believe that all patients admitted to a rehabilitation facility should be screened for MRSA and VRE. (Source: PM and R)

The impact of strict isolation on MRSA positive patients: an action-based study undertaken in a rehabilitation center.

Rehabilitation Nursing — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The objective of the research was to seek insights from rehabilitation inpatients with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), to better understand their experience of MRSA and strict isolation. METHOD: Researchers and patients shared ideas for developing action plans to help improve supportive rehabilitation services for patients with MRSA. Nine patients participated in interviews and four participated in a follow-up focus group. Summarized patient data were disseminated during two interprofessional staff focus groups. Cumulated data were integrated into eight plans of action. FINDINGS: The research resulted in immediate implementation of four action plans and ongoing development of four additional action plans. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The research outcomes have contri...

Active Surveillance of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus with the BD GeneOhm MRSA™ Assay in a Respiratory Ward in Nagasaki, Japan.

Japanese Journal of Infectious Diseases — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Izumikawa K, Yamamoto Y, Yanagihara K, Kiya T, Matsuda J, Morinaga Y, Kurihara S, Nakamura S, Imamura Y, Miyazaki T, Nishino T, Tsukamoto M, Kakeya H, Yasuoka A, Tashiro T, Kamihira S, Kohno S Abstract The utility of active surveillance cultures (ASCs) in respiratory wards, that do not have an associated intensive care unit (ICU), and the usefulness of the BD GeneOhm MRSA™ system for rapid detection of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) have not been previously evaluated in Japan. ASCs using conventional culture methods and the BD GeneOhm MRSA™ assay were conducted in adult inpatients between May 11, 2009 and November 10, 2009 in a respiratory ward, without an associated ICU, in Nagasaki University Hospital. The infection and colonization rates of MRSA ...

Oxacillin or cefalotin treatment of hospitalized children with cellulitis.

Japanese Journal of Infectious Diseases — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, oxacillin or cefalotin remain the drugs of choice for treating uncomplicated cellulitis in regions where community-acquired methicillin-resistant S. aureus is infrequent (<10%). PMID: 22274151 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Japanese Journal of Infectious Diseases)

New Production of 5-Bromotoluhydroquinone and 4-O-Methyltoluhydroquinone from the Marine-Derived Fungus Dothideomycete sp.

Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Leutou AS, Yun K, Choi HD, Kang JS, Son BW Abstract The addition of NaBr to the fermentation medium of a marine isolate of the fungus Dothideomycete sp. resulted in induced production of two toluhydroquinone derivatives, 5- bromotoluhydroquinone (1) and 4-O-methyltoluhydroquinone (2), and two known compounds, toluhydroquinone (3) and gentisyl alcohol (4). The structures of 1 and 2 were assigned through the spectroscopic data analyses. Compounds 1-4 showed a potent antibacterial activity against the methicillinresistant and multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA and MDRSA) with MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) values of 6.2, 12.5, 6.2, and 12.5 microgram/ml, respectively. Compounds 1-4 also exhibited a moderate radical scavenging activity against 1,1-diphenyl...

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Thiadiazolidinones: A new class of alanine racemase inhibitors with antimicrobial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Biochemical Pharmacology — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 01:46:41 +0100

This study evaluated the mode of action, antimicrobial activities, and mammalian cell cytotoxicity of the thiadiazolidinone family in order to assess its potential for development as a therapeutic agent against MRSA. The thiadiazolidones inhibited Alr activity with 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC(50)) ranging from 0.36 to 6.4μM, and they appear to inhibit the enzyme irreversibly. The series inhibited the growth of S. aureus, including MRSA strains, with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 6.25 to 100μg/ml. The antimicrobial activity showed selectivity against Gram-positive bacteria and fungi, but not Gram-negative bacteria. The series inhibited human HeLa cell proliferation. Lead development centering on the thiadiazolidinone series would require additional medicinal ...

