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The composition of the human microbiome has been recognized to have a substantial effect on multiple aspects of human health. Alterations in the microbiome are associated with diseases as diverse as Clostridium difficile disease, obesity, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and colon cancer, as well as an increased risk for colonization with multidrug-resistant bacteria. Noting the frequent use of antibiotic therapy and other interventions in the intensive care unit (ICU) environment, a multinational team of investigators undertook an observational study of the oral, skin, and gut microbiomes of 115 mixed ICU patients from 5 centers. The researchers analyzed samples obtained within 48 hours after admission and at either ICU discharge or day 10 o…