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To examine the association between dietary habits, cognitive functioning and brain volumes in older individuals, data from 194 cognitively healthy individuals who participated in the Prospective Investigation of the Vasculature in Uppsala Seniors cohort were used. At age 70, participants kept diaries of their food intake for 1week. These records were used to calculate a Mediterranean diet (MeDi) score (comprising dietary habits traditionally found in Mediterranean countries, e.g. high intake of fruits and low intake of meat), with higher scores indicating more pronounced MeDi-like dietary habits. Five years later, participants' cognitive capabilities were examined by the seven minute screening (7MS) (a cognitive test battery used by clinicians to screen for dementia), and their brain volumes were measured by volumetric magnetic resonance imaging. Multivariate linear regression analyses were constructed to examine the association between the total MeDi score and cognitive functioning and brain volumes. In addition, possible associations between MeDi's eight dietary features and cognitive functioning and brain volumes were investigated. From the eight dietary features included in the MeDi score, pertaining to a low consumption of meat and meat products was linked to a better performance on the 7MS test (P=0.001) and greater total brain volume (i.e. the sum of white and gray matter, P=0.03) when controlling for potential confounders (e.g. BMI) in the analysis. Integrating all dietary features into the total MeDi score explained less variance in cognitive functioning and brain volumes than its single dietary component meat intake. These observational findings suggest that keeping to a low meat intake could prove to be an impact-driven public health policy to support healthy cognitive aging, when confirmed by longitudinal studies. Further, they suggest that the MeDi score is a construct that may mask possible associations of single MeDi features with brain health domains in elderly populations. | non-battery |
Porous aggregated nanorods of Co3O4 with a surface area of ~100 m2 g−1 synthesized without using any templates or surfactants give very high specific capacitance of ~780 F g−1 when used as electrode in a faradaic supercapacitor, with a cycle life of more than 1,000 cycles. Further, in Li-ion batteries when used as an anode, the Co3O4 nanorods achieved a capacity of 1155 mA h g−1 in the first cycle and upon further cycling it is stabilized at 820 mA h g−1 for more than 25 cycles. Detailed characterization indicated the stability of the material and the improved performance is attributed to the shorter Li-insertion/desertion pathways offered by the highly porous nanostructures. The environmentally benign and easily scalable method of synthesis of the porous Co3O4 nanorods coupled with the superior electrode characteristics in supercapacitors and Li-ion batteries provide efficient energy storage capabilities with promising applications. | battery |
The purpose of this study was to investigate the method of residual capacity estimation for lead–acid batteries used in automobiles. First, relation charts for the internal resistances of a battery at various load currents to residual capacity percentages were established, and the relation charts for all load currents were then combined to obtain the corresponding residual capacity by calculating medians. The experimental equipment included lead–acid batteries for automobiles, an electronic loader, an internal resistance tester, and test cables. The experimental procedures were discharging the battery with the electronic loader, using the internal resistance tester to record the internal resistance, voltage, and temperature of the battery, and then transmitting the data to a computer via the test cables for analysis. The experiment obtained nine sets of data, which were recorded in Excel and illustrated using charts. The medians obtained from combining the internal resistance with the residual capacity percentages were used to generate the relation charts for the internal resistances at various load currents to the residual capacity percentages. Finally, 60 Ah was used as the normal capacity to estimate the residual capacity discharging time. Furthermore, a curve-fitting approach for determining the relation equation between internal resistances and capacities was used to replace the table look-up method for residual capacity estimation. The results revealed that the estimation errors after correction were acceptable.
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Life-cycle emissions of nitric oxide and sulphurous oxides from various types of electric-power generation systems have been estimated. Emissions from the process of building energy systems, as well as from the mining and transportation of the fuel were accounted for as well as the emissions from power stations. Two types of thermoelectric systems, namely a LNG-fuelled gas-turbine combined cycle and an integrated coal-gasification combined cycle, and four types of renewable energy systems — photovoltaic, hydropower, wind power and ocean thermal energy conversion — were evaluated. The estimated amounts of nitric oxide emitted per generated unit of electricity range from 0.06 to 0.3 g/kWh, while the amounts of suphur oxides range from 0.3 to 0.53 g/kWh. There is a tendency for renewable-energy systems to emit lower amounts of nitric oxide. | battery |
Herein, a new and simple electrochemical sensor platform comprising functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube (f-MWCNT) decorated with green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNps)-based composite (AgNps/f-MWCNT) has been developed. The in situ green synthesis of AgNps was done using plant extract of Cinnamomum tamala. The sensor platform of AgNps/f-MWCNT was prepared on Indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass substrate (AgNps/f-MWCNT/ITO) for highly sensitive and selective detection of bisphenol A (BPA). The morphological and structural changes of AgNps/f-MWCNT composite have been characterized through XRD, UV–Visible, Raman, FTIR and electron microscopy techniques. This fabricated sensor shows a wide linear range of 3.9 fM–102.4 nM, low limit of detection of 0.38 nM, and high sensitivity of 17.83 μA (log nM)−1 cm−2 [R2 = 0.978], which are found to be more superior as compared to previously reported sensors for BPA detection. The practical application of this sensor has also been successfully carried out in real samples such as tap water, packaged juice, and processed milk with their relative standard deviation and recoveries obtained in the range of 1.32-8.13 and 94–110%, respectively. | battery |
Objective The World Health Organization Collaborating Centre Task Force on Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (MTBI) published its findings on the prognosis of MTBI in 2004. This is an update of that review with a focus on deployed military personnel. Data Sources Relevant literature published between January 2001 and February 2012 listed in MEDLINE and 4 other databases. Study Selection Controlled trials and cohort and case-control studies were selected according to predefined criteria. After 77,914 titles and abstracts were screened, 13 articles were rated eligible for this review and 3 (23%) with a low risk of bias were accepted. Two independent reviewers critically appraised eligible studies using a modification of the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network criteria. Data Extraction The reviewers independently extracted data from eligible studies and produced evidence tables. Data Synthesis The evidence was synthesized qualitatively and presented in evidence tables. Our findings are based on 3 studies of U.S. military personnel who were deployed in Iraq or Afghanistan. We found that military personnel with MTBI report posttraumatic stress disorder and postconcussive symptoms. In addition, reporting of postconcussive symptoms differed on the basis of levels of combat stress the individuals experienced. The evidence suggests a slight decline in neurocognitive function after MTBI, but this decline was in the normal range of brain functioning. Conclusions We found limited evidence that combat stress, posttraumatic stress disorder, and postconcussive symptoms affect recovery and prognosis of MTBI in military personnel. Additional high-quality research is needed to fully assess the prognosis of MTBI in military personnel. | non-battery |
