In a randomized trial, intensified blood pressure control targeting 24-hour blood-pressure levels in the low range of normal was associated with a substantial benefit in renal function. Medscape Medical News
Over-the-counter vitamin D supplementation improved serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in dialysis patients without raising serum calcium or phosphorus levels. Medscape Medical News
Regimen-specific genomic signatures are able to predict response to chemotherapy regimens among patients with estrogen-receptor-negative breast cancer. Medscape Medical News
Administration of blood products to stable patients post–cardiac surgery increases their risk of death, renal failure, and sepsis, according to new research. Heartwire
In 3 large cohorts, substituting brown rice or other whole grains for white rice was associated with lower risk for type 2 diabetes. Medscape Medical News
When metronidazole or vancomycin fail, the new broad-spectrum antibiotic tigecycline may be worth a try in patients with severe refractory C. difficile colitis. Journal Watch
