Influence of morphology of monolithic sulfur-poly(acrylonitrile) composites used as cathode materials in lithium-sulfur batteries on electrochemical performance.

Solvent-induced phase separation (SIPS) and thermally-induced phase separation (TIPS) derived poly(acrylonitrile) (PAN) based monoliths with different morphology and specific surface area were prepared and thermally converted into monolithic sulfur-poly(acrylonitrile) (SPAN) materials for use as active cathode materials in lithium-sulfur batteries. During thermal processing, the macroscopic monolithic structure fully prevailed while significant changes in porosity were observed. Both the monomer content in the precursor PAN-based monoliths and the tortuosity of the final monolithic SPAN materials correlate with the electrochemical performance of the SPAN-based cathodes.

The modified Pereyra procedure in recurrent stress urinary incontinence: a 15-year review.

Objective: To assess the effectiveness and perioperative morbidity of the modified Pereyra procedure in the treatment of recurrent stress urinary incontinence.

Methods: Data of 54 patients who underwent a modified Pereyra procedure for the treatment of recurrent stress urinary incontinence between January 1, 1978, and August 1, 1992, were analyzed retrospectively regarding presenting symptoms, preoperative evaluation, surgical procedure, complications, and cure and failure rates. The patients were divided into two groups depending on the preoperative absence (group I) or presence (group II) of risk factors for repeated failure (detrusor instability, low-pressure urethra, fibrotic urethra, negative Q-tip test, and neurogenic incontinence).

Pessaries in the geriatric patient.

Pessaries have been used for centuries in the management of uterine prolapse. Although surgical repair has been popularized by surgeons and gynecologists for younger women with pelvic relaxation, pessaries remain a useful palliative strategy for patients who refuse surgery or represent higher operative risks. Despite the fact that pessaries are commonly used today, there is scant geriatric literature to describe their use among elderly patients.

Childhood anogenital lichen sclerosus. A case report.

Childhood lichen sclerosus is a rare disorder. A 4-year-old girl with chronic vulvar pruritus who was initially suspected to be the victim of child abuse was treated. Vulvar biopsy was performed, confirming the diagnosis of lichen sclerosus.