Things in the library 25 May...

Things you might not see again...
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Things about Dept of Health...

The Department of Health and Social Care has set out its objectives and how it will deliver them. The full report can be read here. Their objectives are:

• Keep people healthy and support economic productivity and sustainable public services
• Transform primary, community and social care to keep people living more independent, healthier lives for longer in their community
• Support the NHS to deliver high quality, safe and sustainable hospital care and secure the right workforce
• Support research and innovation to maximise health and economic productivity
• Ensure accountability of the health and care system to Parliament and the taxpayer; and create an efficient and effective DHSC
• Create value (reduced costs and growing income) by promoting better awareness and adoption of good commercial practice across the DHSC and our arm’s length bodies

Things about health and greenspace...

The Department of Landscape and Improving Wellbeing through Urban Nature (IWUN) project invites you to the fifth seminar of the 2017/18 'Health in Place' seminar series. In the fifth of this series of seminars, Dr Paul Brindley IWUN, University of Sheffield discusses the relationship between urban greenspace and general health. The seminar will take place:

Date: Tuesday 12 June 2018

Time: 4pm-5pm

Venue: ICOSS Conference room, University of Sheffield, S1 4DP

Book your place

There has been a growing body of research exploring the health benefits of greenspace. Most, however, treat all urban greenspaces as the same and does not explore distinctions between types of greenspace. In our presentation they will explore the health benefits associated with (1) domestic gardens; (2) landscape metrics (measures that quantify specific spatial characteristics of areas of land, i.e. exploring the configuration of space); (3) trees and areas of woodland; and (4) the differing 'quality' of publicly accessible urban greenspace. Their work includes innovative techniques to explore the potential of quality measures extracted from social media (including Twitter and Flickr data).

Things about Quality...

The BMJ in partnership with and funded by The Health Foundation are launching a joint series of papers exploring how to improve the quality of healthcare delivery. The series aims to discuss the evidence for systematic quality improvement, provide knowledge and support to clinicians and ultimately to help improve care for patients.

Things about physical & mental health...

A new collaborative to support the physical health of people with a mental illness is being created following models in New Zealand & Australia. The Centre for Mental Health, Kaleidoscope and Rethink Mental Illness are working together with support from the Royal College of GPs and the Royal College of Psychiatrists to create an Equally Well collaborative here in the UK. They want to bring together health and care providers, commissioners, professional bodies, service user and carer organisations, charities and many more, working nationally or locally, to form a collaborative in the UK to bring about equal physical health for people with a mental illness.

They plan in their first year to:

• Co-produce a Charter for Equal Health, setting out the shared principles, aims and objectives of Equally Well in the UK
• Develop a web resource to provide up-to-date information, briefings and case studies
• Bring together organisations that become part of Equally Well for a national event to share good practice and agree priorities for the future

Things about patient information...

The Patient Information Forum are  holding an event on the Perfect Patient Information Journey on Thursday 28 June 2018 in London. Draft agenda for the day and the link for booking.This event will include the launch of the final report of their Perfect Patient Information Journey project. 

Things about obesity...

An meta-analysis and systematic review in 'Obesity Reviews' was published this week which looks at 'Maintenance interventions for overweight or obesity in children'. In summary, this review shows that, although there is limited quality data to recommend one maintenance intervention over another, continued treatment does have a stabilizing effect on BMI-Z-score. Considering the magnitude of the problem of childhood obesity, this is an important finding that highlights the need for further research on weight loss maintenance.

Things about opening hours...

Next week we will be closed on the bank holiday Monday and then closing at 5pm the rest of the week due to staff annual leave. Mine will be spent working on the nearly finished extension and so will soon be able to return to 'proper' cooking!

Things to eat...

I am looking forward to being able to cook pieces of meat that are bigger than my microwave so this Greek roast lamb is likely to make an appearance before too long. Perfect with a green salad and feta cheese.

Things in the library 18 May...

Things about journal club...
Tuesday 22 May 1 - 2pm Venue: Education and Skills Centre, F Floor, Grey Lifts.
Paper: "Preschool children who are frequent attenders in emergency departments: an observational study of associated demographics and clinical characteristics."
Journal Club is open to all health professionals and is a fun, informal way of learning to criticise papers and gather evidence to change practice. At each meeting a speaker presents a critical appraisal of a research paper, using a recognised appraisal tool such as CASP.Group members then have an informal discussion to determine whether or not current practice should be altered in light of the presenter's findings...there are drinks & muffins too!

