Periodontal health, neutrophil activity and cardiovascular health in captive chimpanzees.

Objective: To investigate the association of dental and cardiac disease in a cohort of captive chimpanzees DESIGN: 12 captive chimpanzees underwent periodontal and cardiac examinations under anaesthesia during a relocation to a new enclosure. Blood samples were taken for analysis of circulating markers of cardiac health, nutritional status and isolation of neutrophils for functional assays. They were then observed for three years for signs of heart disease.

Analysis of long-term (median 10.5 years) outcomes in children presenting with traumatic brain injury and an initial Glasgow Coma Scale score of 3 or 4.

Object: Patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) with low presenting Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores have very high morbidity and mortality rates. Neurosurgeons may be faced with difficult decisions in managing the most severely injured (GCS scores of 3 or 4) patients. The situation may be considered hopeless, with little chance of a functional recovery.

Developing a workbook to support healthcare assistants in delivering competent care.

Ensuring that healthcare assistants are competent to perform tasks delegated to them is essential. The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has developed a workbook that addresses competencies in continence (catheter care), nutrition and pressure ulcer prevention. The workbook aims to accompany clinical-based learning and help HCAs progress through the NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework.

The identification of osteoporosis in patients presenting with low-impact fracture: a pilot study of a method for identification of these patients.

Objectives: To assess the use of a portable ultrasound unit in screening for osteoporosis in older patients presenting to the Emergency Department (ED) with low-impact fractures.

Method: All patients over 65 years with a possible low-impact fracture were to be identified and screened. Full ethical approval was obtained.

Body weight change and mortality in a cohort of elderly patients recently discharged from the hospital.

Objectives: To evaluate the prognostic significance of weight change in frail elderly patients.

Design: Prospective study.

Setting: The general medical or surgical wards of a university-affiliated Department of Veterans Affairs hospital.

Where have all the bubbles gone? An ode to Hydrogen peroxide, the champagne of all wound cleaners.

Hydrogen peroxide solution can be very effective for cleaning grit filled wounds and grazes. Its use in Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments has gone out of vogue due to concerns about air emboli formation. This article discusses the truth behind these concerns and whether it is in fact safe to use hydrogen peroxide solution for wound cleaning in specific situations.