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Caesarean section is a surgical procedure to remove the fetus through an incision in the lining of the abdomen and uterus. Cesarean delivery is performed by considering clinical signs of the mother and fetus, such as placenta previa, abnormal location of the fetus, as well as different signs that may endanger the existence of the mother or embryo. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of cesarean deliveries has increased, which is directly relative to the increase in the contamination rate of surgical wound infection (ILO). Prophylactic antibiotics are one of the prevention of surgical wound infection. The research method used is retrospective descriptive. The sampling technique in this research uses non-probability sampling, namely total sampling. The aftereffects of this review show that the use of prophylactic antibiotics in caesarean section patients, namely ceftriaxone 51.2% and cefotaxime 48.8%, the use of prophylactic antibiotics at the Cut Meutia Aceh General Hospital based on ASHP, the use of antibiotics ceftriaxone, cefotaxime, and reponem is 100% inappropriate and based on PPRA RSU Cut Meutia which is 100% compliant. The aftereffects of this study presumed that the utilization of anti-toxins based on ASHP is not appropriate and based on PPRA Cut Meutia Hospital is appropriate.

Organosulfur compounds derived from plants of the Allium genus, such as propyl‐propane‐thiosulfinate (PTS) and propyl‐propane‐thiosulfonate (PTSO), have been proposed as an alternative in antibiotic resistance. The aim of this study was to compare the activity of these substances with other antibiotics against clinical isolates of carbapenem‐resistant (CAR‐R) and carbapenem‐susceptible (CAR‐S) Gram‐negative bacteria. A total of 126 clinical isolates of CAR‐R and 155 CAR‐S bacteria were selected, including Enterobacterales, A. baumannii and P. aeruginosa. The antibiotic susceptibility of all isolates was assessed using the microdilution and Kirby–Bauer methods for PTS, PTSO, amoxicillin/clavulanate, piperacillin/tazobactam, cefotaxime, ceftazidime, cefepime, imipenem, ciprofloxacin, and amikacin. Both PTS and PTSO demonstrated in vitro bactericidal activity against CAR‐R Enterobacteriaceae and A. baumannii, with no significant difference in activity compared to their response against CAR‐S isolates. However, both compounds were less active against P. aeruginosa than against any of the other bacteria, regardless of their resistance to carbapenems. In all cases, the minimum inhibitory concentration values of PTSO were significantly lower than those of PTS. These findings offer valuable information about the potential antibacterial use of these substances, particularly against infections that currently have limited therapeutic options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CONTEXT: Pneumonia is a leading cause of death in young infants. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy of different antibiotic regimens to treat young infant pneumonia on critical clinical outcomes. DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, World Health Organization (WHO) Global Index Medicus, Cochrane Central Registry of Trials. STUDY SELECTION: We included randomized controlled trials of young infants aged 0 to 59 days with pneumonia (population) comparing the efficacy of antibiotic regimens (intervention) with alternate regimens or management (control) on clinical outcomes. DATA EXTRACTION: We extracted data and assessed risk of bias in duplicate. We used Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation to assess certainty of evidence. LIMITATIONS: Trials were heterogeneous, which precluded data pooling. RESULTS: Of 2601 publications screened, 10 randomized controlled trials were included. Seven trials were hospital-based ( 5 869) and 3 were nonhospital-based ( 5 4329). No hospital-based trials evaluated WHO-recommended first-choice regimens. One trial found the WHO-recommended second-choice antibiotic, cefotaxime, to have similar rates of treatment success as non-WHO- recommended regimens of either amoxicillin--clavulanate (RR 0.99, 95% confidence interval 0.82--1.10) or amoxicillin--clavulanate/cefotaxime (RR 1.02, 95% confidence interval 0.86--1.12). Among 3 nonhospital-based trials comparing oral amoxicillin to alternate regimens to treat isolated tachypnea among infants aged 7--59 days, there were no differences in treatment failure between amoxicillin and alternate regimens. Certainty of evidence was low or very low for all primary outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: We found limited evidence to support the superiority of any single antibiotic regimen over alternate regimens to treat young infant pneumonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modified electrodes based on gold particles, mixed-valence ruthenium oxides, and a binary system combining these components were developed for the voltammetric determination of ceftriaxone, cefotaxime, and cefoperazone. The electrode with the binary system of gold particles and mixed-valence ruthenium oxides, which exhibited the best performance, was used for the detection of cephalosporins in flow-injection analysis. Optimal conditions for the detection of cephalosporins in a flow-injection system were selected. The dependence of the analytical signal on the concentration of the compounds under consideration is linear on logarithmic coordinates over the range from 5 × 10–7 to 5 × 10–3 M. The proposed procedure was tested in the determination of cephalosporins in pharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cefotaxime is commonly used in treating bacterial infections in neonates. To characterize the pharmacokinetic process in neonates and evaluate different recommended dosing schedules of cefotaxime, a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model of cefotaxime was established in adults and scaled to neonates. A whole-body PBPK model was built in PK-SIM® software. Three elimination pathways are composed of enzymatic metabolism in the liver, passive filtration through glomerulus, and active tubular secretion mediated by renal transporters. The ontogeny information was applied to account for age-related changes in cefotaxime pharmacokinetics. The established models were verified with realistic clinical data in adults and pediatric populations. Simulations in neonates were conducted and 100 % of the dosing interval where the unbound concentration in plasma was above the minimum inhibitory concentration (f T >MIC) was selected as the target index for dosing regimen evaluation. The developed PBPK models successfully described the pharmacokinetic process of cefotaxime in adults and were scaled to the pediatric population. Good verification results were achieved in both adults' and neonates' PBPK models, indicating a good predictive performance. The optimal dosage regimen of cefotaxime was proposed according to the postnatal age (PNA) and gestational age (GA) of neonates. For preterm neonates (GA < 36 weeks), dosages of 25 mg/kg every 8 h in PNA 0–6 days and 25 mg/kg every 6 h in PNA 7–28 days were suggested. For term neonates (GA ≥ 36 weeks), dosages of 33 mg/kg every 8 h in PNA 0–6 days and 33 mg/kg every 6 h in PNA 7–28 days were recommended. Our study may provide useful experience in practicing PBPK model-informed precision dosing in the pediatric population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the interaction between Tunisian Thymus capitatus essential oil (EO) and cefotaxime against Extended-Spectrum Beta-lactamases (ESBLs) producing Klebsiella pneumoniae hospital strains. GC-MS revealed that the major component of EO was found to be carvacrol (69.28%). The EO exerts an advanced bactericidal effect against all strains. Synergy between