MRSA-surveillance in Germany: data from the Antibiotic Resistance Surveillance System (ARS) and the mandatory surveillance of MRSA in blood

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 16:43:10 +0100

Abstract Data from the German Antibiotic Resistance Surveillance system (ARS) and statutory notification of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in blood cultures are presented. ARS is a voluntary laboratory-based surveillance system providing resistance data of all clinical pathogens and sample types from hospitals and ambulatory care. Statutory notification includes MRSA detected in blood and cerebrospinal fluid by microbiological laboratories. Resistance data from 2008 to 2010 and MRSA-bacteraemia incidences from 2010 are presented. From 2008 to 2010, resistance data from 70,935 Staphylococcus aureus isolates were transferred to the national health institution. MRSA proportions in hospitals and outpatient care account for 19.2% and 10.6%, respectively. In ho...

The impact of biocides on biofilm formation by methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (ST239‐SCCmecIII) isolates

Microbiology and Immunology — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

ABSTRACTProcedures of sterilization and disinfection are essential to ensure that medical and surgical instruments will not transmit infectious pathogens to patients. In this paper, we tested the residual effect of these compounds on biofilm formation and its efficiency in disrupting preformed biofilms using methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolates of the lineage ST239‐SCCmecIII. All compounds examined, except 70% alcohol, caused a significant impairment in biofilm formation with concomitant inhibition of cell growth. Among the compounds examined, 10% povidine‐iodine (PVP‐I) was the only antiseptic that exhibited more than 90% reduction of both biofilm formation and dispersion. In the group of sterilant and disinfectant, a formulation containing 7% hydrogen perox...

Antimicrobial susceptibility of Gram-positive cocci isolated from patients with conjunctivitis and keratitis in Crete, Greece.

Journal of Microbiology, Immunology, and Infection — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: Quinolones remain an excellent treatment option for bacterial conjunctivitis and keratitis due to Gram-positive cocci in our region. PMID: 22209987 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Journal of Microbiology, Immunology, and Infection)

MRSA Colonization and the Risk for MRSA InfectionMRSA Colonization and the Risk for MRSA Infection

Medscape Today Headlines — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 17:10:36 +0100

Active surveillance of surgical patients, identifying those colonized, and then providing treatment – does it work? Medscape Infectious Diseases (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

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MRSA eradication in dermatologic outpatients

JDDG — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: We report successful MRSA eradication in outpatients. Systemic antibiotics are unnecessary in the majority of patients. A combined anti‐MRSA strategy for inpatients and outpatients is recommended. (Source: JDDG)

Trends in the Susceptibility of Clinically Important Resistant Bacteria to Tigecycline: Results from the Tigecycline In-vitro Surveillance in Taiwan (TIST), 2006-2010.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Chen YH, Lu PL, Huang CH, Liao CH, Lu CT, Chuang YC, Tsao SM, Chen YS, Liu YC, Chen WY, Jang TN, Lin HC, Chen CM, Shi ZY, Pan SC, Yang CL, Kung HC, Liu CE, Cheng YJ, Liu JW, Sun W, Wang LS, Ko WC, Yu KW, Chiang PC, Lee MH, Lee CM, Hsu GJ, Hsueh PR Abstract The Tigecycline In-vitro Surveillance in Taiwan (TIST), a nationwide, prospective surveillance during 2006 to 2010, collected a total of 7,793 clinical isolates, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (n=1,834), penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae (PRSP) (n=423), vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) (n=219), extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli (n=1,141), ESBL-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (n=1,330), Acinetobacter baumannii (n=1,645), and Stenotrophomonas ma...

Antistaphylococcal Activity of TD-1792, a Multivalent Glycopeptide-Cephalosporin Antibiotic.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Blais J, Lewis SR, Krause KM, Benton BM Abstract TD-1792 is a new multivalent glycopeptide-cephalosporin antibiotic with potent activity against gram-positive bacteria. The in vitro activity of TD-1792 was tested against 527 Staphylococcus aureus, including multidrug-resistant isolates. TD-1792 was highly active against methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MIC(90), 0.015 μg/mL), methicillin-resistant S. aureus and heterogeneous vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus (MIC(90), 0.03 μg/mL). Time kill studies demonstrated the potent bactericidal activity of TD-1792 at concentrations ≤0.12 μg/mL. A postantibiotic effect >2 h was observed after exposure to TD-1792. PMID: 22203585 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy)

