The Role of Cellulose Based Separator in Lithium Sulfur Batteries

International audienceIn this work, abundant and environmentally friendly nano-fibrillated (NFC) cellulose is used for fabrication of porous separator membranes according to the procedure adopted from papermaking industry. As-prepared NFC separators were characterized in terms of thickness, porosity, wettability, electrochemical stability and electrochemical performance in lithium-sulfur and Li-symmetrical pouch cells and compared to a commercial Celgard 2320 separator membrane. Results demonstrated that morphology and electrochemical performance of NFC separator outperforms the conventional polyolefin separator. Due to exceptional interplay between lithium metal and cellulose, this research provides a self-standing NFC separator that can be used besides the lithium-sulfur also in other lithium metal battery configurations

Studies in Clinical High-risk for Psychosis: Treatment, Stress, and Personality

This dissertation consists of seven chapters, where each chapter is composed of a self-contained study examining vulnerabilities and risk factors for those identified at Clinical High-Risk state for psychosis. In chapter 1, we review the literature on the CHR state for psychosis, discussing risk and resilience factors as the core focus for treatment and early intervention. In chapter 2, we propose manual adaptations to an existing intervention fundamentally rooted in positive psychology as an adjunct to current treatments for those at CHR for conversion to psychosis. In chapter 3, we propose a complete randomized controlled trial (RCT) protocol to examine PPT for CHR youth using manual adaptations proposed in Chapter 2. Chapters 4 through 7, we examine both pathological and normal-range personality traits as potential risk factors for the CHR state. The overall objective of these series of self-contained studies being to elucidate underlying risk factors of pathological and normal-range personality traits in a highly vulnerable group of individuals identified at CHR for conversion to psychosis from those who do not. In outlining personality trait elevations which distinguish those CHR classified at higher-risk versus comparatively lower-risk for conversion to psychosis, may provide the scientific community with greater insight into early identification, treatment recommendations and early interventions focused on developing effective coping behaviors and self- regulatory exercises to manage negative emotions and stress.Ph.D

Lack of seasonal variation in idiopathic talipes equinovarus.

BACKGROUND: One proposed etiology of idiopathic talipes equinovarus is an in utero enterovirus infection. Enterovirus infections demonstrate seasonal variation in temperate climates. METHODS: We collected data on 1202 children with idiopathic talipes equinovarus born in the Northeastern United States, Midwestern United States, and the United Kingdom to investigate a seasonal variation in this congenital deformity. Birth date, gestational age at the time of delivery, gender, race, and laterality were tabulated and subjected to univariate and bivariate analyses. RESULTS: There were 774 boys and 428 girls with idiopathic talipes equinovarus. The birth location was the United Kingdom (458 children), the Midwestern United States (426 children), and the Northeastern United States (318 children). No significant differences were detected among the geographic groups with respect to gender, race, or laterality, and no variation in month of birth or month of conception was noted. CONCLUSIONS: This study does not support an in utero enterovirus infection as an etiology of idiopathic talipes equinovarus in industrialized populations

Imaging Findings in Chiari I Malformation with Syringomyelia in a Case of Charcot Shoulder

Neuropathic arthropathy of the shoulder is reported in only 5% of cases. Here, we report a rare case of neuropathic arthropathy of the shoulder, secondary to Chiari malformation Type I with associated syringomyelia, that remained undetected for four years. A 38-year-old female presented to our Department with a swelling over the right shoulder that had persisted for four years. X-ray of the joint showed destruction of the head of the right humerus, with typical blunt amputated appearance of the bone and increased joint space. Magnetic resonance imaging showed destruction and lateral dislocation of the head of the humerus. Large amount of fluid collection was seen in and around the right shoulder joint. Neuropathic osteoarthropathy can be defined as bone and joint changes that occurs secondary to loss of sensation. In our case, neuropathic shoulder joint was secondary to syringomyelia associated with Chiari I malformation