Things about bullying...
The Journal of Medical Internet Research recently published  a study which aims  to systematically review the current evidence examining the association between cyberbullying involvement as victim or perpetrator and self-harm and suicidal behaviors in children and young people (younger than 25 years), and where possible, to meta-analyze data on the associations. 


Things about obesity...
The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Obesity launched its inquiry findings 'The current landscape of obesity services' on 15th May 2018. 
Key findings of the report: 

• 88% of people with obesity who took part in the survey have been stigmatised, criticised or abused as a result of their obesity.
• 94% of all respondents believe that there is not enough understanding about the causes of obesity amongst the public, politicians and other stakeholders.
• 42% of people with obesity did not feel comfortable talking to their GP about their obesity.
• More than one third of people with obesity who completed the survey stated that they have not accessed any lifestyle or prevention services. 

The report makes a number of recommendations, including: 

• A national obesity strategy for both adult and childhood obesity should be developed and implemented by the Government, with input from key stakeholders. This should look to strengthen existing services and replicate best practice across the country.
• Obesity/weight management training should be introduced into medical school syllabuses to ensure GPs and other healthcare practitioners feel able and comfortable to raise and discuss a person’s weight, without any stigma or discrimination.
• The Government should implement a 9pm watershed on advertising of food and drinks high in fat, sugar and salt to protect children during family viewing time.
• The Government should lead or support efforts by the clinical community to investigate whether obesity should be classified as a disease in the UK, and what this would mean for the NHS and other services.
• The Government should commission or support the development of a thorough, peer-reviewed cost benefit analysis of earlier intervention and treatment of people with obesity.

Things about FGM...

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has published a clinical handbook on the 'Care of girls and women living with female genital mutilation (FGM)'. The Handbook offers advice on how to: communicate effectively and sensitively with girls who have developed health issues due to FGM; work with patients and families to prevent the practice of FGM; and identify when and where to refer patients who need additional support and care.

Things not about 'that' wedding...

It's very gratifying that the whole country is helping me celebrate my wedding anniversary tomorrow...but if you want a more useful type of bunting have a go at these bunting biscuits!

Things in the library 11 May...

Things without plastic...
The University of Sheffield Student Union (just down the road) has opened a ground-breaking new shop dedicated to waste-free goods. The Zero Waste Shop sells a huge variety of herbs, spices, nuts, cereals and grains along with household goods, all of which are free from plastic packaging. The outlet also stocks a range of sustainable everyday products including recycled kitchen roll, biodegradable refuse sacks and bamboo cutlery and kitchenware. There is also a refill station where you can fill up bottles with household essentials including soap, laundry detergent and surface cleaner. Cheaper and better for the environment, refilling is a great alternative to buying a new plastic bottle every time you run out of these items. Products are sold by weight, so you can buy as much or as little as you need. Take your own container, pick up a recyclable paper bag, or invest in a reusable jar or lunchbox from the wide range on offer in the shop. We are all welcome to use it - not just for University staff or students.

Things about obesity...
2020health’s third report on obesity since 2014 highlights that strong and mandated central policy, supporting bold, holistic local action, is still needed to impact what is arguably the greatest health challenge of the 21st century. Tackling obesity - What the UK can learn from other countries (Matt James, Dr Aaron Parkhurst and Jon Paxman) examines topical obesity intervention strategies from around the world to frame the question: can the UK learn from policy abroad?



Things about news items...
In the news last week was a report stating that bath oils for childhood eczema provide 'no clinical benefit'. When you hear items like this and want to know what the article referred to really said and see an appraisal of the research then go to the NHS behind the headlines site. Where the following points will be covered.

• Where did the story come from?
• What kind of research was this?
• What did the research involve?
• What were the basic results?
• How did the researchers interpret the results?
• Conclusion

Things across the road...

Take a step back in time and come along to Weston Park May Fayre on Sunday 20th May for a wonderful nostalgic day out with all of your family! Enjoy live traditional and contemporary music from the restored Victorian bandstand. The event is free and there will be lots of attractions and entertainment between 11am and 5pm to suit all of the family including: Carousel, Helter-Skelter and Children’s Rides, Artisan Crafts Marquee, Classic and Vintage Cars, Victorian Characters, Children’s Art and Craft Activities, Food and Refreshment Stalls and much more…

Things to top your toast...