Cubic-Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) is regarded as one of the most promising solid electrolytes for the construction of inherently safe, next generation all-solid-state Li batteries. Unfortunately, sintering these materials to full density with controlled grain sizes, mechanical and electrochemical properties relies on energy and equipment intensive processes. In this work, we elucidate key parameters dictating LLZO densification by tracing the compositional and structural changes during processing calcined and ball-milled Al3+ doped LLZO powders. We find that the powders undergo ion (Li+/H+) exchange during room temperature processing, such that on heating, the protonated LLZO lattice collapses and crystallizes to its constituent oxides, leading to reaction driven densification at < 1000 °C, prior to sintering of LLZO grains at higher temperatures. It is shown that small particle sizes and protonation cannot be decoupled, and actually aid densification. We conclude that using fully decomposed nanoparticle mixtures, as obtained by liquid-feed flame spray pyrolysis, provides an ideal approach to use high surface and reaction energy to drive densification, resulting in pressureless sintering of Ga3+ doped LLZO thin films (25 μm) at 1130 °C/0.3 h to ideal microstructures (95 ± 1% density, 1.2 ± 0.2 μm average grain size) normally accessible only by pressure-assisted sintering. Such films offer both high ionic conductivity (1.3 ± 0.1 mS cm−1) and record low ionic area specific resistance (2 Ω cm2). | battery |
NaTi2(PO4)3/C porous plates have been successfully synthesized via solvothermal approach with ammonia as inductive agent combined in-situ carbon coating. It reveals that the inductive agent plays a critical role in morphology-controllable fabrication. The morphology, structure, and electrochemical properties of NaTi2(PO4)3/C composites with multilayered plates, single-layered plate, porous multilayered plates all have been investigated, which are prepared by using urea, triethylamine, and ammonia, respectively. Among these samples, NaTi2(PO4)3/C porous multilayered plates with ammonia addition exhibit the best electrochemical properties due to their unique mesoporous structure. NaTi2(PO4)3/C porous multilayered plates deliver an initial specific capacity of 125 and 110 mAh g−1 at 0.1 and 1 C, respectively. Furthermore, NaTi2(PO4)3/C porous multilayered plates show a good rate capability, whose capacity and corresponding capacity retention reach 85 mAh g−1 and 82.4%, respectively, after 120 cycles under the high rate of 10 C. The excellent results indicate that the NaTi2(PO4)3/C porous multilayered plates are a promising electrode candidate for sodium ion battery. | battery |
Titania porous layers with a rough surface were synthesized via micro-arc oxidation (MAO) and the effect of the applied voltage and electrolyte concentration on surface structure, and chemical composition of the layers was studied. Morphological and topographical investigations, performed by SEM and AFM, revealed that pore size and surface roughness of the layers increased with the applied voltage and the electrolyte concentration. Based on the XRD and XPS results, the grown layers consisted of anatase and rutile phases with varying fractions depending on growth conditions. It was found that anatase/rutile relative content reached its maximum value at medium applied voltages or electrolyte concentrations. Finally, hydrophilicity of the grown layers was determined using a water contact angle apparatus, and a correlation between measured contact angles and MAO-parameters was suggested. It was observed that the layers synthesized under the applied voltage of 400V in the electrolytes with a concentration of 10gl−1 exhibited the highest hydrophilicity. | battery |
Many college women are at risk for pregnancy, and binge drinking college women are often at risk for alcohol-exposed pregnancy. Brief interventions with sustainable outcomes are needed, particularly for college women who are binge drinking, at risk for pregnancy, and at increased risk of alcohol-exposed pregnancy. Two-hundred-twenty-eight women at a Mid-Atlantic urban university at risk for alcohol-exposed pregnancy enrolled in the randomized clinical trial, and 207 completed the 4 month follow-up. The BALANCE intervention used Motivational Interviewing plus feedback to target drinking and contraception behaviors. Main outcome measures included (1) the rate of risk for alcohol-exposed pregnancy, (2) the rate of risk drinking, and (3) the rate of pregnancy risk. At 4-month follow-up, the rate of alcohol-exposed pregnancy risk was significantly lower in the intervention (20.2%) than the control condition (34.9%), (P < .02). Assignment to the intervention condition halved the odds of women remaining at risk for alcohol-exposed pregnancy, while not receiving the intervention doubled the odds of continued alcohol-exposed pregnancy risk (OR = 2.18; 95% CI = 1.16–4.09). A baseline history of blackouts, continued high blood alcohol drinking days at 1 month, and continued risk for pregnancy at 1 month independently contributed to a multivariate model of continued alcohol-exposed pregnancy risk at 4 month follow-up. BALANCE reduced alcohol-exposed pregnancy risk, with similar outcomes to longer interventions. Because early response predicted sustained alcohol-exposed pregnancy risk reduction, those who fail to achieve initial change could be identified for further intervention. The BALANCE intervention could be adopted into existing student health or university alcohol programs. The risks of unintended pregnancy and alcohol-exposed pregnancy among binge drinking women in college merit greater prevention efforts.
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The objective of this research is to advice the Municipality of The Hague whether, if and under which conditions, the implementation of an Urban Consolidation Centre (UCC) is possible and desirable. To determine factors that caused the success or failure of UCCs in practice, a survey of 6 cases in Europe is conducted. The cases were selected because of the similarity of the service area of the UCC and the city centre of The Hague or because of the uniqueness of the UCC. To determine the possible success for a UCC in The Hague four scenarios are evaluated. Two major difficulties with implementing the UCC are the allocation of the costs and benefits and the willingness to cooperate of the transportation companies. Both consignees and transportation companies can benefit financially from using the UCC. The UCC operator, however, incurs the costs. The municipality should play a role in bringing the costs and benefits together. | non-battery |
We present the case of a 51-year-old patient with an acute lithium intoxication associated with several cognitive deficits. During the acute phase of intoxication the patient displayed general psychomotor slowing, dysarthric speech, mood changes, and incoherent discourse. Neuropsychological assessment revealed ideomotor apraxia, profound deficits of visuospatial processing, an impairment of memory and of frontal-executive functions. Other cognitive abilities, such as orientation, spontaneous speech, comprehension, naming, reading, writing, and working memory remained intact. An electroencephalogram revealed diffuse slowing with rhythmic trains, whereas MRI showed no cerebral abnormality. Follow-up examinations at 4 and 14 weeks with lithium levels in the normal range showed substantial recovery of memory abilities and executive functions, whereas praxis and visuoperceptual functions remained impaired, despite the fact that lithium was immediately withdrawn after the intoxication became manifest. We conclude that lithium intoxication may be associated with variable behavioural and cognitive impairments, some of them potentially persistent. Different from other case studies our findings suggest that lithium intoxication may cause a combined, multifocal functional impairment of subcortical and cortical neural mechanisms in both hemispheres. | non-battery |
Engineering carbon materials as the bifunctional catalysts for both electrocatalytic oxygen reduction/evolution reactions (ORR/OER) is highly promising for the large-scale commercialization of regenerative fuel cells and rechargeable metal-air batteries. Codoping carbons with heteroatoms can achieve unique electronic structures and show tailored electrocatalytic capabilities by rationally regulating their dopants. Sulfur is one of the most important dopants from both experimental and theoretical perspectives. In this work, a novel, highly efficient and environmentally benign method for sulfur incorporation into carbon framework has been developed facilely on the basis of graphene oxide-polydopamine (GD) hybrids to derive the N, S-codoped mesoporous carbon nanosheets. 16.7at% S can be conjugated to the GD hybrids associated with the S doping efficiency up to 6.1% after 800°C pyrolysis, which is higher than most previous S doping approaches. The resultant N, S-codoped mesoporous carbon nanosheets exhibit superior performance with favorable kinetics and excellent durability as a bifunctional ORR and OER catalyst, which is much better than that of most reported metal-free doped carbon, even transition metal and noble metal catalysts. The high concentrations of multiple dopants, abundant porous architecture and good electron transfer ability are believed to significantly expedite the ORR and OER catalytic processes. In the light of physicochemical versatility and structural tunability of polydopamine (PDA), this work provides a universal platform towards further development of PDA-based carbon materials with heteroatom dopants as the highly efficient electrocatalysts. | battery |
