Things in the library 2 June

Things being monitored...NHS Performance.

This is the 23rd report by the King's Fund and aims to take stock of what has happened over the past quarter and to assess the state of the health and care system. It provides an update on how the NHS is coping as it continues to grapple with productivity and reform challenges under continued financial pressure. Read the report here.

Ultra tough things
The BBC reports that US scientists have re-engineered a vital antibiotic in a bid to wipe out one of the world's most threatening superbugs. It fights bacteria in three different ways, making it much less likely that the bugs can dodge the attack. It is yet to be tested in animals and people, however. The Scripps Research Institute team hope the drug will be ready for use within five years if it passes more tests.

Hot and cold things..

The BBC reports that Washing hands in cold water 'as good as hot'. US scientists say they have poured cold water on the theory that washing hands with hot water kills more germs than unheated water. The small study of 20 people found using water at 15C (59F) left hands as clean as water heated to 38C (100F). The report, in the Journal of Food Protection, suggests this could help cut electricity bills in restaurants. In the UK, NHS experts say people can use cold or hot water to wash their hands. They say hands should be washed for at least 20 seconds and stress the importance of using enough soap to cover the whole surface of the hands. Their guidance focuses on rubbing hands together in various ways to make sure each surface of each hand is clean. 

Things about emergency asthma care

Joined-up solutions are needed to provide asthma care faster as EDs struggle to meet standards, according to a new audit by the Royal College of Emergency Medicine. The report published 26 May audited 14,043 children and adults with moderate and acute severe asthma presenting to 201 Emergency Departments (ED).  It shows that many EDs are finding it challenging to adhere to the time standards set by the British Thoracic Society and RCEM. It is thought that this, in part, reflects the increasing demands on EDs with higher volumes of patients with increasingly complex health needs.

Stylish things...

Style Sheffield is here! As part of Sheffield BID’s Alive After Five campaign, city centre businesses are hosting a series of stylish events from the 1st to the 8th June. Join independent boutiques and your favourite high-street brands for a week of VIP shopping,demonstrations and fashion shows. Don't worry, there are still a few tickets left so don't miss out, check out the programme of bookable, free events being held 1 - 8 June. There's a few fringe activities as well. View the programme here.

Marinated things..

This smoky roasted veg, marinated feta and lime dish looks great for summer evening meal.