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Abstract : Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections encountered in clinical practice, and their management has become increasingly challenging due to rising antimicrobial resistance. The present study aims to analyze the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance patterns of uropathogens in patients admitted to Government General Hospital, Kadapa. This prospective study was conducted on urine samples collected from May 2024 to December 2024. The samples were processed for bacterial culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. The prevalence of different uropathogens and their resistance patterns were analyzed. A total of 307 urine samples were found positive for significant bacterial growth. Escherichia coli was the predominant isolate (51.1%), followed by Klebsiella spp. (16.3%), Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CONS) (22.8%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (2.6%), and Staphylococcus aureus (2.6%). A high prevalence of multidrug resistance (MDR) was observed among the isolates. E. coli demonstrated high resistance to ampicillin (86%), cotrimoxazole (69%), and fluoroquinolones (ciprofloxacin, 57%). Klebsiella spp. showed significant resistance to beta-lactams and fluoroquinolones. Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibited high resistance to cephalosporins and aminoglycosides but retained sensitivity to carbapenems. Staphylococcus aureus showed methicillin resistance in 62% of cases, and Candida spp. were isolated in 2.0% of cases, indicating possible fungal UTIs. The study highlights the alarming rise of antimicrobial resistance among uropathogens, limiting treatment options. Routine antimicrobial susceptibility surveillance and strict antibiotic stewardship programs are crucial to mitigating the emergence of drug-resistant infections in tertiary care settings.

Abstract : Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Despite advancements in screening and therapy, the rising incidence of CRC among younger populations highlights the need for novel prognostic markers. Mast cells (MCs), key components of the tumor microenvironment, may play a crucial role in CRC progression. This retrospective study analyzed 125 patients with histologically confirmed CRC who underwent radical tumor resection with lymph node dissection. Peritumoral stromal mast cell counts (MCCs) were evaluated using CD117 (c-Kit) immunohistochemical staining. Associations between MCCs and clinicopathological parameters—including tumor grade, stage, metastasis, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), and perineural invasion (PNI)—were statistically assessed. High stromal MCCs were significantly associated with higher histological grade, advanced tumor stage, presence of distant metastases, lymph node involvement, LVI, and PNI (p < 0.001). Moreover, increased MCCs correlated with higher mortality rates. No significant association was found between MCC and patient age, sex, or tumor location. Elevated mast cell infiltration in the peritumoral stroma is a significant independent predictor of poor prognosis in CRC. CD117-based immunohistochemical evaluation of stromal MCCs may serve as a useful adjunct for prognostication and individualized treatment planning in CRC management.

Abstract : Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a severe adverse effect of antiresorptive and antiangiogenic medications, such as bisphosphonates and denosumab. Conventional management—including conservative therapy and surgical debridement—often provides incomplete or temporary resolution. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), with osteogenic, paracrine, immunomodulatory, and angiogenic properties, have emerged as a promising regenerative option. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted up to December 2023 using the terms “MRONJ,” “mesenchymal stem cells,” “cell therapy,” and “bone regeneration.” Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials, case series, observational studies, and case reports evaluating MSC-based approaches for MRONJ management. Clinical evidence indicates that MSC therapy enhances bone regeneration, reduces lesion size, improves mucosal closure, and alleviates pain. MSCs derived from bone marrow, adipose tissue, and umbilical cord have been applied via local injection, scaffolds, and platelet concentrates, with generally favorable outcomes. However, most studies were limited by small sample sizes, methodological heterogeneity, lack of standardized protocols, and short follow-up periods. Emerging strategies, including MSC sheets and exosome-derived therapies, show additional promise, though current evidence remains preliminary. MSC therapy represents an innovative and potentially effective approach for MRONJ, offering regenerative benefits beyond conventional treatments. While early clinical findings are encouraging, further large-scale controlled trials are required to determine optimal protocols, assess long-term safety, and establish its role in routine clinical practice.

Abstract : The objectives of present study were to examine sleep patterns, the frequency of sleepiness during daytime, and to explore the relationship between sleep quality, duration, and academic performance, while also assessing the prevalence of hypertension and obesity among university students. The present cross-sectional research was conducted on 236 students from two universities in Southern and Eastern provinces of Saudi Arabia. An anonymous self-administered paper questionnaire was administered to first year through fourth year students. Statistical Analysis was performed using SPSS 26 software. Questionnaires were completed by 236 college students (98% response rate and 100% cooperation rate). Approximately 90% of the students consumed 2-3 cups of coffee daily. More than half of students (65%) obtained an average of 6-8 hours of sleep at night. Almost half (52%) felt daytime sleepiness and had an afternoon nap almost every weekday. On the other hand, sleeping for shorter duration and experiencing more disturbances were correlated with higher grade point averages (GPAs). Frequency of having troubled night sleep was significantly correlated with age (P=0.014), GPA (P<0.001), year of study (P<0.001), systolic blood pressure (P=0.012), and BMI (P=0.005). Sleep plays a vital role in academic success for students, but it's not the only factor. Other essential elements include nutrition, educational and study habits, social support, mental health, and physical activity. On the other hand, excessive use of social media and caffeine dependence can harm academic performance. Sleep quality in college students is also linked to academic performance, systolic blood pressure, and BMI.

Abstract : Indonesia’s national oil company implements a structured Health, Safety, Security, and Environmental (HSSE) management system for sustainability and risk mitigation. However, variations in compliance and effectiveness across operational units necessitate evaluation. This study assesses the HSSE performance framework to identify strengths, challenges, and areas for improvement. This study utilized secondary data obtained from the company’s annual reports. Measurements were conducted based on reported outcomes since the implementation of the company framework. The research follows a cross-sectional study design, as it analyzes data collected at a specific point in time or within a defined period to assess the implementation and performance of the framework. No experimental interventions or variable manipulations were conducted, making this study an observational assessment of the framework’s effectiveness in enhancing HSSE management within the organization. The analysis was conducted using SPSS version 16, applying both descriptive and statistical methods. Findings indicate that major incidents receive thorough investigations, while minor incidents are often overlooked, contributing to cumulative risks. Risk assessment frameworks were applied systematically, yet inconsistencies in severity interpretation were observed. While management reviews were conducted annually, their impact depended on leadership engagement. Compliance with HSSE standards was high, but a compliance-driven approach sometimes hindered proactive safety culture development. Limited cross-departmental collaboration also restricted effective knowledge transfer. The study concludes that while the HSSE framework provides a solid foundation, continuous improvements are needed. Strengthening leadership involvement, standardizing risk assessment interpretations, and fostering a proactive safety culture are crucial for long-term sustainability and safety excellence.