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A recent study conducted in Bari, Italy, by the National Research Council (CNR) focused on identifying olive genotypes resistant to the harmful bacterium Xylella fastidiosa, which has been devastating olive trees in southern Italy. The research involved a prospecting survey in Apulia, where olive genotypes with resistance traits were identified through genetic and transcriptomic analyses. The study highlighted the presence of resistance traits in the Leccino offspring, providing valuable insights for potential olive-breeding programs and strategies to introduce resistance in susceptible cultivars. This research was supported by the Apulia Region, CNR, and the European Union's Horizon Europe research and innovation program. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Medical University Lublin in Poland has provided new insights into the Gram-Negative Bacteria Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. This opportunistic pathogen is a concern for susceptible patients, causing respiratory and bloodstream infections primarily in healthcare settings. The bacteria can be found in various reservoirs such as water, plants, food, and animals. It is known for its multidrug resistance, making treatment challenging. The study also highlighted the increased infection rates of S. maltophilia in intensive care units during the COVID-19 pandemic. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Chinese Academy of Sciences provides new insights into Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, a Gram-Negative Bacteria. The research focuses on the role of the second messenger c-di-GMP in bacterial behavior in response to body temperature. The study reveals that a protein called BtsD acts as a thermosensor, diguanylate cyclase, and effector, detecting and responding to a temperature of 37 degrees Celsius. This discovery sheds light on the adaptation and pathogenicity of bacteria in warm-blooded hosts. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) focused on Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, an opportunistic pathogen commonly found in healthcare settings. The study investigated a bloodstream infection outbreak of S. maltophilia that occurred in an acute care hospital in Alameda County, California, from April 2022 to September 2023. Despite the implementation of infection prevention and control measures, additional cases of S. maltophilia infections were identified. The study found that patients exposed to iodinated contrast Omnipaque-300, injectable propofol, or fentanyl were more likely to develop S. maltophilia bloodstream infections. The researchers recommended improvements in cleaning and disinfection practices for medical equipment and proper storage and administration of medications to reduce the risk of contamination. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center evaluated the impact of new treatment guidelines on Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (SM) infections. SM is a challenging bacterium to treat due to its resistance to many antibiotics. The study found that patients treated after the implementation of the new guidelines were more likely to receive combination antibiotic therapy. However, there was no significant difference in treatment success rates between the pre- and post-guidance groups. The study acknowledges limitations such as its small sample size and retrospective design, and suggests further research is needed to assess the impact of combination therapy on outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Londrina State University in Brazil have conducted a study on bacterial pustule (BP), a disease caused by Xanthomonas citri pv. glycines that affects soybean production. The study used a genome-wide association study (GWAS) and quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping to identify new regions in soybeans associated with resistance to X. citri. The researchers found two main new regions on chromosomes 6 and 18, in addition to the traditional resistance gene on chromosome 17. These findings could be valuable for marker-assisted selection and the development of resistant soybean cultivars. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System examined the treatment trends for Stenotrophomonas maltophilia bloodstream infections (BSI) in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities in the United States. The study analyzed data from a 10-year period (2012-2021) and found that TMP-SMX and levofloxacin were the most commonly prescribed antibiotics for S. maltophilia BSI treatment. The majority of patients were male, white, and had a mean age of 64 years. No significant changes were observed in antibiotic prescribing trends during the study period. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) National Research Centre for Grapes in Maharashtra, India, focused on the bacterial leaf spot (BLS) disease caused by Xanthomonas citri pv. viticola (Xcv) on grapevines. The study investigated the variability of 23 Xcv strains isolated from infected samples collected from different locations in India. The results showed diversity in various phenotypic aspects and genetic characteristics of the isolates. The study concluded that geographical location, climatic factors, and grapevine varieties were the driving forces behind the evolution of the phytopathogens. This research provides valuable information for identifying and characterizing resistant germplasms against the disease. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the effects of appropriate empirical antimicrobial treatment on patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) caused by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. Topics include the impact of such treatment on mortality rates, the influence of previous antibiotic use, and the overall improvement in patient outcomes, including reduced hospital stay and ventilation duration.