EO and cefotaxime was obtained by combined disk diffusion and checkerboard techniques. Combined use of EO and cefotaxime reduced the MIC of imipenem by 8- to 128-fold for all strains (fractional inhibitory concentration index ˂ 0.5, synergy). The time kill curve assay confirmed the advanced activity of combinatory effects of EO and cefotaxime, with total reduce of bacterial number (CFU/mL) after 6 h of culture. Synergistic activity of the combination between EO and cefotaxime constitute an important strategy as therapeutical option to combat infections caused by ESBLs producing Klebsiella pneumoniae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capsicum annuum L. is extensively cultivated in subtropical and temperate regions globally, respectively, when grown in a medium with 8 holding significant economic importance. Despite the availability of genome sequences and editing tools, gene editing in peppers is limited by the lack of a stable regeneration and transformation method. This study assessed regeneration and transformation protocols in seven chili pepper varieties, including CM334, Zunla-1, Zhongjiao6 (ZJ6), 0818, 0819, 297, and 348, in order to enhance genetic improvement efforts. Several explants, media compositions, and hormonal combinations were systematically evaluated to optimize the in vitro regeneration process across different chili pepper varieties. The optimal concentrations for shoot formation, shoot elongation, and rooting in regeneration experiments were determined as 5 mg/L of 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) with 5 mg/L of silver nitrate (AgNO3), 0.5 mg/L of Gibberellic acid (GA3), and 1 mg/L of Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), respectively. The highest regeneration rate of 41% was observed from CM334 cotyledon explants. Transformation optimization established 300 mg/L of cefotaxime for bacterial control, with a 72-h co-cultivation period at OD600 = 0.1. This study optimizes the protocols for chili pepper regeneration and transformation, thereby contributing to genetic improvement efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood nephrotic syndrome is a common glomerular disease. Most (over 90%) of the children with nephrotic syndrome have minimal change disease wherein the remission of proteinuria is achieved in 90% with steroid treatment. While the goal of initial therapy is to maximize sustained remission, many patients experience multiple relapses during childhood, leading to significant morbidity and frequent hospital visits. The disease though treatable in majority has a chronic course with relapses for many years before complete remission. This leads to frequent hospital visits for specialist consults. All this puts a huge physical, economical and emotional burden on the caregivers. With the advent of technology in healthcare and focus on remote consultation it is important to reduce the burden of caregivers of such patients without compromising on patient treatment. We report here a case of an 18-month-old child diagnosed as Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome treated via a telemedicine platform Jiyyo Mitra E- clinic (JMEC) located 20 km from her village which is an assisted Telemedicine platform powered with AI analytics focused on providing healthcare in remote/rural areas. Its asset light model can penetrate thousands of geographies by upgrading local medical professionals, and over 1400 Pharmacists/Healthcare workers/Primary health clinics/Village doctors in 200 districts and 11 states have connected themselves with mainstream health care through e-Clinic, providing better healthcare services in their neighbourhood. This study showed how smoothly and successfully a chronic pediatric ailment is managed via such remote consultation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to detect Escherichia coli which encodes beta-lactamase Cefotaxime (blaCTX-M) gene from the reproductive tract of Bali cattle with repeat breeder cases. This research was conducted from June to August 2021 using 16 Bali cattle with repeat breeder cases. The reproductive fluids were taken using a plastic sheet gun which was inserted into a Brain Heart Infusion medium, isolated in eosin-methylene blue agar (EMB) and identified using biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility testing of E. coli was carried out using the disc diffusion method. Double-disk approximation test was used to screen the presence of E. coli which produces Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was used to detect the blaCTX-M gene of E. coli and sequences of the blaCTX-M gene were phylogenetically analyzed. The research results obtained three E. coli isolates from 16 reproductive tract fluids of Bali cattle. Antibiotic sensitivity tests showed that 100% of E. coli was resistant to penicillin G and oxytetracycline. 66.66% of E. coli was resistant to cefotaxime (CTX) and gentamicin, and 33.33% of E. coli was resistant to tetracycline. Escherichia coli isolates that were resistant to penicillin and CTX showed positive results in the double-disk approximation test. The results of E. coli detection using PCR showed that three E. coli isolates encoded the blaCTX-M gene located at 370 bp on gel electrophoresis. The results of the phylogenetic analysis showed that E. coli from the reproductive tract of Bali cattle was related to E. coli that encoded blaCTX-M-14 isolated from humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation is intended to isolate, identify, and assess the pathogenicity of Edwardsiella tarda, which originated from diseased clown knifefish. A total of 43 isolates were obtained from infected fish samples in Hau Giang and Dong Thap provinces of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Two isolates of DT37 and HG41 were identified as E. tarda by morphological, biochemical, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Experimental challenge studies revealed that isolate DT37 leads to 83.33% at a 108 CFU/ml concentration after 60 hours. Meanwhile, in isolate HG41, mortality reached 100% within 48 hours post-injection at the highest concentration of 108 CFU/ml. The challenged clown knifefish exhibited gross signs of abnormal swimming, skin ulcerations, and petechial hemorrhages in the body. Internally, ascites with hemoperitoneum, light-colored nodules on the liver, hemorrhagic kidneys, and splenomegaly were also recorded. The LD50 of two isolates, DT37 and HG41, was 4.89 x 105 and 4.07 x 105 CFU/ml, respectively. The antibiogram result showed that most of the isolates were highly susceptible to ampicillin (65%), enrofloxacin (85%), florfenicol (100%), flumequine (90%), cefotaxime (80%), and trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (70%). However, the bacterial isolates were highly resistant to doxycycline (75%) and streptomycin (100%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multidrug resistant bacterial pathogens employ different mechanisms in evading the action of antibiotics. Multidrug resistance is wide spread among strains of Escherichia coli implicated in several infections including urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, meningitis and bacteraemia. Aim/Objective: This study investigates the antibiotic resistance profile, efflux pump activity and biofilm formation ability of E. coli strains isolated from clinical samples. Methods: A total of 32 E. coli strains isolated from clinical samples were characterized and subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing using standard methods. Isolates were screened phenotypically for biofilm formation and efflux pump activity. While molecular detection of genes encoding curli fimbriae and efflux pump activity was done by PCR. Results: All 32 (100%) E. coli isolates were resistant to