Immuno-flow cytometry for the rapid identification of Staphylococcus aureus and the detection of methicillin resistance

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 16:46:07 +0100

Abstract Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) can be reliably differentiated by flow cytometry when labeled with nucleic acid dyes. The purpose of this study was to determine if this differentiation can be achieved while labeling with a S. aureus-specific anti-staphylococcal protein A antibody instead of nucleic acid dyes. A total of 103 S. aureus isolates were incubated for 4 h at 37°C in Mueller Hinton broth with and without oxacillin, then stained with anti-staphylococcal protein A antibody, and analyzed by flow cytometry using the Micro PRO™ instrument. Dot plots (side scatter vs. fluorescence intensity) of isolates exposed to oxacillin were examined to define two gates encompassing the majority of MSSA an...

Pneumonia Treated in the Internal Medicine Department: Focus on Health Care–Associated Pneumonia

Clinical Microbiology and Infection — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 14:27:28 +0100

AbstractPatients with pneumonia treated in the internal medicine department (IMD) are often at risk of health care–associated pneumonia (HCAP). The importance of HCAP is controversial.We invited physicians from 72 IMDs to report on all patients with pneumonia hospitalized in their department during two weeks (one each in January and June 2010) to compare HCAP with community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) and hospital‐acquired pneumonia (HAP).We analyzed 1,002 episodes of pneumonia: 58.9% were CAP, 30.6% were HCAP, and 10.4% were HAP. A comparison between CAP, HCAP, and HAP showed that HCAP patients were older (77, 83, 80.5 years; p<0.001), had poorer functional status (Barthel 100, 30, and 65; p<0.001), and more risk factors for aspiration pneumonia (18%, 50%, and 34%; p<0.001). T...

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New insights into meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) pathogenesis, treatment and resistance

International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Abstract: Meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) remains one of the principal multiply resistant bacterial pathogens causing serious healthcare-associated and community-onset infections. This paper reviews recent studies that have elucidated the virulence strategies employed by MRSA, key clinical trials of agents used to treat serious MRSA infections, and accumulating data regarding the implications of antibacterial resistance in MRSA for clinical success during therapy. Recent pre-clinical data support a species-specific role for Panton–Valentine leukocidin in the development of acute severe S. aureus infections and have elucidated other virulence mechanisms, including novel modes of internalisation, varying post-invasion strategies (featuring both upregulation and downregula...

Pneumonia treated in the internal medicine department: focus on healthcare‐associated pneumonia

Clinical Microbiology and Infection — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Clin Microbiol InfectAbstractPatients with pneumonia treated in the internal medicine department (IMD) are often at risk of healthcare‐associated pneumonia (HCAP). The importance of HCAP is controversial. We invited physicians from 72 IMDs to report on all patients with pneumonia hospitalized in their department during 2 weeks (one each in January and June 2010) to compare HCAP with community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) and hospital‐acquired pneumonia (HAP). We analysed 1002 episodes of pneumonia: 58.9% were CAP, 30.6% were HCAP and 10.4% were HAP. A comparison between CAP, HCAP and HAP showed that HCAP patients were older (77, 83 and 80.5 years; p < 0.001), had poorer functional status (Barthel 100, 30 and 65; p < 0.001) and had more risk factors for aspiration pneumo...

Drugs Used To Overcome Cancer May Also Combat Antibiotic Resistance

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 09:00:00 +0100

Drugs used to overcome cancer may also combat antibiotic resistance, finds a new study led by Gerry Wright, scientific director of the Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research at McMaster University. "Our study found that certain proteins, called kinases, that confer antibiotic resistance are structurally related to proteins important in cancer," says Wright about the study published in Chemistry & Biology... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Marine Bis-indole Alkaloids Inhibit MRSA Pyruvate Kinase [Protein Structure and Folding]

Journal of Biological Chemistry — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Novel classes of antimicrobials are needed to address the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). We have recently identified pyruvate kinase (PK) as a potential novel drug target based upon it being an essential hub in the MRSA interactome (Cherkasov, A., Hsing, M., Zoraghi, R., Foster, L. J., See, R. H., Stoynov, N., Jiang, J., Kaur, S., Lian, T., Jackson, L., Gong, H., Swayze, R., Amandoron, E., Hormozdiari, F., Dao, P., Sahinalp, C., Santos-Filho, O., Axerio-Cilies, P., Byler, K., McMaster, W. R., Brunham, R. C., Finlay, B. B., and Reiner, N. E. (2011) J. Proteome Res. 10, 1139–1150; Zoraghi, R., See, R. H., Axerio-Cilies, P., Kumar, N. S., Gong, H., Moreau, A., Hsing, M., Kaur, S., Swayze, R. D., Worrall, L., Amandoron, E...