Here are six toast toppings for spring brunch eating and none takes more than 10 minutes to make. 

Things in the library 4th May...

Things about robots...
Nesta has published Confronting Dr Robot: creating a people-powered future for AI in health.  This report explores how artificial intelligence (AI) might be used in the UK, how AI-enabled healthcare might look and feel and suggests what can be done to maximise benefits and minimise harm.  The report argues there is currently a window of opportunity to put in place measures that ensure the technology develops into 'People Powered AI'; supporting care that is simple, gives patients control, is centred around an equal dialogue, is accountable and equitable.



Things about obesity...
An article in Obesity Reviews discusses "Effects of multidisciplinary interventions on weight loss and health outcomes in children and adolescents with morbid obesity." The influence of age, gender and family participation on health outcomes and intensive treatment alternatives are explored. They conclude that there is not a 'one-size-fits-all' treatment approach, and matched care to personal needs is preferable. The integration of a chronic care approach is critical for the successful adaption of sustainable health behaviours.

Things to be reading...
Our next reading group will be on Wednesday 6th June at 17:15. We will be discussing 'The Museum of Extraordinary Things' by Alice Hoffman.

Coralie Sardie is the daughter of the impresario behind The Museum of Extraordinary Things, a Coney Island boardwalk freak show that amazes and stimulates the crowds. An exceptional swimmer, Coralie appears as the Mermaid in her father's “museum,” alongside performers like the Wolfman, the Butterfly Girl, and a one-hundred-year-old turtle. One night Coralie stumbles upon a striking young man photographing moonlit trees in the woods off the Hudson River.

Everyone welcome (whether you've read the book or not!) Come and join our informal discussion. Refreshments will be served.

Things to attend...


The next Journal club will be on Thursday 10th May 8.00 am - 9.00 am, in the Education and Skills Centre, F Floor, Stephenson Wing. The paper can be requested from the library.
Paper:​ Motivational Interviewing and Dietary Counseling for Obesity in Primary Care: An RCT 
Journal Club is open to all health professionals and is a fun, informal way of learning to criticize papers and gather evidence to change practice. At each meeting a speaker presents a critical appraisal of a research paper, using a recognised appraisal tool such as CASP. Group members then have an informal discussion to determine whether or not current practice should be altered in light of the presenter's findings.  Muffins and drinks provided.

Things to ponder...
A couple of editorials you might like to read in Acta Paediatrica "Identifying the cause and preventing childhood deaths"   and  "Promoting short-term and long-term health: keep the growth track!" 





Things about Literacy and life expectancy...

The National Literacy Trust has produced an evidence review exploring the link between literacy and life expectancy in England through health and socioeconomic factors. This report explores existing research from a wide range of sources, including longitudinal data and analysis, academic journals, and domestic and international surveys, to establish the depth of the relationship between literacy and life expectancy.
The report found that children born into communities with the most serious literacy challenges have some of the lowest life expectancies in England:

A boy born in Stockton Town Centre (which has some of the most serious literacy challenges in the country) has a life expectancy 26.1 years shorter than a boy born in North Oxford (which has some of the fewest literacy challenges)

A girl born in Queensgate, Burnley (which has some of the most serious literacy challenges in the country), has a life expectancy 20.9 years shorter than a girl born in Mayfield, Wealdon (which has some of the fewest literacy challenges)

They conclude: This report demonstrates the extreme gravity of local inequality and makes the challenge to close the literacy gap between communities. By closing gaps in education, employment and health at a local level, we can ensure that every child has the chance to live a happy, healthy, successful and long life, regardless of their background.

Things about offenders...
Barnardo’s has launched a new website National Information Centre on Children of Offenders (NICCO), which replaces i-HOP. The website provides resources, information on services, policy developments, events, training opportunities and practice models to professionals who come into contact with the children and families of offenders in England and Wales, as well as academics and those responsible for strategic development and commissioning.

Things for the Bank Holiday...
The weather is forecast to be good for this weekend so if you fancy getting out into the countryside there are plenty of activities to choose from at  National Trust  and Peak District National Park 

Things to eat...
So for a nice summer starter or even for a picnic these goat's cheese and shallot tarts sound perfect.

If you are not working have a lovely weekend and Bank Holiday and remember we will be closed on Monday.