Carbon nanotubes functionalized by NO2: coexistence of charge transfer and radical transfer.

The adsorption of NO(2) molecules on a series of zigzag (n,0) single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) (n = 6-12) have been investigated by first-principles methods. The results indicate that the tube diameter and the concentration of NO(2) gas determine the interactions between NO(2) molecules and the tube. The chemisorption of a single NO(2) is only possible for the tube with a small diameter (n < 10), while the second NO(2) molecule can be chemisorbed for all tubes studied here.

[Continuous versus intermittent cefepime infusion in critical care. Preliminary results].

The bactericidal activity of beta-lactams is time-dependent, and the time spent above the MIC (T > MIC) is the best predictor of efficacy. A prospective, randomized, open-label study was conducted in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with gram-negative rod infections to compare the efficacy of cefepime given as a continuous versus an intermittent infusion. Of the 18 patients included to date, 14 had severe pneumonia and four bacteremia.

[Severe methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections. Emergence of resistance to fusidic acid or fosfomycin during treatment with continuous infusion of vancomycin].

Objectives: To evaluate the development of resistance to fosfomycin or fucidic acid in severe infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and to assess the relationship with serum levels of vancomycin

Methods: A retrospective study was performed in patients hospitalized in our intensive care unit during a 3-year period (1993-1995) who were treated for severe MRSA infection with continuous infusion vacomycin and fosfomycin or fucidic acid. We analyzed the development of resistance and serum levels of vancomycin.

Results: During this period, only 20 patients received continuous infusion vancomycin plus fucidic acid or fosfomycin.