This study examined the mutation status of the K-ras gene in colorectal tumors from patients who were enrolled in a trial of cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody against the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). A survival benefit was found among patients with tumors bearing wild-type K-ras but not among patients with tumors bearing mutated K-ras. Wild-type K-ras is essential in transmitting signals initiated by EGFR.

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a central aspect of the innate immune response. Different TLRs are associated with the immune response to different infectious pathogens. In this retrospective analysis, an increased susceptibility to invasive aspergillosis was associated with certain polymorphisms in donor TLR4 in patients who received an allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplant from an unrelated donor.

In patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation and heart failure, pulmonary-vein isolation was found to be superior to atrioventricular-node ablation with biventricular pacing. Isolation of the pulmonary veins by means of ablation is a viable option for patients with refractory atrial fibrillation and heart failure.

In this randomized, phase 2 trial involving previously untreated patients with early, relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis, alemtuzumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting CD52 on lymphocytes and monocytes, was more effective than interferon beta-1a in reducing the progression of disability and relapse. Alemtuzumab caused autoimmune complications, including immune thrombocytopenic purpura (resulting in one death) and thyroid disorders.

A program requiring prior authorization for the use of clopidogrel was in place in Canada in 2000. After the prior-authorization requirement was removed in September 2003, the use of clopidogrel in patients receiving coronary stents after myocardial infarction increased substantially and clinical outcomes improved.

This review summarizes relevant studies concerning uric acid and possible links to hypertension, renal disease, and cardiovascular disease. Whether uric acid is an independent risk factor for such diseases is still a point of debate. Current evidence is presented.

A 63-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital because of a 3-week history of dyspnea on exertion, associated left subscapular burning pain, and a mild dry cough. She had a history of ulcerative colitis, which was most recently treated with azathioprine and infliximab. On examination, there were inspiratory wheezes and rales, without expiratory wheezes. Chest imaging showed ground-glass opacities in both lower lobes. A diagnostic procedure was performed.

Mice treated with an agonist of the AMP-activated protein kinase showed an increase in endurance as compared with exercise-trained controls.