Introduction to the MRSA series of reviews

International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) continues to cause major healthcare problems in most countries, both in hospitals and in the community. The introduction of new anti-MRSA antimicrobial agents allows for some complacency and attention has, to some extent, shifted to extreme resistance in Gram-negative organisms. We allow this at our peril. Although we now have good information on the measures necessary to control healthcare MRSA, even in endemic situations , very few countries have been able to implement the necessary control measures. (Source: International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents)

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Community-Acquired Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Hand Infections in the Pediatric Population

The Journal of Hand Surgery — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Traditionally, MRSA has been associated with hospitalization, intravenous drug use, recent antibiotic use, and compromised immunity. In our study, more severe, deep-space abscesses requiring surgical drainage and patients with a history of previous MRSA infections were found to have a higher prevalence of MRSA. The immunocompromised patients had no cases of MRSA and had higher incidences of less virulent bacterial infections. This suggests that acquisition of community-acquired MRSA skin and soft tissue infections in children and adolescents might not be associated with the traditional risk factors. Type of study/level of evidence: Prognostic IV. (Source: The Journal of Hand Surgery)

Computer aided screening and evaluation of herbal therapeutics against MRSA infections.

Bioinformation — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 02:42:02 +0100

This study mainly evaluates the potential use of botanicals against MRSA infections. Computer aided design is an initial platform to screen novel inhibitors and the data finds applications in drug development. The drug-likeness and efficiency of various herbal compounds were screened by ADMET and docking studies. The virulent factor of most of the MRSA associated infections are Penicillin Binding Protein 2A (PBP2A) and Panton-Valentine Leukocidin (PVL). Hence, native structures of these proteins (PDB: 1VQQ and 1T5R) were used as the drug targets. The docking studies revealed that the active component of Aloe vera, β-sitosterol (3S, 8S, 9S, 10R, 13R, 14S, 17R) -17- [(2R, 5R)-5-ethyl-6-methylheptan-2-yl] -10, 13-dimethyl 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17- dodecahydro-1H-cyclopenta [a...

Novel drug effective against MRSA-caused impetigo

Modern Medicine — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:07:43 +0100

NovaBay Pharmaceuticals says early results of a phase 2 clinical study show that its AgaDerm NVC-422 gel is effective in treating impetigo caused by methicillin-resistant Staphyloccus aureus. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Review article: Spider bite

The Poison Review — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 06:57:08 +0100

Black widow spider 4 out of 5 stars Spider bite. Isbister GK, Fan HW. Lancet 2011 Dec 10;378:2039-2047. Abstract This up-to-date review article covers 4 types of toxic spiders: Latrodectus (widow spiders), Loxosceles (recluse, fiddleback, or brown spiders); funnel-web spiders, and Phoneutria (the South American wandering spider, AKA the banana or armed spider). Although it is difficult so summarize since it covers so much ground, and does not contain much that is new or surpring, it is worth reading for its pictures, review of the literature, and 99 references. While we’re on the subject of spiders, here are some excerpts from the TV show Bite Me with Dr. Mike Leahy: Australian Funnel-Web Spider: www.youtube.com/watch?v=BMiZq1vWGAk Brazilian Wandering Spider: ...

Colonization and transmission of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus ST398 in nursery piglets.