ceftazidime, cefuroxime, cefixime, amoxicillin-clavulanate, ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin. While 30 (93.8%) were resistant to gentamicin, 27 (84.4%) were resistant to cefepime and the least resistance of 15.6% was to imipenem. Efflux pump encoding gene tolC was detected in 13(40.6%) of the isolates, while 1(3.1%) harboured acrA gene. acrB gene was not detected in any of the isolates. Seven (21.9%) of the isolates were strong biofilm formers, while 5 (15.6%) and 20 (62.5%) were moderate and weak biofilm formers respectively. csgA gene was detected in all E. coli isolates. Discussion: High antibiotic resistance of E. coli strains observed in this study is of public health significance.. It is therefore important to scale up efforts in regular monitoring of antibiotic resistance in both community and hospital settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The emergence of the multidrug-resistant bacteria strain has become a global world crisis. This study was designed to evaluate the antibiofilm and synergistic effects of Lippia multiflora leaf extracts on the activity of cefotaxime against the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Methods: The synergistic effect of methanol and dichloromethane extracts on the bactericidal activity of cefotaxime was determined by using the antibiotic susceptibility test on agar medium. The antibiofilm activity of the extracts was measured by using the crystal violet method. The antioxidant potential of the extracts was assessed by using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and Ferric Reduction Activity Potential (FRAP) methods. The main secondary metabolites groups were analyzed by using different standard analytical tests. The total phenolics and total flavonoids were quantified spectrophotometrically. Results: The methanol extract (final concentration of 100 µg/ml) inhibited the formation of bacterial biofilm more than salicylic acid (p<0.05). All extracts combined with cefotaxime (20 µg and 200 µg) showed good synergistic bactericidal effect on S. aureus with inhibitory diameters of up to 40 mm. The methanol extract showed higher total phenolics (462.20±10.90 mg EAG/g) and total flavonoids (26.20±0.20 mg EQ/g) contents than the dichloromethane extract (96.70±1.70 mg EAG/g and 8.00±1.20 mg EQ/g). Moreover, the methanol extract showed a higher FRAP reducing power (353.6± 4.17 mmol EQ/g) than the dichloromethane extract (385.3±7.01 mmol EQ/g). Qualitative phytochemical analysis showed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, terpenes and sterols in both extracts. Conclusion: These data showed that L. multiflora leaves contain effective antibacterial phytomolecules for combating bacterial resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common infection of the pediatric age group. Several factors linked to higher prevalence include poor personal hygiene, improper sanitation, lower socioeconomic status, and malnourishment. In addition to having a worse quality of life, the 1.8 million children who live in Karachi's Korangi district are routinely exposed to such factors. Objectives: The study aims to evaluate the frequency of UTI and distribution of uropathogens along with their antimicrobial susceptibility pattern in patients presenting to a pediatric tertiary care center in the Korangi district of Karachi, Pakistan. Design: The study employed an observational cross-sectional design. Methods: The study was conducted at the Microbiology laboratory of Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology, Karachi, Pakistan from 1st January to 15th August 2023. Urine samples of patients 1 to 16 years of age were collected via midstream clean catch method and of patients from birth up to 1 year were collected in urine collection bags. The samples were cultured on Cystine Lactose Electrolyte Deficient (CLED) agar and antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer Disc Diffusion method. Results: A total of 457 urine samples were collected, of which 90 (19.7%) were positive for significant uropathogens. With a mean age of 4.6 years, majority of the culture-positive patients were female (n = 72; 80%). Enterobacterales were the most frequently isolated (n = 88; 95.6%), of which Escherichia coli was the most common (73.9%; n = 68). Citrobacter (n = 7; 7.6%), Klebsiella (n = 6; 6.5%), Serratia (n = 4; 4.3%), Proteus (n = 2; 2.2%), Salmonella (n = 2; 2.2%), and Enterobacter (n = 1; 1.1%) were among the other Enterobacterales isolated. Meropenem and imipenem were the most effective in isolates from Enterobacterales (n = 88) followed by amikacin (n = 84), ciprofloxacin (n = 75), and piperacillin-tazobactam (n = 70). Ceftriaxone and cefixime exhibited moderate susceptibility (n = 69 and 52) whereas, amoxicillin-clavulanate was the least susceptible (n = 3). Conclusion: We report high frequency of UTI in our pediatric population with uropathogens and associated antimicrobial susceptibility pattern confirming to the existing trends of pediatric UTIs in Pakistan. In addition to valuable insights for treating patients under similar conditions, our study serves as a catalyst for further multi-center research in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Intracranial empyema is a rare but serious and life-threatening infection. It is an accumulation of purulent material in the subdural or extradural space leading to development of subdural empyema or intracranial epidural abscess, respectively. The incidence of morbidity and mortality is high because the diagnosis is often unsuspected. Infections of dental origin could be responsible for such condition. Case reports: A 22-year-old female and 30-year-old male patients, both with no significant medical history, presented with subdural empyema and intracranial epidural abscess, respectively, both complicating pan-sinusitis of dental origin. Successful outcomes were achieved with surgical drainage of the lesions, antibiotic therapy, and extraction of affected teeth. Female patient underwent further management for neurological sequelae, while male patient was discharged without neurological complications. Discussion: Intracranial suppuration of odontogenic origin is an uncommon but extremely serious complication. The most common dental origins are caries with periapical involvement and periodontitis. Wisdom tooth extraction is the most common preceding dental procedure for this infection. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for the identification and treatment of suspected oral sources. Antibiotic therapy with surgical approach is the gold standard treatment. Conclusion: This sequel to odontogenic infection is quite rare, but it can be prevented by a good oral hygiene and removal of abscessed teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high-performance liquid chromatography method coupled to tandem mass spectrometry was validated in order to study the pharmacokinetics of cefotaxime in shrimp hepatopancreases and plasma, as well as its withdrawal time related to a maximum residue limit (MRL) in shrimp muscle. Pharmacokinetics parameters were investigated through oral medication at a single dose of 25 mg/kg shrimp body weight and subsequent hepatopancreas and plasma cefotaxime concentration measurements at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24 h after shrimp were fed with medication. The maximum concentration of cefotaxime was observed after one hour in the hepatopancreas (Cmax, 19.45 ± 2.10 mg/kg) and 4 h in plasma (0.184 ± 0.061 mg/L). Based on a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of cefotaxime of 4.13 mg/L against Vibrio parahaemolyticus (known to cause acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) in white leg shrimp), it was observed that the time during which the hepatopancreas cefotaxime