Lithium-ion hybrid capacitor is a type of energy storage device that bridge the gap between lithium-ion battery and electrical double layer capacitor. We have developed a facile approach to achieve the pre-lithiation of carbonaceous anode, and then fabricated lithium-ion hybrid capacitors with bifunctional cathode containing capacitor material (activated carbon) and battery material (LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2). The hybrid capacitor with 25 wt.% LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 addition in bifunctional cathode (denoted as LAN25) exhibits excellent rate capability and high energy density. The rate capability of LAN25 is comparable to that with pure AC cathode (denoted as LAC), while the volumetric energy density is 1.36 times higher than the latter one. The continuous galvanostatic charge–discharge cycling tests reveal that the lithium-ion hybrid capacitor remains more than 98% capacity after 20,000 cycles, and nearly 100% coulombic efficiency over entire cycles. The superior performance is ascribed to the synergy effect of the active components in bifunctional cathode and the effective pre-lithiation of hard carbon anode. The present work makes the study of lithium-ion hybrid capacitor easily accessible and broadens roads to hybrid devices with high energy density, high power density and long cycle life. | battery |
Polyaniline/mesoporous carbon/MnO2 (PANI/CMK-3/MnO2) ternary nanocomposites with a PANI nanolayer uniformly deposited on the CMK-3/MnO2 particles were synthesized by chemical oxidative polymerization. Structure and morphology of the ternary composites were further characterized by TEM, XRD, FTIR and FE-SEM techniques. Electrochemical measurements demonstrated that the ternary composite with 12% MnO2 content possessed enhanced specific capacitance of 695Fg−1 and the capacitance retention was 88% after 1000 galvanostatic charge-discharge cycles at a current density of 1.0Ag−1. The incorporation of MnO2 nanoparticles can not only contribute to high capacitance but also stabilize the interaction between the quinoid ring of PANI and the CMK-3/MnO2 particles. The PANI nanolayer in the ternary composite restrains the dissolution of MnO2 nanoparticles in acidic electrolyte so as to enhance their electrochemical utilization. The synergistic effect among three components may result in enhanced specific capacitance and cycling stability of the ternary composites. | battery |
Most of the literature on lithium-ion battery cells is concerned with modeling of jellyroll with little attention to properties of shell casing. However, shell casing provides substantial strength and fracture resistance under mechanical loading and therefore must be an important part of modeling of lithium-ion batteries. The paper reports on a comprehensive test program on commercially available empty shell casing of 18650 lithium-ion cylindrical cells. Part of the tests was used to determine plastic and fracture properties from sub-size specimens cut from lateral part of the cans. The other part served to validate plasticity and fracture models under various loading conditions. The associated flow rule was used to simulate plasticity behavior and Modified Mohr-Coulomb (MMC) fracture model was adopted to predict crack initiation and propagation of shell casing. Simulation results confirmed that present plasticity and fracture models could predict global plastic behavior of the cells under different loading conditions. The jellyroll model with volumetric hardening was introduced to compare the performance of empty shell casing, bare jellyroll and complete battery cell. It was shown that in many loading situations, for example, three point bending of the cylindrical cells, the metallic shell casing provides most of mechanical resistance. | battery |
Renewable resources gained more attention in the last two decades due to persisting energy demand coupled with decrease in fossil fuel resources and its environmental effect to the earth. In Iraq, the electric power generated is not enough to meet the power demand of domestic and industrial sectors. In this article, a hybrid system was proposed as a renewable resource of power generation for grid connected applications in three cities in Iraq. The proposed system was simulated using MATLAB solver, in which the input parameters for the solver were the meteorological data for the selected locations and the sizes of PV and wind turbines. Results showed that it is possible for Iraq to use the solar and wind energy to generate enough power for some villages in the desert or rural area. It is also possible to use such a system as a black start source of power during total shutdown time. Results also indicated that the preferred location for this system is in Basrah for both solar and wind energy. | battery |
RuO2 nanoparticles supported on MnO2 nanorods (denoted as np-RuO2/nr-MnO2) were synthesized via a two-step hydrothermal reaction. SEM and TEM images both illustrated that RuO2 nanoparticles are well dispersed on the surface of MnO2 nanorods in the as-prepared np-RuO2/nr-MnO2 material. Electrochemical results demonstrated that the np-RuO2/nr-MnO2 as oxygen cathode of Li–O2 batteries could maintain a reversible capacity of 500mAhg−1 within 75 cycles at a rate of 50mAg−1, and a higher capacity of 4000mAhg−1 within 20 cycles at a rate as high as 200mAg−1. Moreover, the cell with the np-RuO2/nr-MnO2 catalyst presented much lower voltage polarization (about 0.58V at a rate of 50mAg−1) than that measured with only MnO2 nanorods during charge/discharge processes. The catalytic property of the np-RuO2/nr-MnO2 and MnO2 nanorods were further compared by conducting studies of using rotating disk electrode (RDE), chronoamperommetry and linear sweep voltammetry. The results illustrated that the np-RuO2/nr-MnO2 exhibited excellent bifunctional electrocatalytic activities towards both oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Furthermore, in-situ high-energy X-ray diffraction was employed to trace evolution of species on the np-RuO2/nr-MnO2 cathode during the discharge processes. In-situ XRD patterns demonstrated the formation process of the discharge products that consisted of mainly Li2O2. Ex-situ SEM images were recorded to investigate the morphology and decomposition of the sphere-like Li2O2, which could be observed clearly after discharge process, while are decomposed almost after charge process. The excellent electrochemical performances of the np-RuO2/nr-MnO2 as cathode of Li–O2 battery could be contributed to the excellent bifunctional electrocatalytic activities for both the ORR and OER, and to the one-dimensional structure which would benefit the diffusion of oxygen and the storage of Li2O2 in the discharge process of Li–O2 battery. | battery |
Iron(III) phosphate has been precipitated under supersaturation conditions from equimolecular aqueous solutions of 0.025M Fe(NO3)3·9H2O and K2HPO4, at pH=2.00 and at ambient temperature. The precipitate has been characterised by TG/DTG/DTA and DSC techniques, chemical analysis, IR-spectroscopy and X-ray powder diffraction. A yellowish-white amorphous solid of formula Fe2(HPO4)3·xH2O has been obtained. Alternatively, a pinkish-white amorphous precipitate of formula FePO4·2H2O is obtained under the same conditions from Fe(NH4)2(SO4)2·6H2O using hydrogen peroxide as the oxidising agent. Although the IR spectra and the thermal behaviour of both compounds are quite different, they crystallise as FePO4 when annealed at 650°C in air. | non-battery |
The separate collection of individual recyclable waste materials is the basis for any recycling process. This produces important advantages, especially in terms of resource savings. This paper investigates the drivers of the separate collection process of recyclable materials (i.e., organic, paper, glass, plastic) and its total in the 103 Italian provinces (NUTS-3), in the years 2004–2011. Results show that the pillars of institutional quality (such as, voice and accountability, rule of law and regulatory quality), value added per capita and participation to ecological associations are important factors for an effective implementation of the waste separation process. In particular, these factors do matter for an effective collection of organic waste, paper, glass and plastic. Furthermore, the analysis shows marked differences among macro-areas (North, Central and Southern Italy). Policy considerations are discussed.
