Journal Description
Antibiotics
Antibiotics
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on all aspects of antibiotics, published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Pharmacology & Pharmacy) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 13.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
4.8 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.9 (2022)
Latest Articles
A New “Non-Traditional” Antibacterial Drug Fluorothiazinone—Clinical Research in Patients with Complicated Urinary Tract Infections
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 476; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060476 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
In order to combat resistance, it is necessary to develop antimicrobial agents that act differently from conventional antibiotics. Fluorothiazinone, 300 mg tablet (The Gamaleya National Research Center), is an original antibacterial drug based on a new small molecule T3SS and flagellum inhibitor. A
[...] Read more.
In order to combat resistance, it is necessary to develop antimicrobial agents that act differently from conventional antibiotics. Fluorothiazinone, 300 mg tablet (The Gamaleya National Research Center), is an original antibacterial drug based on a new small molecule T3SS and flagellum inhibitor. A total of 357 patients with complicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) were divided into two groups and given Fluorothiazinone 1200 mg/day or a placebo for 7 days to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the drug. Additionally, all patients were given Cefepime 2000 mg/day. Fluorothiazinone with Cefepime showed superiority over placebo/Cefepime based on the assessment of the proportion of patients with an overall outcome in the form of a cure after 21 days post-therapy (primary outcome), overall outcome in cure rates, clinical cure rates, and microbiological efficacy at the end of therapy and after 21 days post-therapy (secondary outcomes). In patients who received Fluorothiazinone, the rate of infection recurrences 53 and 83 days after the end of the therapy was lower by 18.9%, compared with patients who received placebo. Fluorothiazinone demonstrated a favorable safety profile with no serious unexpected adverse events reported. The results showed superiority of the therapy with Fluorothiazinone in combination with Cefepime compared with placebo/Cefepime in patients with cUTIs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Drug Discovery: New Theories and New Therapies)
►
Show Figures
Open AccessArticle
Triple-Antibiotic Combination Exerts Effective Activity against Mycobacterium avium subsp. hominissuis Biofilm and Airway Infection in an In Vivo Murine Model
by
Elliot M. Offman, Amy Leestemaker-Palmer, Reza Fathi, Bailey Keefe, Aida Bibliowicz, Gilead Raday and Luiz E. Bermudez
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 475; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060475 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Objectives: Slow-growing nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTMs) are highly prevalent and routinely cause opportunistic intracellular infectious disease in immunocompromised hosts. Methods: The activity of the triple combination of antibiotics, clarithromycin (CLR), rifabutin (RFB), and clofazimine (CFZ), was evaluated and compared with the activity of single
[...] Read more.
Objectives: Slow-growing nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTMs) are highly prevalent and routinely cause opportunistic intracellular infectious disease in immunocompromised hosts. Methods: The activity of the triple combination of antibiotics, clarithromycin (CLR), rifabutin (RFB), and clofazimine (CFZ), was evaluated and compared with the activity of single antibiotics as well as with double combinations in an in vitro biofilm assay and an in vivo murine model of Mycobacterium avium subsp. hominissuis (M. avium) lung infection. Results: Treatment of 1-week-old biofilms with the triple combination exerted the strongest effect of all (0.12 ± 0.5 × 107 CFU/mL) in reducing bacterial growth as compared to the untreated (5.20 ± 0.5 × 107/mL) or any other combination (≥0.75 ± 0.6 × 107/mL) by 7 days. The treatment of mice intranasally infected with M. avium with either CLR and CFZ or the triple combination provided the greatest reduction in CLR-sensitive M. avium bacterial counts in both the lung and spleen compared to any single antibiotic or remaining double combination by 4 weeks posttreatment. After 4 weeks of treatment with the triple combination, there were no resistant colonies detected in mice infected with a CLR-resistant strain. No clear relationships between treatment and spleen or lung organ weights were apparent after triple combination treatment. Conclusions: The biofilm assay data and mouse disease model efficacy results support the further investigation of the triple-antibiotic combination.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Linalool Reduces Virulence and Tolerance to Adverse Conditions of Listeria monocytogenes
by
Joel P. Dias, Fernanda C. Domingues and Susana Ferreira
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 474; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060474 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Listeria monocytogenes, a foodborne pathogen causing listeriosis, poses substantial societal, economic, and public health challenges due to its resistance, persistence, and biofilm formation in the food industry. Exploring subinhibitory concentrations of compounds to target virulence inhibition and increase susceptibility to adverse conditions
[...] Read more.