Applied and Environmental Microbiology — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Crombé F, Vanderhaeghen W, Dewulf J, Hermans K, Haesebrouck F, Butaye P Abstract A transmission experiment was performed to evaluate the spread of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) ST398 in nursery piglets. Reproduction ratios (R(0)) in three experimental groups were found to vary between 3.92 and 52.54, indicating that after introduction, MRSA ST398 will spread easily among weaned piglets, with a tendency to become endemic. PMID: 22194292 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied and Environmental Microbiology)

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Clinical features of spinal infection in individuals older than eighty years

International Orthopaedics — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 20:05:06 +0100

Conclusions The number of patients over 80 years with spinal infection is expected to rapidly increase in aging societies. This advanced age group is more susceptible to infection with drug-resistant organisms, which makes infection management more difficult. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperPages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s00264-011-1440-2Authors Hideki Nagashima, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, 36-1 Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori 683-8504, JapanYoshiro Nanjo, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, 36-1 Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori 683-8504, JapanAtsushi Tanida, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, 36-1 Nishi-cho, Yonago, Tottori 683-8504, Japan...

Post-Ear Tube MRSA Infections Not Serious (CME/CE)

MedPage Today Infectious Disease — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 15:00:00 +0100

(MedPage Today) -- Among children with ear infections following tympanostomy tube placement, infections associated with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) did not result in worse outcomes than those caused by other pathogens, a single-center study showed. (Source: MedPage Today Infectious Disease)

Factors Associated with Post-Operative Conversion to Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Positivity or Infection in Initially MRSA-Negative Patients

Surgical Infections — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 19:44:37 +0100

Surgical Infections Dec 2011, Vol. 12, No. 6: 435-442. (Source: Surgical Infections)

Design, synthesis, and structure-activity relationship studies of conformationally restricted mutilin 14-carbamates.

Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry Letters — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

We report herein the design, synthesis, and structure-activity relationship studies of conformationally restricted mutilin 14-carbamates based on the structure of SB-222734. The antibacterial activities of these newly synthesized compounds were also evaluated and compared with linezolid and retapamulin. Results showed that most of the target compounds exhibit good potency in inhibiting the growth of Gram-positive bacteria including Methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus MSSA (MIC: 0.0625-2μg/mL), Methicillin-resistant S. aureus MRSA (MIC: 0.0625-2μg/mL), Methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus epidermidis MSSE (MIC: 0.0625-2μg/mL), Methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis MRSE (MIC: 0.0625-2μg/mL), and Streptococcus pneumonia (MIC: 0.0625-4μg/mL). In particular, three remarkable com...

Infection control strategies for preventing the transmission of meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in nursing homes for older people.

Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 01:00:04 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: There is a lack of research evaluating the effects on MRSA transmission of infection prevention and control strategies in nursing homes. Rigorous studies should be conducted in nursing homes, to test interventions that have been specifically designed for this unique environment. PMID: 22161402 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews)

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Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Colonization in Otitis-Prone Children [Original Article]

Archives of Otolaryngology — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions The prevalence of MRSA colonization among otitis-prone children was similar to rates reported among the general pediatric community. Methicillin-resistant S aureus colonization at the time of bilateral myringotomy and tube insertion was not predictive of subsequent otorrhea. (Source: Archives of Otolaryngology)

MRSA and Non-MRSA Otorrhea in Children: A Comparative Study of Clinical Course [Original Article]

Archives of Otolaryngology — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion In this study, a diagnosis of otorrhea due to MRSA did not carry an increased risk for surgical procedures or infection-associated sequelae compared with a diagnosis of non-MRSA otorrhea. (Source: Archives of Otolaryngology)

Matrix metalloproteinase 9 mRNA: An early prognostic marker for patients with acute stroke.

Clinical Biochemistry — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: MMP9 mRNA was a predictor of poor outcome and mortality in stroke. PMID: 22200563 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Clinical Biochemistry)

[Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: Review.]

Presse Medicale — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Del Giudice P, Tattevin P, Etienne J Abstract Community-acquired methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(CA-MRSA) have emerged worldwide. These CA-MRSA are different from classical hospital-acquired MRSA. They share common characteristics: they affect mainly young subjects, without past medical history. The majority of strains produce the Panton-Valentine leukocidin. They are mainly responsible for suppurative skin infections and rarely for invasive infections such as necrotizing pneumonia. The situation in the US is alarming with a main circulating clone the USA300 clone, whereas in Europe, the diffusion of CA-MRSA strains remains limited. It is important to take advantage of the experience acquired from the US to limit the potential spread of such CA-MRSA strains. ...

