The European nanometrology landscape.

This review paper summarizes the European nanometrology landscape from a technical perspective. Dimensional and chemical nanometrology are discussed first as they underpin many of the developments in other areas of nanometrology. Applications for the measurement of thin film parameters are followed by two of the most widely relevant families of functional properties: measurement of mechanical and electrical properties at the nanoscale. Nanostructured materials and surfaces, which are seen as key materials areas having specific metrology challenges, are covered next. The final section describes biological nanometrology, which is perhaps the most interdisciplinary applications area, and presents unique challenges. Within each area, a review is provided of current status, the capabilities and limitations of current techniques and instruments, and future directions being driven by emerging industrial measurement requirements. Issues of traceability, standardization, national and international programmes, regulation and skills development will be discussed in a future paper.

Rational design and synthesis of 4-((1R,2R)-2-hydroxycyclohexyl)-2(trifluoromethyl)benzonitrile (PF-998425), a novel, nonsteroidal androgen receptor antagonist devoid of phototoxicity for dermatological indications.

4-((1 R,2 R)-2-Hydroxycyclohexyl)-2(trifluoromethyl)benzonitrile [PF-0998425, (-)- 6a] is a novel, nonsteroidal androgen receptor antagonist for sebum control and treatment of androgenetic alopecia. It is potent, selective, and active in vivo. The compound is rapidly metabolized systemically, thereby reducing the risk of unwanted systemic side effects due to its primary pharmacology. (-)- 6a was tested negative in the 3T3 NRU assay, validating our rationale that reduction of conjugation might reduce potential phototoxicity.

Patterns of allergic reactivity and disease in Olympic athletes.

OBJECTIVE: Because the Sydney Olympic Games were being held in the spring, we wished to examine the prevalence of allergic disorders in the Australian Olympic and Paralympic athletes and to examine patterns of allergic reactivity and medication use for the treatment of allergic symptoms. DESIGN: A survey case series of Australian Olympic and Paralympic athletes. SETTING: Screening was conducted on team processing days. PARTICIPANTS: Prospective members of the Australian Olympic and Paralympic teams. INTERVENTION: A questionnaire seeking information on the presence of allergic disorders, symptoms, family history, and medication use was administered. Skin-prick tests (SPT) for sensitivity to common aeroallergens was performed. OUTCOME MEASURES: Athletes were classified as atopic or non-atopic, and patterns of reactivity were examined according to sporting category. RESULTS: Of the athletes, 56% had a positive SPT to at least 1 allergen, with 34% reacting to at least 1 seasonal allergen. There was no significant association between skin test reactivity and sporting category. Of the athletes, 37% had allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (AR/C), whereas 24% had seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (SAR/C). Approximately one-third of all those with AR/C had a history of asthma, whereas approximately one-fifth had a history of atopic dermatitis. Swimmers were most likely to have asthma, AR/C, and positive skin tests to any allergen. Very few athletes with self-reported AR/C took any medication to relieve their symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Allergic disorders are common among athletes from all sports. The known impact of AR/C on quality of life necessitates that it be screened for and managed appropriately.