Since the Royal Society of Canada report on potential health risks of radiofrequency (RF) fields from wireless telecommunications in the spring of 1999, there have been several newly published reports on risks associated with the use of mobile phones. This article provides a summary of scientific research on the potential health effects of radiofrequency fields that has been reported since the original Royal Society report was published. This update also discusses several earlier results not included in the original report.

Animals↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Quantum pharmacologic studies applicable to the design of anticonvulsants: theoretical conformational analysis and structure-activity studies of barbiturates.

We report the first large-scale systematic quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) study of barbiturates, correlating molecular structures with anticonvulsant activity. To achieve this QSAR study, we devised a four-step strategy. In step 1, an optimal quantum mechanical technique for determining the geometry and shape (conformation) of barbiturates was ascertained; this is the AM1 semiempirical molecular orbital method. In step 2, the AM1 method was used to optimize the structures and molecular properties of 48 barbiturates with varying anticonvulsant activity. In step 3, discriminant analysis and regression analysis statistical calculations were used to correlate the molecular properties of the 48 analogues against maximal electroshock (MES) and subcutaneous metrazol (s.c.Met)-induced seizures. In step 4, the contribution of molecular electrostatic properties to barbiturate anticonvulsant activity was further refined by quantum mechanical derived molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) maps. Using this four-step strategy, we defined the pharmacophore, the portion of a molecule responsible for bioactivity, for anti-MES and anti-s.c.Met activity. For anti-s.c.Met activity, barbiturate lipophilicity and geometry are important considerations; for anti-MES activity, barbiturate topologic and electronic properties have increased relevance.

Anticonvulsants↗

PubMedDate not supplied

Nurses' views on the meaning of touch in obstetrical nursing practice.

This qualitative pilot study explored the meaning of touch in obstetrical nursing. Interviews with practicing labor and delivery nurses provided the data for the study. Eleven nurses participated in taped interview sessions immediately after completing care of laboring clients. Interviews were transcribed, and thematic analyses were performed by two investigators. Group validation of themes derived from the interviews concluded the study. Interpretation of the data suggests an inherently sincere and reciprocal nature to touch. The meaning of touch appears to be conveyance of caring, acceptance, support, competence, and comfort. Touch is used on a basis of intuitive sensitivity and as an act of personal knowing on the part of the expert nurse. Implications for nursing practice, education, and research are suggested.

Female↗