concentration was above the MIC was 23 h. An every 24 h cefotaxime treatment could thus be effective in fighting against this bacterium in shrimp. The withdrawal time of cefotaxime was determined after shrimp were fed with medicated feed once a day and twice a day for three consecutive days. Shrimp muscle was collected on day 1 and day 3 during medication and 1, 3, 7, 14 and 21 days after medication was stopped. Considering an MRL of 50 μg/kg, the withdrawal times were 8.5 degree-days (corresponding to 6.9 h at 29.5 °C) after shrimp were fed with medicated feed once a day for 3 days and 95.5 degree-days (77.7 h at 29.5 °C) after shrimp were fed with medicated feed twice a day for 3 days. Moreover, histological analysis revealed that feeding shrimp with cefotaxime at the given dose in once- or twice-a-day treatments did not negatively impact the shrimp hepatopancreas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: According to international pediatric urinary tract infection (UTI) guidelines, selecting ampicillin/ sulbactam or amoxicillin/clavulanate is recommended as the first-line treatment for pediatric UTI. In Korea, elevated resistance to ampicillin and ampicillin/sulbactam has resulted in the widespread use of third-generation cephalosporins for treating pediatric UTIs. This study aims to compare the efficacy of piperacillin-tazobactam (TZP) and cefotaxime (CTX) as first-line treatments in hospitalized children with UTIs. Materials and Methods: The study, conducted at Jeju National University Hospital, retrospectively analyzed medical records of children hospitalized for febrile UTIs between 2014 and 2017. UTI diagnosis included unexplained fever, abnormal urinalysis, and the presence of significant uropathogens. Treatment responses, recurrence, and antimicrobial susceptibility were assessed. Results: Out of 323 patients, 220 met the inclusion criteria. Demographics and clinical characteristics were similar between TZP and CTX groups. For children aged ≥3 months, no significant differences were found in treatment responses and recurrence. Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-positive strains were associated with recurrence in those <3 months. Conclusion: In Korea, escalating resistance to empirical antibiotics has led to the adoption of broad-spectrum empirical treatment. TZP emerged as a viable alternative to CTX for hospitalized children aged ≥3 months with UTIs. Consideration of ESBL-positive strains and individualized approaches for those <3 months are crucial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Neonatal sepsis is a significant cause of neonatal mortality, particularly in developing countries, and Klebsiella pneumoniae is a significant contributor to this problem in some Egyptian hospitals. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between CTXM-15 and Klebsiella pneumoniae resistance in neonates. Results:Five hundred and nine positive samples were collected from newborns at some Egyptian hospitals between March 2019 and March 2021, and 101 isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility using VITEK® 2. The majority of the isolates were from late-onset infections and showed high levels of resistance to several antibiotics, including Ampicillin, Ampicillin/sulbactam, Ceftazidime, and Cefotaxime. The blaCTXM-15 gene was found to be highly expressed in 66% of the multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates, indicating the high level of resistance conferred by this gene. Double combination therapy was evaluated, and the combination of cefotaxime and amikacin showed the most promising results, with synergistic effects against the tested isolates. The addition of magnesium was suggested to enhance cell wall integrity, allowing cefotaxime to diffuse more easily into the cells, and the Cefotaxime-Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid combined disc and double disc synergy test confirmed the absence of metallobeta-lactamase CTXM-15. Conclusion:The study highlights the high prevalence of antibiotic resistance in K. pneumoniae isolates in neonatal sepsis in Egypt and demonstrates that the combination of cefotaxime and amikacin may be an effective treatment option for multidrug-resistant isolates with high CTXM-15 expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyocyanin is a blue-green phenazine pigment and one of the most virulent factors produced by the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It has a redox activity and a toxic impact on living cells, as it interacts with oxygen to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). Using antibiotics at a sub-lethal dose has an unexpected influence on the expression of pyocyaninproducing genes. In this study, qPCR technique was performed to identify the effect of eight antibiotics (cefotaxime, ampicillin, amoxiclav, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, chloramphenicol, kanamycin and tetracycline) on the gene expression level of pyocyanin synthetic genes in P. aeruginosa isolated from different clinical sources of a few hospitals in Mosul, Iraq using qPCR technique. It was found that when P. aeruginosa was grown in media containing cefotaxime (CTX 30 µg/mL), ampicillin (AM 25 µg/mL) or amoxiclav (AMC 30 µg/mL), up-regulated the expression of pyocyanin producing genes belonging to different operons thereby increased pyocyanin production. Overexpression occurred in (CTX) treatment in PhzA1 operon with 235.56 fold change and phzM and phzS genes with 340.14, 280.13 fold change, respectively. Lower expression levels showed in tetracycline (TE 30 µg/mL) treatment, which was a (1.44) fold change for phzA1 and a (1.64, 1.08) fold change for phzM and phzS genes. More caution should be considered when delivering antibiotics to treat P. aeruginosa infections, as using drugs that the bacteria resists or at sub-lethal concentrations may trigger up-regulation of virulence factors, aiding in the spread of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acid dissociation constants of three cephalosporin antibiotics (cefapirin, ceftiofur, and cefotaxime) were calculated by a newly developed methodology. Plane-wave DFT calculations were performed to determine the pKa values, and by choosing the appropriate cell sizes, accurate values could be calculated. Some characteristic points were found which helped us to find correlations among the structural and physic-chemical parameters, and correlation factors were defined as well. This present study can be a base for further approaches to determining acid dissociation constants of cephalosporin molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceftazidime pentahydrate (CP) and cefotaxime sodium (CS) are semisynthetic cephalosporin antibiotics and are used to treat a variety of diseases worldwide. In order to explore the efficiency of a medicinal compound, it is important to have a deep understanding of its solution and physiochemical behaviour along with its interaction with biological molecules. In this regard, the solution of two drugs i.e., ceftazidime pentahydrate (CP) and cefotaxime sodium (CS) were investigated in detail. The physicochemical properties of drugs solutions and their interaction with deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) were studied in water under varying experimental parameters. In the present study the physicochemical properties such as density, viscosity, surface tension, and conductance of aqueous solution, having various molar concentrations, of CP and CS were traced out at different temperatures. Five various concentrations (0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, and 0.3 mol dm−3) of each drug in an aqueous medium were prepared separately, and the physicochemical properties of each solution, were studied individually at temperatures such as 