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It has shown better electrochemical performance to use two dimensions (2D) nanomaterial nickel hydroxide nanosheets as electrode materials in energy storage research. However, when compared with carbon electrode material, the disadvantage of metal hydroxide is more obvious. In this study, we use Ni(OH)2/rGO composites (NGCs) synthesized by hydrothermal method as electrode materials to conduct an electrochemical property tests in 6M KOH electrolyte solution. As a result, when current density of NGC8 samples (the mass ratio of Ni(OH)2 and graphene is 8:1) is 0.8Ag−1, the largest specific capacitance of composites is 1862.2Fg−1. What’s more, when the current density is 15Ag−1, the capacitance only reduced to 91.6% after the constant current charge and discharge for 2000 cycles, which showed magnificent cycling stability. Further investigations, the 2D nanomaterial NGCs can be easily transmitted to NrCs (NiO/rGO composites), and delivers a specific capacitance of 782.5Fg−1 at a current density of 0.5Ag−1. These works are of great significance for the research of energy storage materials and the development of energy storage device. | battery |
Theory of Mind is defined as the ability to attribute mental state and emotions to other people and is relevant to social relationships. The cortical and subcortical regions involved in Theory of Mind are damaged by neurodegenerative processes of Parkinsonian syndromes, so the aim of the present study was to explore, for the first time, possible deficits of Theory of Mind and their cognitive correlates in multiple system atrophy (MSA). Twenty-six patients with MSA, 25 patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and 25 healthy subjects were enrolled. Cognitive and affective subcomponents of Theory of Mind, executive functions, long-term memory and apathy were evaluated. The three groups did not differ on demographic variables. MSA and PD groups performed worse than healthy subjects on both cognitive (advanced test of ToM) and affective (emotion attribution task) ToM tasks, but no significant difference was found between patients’ groups. However, when using another affective ToM task (Eyes Test), MSA group had poorer performance than healthy subjects and Parkinsonian patients, whereas Parkinsonian patients had similar performance to healthy subjects. Regression analysis revealed an association between poor cognitive flexibility and dysfunctional cognitive component of Theory of Mind. Deficit of cognitive and affective components of Theory of Mind occurred in MSA. Dysfunction of cognitive component was related to executive dysfunction (i.e. cognitive rigidity). These findings might suggest the usefulness of an early evaluation of social cognition in MSA to identify individuals with impaired Theory of Mind who are at risk of social withdrawal, and reduced quality of life. | non-battery |
Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking devices are a fundamental technology for quantifying the distribution and movement of livestock across landscapes. Although costs of GPS devices have decreased, it is still cost prohibitive to implement a large number of collars per study. Our objective was to develop and test a low-cost GPS collar using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) electronic components to study livestock distribution and movement. Our COTS GPS tracker was built using the popular Arduino open-source microcontroller and a low-power timer board to cycle a GPS at defined intervals. Location data were saved to a data card in an open format for easy analysis. Total cost per COTS GPS device (including housing and collar) was $54.78. Average displacement from a known location and 95% circular error probability was 4.58 m, commensurate with other GPS collars. We tested durability and field performance of 25 COTS GPS collars against 24 existing GPS collars recording data at 5-min intervals in a southwest Idaho, United States study area. Our COTS GPS design and test showed that it is possible to manufacture low-cost location tracking devices, but the limitations of such devices must be considered relative to study objectives and duration. Low-cost location trackers will encourage collection of a higher density of location information to better understand patterns of livestock use in rangeland landscapes. | non-battery |
The aim of this study was to investigate correlation between genotoxic effects and changes of microbial parameters caused by metal contamination in soils. In total, 20 soils from nine locations were examined; metal contents and physicochemical soil parameters were measured with standard methods. In general, a pronounced induction of the frequency of micronuclei (MN) in the Tradescantia micronucleus (Trad-MN) assay was seen with increasing metal concentration in soils from identical locations. However, no correlations were found between metal contents and genotoxicity of soils from different locations. These discrepancies are probably due to differences of the physicochemical characteristics of the samples. Also, the microbial parameters depended on the metal content in soils from identical sampling locations. Inconsistent responses of the individual enzymes were seen in soils from different locations, indicating that it is not possible to define a specific marker enzyme for metal contamination. The most sensitive microbial parameters were dehydrogenase and arylsulfatase activity, biomass C, and biomass N. Statistical analyses showed an overall correlation between genotoxicity in Tradescantia on the one hand and dehydrogenase activity, biomass C, and the metabolic quotient on the other hand. In conclusion, the results of the present study show that the Trad-MN assay is suitable for the detection of genotoxic effects of metal contamination in soils and furthermore, that the DNA-damaging potential of soils from different origin cannot be predicted on the basis of chemical analyses of their metal concentrations. | non-battery |
This study investigated the possibility of integrating a renewable energy system with an existing energy source (electricity grid) to supply mobile base stations in the on-grid sites of Malaysia and minimise the annual Operational expenditure (OPEX). Based on the available renewable energy resources in Malaysia, three options for this goal were examined: (i) photovoltaic/electric grid, (ii) wind energy/electric grid, and (iii) photovoltaic/wind energy/electric grid. System simulations were performed with the software HOMER, using wind speed, solar irradiance, load demand, component costs and technical specifications as well as various minimum renewable fraction (MRF) values. Three key aspects were analysed: (i) energy yields, (ii) economics, and (iii) greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The findings herein demonstrate that the hybrid photovoltaic/wind energy/electric grid power system delivered the highest energy to the load of the renewable energy system (48.91%), which reduces both the operating costs and pollution rate. Whereas, cost of the project is large compared with the photovoltaic/electric grid power system. However, large benefits for mobile operators in terms of OPEX reduction can be achieved. The average annual OPEX savings of the hybrid wind energy system was the lowest at 30%, whereas that of the hybrid solar system was 35% and that of the hybrid photovoltaic/wind energy/electric grid was as high as 39%. | battery |
