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Education is the most powerful tool to prepare young people for an exciting and uncertain future. Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) must be at the forefront of education in order to address the most important challenges facing society. This article discusses Researchers in Residence, a unique scheme that has a proven track record of inspiring pupils, motivating teachers and opening pathways into STEM careers. The ASE is working with the AEA Group and the Training Group to deliver Researchers in Residence over the next three years. The main role of the ASE is to tell teachers about the scheme and to provide support for them throughout their involvement. The ASE's network of Field Officers and Regional Committees puts it in the unique position to be able to reach teachers across the UK and it will also be providing resources for the researchers to use in schools. Although the majority of researchers are from STEM subject areas, the scheme does cater for non-STEM subjects. Placements in geography, history and the social sciences are also available.

Summary: Novagold™ breast implants were withdrawn from use in the UK in December 2000 due to concerns about the metabolic fate of the implant filler material, the hydrogels polyvinylpyrrolidine (PVP) and guar gum. A total of 250 women in the UK had these implants, 66 of which were performed in our unit. A total of 44% of cases needed further surgery for complications. Capsular contracture requiring surgical intervention occurred in 32%. Symptomatic ruptures occurred in 10.5%. Infection was recorded in 1.5%. From comparison with published data, the incidence of capsular contracture is comparable, but the occurrence of rupture is almost twice that of saline-filled implants. It is hypothesised that an osmotic gradient occurs due to the hydrogel filler causing the implants to swell and weaken the elastomer shell. When the PVP/guar gum filler is released into the subcutis, a vigorous tissue reaction occurs causing pain and swelling. These results show that this composition of implant poses potential risks, which should be considered by manufacturers in the future. We advise removal of symptomatic implants, as rupture is likely to have occurred. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]