Listeria monocytogenes, a foodborne pathogen causing listeriosis, poses substantial societal, economic, and public health challenges due to its resistance, persistence, and biofilm formation in the food industry. Exploring subinhibitory concentrations of compounds to target virulence inhibition and increase susceptibility to adverse conditions presents a promising strategy to mitigate its impact of L. monocytogenes and unveils new potential applications. Thus, this study aims to explore the effect of linalool on virulence factors of L. monocytogenes and potential use in the reduction in its tolerance to stressful conditions. This action was analysed considering the use of two sub-inhibitory concentrations of linalool, 0.312 and 0.625 mg/mL. We found that even with the lowest tested concentrations, a 65% inhibition of violacein production by Chromobacterium violaceum, 55% inhibition in biofilm formation by L. monocytogenes and 62% reduction on haemolysis caused by this bacterium were observed. In addition to its impact on virulence factors, linalool diminished the tolerance to osmotic stress (up to 4.3 log reduction after 24 h with 12% NaCl), as well as to high (up to 3.8 log reduction after 15 min at 55 °C) and low temperatures (up to 4.6 log reduction after 84 days with 12% NaCl at 4 °C). Thus, this study paves the way to further investigation into the potential utilization of linalool to mitigate the threat posed by L. monocytogenes in the field of food safety and public health.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring Antimicrobial Properties and Bioactive Compounds of Edible and Medicinal Plants)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Combinations of Cannabinoids with Silver Salts or Silver Nanoparticles for Synergistic Antibiotic Effects against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
by
John Jackson, Ali Shademani, Manisha Dosanjh, Claudia Dietrich, Mark Pryjma, Dana M. Lambert and Charles J. Thompson
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 473; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060473 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Silver has been shown to improve the antibiotic effects of other drugs against both Gram- positive and -negative bacteria. In this study, we investigated the antibiotic potential of cannabidiol (CBD), cannabichromene (CBC) and cannabigerol (CBG) and their acidic counterparts (CBDA, CBCA, CBGA) against
[...] Read more.
Silver has been shown to improve the antibiotic effects of other drugs against both Gram- positive and -negative bacteria. In this study, we investigated the antibiotic potential of cannabidiol (CBD), cannabichromene (CBC) and cannabigerol (CBG) and their acidic counterparts (CBDA, CBCA, CBGA) against Gram-positive bacteria and further explored the additive or synergistic effects of silver nitrate or silver nanoparticles using 96-well plate growth assays and viability (CFUs- colony-forming units). All six cannabinoids had strong antibiotic effects against MRSA with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 2 mg/L for CBG, CBD and CBCA; 4 mg/L for CBGA; and 8 mg/L for CBC and CBDA. Using 96-well checkerboard assays, CBC, CBG and CBGA showed full or partial synergy with silver nitrate; CBC, CBDA and CBGA were fully synergistic with silver nanoparticles against MRSA. Using CFU assays, combinations of CBC, CBGA and CBG with either silver nitrate or silver nanoparticles, all at half or quarter MICs, demonstrated strong, time-dependent inhibition of bacterial growth (silver nitrate) and bactericidal effects (silver nanoparticles). These data will lead to further investigation into possible biomedical applications of specific cannabinoids in combination with silver salts or nanoparticles against drug-resistant Gram-positive bacteria.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Silver and Gold Compounds as Antibiotics, 2nd Volume)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Meropenem/Vaborbactam—A Mechanistic Review for Insight into Future Development of Combinational Therapies
by
Trae Hillyer and Woo Shik Shin
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 472; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060472 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Beta-lactam antibiotics have been a major climacteric in medicine for being the first bactericidal compound available for clinical use. They have continually been prescribed since their development in the 1940s, and their application has saved an immeasurable number of lives. With such immense
[...] Read more.
Beta-lactam antibiotics have been a major climacteric in medicine for being the first bactericidal compound available for clinical use. They have continually been prescribed since their development in the 1940s, and their application has saved an immeasurable number of lives. With such immense use, the rise in antibiotic resistance has truncated the clinical efficacy of these compounds. Nevertheless, the synergism of combinational antibiotic therapy has allowed these drugs to burgeon once again. Here, the development of meropenem with vaborbactam—a recently FDA-approved beta-lactam combinational therapy—is reviewed in terms of structure rationale, activity gamut, pharmacodynamic/pharmacokinetic properties, and toxicity to provide insight into the future development of analogous therapies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Antimicrobial Drug Discovery, 2nd Volume)
Open AccessArticle
Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Bacterial Pathogens from Patients with Ocular Surface Infections in Germany, 2020–2021: A Comparison with the Data from Three Previous National Studies
by
Esther Wohlfarth, Michael Kresken and Fabian Deuchert
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 471; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060471 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Bacteria are a major cause of superficial eye infections, especially in children. The present study aimed to (i) determine the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of ocular bacterial pathogens recovered in 20 laboratories during the period 2020–2021 and (ii) compare these results to those from
[...] Read more.
Bacteria are a major cause of superficial eye infections, especially in children. The present study aimed to (i) determine the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of ocular bacterial pathogens recovered in 20 laboratories during the period 2020–2021 and (ii) compare these results to those from three studies of the same design conducted in 2004, 2009, and 2015 in Germany. Cut-off values defined by EUCAST were used as breakpoints. A total of 1366 bacterial isolates were collected. The most frequent ocular specimens were conjunctival smears (54.3%). Susceptibility rates of Staphylococcus aureus (n = 594), Haemophilus influenzae (n = 178), and Streptococcus pneumoniae (n = 149) to chloramphenicol, gentamicin, kanamycin, neomycin, levofloxacin, ofloxacin, and oxytetracycline were >90% each. Overall, only minor changes in resistance levels were observed in the period since 2004. Therefore, all tested antimicrobials can still be recommended for local therapy of ocular surface infections.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Alcohol-Based Chlorhexidine and Potassium Sorbate Rub Strengthens the Effectiveness of Traditional Hand Scrubbing and Improves Long-Lasting Effectiveness—Evaluation of Hand Preparation Protocols According to EN 12791
by
Elena Herráiz Soria, Luis Alou, Carlos Martin-Villa, Ricardo Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo, Marta Losa-Iglesias and David Sevillano
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 470; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050470 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Despite the advantages of surgical handrub in terms of the ease of application and effectiveness, chlorhexidine (CHG)-based hand scrubbing remains the preferred method for surgical hand preparation. However, it does not systematically meet the non-inferiority requirement of the European norm (EN) 12791 with
[...] Read more.