Solid electrolyte composed of silicate matrix solvated by tetraalkylammonium salt solution in viscous organic polar solvent (propylene carbonate or sulpholane) was prepared by sol–gel method under controlled drying conditions. The organic solution was added directly to the tetramethoxysilane (TMOS) based sol. For comparison analogous material modified with pure solvent was prepared. Gel forms within 2–4 days depending on the solvent additive. The gelation time is longer than in the presence of lithium salt or pure solvent modified material. The obtained electrolyte is transparent and it loses about 12% its mass during first 30 days of aging. It was characterised by TGA, DSC, FTIR spectroscopy and impedance spectroscopy. The shape of TGA and DSC curve is similar to that of pure solvent. The IR spectra indicates silicate network formation with some silanol groups left. No indication of specific interactions between solute, solvent and silicate matrix has been found. The magnitude of electrical conductivity is close to 10−3 S cm−1 being one order of magnitude smaller than that of analogous liquid electrolyte. The electrical conductivity of silicate matrix modified with pure solvent is by two orders of magnitude smaller. The value of this parameter depends on time elapsed after gelation. Most substantial decrease is observed during first 10 days after gelation and it correlates with mass loss. The conductivity of TMOS based matrix solvated with pure solvent is another two orders of magnitude smaller. The obtained results indicate that silicate matrix is neutral reservoir for organic solvent. The porosity of the dried samples is to some extent affected by the presence of salt. | battery |
A comparison is presented of the electrocatalytic activity of tungsten carbide synthesised using microwave carburisation with that synthesised by furnace heating. Based on the resulting particle size, phase composition, passivity against corrosion and electrocatalytic activity for the hydrogen oxidation and evolution reactions, microwave synthesis appears to be a simple heating procedure which can be carried out more rapidly than conventional methods. Because microwave synthesis produces finer grain size than furnace heating, its products function better as electrocatalysts for both the hydrogen oxidation and evolution reactions. The role of KCl, Ni(II), Fe(II) and Mn(II) present as reactants during microwave synthesis is demonstrated. Also presented for the first time is the electrocatalytic activity obtained from tantalum carbide synthesised under microwave heating. | battery |
In this work, Na2Ti6O13 nanorods are prepared by a traditional solid state reaction and reported as anode materials for advanced lithium-ion batteries. The effect of calcining temperature on the size and electrochemical behavior of nanorodes is thoroughly described and compared within the temperature range of 800-1000°C. It can be found that the size of nanorodes increases with the enhancing of calcining temperature. At 1000°C, Na2Ti6O13 nanorodes melt into big bulks, which exhibit poor ionic conductivity and low lithium storage capacity. Although Na2Ti6O13 nanorodes with smaller size can be formed at 800°C, its capacity retention is poor. In contrast, Na2Ti6O13 nanorodes obtained at 900°C reveal high reversible capacity, rapid lithium ion diffusion behavior and outstanding rate property. In-situ and ex-situ analyses reveal that the structural evolution of Na2Ti6O13 during lithiation and delithiation process is quasi-reversible, which ensures the excellent electrochemical performance of Na2Ti6O13 nanorods for repeated lithium storage. | battery |
Understanding the fundamental mechanisms of advanced electrode materials at the atomic scale during the electrochemical process is necessary to develop high-performance rechargeable batteries. The complex electrochemical reactions involved in a running battery, which cause intensive structural and morphological changes in electrode materials, have been explored to a certain extent by the use of real-time characterization techniques. In situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is one of the most noteworthy diagnostic techniques to understand and monitor dynamic electrochemical processes because of its atomic-scale resolution and real-time monitoring, which can provide information about chemical and physical characteristics. In this review, the current progress in the development of electrode materials using in situ TEM for rechargeable batteries beyond the lithium ion is summarized. First, the various battery designs used for in situ TEM and their challenges are elaborated. Afterward, we systematically summarize the basic science and fundamental reactions including phase transformation and electrode/electrolyte interfaces in electrode materials for heavier alkali ion (sodium, potassium calcium and magnesium) batteries (H-AIBs). Particularly, the real-time insights into three types of electrochemical mechanisms: intercalation, alloying, and conversion reactions are elaborated. Moreover, in situ electrode chemistry in lithium sulfur (Li–S) batteries, alkali-metal oxygen batteries (AOBs) including lithium, sodium and potassium oxygen batteries, and all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) is also discussed. Finally, we provide a summary and future perspective of in situ TEM in rechargeable batteries along with the most feasible electrode design.
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To improve the suitability of lithium-ion battery model under varying scenarios, such as fluctuating temperature and SoC variation, dynamic model with parameters updated realtime should be developed. In this paper, an incremental analysis-based auto regressive exogenous (I-ARX) modeling method is proposed to eliminate the modeling error caused by the OCV effect and improve the accuracy of parameter estimation. Then, its numerical stability, modeling error, and parametric sensitivity are analyzed at different sampling rates (0.02, 0.1, 0.5 and 1s). To identify the model parameters recursively, a bias-correction recursive least squares (CRLS) algorithm is applied. Finally, the pseudo random binary sequence (PRBS) and urban dynamic driving sequences (UDDSs) profiles are performed to verify the realtime performance and robustness of the newly proposed model and algorithm. Different sampling rates (1 Hz and 10 Hz) and multiple temperature points (5, 25, and 45 °C) are covered in our experiments. The experimental and simulation results indicate that the proposed I-ARX model can present high accuracy and suitability for parameter identification without using open circuit voltage. | battery |
Lithium–sulfur batteries have attracted considerable interest because of their high energy density, non-toxicity, and low-cost. However, the main challenges associated with the dissolution of lithium polysulfides and low conductivity of sulfur are still required to be overcome to achieve improved cycling life and power density. Herein, we design and synthesize a hierarchical mesoporous carbon (HMC) through one-step pyrolysis of a low-cost polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF) precursor with a sodium hydroxide activating agent for an efficient encapsulating host for sulfur. By impregnating sulfur into carbon via a melt-diffusion process, the HMC/sulfur composite contains a high sulfur content (∼72 wt%) inside the mesopore-dominant host. Moreover, with a multifunctional polyvinylpyrrolidone coating, the obtained composite exhibits an enhanced electrochemical performance including high specific capacity (1124 mA h g−1 at 100 mA g−1) and good cycling life with a reversible capacity of 456 mA h g−1 after 500 cycles at 800 mA g−1. Both the hierarchical mesoporous nature of the carbon host and the protective coating not only suppresses the polysulfide dissolution but also provides improved interfacial stability and facile charge transport pathways. This strategic combination leads to high reversible capacity, enhanced cycling reversibility, and good rate capability of the high sulfur loading cathodes. | battery |
Porous carbons with high-volumetric capacitance in aqueous electric double layer capacitors (EDLCs) were simply prepared by poly(vinylidene chloride) (PVDC) carbonization at high temperature without activation or any other additional processes. The PVDC-derived carbon is microporous with Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area about 1200m2 g−1. As it possesses not only high-gravimetric capacitance (262Fg−1) but also high-electrode density (0.815gcm−3), the PVDC-derived carbon present an outstanding high-volumetric capacitance of 214Fcm−3, twice over of the commercial carbon Maxsorb-3 with a high-surface area of 3200m2 g−1. The PVDC-derived carbon also exhibit good rate performance, indicating that it is a promising electrode material for EDLCs. | battery |
