Dynamic microtubules slow down during their shrinkage phase.

Microtubules are dynamic polymers that undergo stochastic transitions between growing and shrinking phases. The structural and chemical properties of these phases remain poorly understood. The transition from growth to shrinkage, termed catastrophe, is not a first-order reaction but rather a multistep process whose frequency increases with the growth time: the microtubule ages as the older microtubule tip becomes more unstable.

OA34 Forum on end of life: working to influence policy.

Background: The Forum on End of Life in Ireland was launched in 2009 and has conducted a year-long public consultation about end of life issues. A National Council was set up to carry out the work of the Forum. Think Ahead is a public awareness initiative of the Forum on End of Life in Ireland which guides people in recording important information in the event that they are unable to speak for themselves, due to serious illness, emergency or death.

OA33 Think ahead.

Background: Think Ahead is a public awareness initiative of the Forum on End of Life in Ireland. The Think Ahead Form (www.thinkahead.