Despite the advantages of surgical handrub in terms of the ease of application and effectiveness, chlorhexidine (CHG)-based hand scrubbing remains the preferred method for surgical hand preparation. However, it does not systematically meet the non-inferiority requirement of the European norm (EN) 12791 with respect to n-propanol (the reference product) and does not provide the sustained efficacy expected for these long-lasting agents. Commercially available alcohol-based products have also failed to demonstrate sustained efficacy according to EN 12791. Multi-step protocols enhance the efficacy of hand scrubbing, yet their extended disinfection duration might diminish their allure for healthcare professionals. In this study, we show that hand scrubbing with CHG 4% followed by a 1 min rubbing with the novel formulation of ethanol (Et) 70%/CHG 3% plus 0.3% potassium sorbate food additive (PS) meets the non-inferiority requirement and demonstrates sustained efficacy when tested according to EN 12791. The immediate and 3 h effect of this protocol was significantly higher than that of n-propanol and the homologous disinfection protocol without PS (CHG 4% hand scrub plus Et 70%/CHG 3% rub), demonstrating that the inclusion of PS confers a notable residual effect. We speculate that this non-volatile ingredient acts synergistically with CHG. This promising combination represents an alternative method for the development of new disinfection strategies.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Enhanced Efficacy of Ciprofloxacin and Tobramycin against Staphylococcus aureus When Combined with Corydalis Tuber and Berberine through Efflux Pump Inhibition
by
Yena Seo, Minjun Kim and Tae-Jong Kim
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050469 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
One way that bacteria develop antibiotic resistance is by reducing intracellular antibiotic concentrations through efflux pumps. Therefore, enhancing the efficacy of antibiotics using efflux pump inhibitors provides a way to overcome this type of resistance. Notably, an increasing number of pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus
[...] Read more.
One way that bacteria develop antibiotic resistance is by reducing intracellular antibiotic concentrations through efflux pumps. Therefore, enhancing the efficacy of antibiotics using efflux pump inhibitors provides a way to overcome this type of resistance. Notably, an increasing number of pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus strains have efflux pump genes. In this study, the extract from Corydalis ternata Nakai tuber (Corydalis Tuber) at 512 mg/L was demonstrated to have an antibiotic synergistic effect with ciprofloxacin at 2 mg/L and tobramycin at 1024 mg/L against methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid identified in Corydalis Tuber, was identified as contributing to this effect. Ethidium bromide efflux pump activity assays showed that Corydalis Tuber extract and berberine inhibited efflux, suggesting that they are efflux pump inhibitors. Molecular docking simulations suggested that berberine binds to S. aureus efflux pump proteins MepA, NorA, NorB, and SdrM. Additionally, berberine and Corydalis Tuber extract inhibit biofilm formation, which can confer antibiotic resistance. This study’s findings suggest that Corydalis Tuber, a traditional herbal medicine, and berberine, a medicinal supplement, act as S. aureus efflux pump inhibitors, synergistically increasing the efficacy of ciprofloxacin and tobramycin and showing promise as a treatment for antibiotic-resistant S. aureus infections, including MRSA.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Natural Products: Potential Antimicrobial Targets)
►▼
Show Figures
Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Emergence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae Clone with Reduced Susceptibility to Sitafloxacin in China: An In Vitro and Genomic Study
by
Meiping Ye, Linxin Yao, Xinying Lu, Fangyuan Ding, Danyang Zou, Tingli Tian, Yi Lin, Zhen Ning, Jianping Jiang and Pingyu Zhou
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 468; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050468 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Drug-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae poses an urgent threat to public health. Recently, sitafloxacin, a new-generation fluoroquinolone, has shown high in vitro activity against drug-resistant N. gonorrhoeae. However, data on its effectiveness in clinical isolates remains limited. In this study, we collected 507 N.
[...] Read more.