Successful deployment of electric vehicles requires maturity of the manufacturing process to reduce the cost of the lithium ion battery (LIB) pack. Drying the coated cathode layer and subsequent recovery of the solvent for recycle is a vital step in the lithium ion battery manufacturing plant and offers significant potential for cost reduction. A spreadsheet model of the drying and recovery of the solvent, is used to study the energy demand of this step and its contribution towards the cost of the battery pack. The base case scenario indicates that the drying and recovery process imposes an energy demand of ∼10 kWh per kg of the solvent n-methyl pyrrolidone (NMP), and is almost 45 times the heat needed to vaporize the NMP. For a plant producing 100 K battery packs per year for 10 kWh plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV), the energy demand is ∼5900 kW and the process contributes $107 or 3.4% to the cost of the battery pack. The cost of drying and recovery is equivalent to $1.12 per kg of NMP recovered, saving $2.08 per kg in replacement purchase. | battery |
This study aims to develop a community-based electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring system for cardiac outpatients to wirelessly detect heart rate, provide personalized healthcare, and enhance interactive social contact because of the prevalence of deaths from cardiovascular disease and the growing problem of aging in the world. The system not only strengthens the performance of the ECG monitoring system but also emphasizes the ergonomic design of wearable devices and user interfaces. In addition, it enables medical professionals to diagnose cardiac symptoms remotely and electronically manage medical reports and suggestions. The experimental result shows high performance of the dry electrode, even in dynamic conditions. The comparison result with different ECG healthcare systems shows the essential factors that the system should possess and the capability of the proposed system. Finally, a user survey was conducted based on the unified theory of acceptance and users of technology (UTAUT) model. | non-battery |
Electrochemical oxidation of two isomeric coumarins, umbelliferone (UF, 7-hydroxycoumarin) and benzotertonic acid (BA, 4-hydroxycoumarin), were comparatively studied in aqueous buffer solutions by cyclic voltammetry, in situ long-path-length thin-layer UV–vis spectroelectrochemistry and ex situ ATR-FTIR spectrometry. Both the coumarins undergo the completely irreversible oxidation but following totally different oxidation mechanisms. The 7-OH but not the 4-OH group can contribute to antioxidative activity of coumarin via an electron transfer mechanism. Electro-oxidation of UF occurs at the 7-OH position and produces an insulating polymer film at the electrode surface, which probably consists of a poly(ethylene oxide) backbone with coumarin side groups. The toxicity-related coumarin 3,4-epoxide is a possible intermediate in the UF oxidation. Electro-oxidation of BA occurs at the C3 C4 double bond, also yielding a non-conductive film at the electrode surface. In this process salicylaldehyde as the possible intermediate undergoes further oxidation to form the poly(aryl ether) film. The knowledge of the mechanisms of UF and BA oxidation should be helpful in understanding the roles and conversion of coumarins in their biological and chemical processes. | battery |
The yield and characteristics of packaging waste pyrolysis products depend on the composition of the input material. The aim of this study is to predict the yield of the different pyrolysis fractions (organic liquid, aqueous liquid, gas, char, inorganics) as a function of the input waste composition. Nine real municipal packaging waste samples and four mixtures of pure materials prepared by the authors have been pyrolysed in a 3.5dm3 semi-batch reactor at 500°C. The pyrolysis yields obtained in these experiments, together with some data about the pyrolysis yields of specific materials taken from the literature, have been used as raw data for developing the prediction model. The model parameters have been obtained by means of multiple linear regression of the experimental data. The accuracy of the predicted values is influenced by the nature of the specific sample; the predicted values are more accurate when mixtures of pure materials are studied than when real complex samples are considered. Anyway, the predicted values are acceptable enough to be a useful tool for designing industrial processes. Additionally, the model is easily used since it only requires a few composition data. | battery |
When we refer to the “aperture” of a lens, we are speaking on an iris, similar to that in the pupil of an eye, that opens or closes, allowing light to enter and strike the optic nerve, sending impulses to the brain. A lens aperture works much the same, except it will allow as much light to enter as we tell it to allow. While our brains can automatically compensate for light or dark (a human with good vision is capable of seeing light as dim as a trillionth of a watt), should we tell the aperture to allow too much light for the ISO we've set the chip to record, the result will be an overexposure that the camera cannot compensate for. | non-battery |
Research has indicated that technology can be effectively used to identify high-risk older drivers. However, adaptation of such technology has been limited. Researchers debate whether older drivers represent a safety problem as well as whether they should be screened for driving fitness. The present study examined how drivers feel regarding technological screening and mandatory state testing. The validity and acceptability of a new technological screening battery for identifying high-risk drivers, the DrivingHealth® Inventory (DHI), was also evaluated. In a sample of 258 Alabama drivers aged 18–87, older drivers performed significantly worse than younger drivers on sensory, cognitive, and physical subtests of the DHI, and older drivers with a crash history performed worse than older drivers without crashes. Regardless of age, 90% of participants supported states requiring screening for older drivers’ license renewal. The majority of the participants (72%) supported use of technological screening batteries such as the DHI as a driver screening tool. Considering the acceptability and potential efficacy of the DHI, it may be a useful tool in evaluating driving fitness among older adults. | non-battery |
Global positioning system (GPS) technology is increasingly used to assess geographically varying exposure in population studies. However, there has been limited evaluation of accuracy and completeness of personal GPS data. The ability of a GPS data logger to assess location of children during usual activity was evaluated. Data collected for 4 days from 17 children wearing GPS loggers, recorded every 15 s, were evaluated for completeness by time of day during weekend and weekdays, and for accuracy during nighttime at home. Percentage of possible GPS-recorded points and of 5-min intervals with at least one recorded location were examined. Mean percentage of total possible 15-s interval locations recorded daily was less than 30%. Across participants, the GPS loggers recorded 1–47% of total possible location points on weekends and 1–55% on weekdays. More complete data were measured during travel to school (average 91%). The percentage of daily 5-min intervals with recorded data was as high as 53%. At least one location was recorded during 69% of 5-min intervals before school (0630–0800 h), 62% during school (0800–1400 h) and 56% after school (1400−1700 h). During night time (0000–0600 h), on average, location was recorded for less than 25% of 5-min intervals and accuracy was poor. The large proportion of missing data limits the usefulness of GPS logging instruments for population studies. They have potential utility for assessing on-road travel time and route. GPS technology has limitations, and lessons learned from this evaluation can be generalized to the use of GPS in other research settings.
