Characteristics and outcomes of patients requiring unplanned transfer from subacute to acute care.

The study aims to identify the reasons for, and outcomes from, unplanned transfers from subacute care to acute care. A retrospective patient record review of patients requiring unplanned transfer from subacute to an acute care emergency department (ED) from 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009 was undertaken. Data collected included patient demographics, clinical characteristics in preceding transfer, and on ED arrival and outcome data.

Improving patient services by alternative prescribing: experience with radioiodine treatment.

Background: Improvements in health service provision need not be costly and indeed may save money. Administration of radio iodine ((131)I) to patients with thyrotoxicosis in the UK is often delayed because few endocrinologists have appropriate Administration of Radioactive Substances Advisory Committee (ARSAC) certification. Hence referral must be made to an oncologist.

Cadmium availability to wheat grain in soils treated with sewage sludge or metal salts.

Grain Cd concentrations were determined in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grown in 1999, 2001 and 2003, at six sludge cake field experiments. Three of these sites also had comparisons with Cd availability from metal amended liquid sludge and metal salts.

The efficacy of low-dose radioactive iodine without a thionamide in the treatment of thyrotoxicosis.

Between 1999 and June 2001, 55 unselected thyrotoxic patients were prescribed 200 MBq radioactive iodine (131I). None of these patients received a thionamide such as carbimazole or propylthiouracil within two weeks of treatment or subsequently. Symptom relief was achieved using beta blockers alone.