The Etiology of Reduced Muscle Mass with Surgical and Pharmacological Weight Loss and the Identification of Potential Countermeasures.

Obesity represents a major health crisis in the United States, significantly increasing risks for chronic diseases and generating substantial economic costs. While bariatric surgery and pharmacological interventions such as GLP-1 receptor agonists have been proven effective in achieving substantial weight loss and improving comorbid conditions, they also raise concerns about the unintended loss of fat-free mass, particularly muscle. This loss of muscle mass compromises physical functionality, quality of life, and long-term metabolic health, particularly in individuals with sarcopenic obesity or those at risk of frailty.

Vestigial human tail and occult spinal dysraphism: A case report.

Background: The presence of a human tail is a rare condition resulting from an embryonic remnant that fits the definition of a caudal appendage. It may be a vestigial (true) or a pseudotail. Both may be considered markers of underlying intraspinal abnormalities.

Machine perfusion organ preservation: Highlights from the American transplant congress 2024.

The American Transplant Congress (ATC) 2024, held in Philadelphia, serves as a vital platform for unveiling new research and clinical experience in organ machine perfusion-a key area in organ transplantation. This year's congress gathered 4652 participants from 49 countries, including top experts, to spotlight innovations in machine perfusion across various organ types, such as the liver, kidney, heart, and lung. A total of 87 abstracts on organ machine perfusion were presented.

Non-invasive telemonitoring programs for patients with chronic heart failure: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Aims: To assess whether telemonitoring improves outcomes in patients with chronic heart failure.

Methods And Results: A literature search was conducted on studies of randomized controlled trials involving non-invasive telemonitoring and heart failure using Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library. The primary outcomes were all-cause mortality, all-cause hospitalization, and hospitalization for heart failure.

Valacyclovir versus valganciclovir for cytomegalovirus prophylaxis in kidney transplant recipients: a systematic review and comparative meta-analysis.

Background: Valganciclovir (ValG) is the most widely used drug for cytomegalovirus (CMV) prophylaxis in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). However, it is associated with dose-limiting side effects and considerable costs. Some centers have identified valacyclovir (ValA) as an economically attractive alternative with a lower risk of bone marrow suppression.