Evaluation of Stethoscopes as Vectors of Clostridium difficile and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus •

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol Latest Issue — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 23:20:01 +0100

Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, Volume 33, Issue 1, Page 96-98, January 2012. (Source: Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol Latest Issue)

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The Value of Universal versus Targeted Screening for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus among Admission Patients

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol Latest Issue — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 23:19:42 +0100

Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, Volume 33, Issue 1, Page 102-103, January 2012. (Source: Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol Latest Issue)

Inhibition of Bacterial Growth and Biofilm Production by Constituents from Hypericum spp.

Phytotherapy Research — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Biofilm embedded bacterial pathogens such as Staphylococcus spp., Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii are difficult to eradicate and are major sources of bacterial infections. New drugs are needed to combat these pathogens. Hypericum is a plant genus that contains species known to have antimicrobial properties. However, the specific constituents responsible for the antimicrobial properties are not entirely known, nor have most compounds been tested as inhibitors of biofilm development. The investigation presented here tested seven secondary metabolites isolated from the species Hypericum densiflorum, Hypericum ellipticum, Hypericum prolificum, and Hypericum punctatum as inhibitors of bacterial growth and biofilm production. Assays were conducted against St...

Treating Skin Infections - AgaDerm, An Alternative To Bacitracin And Neomycin

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0100

Overuse of antibiotics has contributed towards drug-resistant bacteria emerging and spreading. Antibiotics have frequently been accused for so-called "superbugs" spreading. In the United States, virulent strains of MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), a leading cause of community-acquired soft tissue and skin infections, are of paramount public health concern, due to the accelerated expansion of the highly drug-resistant strains, such as MRSA-USA300... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Link Between Delirium And Patient Isolation

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:00:00 +0100

A new study finds that patients who are moved into isolation during a hospital stay are nearly twice as likely to develop delirium, a potentially dangerous change in mental status that often affects hospital patients. Patients who began their stay in isolation were not at increased risk. The study, published in the January issue of Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, the journal of the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America, is the largest of its kind to examine the link between delirium and measures taken to prevent the spread of hard-to-treat infections such as MRSA... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Fulminant Candidemia Diagnosed by Prompt Detection of Pseudohyphae in a Peripheral Blood Smear.

The American Journal of the Medical Sciences — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Ikegaya S, Tai K, Shigemi H, Iwasaki H, Toshiharu O, Ueda T Abstract A 77-year-old man treated with prednisolone for pemphigus developed severe sepsis by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Several antibiotics were administered. A peripheral blood smear showed growth of a large number of yeast extending pseudohyphae which could be seen both inside and outside of leucocytes. Antifungal agents were added immediately; however, he did not recover. Several days later, blood culture showed Candida albicans septicemia. The autopsy revealed microabscesses in the lung, heart, liver and kidney. A large amount of neutrophil invasion and yeast with pseudohyphae were also detected. PMID: 22173051 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The A...

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An Easy-To-Use Solution To Make Hospitals Safer

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:00:00 +0100

According to the World Health Organization, antibiotic-resistant bacteria are one of the top three threats to human health. Patients in hospitals are especially at risk, with almost 100,000 deaths due to infection every year in the U.S. alone. Now Dr. Udi Qimron of the Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology at Tel Aviv University's Sackler Faculty of Medicine has developed an efficient and cost-effective liquid solution that can help fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria and keep more patients safe from life-threatening infections... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Synthesis of novel 1,3-diaryl pyrazole derivatives bearing rhodanine-3-fatty acid moieties as potential antibacterial agents.

