An indirect fuel cell concept is presented herein, where a palladium-based membrane (either pure Pd with 25 μm thickness or Pd 75 Ag 25 alloy with 10 μm thickness) is used to separate the electrochemical cell compartment from a catalysis compartment. In this system, hydrogen is generated from a hydrogenrich molecule, such as formic acid, and selectively permeated through the membrane into the electrochemical compartment where it is then converted into electricity. In this way, hydrogen is generated and converted in situ, overcoming the issues associated with hydrogen storage and presenting chemical hydrogen storage as an attractive and feasible alternative with potential application in future micro-and macro-power devices for a wide range of applications and fuels.
The non-benzenoid aromatic system azulene is sufficiently electron-donating that α-cations at C1 may be isolated as stable salts with appropriate spectator anions. Preparation and characterisation of such salts is reported.
BackgroundSodium valproate can cause serious developmental disorders in unborn babies if taken while pregnant, especially in the first trimester.AimTo review recent literature and advice or treatment for women who have or are using valproate whilst pregnant.DesignLiterature review.MethodsLiterature review using Pubmed with search terms: ‘bipolar’; ‘pregnant’; ‘valproate’ and following up references.ResultsThere are several small methodologically flawed studies that attempt to address this question and will be reprised. Three key population register studies found high rates of malformations. A retrospective study of longer-term outcomes found high rates of developmental issues. There are several relevant treatment guidelines, including from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). There is a 40% risk of developmental disorder, a 10% risk of congenital malformations and a 3% risk of IQ deterioration.ConclusionsAvoid valproate in women of childbearing age if at all possible, and consider effective contraception if used. If already pregnant then consider, with involvement from the patient, stopping or minimizing the dose of sodium valproate. Assess the risks and benefits of using sodium valproate during pregnancy versus stopping the treatment for the first trimester as symptoms of the disorder may return. Seek advice from a perinatal psychiatrist. Add 5 mg of folic acid daily for the remainder of the pregnancy.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
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