A recent preprint abstract discusses the potential use of phage therapy as a treatment for Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (STM) infections, which are becoming increasingly difficult to treat due to antibiotic resistance. The researchers collected 18 phages from wastewater in Southern California and characterized their genomes and life cycle kinetics. They found that a three-phage cocktail significantly suppressed bacterial growth compared to individual phages, and the cocktail remained effective against a collection of 46 STM strains. These findings suggest that specialized phage cocktails may be a promising avenue for treating STM infections that are resistant to current antibiotics. However, it is important to note that this research has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Triserv General Hospital in Taipei, Taiwan have developed an artificial intelligence-clinical decision support system (AI-CDSS) to quickly identify antibiotic resistance in Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (SM), a critical multi-drug resistant threat. The system integrates matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and machine learning to predict antibiotic susceptibility testing results. By analyzing 8,662 SM strains, the researchers identified distinct spectral differences between resistant and susceptible strains, allowing for rapid detection of resistance. The AI-CDSS provides healthcare professionals with data-driven advice on antibiotic use, reducing the identification time of resistant strains from 24 hours to minutes. This innovative approach has the potential to enhance clinical decision-making and improve treatment outcomes for SM infections. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Multan, Pakistan, focused on the morphogenetic characterization and management of Xanthomonas citri pv. citri (Xcc), the primary cause of citrus canker (CC). The researchers conducted a survey in several districts to collect samples showing canker symptoms and confirmed Xcc as the CC causing agent. Through DNA extraction and sequencing, they established the phylogenetic relationship with Xcc. Antibiotic sensitivity testing revealed that amoxicillin was highly effective in inhibiting the growth of Xcc colonies. This study contributes to our understanding of XCC and provides insights for better disease control plans in the citrus industry. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Migal Galilee Technology Center in Kiryat Shmona, Israel, discusses the identification of a potential vector for the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa in almond orchards and vineyards in northern Israel. The researchers found that the spittlebug Mesoptyelus impictifrons was the most abundant and widely distributed species in the area, and experiments showed that it could acquire and transmit the bacterium. Further studies are needed to understand the biology, ecology, and role of Mesoptyelus impictifrons as a vector for Xylella fastidiosa. This research has been peer-reviewed and published in the journal Phytopathology. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Autonomous University of Nuevo Leon in Monterrey, Mexico, explores the impact of different antibiotics on biofilm eradication in clinical isolates of Achromobacter, Burkholderia, and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. The study found that biofilm eradication required higher drug concentrations compared to planktonic cells. Levofloxacin showed biofilm eradication activity in S. maltophilia, while minocycline and meropenem were effective against Burkholderia, and meropenem was effective against Achromobacter. The research suggests that certain antibiotics could be used for the treatment of biofilm-associated infections in this population. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from researchers at the University of Salento in Italy explores the impact of the Xylella fastidiosa phytosanitary emergency on consumers' perception and willingness to buy Apulian olive oil. The study, which used a multi-perspective and systemic approach, found that consumers' willingness to buy post-Xylella olive oil can fluctuate based on factors such as trust in farmers and the credibility of the Italian food market. The findings provide new knowledge on the topic and suggest the need for new marketing and communication strategies to address the economic impact of Xylella and promote the requalification of the territory. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute in Valencia, Spain, focuses on Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (SM) and its impact on critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). The study highlights the epidemiology, diagnostic challenges, antibiotic resistance rates, optimal antimicrobial management, and prevention strategies for SM. While SM is typically considered a colonizing strain, recent data suggests it can also cause severe infections, such as pneumonia and bloodstream infections, even in critically ill patients without overt immunosuppression. The study emphasizes the need for ICU physicians to reconsider the best stewardship approach when SM is isolated in critically ill patients. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Emory University School of Medicine discusses the antibacterial potential of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia complex (Smc) isolates in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. CF is a genetic condition that causes mucus to accumulate in internal organs, leading to lung decline and chronic bacterial pulmonary infections. The study found that some Smc CF isolates displayed antagonistic interactions with certain bacteria, while most showed strong antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli. Understanding these interactions could provide insights into the development of new treatments for CF. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Clemson University in Blackville, South Carolina, has developed a new method for detecting viable Xanthomonas arboricola pv. pruni (XAP) cells in peach trees. Bacterial spot, caused by XAP, is a serious disease that leads to defoliation and unmarketable fruit. The researchers developed a long-amplicon propidium monoazide-quantitative PCR (PMA-qPCR) assay that can accurately quantify viable XAP cells as low as 10^3 CFU/ml. This assay will be a useful tool for quantifying the overwintering XAP population on peach trees. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Guizhou Normal University in China discusses the discovery and characterization of a lytic phage, A1432, that infects Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (S. maltophilia), an emerging opportunistic pathogen that is resistant to many antibiotics. The phage was isolated from a karst cave and was found to have a narrow host range. It demonstrated bacteriolytic activity against S. maltophilia in vitro and was found to have a genome length of 61,660 bp. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that phage A1432 belongs to a novel genus within the Bradleyvirinae subfamily, Mesyanzhinovviridae family. This research provides valuable information on the genetic and morphological diversity of S. maltophilia phages and contributes to our understanding of their evolutionary mechanisms. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Araba University Hospital in Spain focused on optimizing antibiotic therapy for Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infections in critically ill patients. Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacillus that presents challenges in clinical treatment due to its resistance mechanisms. The study evaluated the effectiveness of various antibiotics, including cotrimoxazole, levofloxacin, minocycline, tigecycline, cefiderocol, and the combination aztreonam/avibactam. The researchers found that cefiderocol, minocycline, tigecycline, and aztreonam/avibactam were the most effective options for treating S. maltophilia infections. Discrepancies were also identified between the PK/PD breakpoints and the clinical breakpoints defined by EUCAST and CLSI. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Northwestern University discusses research findings on Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, a Gram-Negative Bacteria. The study focuses on the bactericidal effectors of the Stenotrophomonas maltophilia type IV secretion system (T4SS), specifically the nuclease Tfda. The researchers found that the T4SS promotes interbacterial competition through the action of multiple toxic effectors, including the potent DNase Tfda. This research provides insights into the mechanisms of bacterial competition and could have implications for understanding and combating bacterial infections. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Brasilia in Brazil focused on the common bacterial blight (CBB) in common bean fields. The researchers isolated 161 pure cultures of Xanthomonas, a type of Gram-Negative Bacteria, from symptomatic leaves. PCR analysis confirmed the presence of X. phaseoli pv. phaseoli and X. citri pv. fuscans, as well as a subset of strains that were provisionally named X. cannabis species clade. Pathogenicity was confirmed through inoculation on common bean plants, which resulted in symptoms such as leaf curling and wilting. The research concluded that the Brazilian isolates shared high identity values with strain Nyagatare, proposed as X. cannabis pv. phaseoli. This study has been peer-reviewed and published in Tropical Plant Pathology. For more information, readers can contact Marisa A. S. V. Ferreira at the University of Brasilia. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Jinzhou Medical University in China investigated the pathogen spectrum and drug resistance of bloodstream infections (BSIs) in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The study found that Gram-negative bacteria, particularly Klebsiella pneumoniae, were the primary pathogens in AML patients with BSIs. Serum albumin levels and the presence of septic shock were identified as independent risk factors for mortality within 30 days among AML patients with BSI. Additionally, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infection was associated with a poor prognosis in the study center. Early intervention for Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infection may improve patient outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of Isfahan in Iran focused on the biodegradation of amoxicillin (AMX) and co-amoxiclav (AMC) antibiotics by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia strain DF1. The researchers found that S. maltophilia strain DF1 was able to remove a significant amount of AMX and clavulanic acid, with nearly 100% removal of clavulanic acid. The study also identified optimal conditions for the biodegradation process. The findings suggest that microbial degradation of AMX and AMC by S. maltophilia DF1 could be an effective strategy for eliminating these micropollutants from aquatic environments. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for bismuth-thiol compositions and methods for treating wounds. Diabetic foot infections (DFIs) are a common complication of diabetes and can lead to lower limb amputation. Current treatments for DFIs include debridement and systemic antibiotics, but antibiotic concentrations are often sub-therapeutic. This patent describes methods for treating topical wounds, such as skin ulcers, by administering a composition containing a bismuth-thiol compound. The composition can be effective against various bacterial pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The patent also mentions the potential use of additional therapeutic agents in combination with the bismuth-thiol composition. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Pharos University in Alexandria have conducted a study on Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, an opportunistic pathogen that causes nosocomial infections. The study focused on the antibacterial and antibiofilm effects of diclofenac, an anti-inflammatory drug, and a combination of diclofenac and levofloxacin against levofloxacin-resistant isolates of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. The results showed that diclofenac demonstrated antibacterial activity against Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and the combination of diclofenac and levofloxacin exhibited synergistic effects, reducing biofilm formation and gene expression. This research suggests the potential repurposing of diclofenac to enhance the activity of levofloxacin or reverse its resistance. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Ain Shams University have published a new study on Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, a bacterium that produces L-asparaginase, an important therapeutic enzyme used in chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The study focused on the production, purification, and characterization of L-asparaginase from S. maltophilia EMCC2297. The purified enzyme showed high cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines but had low immunogenicity. The researchers concluded that this enzyme has promising characteristics and could be a valuable candidate for further research and development in cancer chemotherapy. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences in Uttar Pradesh, India, analyzed the risk factors and outcomes associated with Stenotrophomonas maltophilia bacteraemia. The study found that S. maltophilia poses a significant risk to immunocompromised individuals and is commonly found in hospital settings. The most common risk factors for bacteraemia were the presence of an indwelling catheter and co-existing pulmonary infections. The study also identified antibiotics that exhibited high susceptibility against S. maltophilia. The researchers concluded that appropriate use of empirical antibiotics and adherence to infection control measures can reduce hospital stays and mortality rates among affected patients. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Department of Pharmacy Services at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi examined the clinical outcomes of using Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMZ) to treat Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infections in critically ill patients on renal replacement therapies (RRT). The study found that TMP/SMZ, when administered at conventional doses, was associated with high rates of clinical and microbiologic failure, as well as mortality. The research concluded that larger studies are needed to confirm these findings and further investigate the pharmacokinetics of TMP/SMZ in this patient population. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from Maharshi Dayanand University in Haryana, India, explores the potential of microbial biofertilizers and biocontrol agents for sustainable agriculture. The study identified Stenotrophomonas maltophilia BCM as a potential candidate for sustainable agriculture due to its biofertilizer and biocontrol properties. This gram-negative microbe showed optimal growth conditions and stress response physiology, and it significantly increased wheat seed germination in the presence of phytopathogens and saline conditions. The researchers suggest that Stenotrophomonas maltophilia BCM could promote wheat production and ensure food security, particularly in areas where wheat consumption is high. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, focused on Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (SM) bloodstream infections (BSIs) in patients with hematologic malignancy (HM) and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The researchers developed a risk score, called StenoSCORE, to predict SM BSI and found that it accurately classified 69% of Gram-negative BSIs. They also developed a more advanced risk score, StenoSCORE2, which performed better than StenoSCORE in predicting SM BSIs. The study concluded that further clinical studies are needed to evaluate the implementation of StenoSCORE and StenoSCORE2 in improving patient outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) conducted a study to understand the prevalence and characteristics of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infections in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Western India. The study found that S. maltophilia is an emerging opportunistic pathogen associated with various clinical conditions, with respiratory tract infections and bacteremia being the most common. The majority of infections occurred in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The study also revealed a high level of susceptibility to commonly recommended drugs. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for successful management and treatment of S. maltophilia infections. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Copenhagen has found that inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be associated with an increased risk of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infection. The study, which included 22,689 outpatients with COPD in Denmark between 2010 and 2018, found that the risk of S. maltophilia infection increased with higher daily doses of ICS. High dose users had a nearly six times increased hazard compared to non-users of ICS. The researchers suggest that attempts should be made to de-escalate ICS treatment when appropriate. [Extracted from the article]

A recent systematic review conducted by researchers at China Medical University explored the epidemiology, risk factors, and antimicrobial susceptibility of two emerging opportunistic pathogens, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and Elizabethkingia anophelis. Outbreaks of these bacteria have been reported worldwide, with most associated with healthcare facilities. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, levofloxacin, and minocycline have shown good efficacy against S. maltophilia, while there is currently no consensus on the optimal treatment for E. anophelis. Further research is needed to determine the most effective use of conventional and novel antimicrobial agents against these multidrug-resistant pathogens. [Extracted from the article]