Single-stage synthesis and characterization of reflective and conductive silver-polyimide films prepared from silver(I) complexes with ODPA/4,4'-ODA.

Reflective and surface conductive polyimide films were prepared by the incorporation of silver(I) acetate and trifluoroacetylacetone into a dimethylacetamide solution of the poly(amic acid) formed 3,3',4,4'-oxidiphthalic dianhydride (ODPA) and 4,4'-oxidianiline (4,4'-ODA). Thermal curing of (trifluoroacetylacetonato)silver(I)-poly(amic acid) films led to cycloimidization with concomitant silver(I) reduction, which yielded a reflective and conductive silver surface at selected silver concentrations if the film was cured to a final temperature of 300 degrees C for several hours. The metallized ODPA/4,4'-ODA films retain the essential mechanical properties of an undoped film and have good thermal stability, particularly under a nitrogen atmosphere.

An audit of advice on fitness to drive during accident and emergency department attendance.

Introduction: Large numbers of patients attending accident and emergency (A&E) departments drive to and from the consultation. This audit set out to examine if patients attending A&E were advised about their fitness to drive.

Method: The authors carried out a retrospective audit over a one month period.

Cutaneous burns from CS incapacitant spray.

A case of a superficial burn following exposure to CS incapacitant spray is reported. This is followed by a summary of the properties and effects of CS and the other agents which occur in the incapacitant spray. CS is relatively safe, but it does have unwanted effects, especially on skin exposure.