Phase II study of tight glycaemic control in COPD patients with exacerbations admitted to the acute medical unit.

Background: Hyperglycaemia is associated with poor outcomes from exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Glycaemic control could improve outcomes by reducing infection, inflammation and myopathy. Most patients with COPD are managed on the acute medical unit (AMU) outside intensive care (ICU).

The role of insulin receptor substrate 2 in hypothalamic and beta cell function.

Insulin receptor substrate 2 (Irs2) plays complex roles in energy homeostasis. We generated mice lacking Irs2 in beta cells and a population of hypothalamic neurons (RIPCreIrs2KO), in all neurons (NesCreIrs2KO), and in proopiomelanocortin neurons (POMCCreIrs2KO) to determine the role of Irs2 in the CNS and beta cell. RIPCreIrs2KO mice displayed impaired glucose tolerance and reduced beta cell mass.

Why German doctors enjoy British medicine.

Why do substantial numbers of German doctors come to work in the UK? Nearly 5,000 positions are vacant in Germany, yet around 350 new General Medical Council registrations are granted annually to these doctors. The UK is an attractive place to work due to opportunities for structured professional training, improved conditions and pay since the 'New Deal', and to the experience of living in a foreign country. This article compares and contrasts elements that affect a hospital doctor's working life in both health services, highlighting the strengths of the NHS that are easily overlooked in the current highly critical climate.