Comparison of MBT biotargets with MBT steel targets for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry identifications of microorganisms in a clinical microbiology laboratory.

MALDI-TOF MS identifications of microorganisms in a clinical laboratory were investigated, comparing steel targets with MBT Biotargets. By using MBT Biotargets, the score values of yeast identifications increased, whereas the score values of Gram-negative bacteria decreased. Switching to MBT Biotargets did not negatively impact overall frequencies of high confidence identifications.

Sensitive and specific assay for the simultaneous detection of Mycoplasma genitalium and macrolide resistance-associated mutations.

Patients infected by Mycoplasma genitalium are often treated empirically with the macrolide azithromycin. Macrolide resistance is becoming quite common; empirical treatment is compromised. Sequencing was initially used to detected azithromycin resistance-associated mutations.

P2 domain profiles and shedding dynamics in prospectively monitored norovirus outbreaks.

Background: Norovirus P2 domain is commonly used to extrapolate transmission within an outbreak (OB) setting. The current definition is that transmission among cases is considered to be proven when no sequence variation is found.

Objectives: Previous studies have shown a high mutation rate and errors during replication of the norovirus genome, therefore the validity of this criterion must be evaluated.