Postgraduate medical journal
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This study aimed to investigate the relationship between visceral obesity and various disease traits, as well as to identify potential safe targets for the prevention and treatment of visceral obesity. ⋯ This study indicates visceral obesity is associated with an increased risk of diseases within various physiological systems, such as cardiovascular, respiratory, and endocrine systems. The circulatory proteome reveals eight novel biomarkers for visceral obesity intervention, with CYB5A, ENTPD6, 1433B, and HAPLN4 displaying particular potential as safe and effective drug targets.
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Evidence on the effects of sarcopenic obesity (SO) on incident chronic kidney disease (CKD) and rapid kidney function decline (RKFD) in the Chinese population is limited. This study aimed to prospectively examine the associations of SO with incident CKD and RKFD among middle-aged and older Chinese adults. ⋯ In a population-based cohort of middle-aged and older Chinese adults, SO was independently associated with elevated risks of incident CKD and RKFD, without interaction effects. These findings underscore the importance of timely intervention for SO to prevent adverse kidney outcomes. Key message What is already known on this topic? The relationship between sarcopenic obesity (SO) and the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and renal function decline has been established in Korean and Japanese individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, it is uncertain if these findings apply to other populations, particularly those without diabetes. Additionally, the influence of diabetes on these associations needs further exploration, and the link between SO and rapid kidney function decline (RKFD) remains unestablished. Evidence regarding the effects of SO on incident CKD and RKFD in the Chinese population is limited, highlighting the necessity for this study to fill these gaps in knowledge. What this study adds This study is the first to prospectively explore the association of SO with incident CKD and RKFD in middle-aged and older Chinese adults. We identified SO as a significant risk factor for increased incidence of both CKD and RKFD. These findings expand the understanding of the impact of SO beyond individuals with diabetes mellitus, indicating that SO is a universal risk factor for adverse kidney outcomes in aging populations, irrespective of demographic and health characteristics. How this study might affect research, practice, or policy This study identifies SO as an independent risk factor for incident CKD and RKFD in middle-aged and older Chinese adults. The findings suggest that SO is a modifiable risk factor for kidney health, underscoring the necessity for timely interventions to prevent adverse kidney outcomes. Given the rising prevalence of SO and kidney disease in aging populations worldwide, these results highlight the importance of incorporating SO management into public health and clinical strategies. Questions pending answer What role do specific lifestyle factors (e.g. diet, physical activity) play in mitigating or exacerbating kidney function decline in individuals with SO? Are there genetic markers that predispose individuals with SO to a higher risk of incident CKD and RKFD? What are the underlying molecular mechanisms linking SO to incident CKD and RKFD?
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This study evaluated the efficacy of adding budesonide to nebulized lidocaine in patients undergoing flexible bronchoscopy (FB) under topical anaesthesia. ⋯ In patients undergoing FB with topical anaesthesia, pre-treatment with a combination of nebulized lidocaine and budesonide is more effective than nebulized lidocaine alone. Key message What is already known on this topic? Flexible bronchoscopy (FB) with topical anaesthesia remains a common practice in many settings, although it can cause significant discomfort for patients. What this study adds? Pre-treatment with a combination of nebulized budesonide and lidocaine was more effective and safer than nebulized lidocaine alone for improving patient tolerance during FB. How this study might affect research, practice, or policy? In settings where conscious sedation is not feasible, the combined nebulization of lidocaine and budesonide may offer an optimized approach for FB, enhancing patient comfort and procedural efficiency.
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Engaging in research during medical training is crucial for fostering critical thinking, enhancing clinical skills, and deepening understanding of medical science. Despite its importance, the shortage of physician-scientists lingers with many trainees and junior doctors encountering challenges navigating the research process. ⋯ The strategies include early planning, research conduct and integrity, productivity and time management, collaboration and dissemination, and personal growth and development. By implementing these evidence-based recommendations, derived from current literature and expert insights, medical trainees can refine their research skills, produce high-quality outputs, and contribute meaningfully to the scientific community, ultimately enriching their medical training and future careers.