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The article examines the Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Program organized by Trial Innovation Network on translational science. Topics discussed include its goal to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of clinical trials and studies on innovation, excellence, and collaboration; need of leveraging the electronic health record and other existing databases; and approaches to rational study budgeting, and coordinated processes for Data Safety and Monitoring Boards.

The metabolic and cardiovascular side-effects of intravenous infusions of therapeutic doses of beta 2-adrenoceptor agonists salbutamol and rimiterol have been determined in four healthy male subjects. There were dose-related increases in plasma glucose, renin activity, serum insulin and heart rate, and significant hyperlactataemia and ketonaemia. There were dose-related decreases in plasma potassium, phosphate and corticosteroids and significant hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesaemia. The effects of equivalent molar amounts of salbutamol and rimiterol were similar. Whichever drug is used, special care is required with patients who may have abnormal glucose tolerance, potassium depletion, or be predisposed to lactic acidosis. Rimiterol may be preferable for infusion because of its short plasma half-life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]