293, 303, 313, 323, and 333 K respectively. Most of these parameters have shown different behaviour with varying concentration of solution and temperature of the medium. In addition, these drugs showed a spontaneous surface-active and association behaviour in aqueous solutions and drug DNA solution. The flow behaviour, surface properties, volumetric behaviour and solute–solvent interaction of this drug were prominently influenced by experimental variables. UV-Visible spectroscopy was also used to study the interaction of these drugs with DNA in aqueous media in detail. Calculated values of binding constants (Kb) for all drug–DNA are positive, indicating constructive binding and interactions between the molecules. In addition the binding efficiency of ceftazidime pentahydrate was found more than that of cefotaxime sodium. The interaction of drug–DNA was not only affected by the nature of the drug but also by the drug-to-DNA ratio and nature of the medium used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mixta calida, previously known as Pantoea calida, was initially isolated from powdered infant milk in 2010. It falls within the Erwiniaceae family (class: Enterobacterales). While Mixta calida was traditionally regarded as non-pathogenic, we now present a case of Mixta calida bacteraemia and meningitis in a 5-week-old child, successfully treated with cefotaxime. This case, in contrast to prior reports with potential contamination issues, is the first to offer compelling evidence of Mixta calida's pathogenicity in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the limitations of the fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICi) in assessing antibiotic interactions. While the FICi is commonly used to determine whether antibiotic combinations have positive or negative interactions, it fails to provide information on the directionality and nature of the interaction. The article suggests using separate metrics, known as FICs, to represent the individual inhibitory concentrations of each antibiotic in the combination. By doing so, a more comprehensive understanding of how one antibiotic affects the action of another can be achieved. The article also presents a reanalysis of a dataset on the interactions between ampicillin and gentamicin in E. coli isolates, revealing that the original analysis obscured the variable effects of the antibiotics. The authors propose that this type of analysis can enhance our understanding of antibiotic interactions. The study received funding from the Swedish Research Council and the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation. [Extracted from the article]

While most detailed analyses of antibiotic resistance plasmids focus on those found in clinical isolates, less is known about the vast environmental reservoir of mobile genetic elements and the resistance and virulence factors they encode. We selectively isolated three strains of cefotaxime-resistant Escherichia coli from a wastewater-impacted coastal wetland. The cefotaxime-resistant phenotype was transmissible to a lab strain of E. coli after one hour, with frequencies as high as 10-3 transconjugants per recipient. Two of the plasmids also transferred cefotaxime resistance to Pseudomonas putida, but these were unable to back-transfer this resistance from P. putida to E. coli. In addition to the cephalosporins, E. coli transconjugants inherited resistance to at least seven distinct classes of antibiotics. Complete nucleotide sequences revealed large IncF-type plasmids with globally distributed replicon sequence types F31:A4:B1 and F18:B1:C4 carrying diverse antibiotic resistance and virulence genes. The plasmids encoded extended-spectrum β-lactamases blaCTX-M-15 or blaCTX-M-55, each associated with the insertion sequence ISEc9, although in different local arrangements. Despite similar resistance profiles, the plasmids shared only one resistance gene in common, the aminoglycoside acetyltransferase aac(3)-IIe. Plasmid accessory cargo also included virulence factors involved in iron acquisition and defense against host immunity. Despite their sequence similarities, several large-scale recombination events were detected, including rearrangements and inversions. In conclusion, selection with a single antibiotic, cefotaxime, yielded conjugative plasmids conferring multiple resistance and virulence factors. Clearly, efforts to limit the spread of antibiotic resistance and virulence among bacteria must include a greater understanding of mobile elements in the natural and human-impacted environments.

CTX-M β-lactamases are prevalent antibiotic resistance enzymes and are notable for their ability to rapidly hydrolyze the extended-spectrum cephalosporin, cefotaxime. We hypothesized that the active site sequence requirements of CTX-M-mediated hydrolysis differ between classes of β-lactam antibiotics. Accordingly, we use codon randomization, antibiotic selection, and deep sequencing to determine the CTX-M active-site residues required for hydrolysis of cefotaxime and the penicillin, ampicillin. The study reveals positions required for hydrolysis of all β-lactams, as well as residues controlling substrate specificity. Further, CTX-M enzymes poorly hydrolyze the extended-spectrum cephalosporin, ceftazidime. We further show that the sequence requirements for ceftazidime hydrolysis follow those of cefotaxime, with the exception that key active-site omega loop residues are not required, and may be detrimental, for ceftazidime hydrolysis. These results provide insights into cephalosporin hydrolysis and demonstrate that changes to the active-site omega loop are likely required for the evolution of CTX-M-mediated ceftazidime resistance.

Multiple mutations often have non-additive (epistatic) phenotypic effects. Epistasis is of fundamental biological relevance but is not well understood mechanistically. Adaptive evolution, i.e., the evolution of new biochemical activities, is rich in epistatic interactions. To better understand the principles underlying epistasis during genetic adaptation, we studied the evolution of TEM-1 β-lactamase variants exhibiting cefotaxime resistance. We report the collection of a library of 487 observed evolutionary trajectories for TEM-1 and determine the epistasis status based on cefotaxime resistance phenotype for 206 combinations of 2-3 TEM-1 mutations involving 17 positions under adaptive selective pressure. Gain-of-function (GOF) mutations are gatekeepers for adaptation. To see if GOF phenotypes can be inferred based solely on sequence data, we calculated the enrichment of GOF mutations in the different categories of epistatic pairs. Our results suggest that this is possible because GOF mutations are particularly enriched in sign and reciprocal sign epistasis, which leave a major imprint on the sequence space accessible to evolution. We also used FoldX to explore the relationship between thermodynamic stability and epistasis. We found that mutations in observed evolutionary trajectories tend to destabilize the folded structure of the protein, albeit their cumulative effects are consistently below the protein's free energy of folding. The destabilizing effect is stronger for epistatic pairs, suggesting that modest or local alterations in folding stability can modulate catalysis. Finally, we report a significant relationship between epistasis and the degree to which two protein positions are structurally and dynamically coupled, even in the absence of ligand.

The article offers information on a case study where a PICC line was not placed centrally, leading to necrotizing fasciitis in a neonate. Topics include the patient's presentation, the difficulty in PICC line placement, subsequent complications including anuria and metabolic acidosis, and the eventual treatment and outcome of the case.