Drug-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae poses an urgent threat to public health. Recently, sitafloxacin, a new-generation fluoroquinolone, has shown high in vitro activity against drug-resistant N. gonorrhoeae. However, data on its effectiveness in clinical isolates remains limited. In this study, we collected 507 N. gonorrhoeae isolates from 21 hospitals in Shanghai, China, during 2020 and 2021. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed that sitafloxacin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) exhibited a bimodal distribution, ranging from <0.004 to 2 mg/L. The MIC50 and MIC90 for sitafloxacin were 0.125 mg/L and 0.5 mg/L, respectively, which are 32 and 16 times lower than those for ciprofloxacin (4 mg/L and 8 mg/L, respectively). Sitafloxacin demonstrated high in vitro activity against isolates resistant to either ceftriaxone, azithromycin, or both. Notably, among the isolates with reduced sitafloxacin susceptibility (MIC ≥ MIC90), 83.7% (36/43) were identified as sequence type (ST) 8123. Further phylogenetic analysis showed that ST8123 has evolved into two subclades, designated as subclade-I and subclade-II. A majority of the isolates (80%, 36/45) within subclade-I exhibited reduced susceptibility to sitafloxacin. In contrast, all isolates from subclade-II were found to be susceptible to sitafloxacin. Subsequent genomic investigations revealed that the GyrA-S91F, D95Y, and ParC-S87N mutations, which were exclusively found in ST8123 subclade-I, might be linked to reduced sitafloxacin susceptibility. Our study reveals that sitafloxacin is a promising antibiotic for combating drug-resistant N. gonorrhoeae. However, caution is advised in the clinical application of sitafloxacin for treating N. gonorrhoeae infections due to the emergence of a clone exhibiting reduced susceptibility.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Antimicrobial Use Survey and Detection of ESBL-Escherichia coli in Commercial and Medium-/Small-Scale Poultry Farms in Selected Districts of Zambia
by
Taona Sinyawa, Misheck Shawa, Geoffrey M. Muuka, Fusya Goma, Paul Fandamu, Joseph Yamweka Chizimu, Cynthia Sipho Khumalo, Malala Mulavu, Masuzyo Ngoma, Herman Moses Chambaro, Harvey Kakoma Kamboyi, Masahiro Kajihara, Hirofumi Sawa, Yasuhiko Suzuki, Hideaki Higashi, Geoffrey Mainda, Musso Munyeme, John Bwalya Muma, Christian Owusu Nyantakyi, Beverly Egyir and Bernard Mudenda Hang’ombeadd
Show full author list
remove
Hide full author list
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 467; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050467 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among Escherichia coli from food animals is a rising problem, and heavy antimicrobial use in poultry is a contributing factor. In Zambia, studies linking poultry-associated AMR and antibiotic use (AMU) are rare. This study aimed to investigate commercial and medium-/small-scale
[...] Read more.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among Escherichia coli from food animals is a rising problem, and heavy antimicrobial use in poultry is a contributing factor. In Zambia, studies linking poultry-associated AMR and antibiotic use (AMU) are rare. This study aimed to investigate commercial and medium-/small-scale poultry farmers’ usage of antimicrobials based on a questionnaire survey in ten districts of Zambia. In addition, the study characterized extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli isolates obtained from poultry in the same districts. Data regarding knowledge and usage of antimicrobials were collected from commercial and medium-/small-scale poultry farmers using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. At the same time, cloacal samples were collected and analyzed. One hundred and fifty E. coli isolates were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility using eight antibiotic classes. The isolates were further screened for ESBL production by streaking them on cefotaxime (CTX)-supplemented MacConkey agar, then subjecting them to sequencing on a NextSeq. The questionnaire survey showed that more medium-/small-scale than commercial poultry farmers used antimicrobials (OR = 7.70, 95% CI = 2.88–20.61) but less prescriptions (OR = 0.02, 95% CI = 0.00–0.08). Susceptibility testing revealed that resistance was highest to ampicillin (128/148, 86.5%) and tetracycline (101/136, 74.3%) and that the prevalence of multidrug resistance (MDR) (28/30, 93.3%) was high. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of eight (8/30, 26.7%) isolates with CTX Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) ≥ 4 µg/mL revealed the presence of ESBL-encoding genes blaCTX-M-14, blaCTX-M-55, and blaTEM. WGS also detected other AMR genes for quinolones, aminoglycosides, phenicols, tetracycline, macrolides, and folate-pathway antagonists. Altogether, the questionnaire survey results showed a higher proportion of AMU and lower prescription usage among medium-/small-scale farmers. In addition, our results emphasize the circulation of ESBL-producing E. coli strains with associated MDR. It is critical to educate farmers about AMR risks and to encourage responsible usage of antimicrobials. Furthermore, there is a need to strengthen regulations limiting access to antimicrobials. Finally, there is a need to establish a one health system to guide public health response.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Efficacy of Expired Antibiotics: A Real Debate in the Context of Repeated Drug Shortages
by
Benjamin Davido, Hugues Michelon, Christel Mamona, Pierre de Truchis, Karim Jaffal and Azzam Saleh-Mghir
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 466; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050466 - 19 May 2024
Abstract
This narrative review aims to discuss the main interest in and cautions associated with the use of expired antibiotics in the context of repeated shortages, notably in Europe. Articles concerning the topic of expiry dates related to antibiotic use were reviewed using keywords
[...] Read more.
This narrative review aims to discuss the main interest in and cautions associated with the use of expired antibiotics in the context of repeated shortages, notably in Europe. Articles concerning the topic of expiry dates related to antibiotic use were reviewed using keywords in the PubMed®/MEDLINE and Google Scholar databases to identify the most extensive evidence-based documentation. The present review evaluates the potential interest and efficacy of using expired drugs and their possible related adverse events. Overall, in the context of drug shortages, expiry dates could be safely extended for at least one year for most solid antibiotics (tablets or powder) used in daily clinical practice, as long as they are stored under the right conditions, in accordance with the summary of product characteristics.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Antibiotics Use and Antimicrobial Stewardship)
Open AccessArticle
Comparing the Prognostic Impacts of Delayed Administration of Appropriate Antimicrobials in Older Patients with Afebrile and Febrile Community-Onset Bacteremia
by
Shu-Chun Hsueh, Po-Lin Chen, Ching-Yu Ho, Ming-Yuan Hong, Ching-Chi Lee and Wen-Chien Ko
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 465; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050465 - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Although prompt administration of an appropriate antimicrobial therapy (AAT) is crucial for reducing mortality in the general population with community-onset bacteremia, the prognostic effects of delayed AAT in older individuals with febrile and afebrile bacteremia remain unclear. A stepwise and backward logistic regression
[...] Read more.
Although prompt administration of an appropriate antimicrobial therapy (AAT) is crucial for reducing mortality in the general population with community-onset bacteremia, the prognostic effects of delayed AAT in older individuals with febrile and afebrile bacteremia remain unclear. A stepwise and backward logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of 30-day mortality. In a 7-year multicenter cohort study involving 3424 older patients (≥65 years) with community-onset bacteremia, febrile bacteremia accounted for 27.1% (912 patients). A crucial association of afebrile bacteremia and 30-day mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 1.69; p < 0.001) was revealed using Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier curves after adjusting for the independent predictors of mortality. Moreover, each hour of delayed AAT was associated with an average increase of 0.3% (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.003; p < 0.001) and 0.2% (AOR, 1.002; p < 0.001) in the 30-day crude mortality rates among patients with afebrile and febrile bacteremia, respectively, after adjusting for the independent predictors of mortality. Similarly, further analysis based on Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier curves revealed that inappropriate empirical therapy (i.e., delayed AAT administration > 24 h) had a significant prognostic impact, with AHRs of 1.83 (p < 0.001) and 1.76 (p < 0.001) in afebrile and febrile patients, respectively, after adjusting for the independent predictors of mortality. In conclusion, among older individuals with community-onset bacteremia, the dissimilarity of the prognostic impacts of delayed AAT between afebrile and febrile presentation was evident.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Successful Antimicrobial Stewardship Approaches to Address Nosocomial Infections)
Open AccessArticle
Whooping Cough Cases Increase in Central Italy after COVID-19 Pandemic
by
Giulia Linardos, Luana Coltella, Stefania Ranno, Velia Chiara Di Maio, Luna Colagrossi, Elisabetta Pandolfi, Maria Beatrice Chiarini Testa, Leonardo Genuini, Francesca Stoppa, Matteo Di Nardo, Annalisa Grandin, Renato Cutrera, Corrado Cecchetti, Alberto Villani, Massimiliano Raponi, Paola Bernaschi, Cristina Russo, Carlo Federico Perno and Rossana Scutari
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 464; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050464 - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Pertussis continues to be a highly contagious respiratory infection, especially in children, with cyclical peaks of disease spread every three to five years. Here, we report relevant cases of B. pertussis infection between August 2023 and January 2024, and compare them with B.
[...] Read more.
Pertussis continues to be a highly contagious respiratory infection, especially in children, with cyclical peaks of disease spread every three to five years. Here, we report relevant cases of B. pertussis infection between August 2023 and January 2024, and compare them with B. pertussis prevalence in pediatric patients admitted to the Reference Italian Pediatric Hospital, located in Rome, from January 2015 to July 2023. A total of 5464 tests for B. pertussis were performed during the study period, and 6.9% were positive. At the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a sharp decrease in the presence of B. pertussis, which reappeared only in August 2023, recording five new cases. All five children presented with paroxysmal cough 5 to 10 days before admission. Four patients had other mild respiratory symptoms and moderate B. pertussis DNA levels (Ct mean: 26). Only one child, with very high B. pertussis DNA levels (Ct: 9), presented with severe respiratory failure. The patients with mild/moderate infection achieved clinical recovery while the patient with the severe manifestation died of cardiac arrest. These observations highlight the reemergence of pertussis even in vaccinated countries and its association with morbidity and mortality especially in young children. This emphasizes the importance of rapid diagnosis to immediately implement appropriate treatment and monitoring of immune status.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobial Therapy: A Shared Effort against Infectious Diseases)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Risk Factors for Therapeutic Failure and One-Year Mortality in Patients with Intramedullary Nail-Associated Infection after Trochanteric and Subtrochanteric Hip Fracture Repair
by
Bernadette Pfang, Marco A. Villegas García, Antonio Blanco García, Álvaro Auñón Rubio, Jaime Esteban and Joaquín García Cañete
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 463; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050463 - 18 May 2024
Abstract
Despite the implications of trochanteric and subtrochanteric intramedullary (IM) nail infection for patients with hip fracture, little is known about risk factors for therapeutic failure and mortality in this population. We performed a retrospective observational analysis including patients diagnosed with trochanteric and subtrochanteric
[...] Read more.
Despite the implications of trochanteric and subtrochanteric intramedullary (IM) nail infection for patients with hip fracture, little is known about risk factors for therapeutic failure and mortality in this population. We performed a retrospective observational analysis including patients diagnosed with trochanteric and subtrochanteric IM nail infection at a Spanish academic hospital during a 10-year period, with a minimum follow-up of 22 months. Of 4044 trochanteric and subtrochanteric IM nail implants, we identified 35 cases of infection during the study period (0.87%), 17 of which were chronic infections. Patients with therapeutic failure (n = 10) presented a higher average Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) (5.40 vs. 4.21, p 0.015, CI 0.26–2.13) and higher rates of polymicrobial (OR 5.70, p 0.033, CI 1.14–28.33) and multidrug-resistant (OR 7.00, p 0.027, CI 1.24–39.57) infections. Upon multivariate analysis, polymicrobial infection and the presence of multidrug-resistant pathogens were identified as independent risk factors for therapeutic failure. Implant retention was associated with an increased risk of failure in chronic infection and was found to be an independent risk factor for overall one-year mortality in the multivariate analysis. Our study highlights the importance of broad-spectrum empirical antibiotics as initial treatment of trochanteric and subtrochanteric IM nail-associated infection while awaiting microbiological results. It also provides initial evidence for the importance of implant removal in chronic IM-nail infection.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Therapy in Implant Related Orthopedic Infections)
Open AccessArticle
The Impact of Urinary Catheterization on the Antibiotic Susceptibility of ESBL-Producing Enterobacterales: A Challenging Duo
by
Ionela-Larisa Miftode, Andrei Vâță, Radu-Ștefan Miftode, Tudorița Parângă, Mihaela Cătălina Luca, Carmen Manciuc, Amalia Stefana Țimpău, Viorel Radu, Manuel Florin Roșu, Lidia Oana Stămăteanu, Daniela Leca, Dana Teodora Anton-Păduraru and Egidia Gabriela Miftode
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 462; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050462 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is currently a growing concern among healthcare providers, underscoring the importance of describing the regional susceptibility profile for common microorganisms that are associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs). This knowledge serves as the foundation for proper empirical therapeutic recommendations
[...] Read more.
Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is currently a growing concern among healthcare providers, underscoring the importance of describing the regional susceptibility profile for common microorganisms that are associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs). This knowledge serves as the foundation for proper empirical therapeutic recommendations tailored to local susceptibility patterns. Results: We found a high prevalence of ESBL-producing strains (36.9%), with Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp. being the most prevalent isolated bacteria. Among the catheterized patients, Klebsiella spp. emerged as the primary etiology, with a significant correlation between catheterization and Proteus spp. (p = 0.02) and Providencia stuartii (p < 0.0001). We observed significant correlations between urinary catheterization and older age (68.9 ± 13.7 years vs. 64.2 ± 18.1 years in non-catheterized patients, p = 0.026) and with the presence of an isolate with extensive drug resistance (p < 0.0001) or even pandrug resistance (p < 0.0001). Susceptibility rates significantly decreased for almost all the tested antibiotics during the study period. Notably, susceptibility was markedly lower among catheterized patients, with the most pronounced differences observed for carbapenems (59.6% versus 83.4%, p < 0.0001) and aminoglycosides (37.1% versus 46.9%, p = 0.0001). Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study analyzing the susceptibility profiles of 724 extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL)-producing Enterobacterales isolated from urine cultures. Our focus was on highlighting susceptibility profiles among isolates associated with urinary catheterization and assessing the shifts in the susceptibility rates over time. Conclusions: The constant rise in AMR rates among Enterobacterales presents significant challenges in treating severe infections, particularly among urinary catheterized patients. This trend leaves clinicians with limited or no effective treatment options. Consequently, the development and implementation of personalized treatment protocols are imperative to ensure efficient empirical therapies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Detection to Treatment: Navigating Urinary Tract Infections with Antibiotics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
“Primum, non nocere”: The Epidemiology of Toxigenic Clostridioides difficile Strains in the Antibiotic Era—Insights from a Prospective Study at a Regional Infectious Diseases Hospital in Eastern Europe
by
Lidia Oana Stămăteanu, Claudia Elena Pleşca, Ionela Larisa Miftode, Aida Corina Bădescu, Doina Carmen Manciuc, Mihnea Eudoxiu Hurmuzache, Manuel Florin Roșu, Radu Ștefan Miftode, Maria Obreja and Egidia Gabriela Miftode
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 461; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050461 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI), though identified nearly five decades ago, still remains a major challenge, being associated with significant mortality rates. The strains classified as hypervirulent, notably 027/NAP1/BI, have garnered substantial attention from researchers and clinicians due to their direct correlation with the
[...] Read more.
Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI), though identified nearly five decades ago, still remains a major challenge, being associated with significant mortality rates. The strains classified as hypervirulent, notably 027/NAP1/BI, have garnered substantial attention from researchers and clinicians due to their direct correlation with the severity of the disease. Our study aims to elucidate the significance of toxigenic Clostridioides difficile (CD) strains in the clinical and therapeutic aspects of managing patients diagnosed with CDI. We conducted a single-center prospective study, including patients with CDI from north-eastern Romania. We subsequently conducted molecular biology testing to ascertain the prevalence of the presumptive 027/NAP1/BI strain within aforementioned geographic region. The patients were systematically compared and assessed both clinically and biologically, employing standardized and comparative methodologies. The study enrolled fifty patients with CDI admitted between January 2020 and June 2020. Among the investigated patients, 43 (86%) exhibited infection with toxigenic CD strains positive for toxin B genes (tcdB), binary toxin genes (cdtA and cdtB), and deletion 117 in regulatory genes (tcdC), while the remaining 7 (14%) tested negative for binary toxin genes (cdtA and cdtB) and deletion 117 in tcdC. The presence of the presumptive 027/NAP1/BI strains was linked to a higher recurrence rate (35.56%, p = 0.025), cardiovascular comorbidities (65.1% vs. 14.2%, p = 0.016), and vancomycin treatment (55.8% vs. 14.3%, p = 0.049). The findings of our investigation revealed an elevated incidence of colitis attributed to presumptive 027/NAP1/BI. Despite the prevalence of the presumptive 027 strain and its associated heightened inflammation among the patients studied, no significant differences were observed regarding the clinical course or mortality outcomes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bacterial-Associated Infections: Epidemiology, Antimicrobial Resistance and Its Impact on Health)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessBrief Report
Rational Antibiotic Prescribing Is Underpinned by Dental Ethics Principles: Survey on Postgraduate and Undergraduate Dental Students’ Perceptions
by
Jelena Roganović and Milena Barać
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050460 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Background: Dentists bear the burden of responsibility for antimicrobial resistance since antibiotics are the drugs most prescribed by dentists. Often, “inappropriate” antibiotic use is considered as a “gray area” by dentists mainly due to ethical challenges associated with the clinical judgement depending on
[...] Read more.
Background: Dentists bear the burden of responsibility for antimicrobial resistance since antibiotics are the drugs most prescribed by dentists. Often, “inappropriate” antibiotic use is considered as a “gray area” by dentists mainly due to ethical challenges associated with the clinical judgement depending on patients and/or prescribers. Aim: The study aimed to assess whether and in what way dental ethical principles underpin rational antibiotic use by investigating perceptions of postgraduate and undergraduate dental students without formal knowledge of dental ethics. Method: A cross-sectional anonymous survey comprised nine close-ended questions and was conducted among dental students (n = 125). The investigated practice of appropriate antibiotic prescribing in the survey relied on the respect of three basic principles of ethics: autonomy, non-maleficence, and beneficence. Results: Results show that dental students exhibit a lack of dental ethics knowledge that results in an inappropriate antibiotic-prescribing practice: prescribing an antibiotic when it is not necessary, without examination, or for indications that are not within the competence of the dentist. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that there was a significant difference between under- and postgraduates. Conclusions: Within the pharmacology course, a review of the clinical scenarios which cover both ethical and clinical complexities regarding the appropriate use of antibiotics should be introduced as an educational approach.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Genomic Analysis of Kitasatospora setae to Explore Its Biosynthetic Potential Regarding Secondary Metabolites
by
Yutong Xue, Zhiyan Zhou, Fangjian Feng, Hang Zhao, Shuangling Tan, Jinling Li, Sitong Wu, Zhiran Ju, Shan He and Lijian Ding
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 459; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050459 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Actinomycetes have long been recognized as important sources of clinical antibiotics. However, the exploration of rare actinomycetes, despite their potential for producing bioactive molecules, has remained relatively limited compared to the extensively studied Streptomyces genus. The extensive investigation of Streptomyces species and their
[...] Read more.
Actinomycetes have long been recognized as important sources of clinical antibiotics. However, the exploration of rare actinomycetes, despite their potential for producing bioactive molecules, has remained relatively limited compared to the extensively studied Streptomyces genus. The extensive investigation of Streptomyces species and their natural products has led to a diminished probability of discovering novel bioactive compounds from this group. Consequently, our research focus has shifted towards less explored actinomycetes, beyond Streptomyces, with particular emphasis on Kitasatospora setae (K. setae). The genome of K. setae was annotated and analyzed through whole-genome sequencing using multiple bio-informatics tools, revealing an 8.6 Mbp genome with a 74.42% G + C content. AntiSMASH analysis identified 40 putative biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), approximately half of which were recessive and unknown. Additionally, metabolomic mining utilizing mass spectrometry demonstrated the potential for this rare actinomycete to generate numerous bioactive compounds such as glycosides and macrolides, with bafilomycin being the major compound produced. Collectively, genomics- and metabolomics-based techniques confirmed K. setae’s potential as a bioactive secondary metabolite producer that is worthy of further exploration.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Detection of Salmonella Pathogenicity Islands and Antimicrobial-Resistant Genes in Salmonella enterica Serovars Enteritidis and Typhimurium Isolated from Broiler Chickens
by
Tsepo Ramatla, Ntelekwane G. Khasapane, Lungile N. Mlangeni, Prudent Mokgokong, Taole Ramaili, Rendani Ndou, Jane S. Nkhebenyane, Kgaugelo Lekota and Oriel Thekisoe
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 458; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050458 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Rapid growth in commercial poultry production is one of the major sources of Salmonella infections that leads to human salmonellosis. The two main Salmonella enterica serovars associated with human salmonellosis are enteritidis and typhimurium. The aim of this study was to determine the
[...] Read more.
Rapid growth in commercial poultry production is one of the major sources of Salmonella infections that leads to human salmonellosis. The two main Salmonella enterica serovars associated with human salmonellosis are enteritidis and typhimurium. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of S. enterica serovars Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium as well as their Salmonella pathogenicity islands (SPI) and antibiotic resistance profiles in broiler chicken feces from slaughterhouses. A total of 480 fecal samples from broiler chickens that were grouped into 96 pooled samples were identified to have Salmonella spp. using the invA gene, whilst the Spy and sdfI genes were used to screen for the presence of S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium serovars, respectively, by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. The isolates were also screened for the presence of Salmonella pathogenicity islands (SPIs) using PCR. The disc diffusion assay was performed to determine the antibiotic resistance profiles of the isolates. A total of 36 isolates were confirmed as Salmonella spp. through amplification of the invA gene. Out of 36 confirmed Salmonella spp. a total of 22 isolates were classified as S. Enteritidis (n = 8) and were S. Typhimurium (n = 14) serovars. All (n = 22) S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium isolates possessed the hilA (SPI-1), ssrB (SPI-2) and pagC (SPI-11) pathogenicity islands genes. Amongst these serovars, 50% of the isolates (n = 11/22) were resistant to tetracycline and nalidixic acid. Only 22% of the isolates, S. Typhimurium (13.6%) and S. Enteritidis (9.1%) demonstrated resistance against three or more antibiotic classes. The most detected antibiotic resistance genes were tet(K), mcr-1, sulI and strA with 13 (59.1%), 9 (40.9%), 9 (40.9%) and 7 (31.8%), respectively. The findings of this study revealed that S. Typhimurium is the most prevalent serotype detected in chicken feces. To reduce the risk to human health posed by salmonellosis, a stringent public health and food safety policy is required.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Resistance and Infections in Veterinary Settings)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Pharmacovigilance Strategies to Address Resistance to Antibiotics and Inappropriate Use—A Narrative Review
by
Valcieny Sandes, Albert Figueras and Elisangela Costa Lima
Antibiotics 2024, 13(5), 457; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13050457 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
The spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global challenge. Close and continuous surveillance for quick detection of AMR can be difficult, especially in remote places. This narrative review focuses on the contributions of pharmacovigilance (PV) as an auxiliary tool for identifying and
[...] Read more.
The spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global challenge. Close and continuous surveillance for quick detection of AMR can be difficult, especially in remote places. This narrative review focuses on the contributions of pharmacovigilance (PV) as an auxiliary tool for identifying and monitoring the ineffectiveness, resistance, and inappropriate use of antibiotics (ABs). The terms “drug ineffective”, “therapeutic failure”, “drug resistance”, “pathogen resistance”, and “multidrug resistance” were found in PV databases and dictionaries, denoting ineffectiveness. These terms cover a range of problems that should be better investigated because they are useful in warning about possible causes of AMR. “Medication errors”, especially those related to dose and indication, and “Off-label use” are highlighted in the literature, suggesting inappropriate use of ABs. Hence, the included studies show that the terms of interest related to AMR and use are not only present but frequent in PV surveillance programs. This review illustrates the feasibility of using PV as a complementary tool for antimicrobial stewardship activities, especially in scenarios where other resources are scarce.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Antibiotics Use and Antimicrobial Stewardship)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Antibiotics Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Antibiotics, Antioxidants, JoF, Microbiology Research, Microorganisms
Redox in Microorganisms, 2nd Edition
Topic Editors: Michal Letek, Volker BehrendsDeadline: 31 July 2024
Topic in
Antibiotics, JPM, Pharmaceuticals, Pharmaceutics
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Modelling in Drug Discovery and Development
Topic Editors: Inaki F. Troconiz, Victor Mangas Sanjuán, Maria Garcia-Cremades MiraDeadline: 31 August 2024
Topic in
Molecules, Pharmaceutics, Antibiotics, Microorganisms, Biomolecules, Marine Drugs, Polymers, IJMS
Antimicrobial Agents and Nanomaterials
Topic Editors: Sandra Pinto, Vasco D. B. BonifácioDeadline: 30 September 2024
Topic in
Antibiotics, Biomedicines, JCM, Pharmaceuticals, Pharmaceutics
Challenges and Future Prospects of Antibacterial Therapy
Topic Editors: Kwang-sun Kim, Zehra EdisDeadline: 31 October 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Antibiotics
Effect of Antimicrobials on Fungal Biofilms
Guest Editors: José António Baptista Machado Soares, Sadri ZnaidiDeadline: 31 May 2024
Special Issue in
Antibiotics
Challenges for Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Antimicrobials
Guest Editors: Giuseppe Pipitone, Giuseppe Nunnari, Fabrizio TagliettiDeadline: 15 June 2024
Special Issue in
Antibiotics
Antimicrobial Drug Discovery: New Theories and New Therapies
Guest Editor: Ki-Young KimDeadline: 30 June 2024
Special Issue in
Antibiotics
Natural Compounds as Antimicrobial Agents, 2nd Volume
Guest Editors: Carlos M. Franco, Beatriz Vázquez BeldaDeadline: 15 July 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Antibiotics
Antimicrobial Resistance and Anti-Biofilms
Collection Editors: Ding-Qiang Chen, Yulong Tan, Ren-You Gan, Guanggang Qu, Zhenbo Xu, Junyan Liu