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The article discusses MS Lansdowne 436, an early medieval English manuscript held by the British Library, and argues that it consists of two distinct works which were later bound into one volume. The content of the manuscript, which contains a collection of lives of English saints and a history of English kings, kingdoms, and bishops beginning with the Anglo-Saxon period and ending in the seventh century, is examined. The author also argues that the two works were combined in the 15th century at Romsey Abbey in southern England.

Abstract: The International Observatory on End of Life Care (IOELC) was established at Lancaster University, UK, in 2003. Its aims are to provide clear and accessible research-based information about hospice and palliative care provision in the international context. Dissemination is via the Observatory web site (www.eolc-observatory.net), as well as through published articles, monographs, reports, and other media, in ways that facilitate cross-national comparative analysis and stimulate practical development. Primary research studies and reviews are undertaken to generate relevant information. We describe the methods adopted by the IOELC and the range of projects recently undertaken. In particular, we give details of the IOELC categorization of hospice and palliative care development, which can be applied at the country level to facilitate international comparison. We show how this has been used to create a “world map” of hospice and palliative care provision and indicate some of the uses to which this can be put and the ways in which it can be refined over time. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Explores the meaning of midwife, a woman attendant on childbirth. Possible source of evidence of professed midwives in Britain's Anglo Saxon period.

A survey of doctors working in two large NHS hospitals identified over 120 laboratory tests, imaging investigations and investigational procedures that they considered not to be overused. A common suggestion in this survey was that more training was required. And, this prompted the development of a list of core principles for high-quality, high-value testing. The list can be used as a framework for training and as a reference source. The core principles are: (1) Base testing practices on the best available evidence. (2) Apply the evidence on test performance with careful judgement. (3) Test efficiently. (4) Consider the value (and affordability) of a test before requesting it. (5) Be aware of the downsides and drivers of overdiagnosis. (6) Confront uncertainties. (7) Be patient-centred in your approach. (8) Consider ethical issues. (9) Be aware of normal cognitive limitations and biases when testing. (10) Follow the 'knowledge journey' when teaching and learning these core principles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]