Background Temocillin is a narrow spectrum β-lactam active against MDR Enterobacterales. Mechanisms of acquired resistance to temocillin are poorly understood. We analysed resistance mechanisms in clinical isolates of Escherichia coli and evaluated their impact on temocillin efficacy in vitro and in a murine peritonitis model. Methods Two sets of isogenic clinical E. coli strains were studied: a susceptible isolate (MLTEM16S) and its resistant derivative, MLTEM16R (mutation in nmpC porin gene); and temocillin-resistant derivatives of E. coli CFT073: CFT-ΔnmpC (nmpC deletion), CFTbaeS-TP and CFTbaeS-AP (two different mutations in the baeS efflux-pump gene). Fitness cost, time–kill curves and phenotypic expression of resistance were determined. Temocillin efficacy was assessed in a murine peritonitis model. Results MICs of temocillin were 16 and 64 mg/L for MLTEM16S and MLTEM16R, respectively, and 8, 128, 256 and 256 mg/L for E. coli -CFT073, CFT-ΔnmpC, CFTbaeS-TP and CFTbaeS-AP, respectively. No fitness cost of resistance was evidenced. All resistant strains showed heteroresistant profiles, except for CFTbaeS-AP, which displayed a homogeneous pattern. In vitro , temocillin was bactericidal against MLTEM16R, CFT-ΔnmpC, CFTbaeS-TP and CFTbaeS-AP at 128, 256, 512 and 512 mg/L, respectively. In vivo , temocillin was as effective as cefotaxime against MLTEM16R, CFT-ΔnmpC and CFTbaeS-TP, but inefficient against CFTbaeS-AP (100% mortality). Conclusions Heteroresistant NmpC porin alteration and active efflux modification do not influence temocillin efficacy despite high MIC values, unfavourable pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic conditions and the absence of fitness cost, whereas homogeneously expressed BaeS efflux pump alteration yielding similar MICs leads to temocillin inefficacy. MIC as sole predictor of temocillin efficacy should be used with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains harbor various allelic versions of beta lactamase genes and their identification using conventional phenotypic tests is a tedious and time consuming task. In the present study, multiplex PCR is performed for the simulatanoues detection of E. coli phylogroups and extended-spectrum β-lactamase-(ESBL) genes. Methods: A total of 128 E. coli isolates from urine samples were screened for antibiotic resistance and expression of ESBL activity using phenotypic and genotypic methods. Uniplex and multiplex PCRs were used to detect E. coli phylogroup detrminants and blaCTX-M-15, blaOXA-1 and TEM1 genes. Chi Square test of independence was employed for evaluating significant levels at P value < 0.05. Results: Phylogroup B2 was detected as the predominant group (36%) followed by group D (30%), A (25%) and B1 (9%). The highest resistance was seen against nalidixic acid (100%) and the lowest against amoxicillinclavulanic acid (55%). Significant P values were observed for resistance against cefotaxime and cefepime in the phylogroup B2 while resistance against cefoxitin, sulfamethoxazole and fosfomycin was significantly associated with group D. Combination disc diffusion test (CDDT) showed ESBL activity in 42% E. coli isolates. A significant association of blaCTX-M-15 gene was observed for phylogroup B2 (P = 0.007). Moreover, a combination genotype of blaCTX-M-15 and TEM1 was also found statistically prevalent in phylogroup B2 (P = 0.006). Conclusion: The study highlights the alarming rise in antibiotic resistance and delineates B2 a predominant phylogoup with a high prevalence of blaCTX-M-15 and TEM1 genes in urinary E. coli isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Turkish Journal of Trauma & Emergency Surgery / Ulusal Travma ve Acil Cerrahi Dergisi is the property of KARE Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: Underdosing of antibiotics is common in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). We hypothesized that in critically-ill patients with SCD receiving cefotaxime during acute chest syndrome, the continuous infusion may outperform the intermittent administration in achieving pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic targets. Design: Prospective before-after study. Settings: Intensive-care unit of a French teaching hospital and sickle cell disease referral center. Patients: Sixty consecutive episodes of severe acute chest syndrome in 58 adult patients with sickle cell disease. Interventions: Patients were treated with intermittent administration during the first period (April 2016 –April 2018) and with continuous infusion during the second period (May 2018 –August 2019). Measurements and main results: We included 60 episodes of acute chest syndrome in 58 patients (29 [25–34] years, 37/58 (64%) males). Daily dose of cefotaxime was similar between groups (59 [48–88] vs. 61 [57–64] mg/kg/day, p = 0.84). Most patients (>75%) presented a glomerular hyperfiltration with no difference between groups (p = 0.25). More patients had a cefotaxime trough level ≥2 mg/L with continuous infusion than intermittent administration: 28 (93%) vs. 5 (16%), p<0.001. The median residual concentration was higher in the continuous infusion than intermittent administration group: 10.5 [7.4–13.3] vs. 0 [0–0] mg/L, p<0.001. No infection relapse was observed in the entire cohort. Hospital length of stay was similar between groups. Conclusion: As compared to intermittent administration, continuous infusion of cefotaxime maximizes the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic parameters in patients with SCD. The clinical outcome did not differ between the two administration methods; however, the study was underpowered to detect such a difference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, preparation of azo dyes as appropriate functional azo groups. Then pointed out best chemical properties of azo dyes by Mechanism preparation of Azo dye derived from Cephalosporin (Ceftazidime and Cefotaxime) and application in Pure Pharmaceutical dosage. Also in this study, synthesized poly (AM-co-AC) hydrogel by free radical copolymerization, was utilized as an initiator for the free radical reaction in the presence of a catalyst, potassium persulfate (KPS), and N,N-methylenebis- acrylamide (MBA) as crosslinking agent. The overlay nanopolymer was diagnosed utilized techniques, like FESEM, TEM and XRD measurements, this surface have a properties could be applied for future work of water treatment. Precision, selective, rapid, sensitive, inexpensive, and accurate spectrophotometric method has been developed for the study of cefotaxime in pure pharmaceutical dosage. The oxidative coupling reaction of the cefotaxime drug with 2,4-dinitrophenyl hydrazine in potassium periodate as a chromogenic reagent in alkaline medium to preparation of azo dye form a color-stable orang product soluble in water with a maximum λmax of 580 nm for two drug (Ceftazidime and Cefotaxime). The best conditions for the estimation were established, like the effect of volume of the reagent, the order of additions, the effect of volume of sodium hydroxide, the effect of temperature, the effect of solvent, and the effect of oxidation time. That obeyed law lambert beer in linearity of the concentration (1--10 mg/L) of cefotaxime, correlation coefficient of R2 (0.9979), (0.9689) and LOD( 1.2 x 10-4 µg/ml), ( 1.4 x 10-3 µg/ml),and LOQ (9.2 x 10-4 µg/ml), LOQ (8.3 x 10-3µg/ml), for two drug (Ceftazidime and Cefotaxime) respectively. The value of recovery% was in the range of 99.16--100.7 (n = 3), which indicates the precision of the developed method. This method is useful successfully for the determination of for two drug (Ceftazidime and Cefotaxime) in pharmaceuticals (injection). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is among the common bacterial infections in pediatric patients. These infections are more common in girls over one year old. This study aimed to investigate the bacterial distribution and drug resistance status in urine cultures of pediatric patients in our center. Materials and Methods: Urine culture results of patients who were presented to the outpatient clinics or were admitted to the Sivas Cumhuriyet University hospital between January 2017 and December 2022 were included in the study. The hospital automation system, patient files, and laboratory information management system were examined retrospectively. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 22.0 software. A P-value of <0.05 was deemed significant. Results: Significant growth was observed in the urine cultures of a total of 1287 pediatric patients, 889 (69.1%) girls and 398 boys (30.9%). The patients included in the study were between the ages of 0-17, and children aged 1-6 (37.6%) were diagnosed with UTI more frequently than other ages. The most common UTI agent in the pediatric age group was Escherichia coli (56.6%). The first agent isolated in girls and boys is E.coli. Additionally, the prevalence of K. pneumoniae, P. mirabilis and K. oxytoca bacteria was higher in boys (p < 0.05). E. coli isolates showed minimal resistance to such as amikacin (0.6%), fosfomycin (1.0%), nitrofurantoin (1.4%), ertapenem (2.4%), imipenem (0.7%) and meropenem (0.9%). Conclusion: In this study, low resistance levels were detected for amikacin, fosfomycin, nitrofurantoin and carbapenem group antibiotics, which are important alternatives in the empirical treatment of UTI. On the other hand, due to the high resistance levels detected, it is thought that more caution should be exercised in the empirical use of amoxicillin-clavulanate, trimethoprimsulfamethoxazole and cefixime. If these antibiotics are to be preferred, waiting for the antibiogram results is an appropriate approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives An Escherichia coli isolate, WGS1363, showed resistance to piperacillin/tazobactam but susceptibility to cephalosporins and contained a previously unrecognized β-lactamase, CTX-M-255, as the only acquired β-lactamase. CTX-M-255 was identical to CTX-M-27 except for a G239S substitution. Here, we characterize the hydrolytic spectrum of CTX-M-255 and a previously reported β-lactamase, CTX-M-178, also containing a G239S substitution and compare it to their respective parental enzymes, CTX-M-27 and CTX-M-15. Methods All β-lactamase genes were expressed in E. coli TOP10 and MICs to representative β-lactam-antibiotics were determined. Furthermore, bla CTX-M-15,   bla CTX-M-27, bla CTX-M-178 and bla CTX-M-255 with C-terminal His-tag fusions were affinity purified for enzyme kinetic assays determining Michaelis–Menten kinetic parameters against representative β-lactam-antibiotics and IC50s of clavulanate, sulbactam, tazobactam and avibactam. Results TOP10-transformants expressing bla CTX-M-178 and bla CTX-M-255 showed resistance to penicillin/β-lactamase combinations and susceptibility to cephalothin and cefotaxime in contrast to transformants expressing bla CTX-M-15 and bla CTX-M-27. Determination of enzyme kinetic parameters showed that CTX-M-178 and CTX-M-255 both lacked hydrolytic activity against cephalosporins and showed impaired hydrolytic efficiency against penicillin antibiotics compared to their parental enzymes. Both enzymes appeared more active against piperacillin compared to benzylpenicillin and ampicillin. Compared to their parental enzymes, IC50s of β-lactamase-inhibitors were increased more than 1000-fold for CTX-M-178 and CTX-M-255. Conclusions CTX-M-178 and CTX-M-255, both containing a G239S substitution, conferred resistance to piperacillin/tazobactam and may be characterized as inhibitor-resistant CTX-M β-lactamases. Inhibitor resistance was accompanied by loss of activity against cephalosporins and monobactams. These findings add to the necessary knowledge base for predicting antibiotic susceptibility from genotypic data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Marginal failure at the resin dentin interface promotes biofilm formation, which further leads to secondary caries and hypersensitivity. This likelihood also increases if residual bacteria are present following cavity preparation. In order to achieve a proper biological seal without jeopardizing bonding, efforts were made to functionalize the adhesive system with antibacterial activity. Aim and objectives: To appraise the antibacterial activity of a total-etch adhesive system against S. mutans with and without incorporation of antibiotics Vancomycin and Cefotaxime. Materials and Method: A commercially available 5th-generation total-etch bonding agent (Te-Econorm) was used. S. mutans broth had been standardized and streaked over Muller-Hinton agar culture medium and round wells about 6 mm in diameter were made in the centre of the agar plates. Each experimental group comprised 10 samples, which include: Group 1 - 30µg Cefotaxime, Group 2-30µg Cefotaxime + Bonding agent, Group 3-30µg Vancomycin, Group 4-30µg Vancomycin + Bonding agent, Group 5- Bonding agent, and Group 6- No material. Inoculated culture plates were examined for the zone of inhibition after incubation at 37° C for 24 hours. Results: There was a significant difference in the mean diameter of zone of inhibition (p=0.000), with the maximum exhibited by Group 4, followed by Group 3 and Group 2. The least zone of inhibition was exhibited by Groups 1 and 5. The negative control showed no zone of inhibition. Conclusion: The combination of Vancomycin and bonding agent had superior antibacterial activity against S. mutans in comparison to cefotaxime and bonding agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cefotaxime (CTX) is an easily detectable antibiotic pollutant in the water environment, but little is known about its toxic effects on aquatic invertebrates, especially on the intestine. Here, we determined the oxidative stress conditions of A. sinica under CTX exposure with five concentrations (0, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1 and 1 mg/L) for 14 days. After that, we focused on changes in intestinal tissue morphology and gut microbiota in A. sinica caused by CTX exposure at 0.01 mg/L. We found malondialdehyde (MDA) was elevated in CTX treatment groups, suggesting the obvious antibiotic-induced oxidative stress. We also found CTX exposure at 0.01 mg/L decreased the villus height and muscularis thickness in gut tissue. The 16S rRNA gene analysis indicated that CTX exposure reshaped the gut microbiota diversity and community composition. Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota and Bacteroidota were the most widely represented phyla in A. sinica gut. The exposure to CTX led to the absence of Verrucomicrobia in dominant phyla and an increase in Bacteroidota abundance. At the genus level, eleven genera with an abundance greater than 0.1% exhibited statistically significant differences among groups. Furthermore, changes in gut microbiota composition were accompanied by modifications in gut microbiota functions, with an up-regulation in amino acid and drug metabolism functions and a down-regulation in xenobiotic biodegradation and lipid metabolism-related functions under CTX exposure. Overall, our study enhances our understanding of the intestinal damage and microbiota disorder caused by the cefotaxime pollutant in aquatic invertebrates, which would provide guidance for healthy aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Española de Quimioterapia is the property of Sociedad Espanola de Quimioterapia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Cefotaxime administration is recommended in doses of 3–12 g/day in adults with a Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) > 5 mL/min. This study aimed to assess the impact of renal function and obesity on cefotaxime concentrations in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. A retrospective cohort study was conducted on consecutive ICU patients receiving continuous cefotaxime infusion between 2020 and 2022 [IRBN992021/CHUSTE]. Doses were not constant; consequently, a concentration-to-dose ratio (C/D) was considered. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the relationship between cefotaxime concentrations, renal function, and obesity. A total of 70 patients, median age 61 years, were included, with no significant difference in cefotaxime concentrations between obese and non-obese patients. However, concentrations varied significantly by GFR, with underdosing prevalent in patients with normal to increased renal function and overdosing in those with severely impaired renal function. Adjustment of cefotaxime dosing according to GFR was associated with improved target attainment. Cefotaxime dosing in critically ill patients should consider renal function, with higher initial doses required in patients with normal to increased GFR and lower doses in those with severely impaired renal function. Therapeutic drug monitoring may aid in optimising dosing regimens. Prospective studies are warranted to validate these findings and inform clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Antibiotics notoriously perturb the gut microbiota. We treated healthy volunteers either with cefotaxime or ceftriaxone for 3 days, and collected in each subject 12 faecal samples up to day 90. Using untargeted and targeted phenotypic and genotypic approaches, we studied the changes in the bacterial, phage and fungal components of the microbiota as well as the metabolome and the β-lactamase activity of the stools. This allowed assessing their degrees of perturbation and resilience. Results: While only two subjects had detectable concentrations of antibiotics in their faeces, suggesting important antibiotic degradation in the gut, the intravenous treatment perturbed very significantly the bacterial and phage microbiota, as well as the composition of the metabolome. In contrast, treatment impact was relatively low on the fungal microbiota. At the end of the surveillance period, we found evidence of resilience across the gut system since most components returned to a state like the initial one, even if the structure of the bacterial microbiota changed and the dynamics of the different components over time were rarely correlated. The observed richness of the antibiotic resistance genes repertoire was significantly reduced up to day 30, while a significant increase in the relative abundance of β-lactamase encoding genes was observed up to day 10, consistent with a concomitant increase in the β-lactamase activity of the microbiota. The level of β-lactamase activity at baseline was positively associated with the resilience of the metabolome content of the stools. Conclusions: In healthy adults, antibiotics perturb many components of the microbiota, which return close to the baseline state within 30 days. These data suggest an important role of endogenous β-lactamase-producing anaerobes in protecting the functions of the microbiota by de-activating the antibiotics reaching the colon. 64G36U-BwhYzB4Dx7Xcq3U Video Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three hundred samples, including meat from the slaughtered carcass and water, air samples, and swabs from the floor, wall, and employees' hands, were collected from five municipal abattoirs spread across several Egyptian provinces. The Escherichia coli was isolated from floor swabs, meat, air, wall, hand, and water samples. Serotyping of the recovered isolates clarified the presence of various serotypes, including enterohemorrhagic serotypes (O111: H4, O128: H2, and O127: H6) and enterotoxigenic serotypes (O44: H18 and O125: H21). The isolates were resistant to cefotaxime (100%), amoxiclav (80%), then rifampin (66.7%). The stx1 gene, stx2 gene, eaeA gene, blaCMY2 gene and iss gene were detected in 10-80 % of the isolates. Nanosilver (AgNPs) showed that 12.5 ppm was the lowest concentration that prevented bacterial growth. It was observed that 12% of workers wore a clean white coat, only 24% washed their hands between activities during work, only 14% used soap for hand washing, and 42% utilized the same knife for meat and its offal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Kirkuk Journal of Science is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The global spread of antimicrobial resistance has become a prominent issue in both veterinary and public health in the 21st century. The extensive use of amoxicillin, a beta-lactam antibiotic, and consequent resistance development are particularly alarming in food-producing animals, with a focus on the swine and poultry sectors. Another beta-lactam, cefotaxime, is widely utilized in human medicine, where the escalating resistance to third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins is a major concern. The aim of this study was to simulate the development of phenotypic and genotypic resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, focusing on amoxicillin and cefotaxime. The investigation of the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of antibiotics was performed at 1×, 10×, 100×, and 1000× concentrations using the modified microbial evolution and growth arena (MEGA-plate) method. Our results indicate that amoxicillin significantly increased the MIC values of several tested antibiotics, except for oxytetracycline and florfenicol. In the case of cefotaxime, this increase was observed in all classes. A total of 44 antimicrobial resistance genes were identified in all samples. Chromosomal point mutations, particularly concerning cefotaxime, revealed numerous complex mutations, deletions, insertions, and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that were not experienced in the case of amoxicillin. The findings suggest that, regarding amoxicillin, the point mutation of the acrB gene could explain the observed MIC value increases due to the heightened activity of the acrAB-tolC efflux pump system. However, under the influence of cefotaxime, more intricate processes occurred, including complex amino acid substitutions in the ampC gene promoter region, increased enzyme production induced by amino acid substitutions and SNPs, as well as mutations in the acrR and robA repressor genes that heightened the activity of the acrAB-tolC efflux pump system. These changes may contribute to the significant MIC increases observed for all tested antibiotics. The results underscore the importance of understanding cross-resistance development between individual drugs when choosing clinical alternative drugs. The point mutations in the mdtB and emrR genes may also contribute to the increased activity of the mdtABC-tolC and emrAB-tolC pump systems against all tested antibiotics. The exceptionally high mutation rate induced by cephalosporins justifies further investigations to clarify the exact mechanism behind. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, aerosols have been recognized as a prominent medium for the transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genes. Among these, particles with a particle size of 2 μm (PM2.5) can directly penetrate the alveoli. However, the presence of antibiotic-resistant genes in aerosols from pet hospitals and the potential risks posed by antibiotic-resistant bacteria in these aerosols to humans and animals need to be investigated. In this study, cefotaxime-resistant bacteria were collected from 5 representative pet hospitals in Changchun using a Six-Stage Andersen Cascade Impactor. The distribution of bacteria in each stage was analyzed, and bacteria from stage 5 and 6 were isolated and identified. Minimal inhibitory concentrations of isolates against 12 antimicrobials were determined using broth microdilution method. Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction was employed to detect resistance genes and mobile genetic elements that could facilitate resistance spread. The results indicated that ARBs were enriched in stage 5 (1.1–2.1 μm) and stage 3 (3.3–4.7 μm) of the sampler. A total of 159 isolates were collected from stage 5 and 6. Among these isolates, the genera Enterococcus spp. (51%), Staphylococcus spp. (19%), and Bacillus spp. (14%) were the most prevalent. The isolates exhibited the highest resistance to tetracycline and the lowest resistance to cefquinome. Furthermore, 56 (73%) isolates were multidrug-resistant. Quantitative PCR revealed the expression of 165 genes in these isolates, with mobile genetic elements showing the highest expression levels. In conclusion, PM2.5 from pet hospitals harbor a significant number of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and carry mobile genetic elements, posing a potential risk for alveolar infections and the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes.