Palladium-Based Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction

Fuel cells are clean energy devices that are expected to help address the energy and environmental problems in our society. Platinum-based nanomaterials are usually used as the electrocatalysts for both the anode (hydrogen oxidation) and cathode (oxygen reduction) reactions. The high cost and limited resources of this precious metal hinder the commercialization of fuel cells. Recent efforts have focused on the discovery of palladium-based electrocatalysts with little or no platinum for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). This chapter overviews the recent progress of electrocatalysis of palladium-based materials including both extended surfaces and nanostructured ones for ORR. © Springer-Verlag London 2013.[Shao, M.] UTC Power, 195 Governor's Highway, South Windsor, CT, 06074, United State

Consensus Statement of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR): management and treatment of complete rectal prolapse

Rectal prolapse, rectal procidentia, “complete” prolapse or “third-degree” prolapse is the full-thickness prolapse of the rectal wall through the anal canal and has a significant impact on quality of life. The incidence of rectal prolapse has been estimated to be approximately 2.5 per 100,000 inhabitants with a clear predominance among elderly women. The aim of this consensus statement was to provide evidence-based data to allow an individualized and appropriate management and treatment of complete rectal prolapse. The strategy used to search for evidence was based on application of electronic sources such as MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Review Library, CINAHL and EMBASE. The recommendations were defined and graded based on the current levels of evidence and in accordance with the criteria adopted by the American College of Gastroenterology’s Chronic Constipation Task Force. Five evidence levels were defined. The recommendations were graded A, B, and C