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Cochlear implants (CIs) provide children with profound hearing loss access to sounds and speech. Research on the effects of CI on speech and language development in mainland China is scarce due to the lack of standardized tests. This study aims at developing a vocabulary measure, the Mandarin Expressive and Receptive Vocabulary Test (MERVT), for pre-school children with CIs. Using responses from 102 normal-hearing preschool children, the initial vocabulary set was subjected to analyses to identify items with appropriate levels of difficulty and discrimination. Norms on 245 normal-hearing children aged 1;6 to 3;11 were later collected based on the final set of the items. Evaluation of the test's psychometric properties revealed good internal consistency. Significant correlations between the total MERVT scores and the Gesell Developmental Scale scores, between the MERVT expressive and receptive subtest scores and the total scores, and the gradual increase in MERVT scores with age, provided evidence of construct validity. Results from 29 children with CIs were also examined for evidence of the MERVT's construct validity. There was a significant correlation between these children's MERVT scores and their scores from an intelligence test. The MERVT scores increased with an increase in the duration of CI use and in chronological age. With good reliability and strong validity, the test is recommended for use in the monitoring of language development in children with CI. | non-battery |
An enhanced one-dimensional (1-D) stationary model for the all-vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) is developed based on an existing 1-D model proposed by Vynnycky [Energy, 36 (2011): 2242 – 2256]. The enhanced model incorporates species conservation equations along with an advection term to describe the concentration changes in the porous electrodes. In addition, a complete Nernst equation, which accounts for proton concentrations in the VRFB is also included to improve the cell voltage prediction without using any arbitrary fitting contact voltage. The enhanced 1-D model is validated against experimental data from the literature and the ability of the model to predict the cell performance is investigated. The cell voltage prediction shows significant improvement over Vynnycky's 1-D model and also compares surprisingly well with higher-dimensional models. This enhanced 1-D model is also capable of capturing the cell performance at different electrolyte flow rates, especially evidenced by the polarization curves. Using both the power based and round-trip efficiencies, the optimal electrolyte flow rate for the VRFB can be determined. This enhanced 1-D model is expected to serve as a useful design tool for the development and optimization of VRFB systems. | battery |
A methodology for optimum sizing of battery integrated biomass gasifier based distributed power generation systems is discussed. Typically, biomass gasifier systems are sized considering peak demand resulting into lower operational efficiency due to part load operation during low demand period. The proposed methodology using design space approach enables designer with multiple combinations of gasifier engine and battery systems for given load profile from which an appropriate combination may be identified considering specific objective or constraints if any. Two gasifier operational strategies are discussed and compared using cost of energy. The methodology is further extended for sizing of hybrid systems incorporating gasifier, solar PV and battery system. The proposed methodology is illustrated using a realistic load profile generated through a structured household survey of an un-electrified hamlet. For given load profile, battery integrated gasifier engine system in intermittent operation mode has the lowest cost of electricity followed by gasifier engine system alone, hybrid system and solar PV battery system. Sensitivity analysis is done to incorporate uncertainty related to variation in key input parameters. The proposed sizing methodology may be helpful in wider replication of gasification systems by providing cost effective sizing of such systems. | battery |
The structures and compositions of materials have important influences on their performance. Herein, hierarchically structured yolk-shell Co and N codoped porous carbon microspheres (YS-Co/N-PCMs) have been successfully synthesized by using low-cost melamine, formaldehyde and cobalt acetate as raw materials via a facile template-free hydrothermal method and a subsequent pyrolysis. The formation process of the yolk-shell precursor is systematically investigated, involving a morphological evolution process from solid microspheres, ultrathin and wrinkled shells wrap, to yolk-shell structure formation. More importantly, the unique structure combines the favorable features towards oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), such as high surface area, sufficient Co-Nx and graphitic N active sites and suitable pore structures. As a result, the YS-Co/N-PCMs catalyst shows high catalytic activity for ORR in alkaline media for fuel cells, which not only outperforms commercial Pt-based catalysts in terms of resistance to methanol crossover and long-time stability, but is also better than many non-precious metal doped carbon-based catalysts reported previously. In addition, the YS-Co/N-PCMs catalyst also has high catalytic activity toward oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Therefore, the YS-Co/N-PCMs catalyst may serve as a promising alternative to Pt/C catalyst for ORR and OER in alkaline media. | battery |
Even though lithium ion batteries are the state-of-the-art battery technology for numerous applications, there is extensive research on alternative battery technologies. Dual-ion batteries (DIBs) and in particular their all carbon/graphite versions, the dual-carbon (DCBs) and dual-graphite batteries (DGBs), have emerged as an upcoming and alternative approach for stationary energy storage systems. However, there are still fundamental electrochemical processes during charge and discharge operation of DIBs not fully understood so far. In this work, the kinetic processes during bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide (TFSI) anion intercalation into graphitic carbon, that proceeds by stage formation, are discussed in detail. The computational calculation of structural parameters of TFSI-graphite intercalation compounds (TFSI-GICs) indicates a possible maximum specific capacity of 140 mAh g−1 and a walking-like diffusion of the TFSI anion within the graphite lattice. Moreover, a particular focus is set on understanding the overpotential generation during the charge process and its correlation to different specific capacities for varying graphite particle sizes and operating temperatures. In this context, a mechanism, supported by electrochemical and computational experiments, is proposed explaining the overpotential evolution on the basis of (apparent) anion diffusion coefficients in graphite. Temporarily higher (apparent) diffusion activation energies close to filled stages seem to be responsible for temporarily lower (apparent) diffusion coefficients and, thus, for the evolution of additional overpotentials during intercalation. | battery |
Recent work has investigated children's developing understanding of the anatomical locus of identity. In two studies, we extend this work by exploring the role of the mind as opposed to the brain in children's conceptualization of identity. In Experiment 1, an analysis of natural language indicated that adults use the term mind more frequently than the term brain with reference to identity-related mental processes. Children's output displayed a similar bias. In Experiment 2, we compared the judgments of 5- and 7-year-old children to those displayed by adults. Participants heard stories in which a magical transformation resulted in either a creature with a mismatch between brain and body or a creature with a mismatch between mind and body. Children were more accurate in recognizing the enduring identity of this transformed creature when the transformation resulted in a mismatch between mind and body as compared to brain and body. | non-battery |
The objective of the study was the estimation of the effect of surfactants on the toxicity of ZnO, TiO2 and Ni nanoparticles (ENPs) towards Daphnia magna. The effect of hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), triton X-100 (TX100) and 4-dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid (SDBS) was tested. The Daphtoxkit F™ test (conforming to OECD Guideline 202 and ISO 6341) was applied for the toxicity testing. Both the surfactants and the ENPs were toxic to D. magna. The addition of ENPs to a solution of the surfactants caused a significant reduction of toxicity of ENPs. The range of reduction of the toxicity of the ENPs depended on the kind of the ENPs and their concentration in the solution, and also on the kind of surfactant. For nano-ZnO the greatest reduction of toxicity was caused by CTAB, while for nano-TiO2 the largest drop of toxicity was observed after the addition of TX100. In the case of nano-Ni, the effect of the surfactants depended on its concentration. Most probably the reduction of toxicity of ENPs in the presence of the surfactants was related with the formation of ENPs aggregates that inhibited the availability of ENPs for D. magna.
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Yam mosaic virus (YMV; genus Potyvirus) is considered to cause the most economically important viral disease of yams (Dioscorea spp.) in West Africa which is the dominant region for yam production globally. Yams are a vegetatively propagated crop and the use of virus-free planting material forms an essential component of disease control. Current serological and PCR-based diagnostic methods for YMV are time consuming involving a succession of target detection steps. In this study, a novel assay for specific YMV detection is described that is based on isothermal reverse transcription-recombinase polymerase amplification (RT-exoRPA). This test has been shown to be reproducible and able to detect as little as 14pg/μl of purified RNA obtained from an YMV-infected plant, a sensitivity equivalent to that obtained with the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in current general use. The RT-exoRPA assay has, however, several advantages over the RT-PCR; positive samples can be detected in less than 30min, and amplification only requires a single incubation temperature (optimum 37°C). These features make the RT-exoRPA assay a promising candidate for adapting into a field test format to be used by yam breeding programmes or certification laboratories. | non-battery |
The co-evolution of society and potentially disruptive technologies makes decision guidance on such technologies difficult. Four basic principles are proposed for such decision guidance. None of the currently available methods satisfies these principles, but some of them contain useful methodological elements that should be integrated in a more satisfactory methodology. The outlines of such a methodology, multiple expertise interaction, are proposed. It combines elements from several previous methodologies, including (1) interdisciplinary groups of experts that assess the potential internal development of a particular technology; (2) external scenarios describing how the surrounding world can develop in ways that are relevant for the technology in question; and (3) a participatory process of convergence seminars, which is tailored to ensure that several alternative future developments are taken seriously into account. In particular, we suggest further development of a bottom-up scenario methodology to capture the co-evolutionary character of socio-technical development paths. | non-battery |
Layered lithium transition metal oxides (Li1+xM1-xO2, M = Ni, Mn, Co) are attractive cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries due to their high reversible capacity. However, they suffer from structural changes that lead to substantial voltage fade. In this study, we use stress as a novel way to track irreversible changes in Li1.2Mn0.55Ni0.125Co0.125O2 (LR-NMC) cathodes. A unique and unpredicted stress signature is observed during the first delithiation. Initially, a tensile stress is observed, consistent with volume contraction from lithium removal, however, the stress reverses and becomes compressive with continued charging beyond 4 V vs Li/Li+, indicating volume expansion; this phenomenon is present in the first cycle only. This irreversible stress during delithiation is likely to be at least partially due to oxygen loss and the resulting cation rearrangement. Raman spectroscopy provides evidence of the layered-to-spinel phase transition after cycling in the LR-NMC films, as well as recovery of the original spectra upon re-annealing in an oxygen environment. | battery |
Biofuel cells are a next-generation energy device because they use renewable fuels with high energy density and safety. We have developed passive-type biofuel cell units, which generate a power over 100 mW (80 cm3, 39.7 g). Our biofuel cell, in which two-electron oxidation of glucose and four-electron reduction of O2 occurs at pH 7 in mediated bioelectrochemical processes under quiescent conditions, accomplished the maximum power density of 1.45 ± 0.24 mW cm−2 at 0.3 V. This performance was achieved by introducing three technologies: (1) Enzymes and mediator are densely entrapped on carbon-fiber electrodes with the enzymatic activity retained, (2) the concentration of buffer in electrolyte solution was optimized for the immobilized enzymes, and (3) the cathode structure was designed to supply O2 efficiently. The cell units with a multi-stacked structure successfully operate a radio-controlled car (16.5 g), which demonstrates the potential of biofuel cells in practical applications.