European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Xu LL, Zheng CJ, Sun LP, Miao J, Piao HR Abstract In the present study, a series of 1,3-diaryl pyrazole derivatives bearing rhodanine-3-fatty acid moieties were synthesized and their antimicrobial activities were tested against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. 1,3-diaryl-4-formylpyrazoles were synthesized as key intermediates following a Vilsmeier-Haack strategy. Several compounds with an MIC of 2 μg/mL, exhibited stronger antibacterial activity against the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) than the controls. None of the compounds showed any activity against Gram-negative bacteria. PMID: 22192483 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry)

Changing epidemiology of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, 2002–2009

Infection — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 17:06:23 +0100

Conclusions Over the past 8 years, we observed significant changes in the epidemiology of MRSA infections, including decreases in traditional MRSA risk factors, improvements in clinical outcomes, and increases in other patient characteristics that may affect risk. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical and Epidemiological StudyPages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s15010-011-0232-3Authors A. R. Caffrey, Infectious Diseases Research Program, Veterans Affairs Medical Center (151), Research Building #35; 830 Chalkstone Avenue, Providence, RI 02908, USAK. L. LaPlante, Infectious Diseases Research Program, Veterans Affairs Medical Center (151), Research Building #35; 830 Chalkstone Avenue, Providence, RI 02908, USA Journal InfectionOnline ISSN 1439-0973Print ISSN 0300-8...

New Paper Calls For Strong Steps To Tackle Antibiotic Resistance

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 08:00:00 +0100

Shahriar Mobashery, a University of Notre Dame researcher, is one of the coauthors of a new paper by a group of the world's leading scientists in academia and industry that calls for strong steps to be taken to control the global crisis of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. The group issued a priority list of steps that need to be taken on a global scale to resolve the crisis. The paper is an outgrowth of a meeting the group held at the Banbury Conference Centre in Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., to discuss the crisis and it appears in the journal Nature Reviews Microbiology... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Super-sticky familial infections caused by Panton–Valentine leukocidin-positive ST22 community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Japan

Journal of Infection and Chemotherapy — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 06:33:02 +0100

In this study, we describe a long-term familial infection cluster caused by novel PVL-positive CA-MRSA, which most probably originated from India. This MRSA persisted in related families for more than 2 years with colonization of, for example, the nares and cheek. At least 6 of 12 members (50%) developed deep cutaneous abscesses, including recurrent and multifocal abscesses, every 1.2 months on average. All MRSA isolates from colonization and abscesses were the same, albeit with a variant in pulsed-field gel electrophoresis analysis. The MRSA exhibited the genotype ST22/spa113(t005)/SCCmecIVa/coagulase gene (coa) novel type and strong hemolysis activity. Moreover, the MRSA exhibited high biofilm formation (which was markedly enhanced by sub-MICs of oxacillin). Some patients ...

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Clinical effectiveness of rapid tests for methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in hospitalized patients: A systematic review

BMC Infectious Diseases — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The use of PCR for MRSA screening demonstrated a lower turnaround time and number of isolation days compared with chromogenic agar. Given the mixed quality and number of studies (11 studies), gaps remain in the published literature and evidence remains insufficient. In addition to screening, factors such as the number of contacts between healthcare workers and patients, number of patients attended by one healthcare worker per day, probability of colonization among healthcare workers, and MRSA status of hospital shared equipment and hospital environment must be considered to control the transmission of MRSA in a hospital setting. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

MRSA: the first half century

Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Fifty years ago methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) first revealed themselves to the medical community, having been described in a landmark article published in the British Medical Journal. Among other things, their discovery set off a major response from the scientific and medical professions to control or even eliminate them as major human pathogens. Despite these efforts, however, MRSA have spread throughout the world and a half century after they burst upon the scene they continue to pose major challenges to research scientists and clinicians alike. In a very real sense, this year marks the ‘birthday’ of a remarkably successful pathogen. The major reasons for the ability of MRSA to prosper and cause disease in settings inimical to its survival form the basis ...

In vitro antimicrobial studies of silver carbene complexes: activity of free and nanoparticle carbene formulations against clinical isolates of pathogenic bacteria

Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions The four SCCs described here, including their development as NP therapies, show great promise for treating a wide variety of bacterial and fungal pathogens that are not easily killed by routine antimicrobial agents. (Source: Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy)

Tigecycline accelerates staphylococcal-infected burn wound healing through matrix metalloproteinase-9 modulation

Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Tigecycline, besides its antimicrobial activity, exerts an important modulatory effect on MMP-9, accelerating wound healing in staphylococcal-infected burns. (Source: Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy)