*4.2. MALDI-TOF MS Analysis*

MALDI-TOF MS analysis was performed to identify bacterial cultures. The taxonomic status of bacterial cultures was determined by the BactoScreen analyzer. The spectra were analyzed using the BactoScreen-ID software version 2.4. In addition, the BRUKER autoflex III smartbeam and flexcontrol 3.0 software was used. The analysis was carried out using a database containing the spectra of 3995 microorganisms. The values obtained were expressed as a logarithmic score. In particular, a score of 2.0—identification at the species level is allowed, a score in the range of 1.7 ± 2.0—identification only at the genus level, a score below 1.7—the absence of significant similarity of the obtained spectrum with any record of the database (not reliable identification). *E. coli* DH5a proteins were used as a bacterial standard.
