Effects of an aged copper contamination on distribution of earthworms, reproduction and cocoon hatchability.

Contaminated soil is a problem throughout the industrialized world, and a significant proportion of these sites are polluted with heavy metals such as copper. Ecological risk assessment of contaminated sites requires ecotoxicological studies with spiked soils as well as in-situ ecological observations. Here, we report laboratory and field assessment of copper toxicity for earthworms at a Danish site (Hygum) exclusively contaminated with an increasing gradient in copper from background to highly toxic levels (>1000mgkg dry soil).

Patients referred with type 2 diabetes remain in specialist care for a long period.

Introduction: Patients with uncomplicated type 2 diabetes are usually managed in general practice. The aim of this study was to describe the duration of contact for patients referred from primary care to a diabetes outpatient clinic.

Material And Methods: The present study is a retrospective study with follow-up of at least 12 months or until discharged.