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A pseudo two-dimensional model (P2D) was presented to describe the electrochemical behaviour of a commercial 18650 cylindrical cell composed of graphite and LiFePO4 (LFP) electrodes. Simulations were conducted by COMSOL MULTIPHYSICS 5.2. The model validation was done with experimental data taken from Hydro-Québec for a full range of C-rates (currents). A mosaic model based on a C-rate dependent particle radius in positive and negative electrodes was assumed. The reaction kinetics and diffusion in a solid phase were recognized as cell performance limiting factors in the flat area and in the steep area at the end of discharge of the cell voltage–capacity curve, respectively. Since the diffusion polarization in a solid phase played an important role in the steep area at the end of discharge of the cell voltage–capacity curve, a concentration dependent diffusion coefficient in LFP positive electrode was considered. Based on the fact that activation overpotential was a major polarization in the flat area of the cell voltage–capacity curve in addition to decreasing the particle radius at higher C-rates, a contact resistance between the surface of the particles and the solid matrix was predicted. This contact resistance on the surface of active materials in the positive electrode described the feature of low electronic conductivity in LFP. There was a good agreement between the simulated results with experimental discharge data in a full range of C-rates. | battery |
Nitrogen-doped nanoporous carbon materials with large BET surface area (1322.5m2 g−1) and pore volume (0.87cm3 g−1) have been achieved by a synchronous carbonization/nitridation process, simply using potassium biphthalate and azodicarbonamide as carbon/nitrogen sources, respectively. The above carbon materials have been further impregnated with MnOx nanocrystallites that comes from the thermal decomposition of Mn(NO3)2. Taking the carbon-2:1-Mn sample as an excellent example, it also has large BET surface area (1160.1m2 g−1) and pore volume (0.77cm3 g−1) and exhibits high nitrogen/manganese contents of 4.13%, and 3.30%, respectively. The carbon-2:1-Mn sample delivers excellent capacitances of 564.5 and 496.8Fg−1 at the current density of 0.5 and 1.0Ag−1, respectively, as well as superior cycling stability of 96.10% even after charging/discharging for 5000 times. The present method of incorporating cheap MnOx substance into carbon matrix is efficient and also easy for large scale production of carbon nanocomposites, especially possessing large BET surface area and high pore volume. | battery |
Biomass-derived jet fuel is an alternative jet fuel (AJF) showing promise of reducing the dependence on fossil fuel and greenhouse gas emissions. Hydroprocessed esters and fatty acids (HEFA) concept is also known as one of the pathways for producing bio jet fuel. HEFA fuel was approved by the American Society for Testing and Materials in 2011, and can be blended up to 50% with conventional jet fuel. Since then, several HEFA economic and life-cycle assessments have been published in literature. However, there have been limited analyses on feedstock availability, composition, and their impact on hydrocarbon yield (particularly jet blendstock yield) and overall process economics. | non-battery |
A new concept lithium-ion conducting lithium lanthanum titanate solid electrolyte and Li4Ti5O12 composite is proposed as efficient anode of lithium-ion batteries with outstanding rate performance, which can be facilely prepared by one-pot combustion technique. The as-synthesized composites are in micrometer size with dense nature which effectively reduces the electrode-liquid electrolyte interface area, thus decreasing irreversible capacity during the first charge–discharge cycle and prolonging cycling stability. However, the composites are rich in lithium lanthanum titanate and Li4Ti5O12 dual phase boundaries due to intimate nanoscale mixing of the two phases. The apparent lithium-ion conductivity of the composite electrode gets significantly improved as compared to pristine Li4Ti5O12 due to the incorporation of lithium lanthanum titanate phase, a high lithium ionic conductor. As a result, the as-synthesized composites show a high capacity of 113.5 mA h g−1 even at a discharge rate of 40 C, more than 200% that of a pristine Li4Ti5O12. The concept is general, which may also be applicable to other electrode materials, and it thus introduces a new way for the development of high rate-performance electrodes for lithium-ion batteries. | battery |
Recently a pinch–torsion test is developed for safety testing of Li-ion batteries. It has been demonstrated that this test can generate small internal short-circuit spots in the separator in a controllable and repeatable manner. In the current research, the failure mechanism is examined by numerical simulations and comparisons to experimental observations. Finite element models are developed to evaluate the deformation of the separators under both pure pinch and pinch–torsion loading conditions. It is discovered that the addition of the torsion component significantly increased the maximum first principal strain, which is believed to induce the internal short circuit. In addition, the applied load in the pinch–torsion test is significantly less than in the pure pinch test, thus dramatically improving the applicability of this method to ultra-thick batteries which otherwise require heavy load in excess of machine capability. It is further found that the separator failure is achieved in the early stage of torsion (within a few degree of rotation). Effect of coefficient of friction on the maximum first principal strain is also examined. | battery |
As one of the bottleneck technologies of electric vehicles (EVs), the battery hosts complex and hardly observable internal chemical reactions. Therefore, a precise mathematical model is crucial for the battery management system (BMS) to ensure the secure and stable operation of the battery in a multi-variable environment. First, a Cloud-based BMS (C-BMS) is established based on a database containing complete battery status information. Next, a data cleaning method based on machine learning is applied to the big data of batteries. Meanwhile, to improve the model stability under dynamic conditions, an F-divergence-based data distribution quality assessment method and a sampling-based data preprocess method is designed. Then, a lithium-ion battery temperature-dependent model is built based on Stacked Denoising Autoencoders- Extreme Learning Machine (SDAE-ELM) algorithm, and a new training method combined with data preprocessing is also proposed to improve the model accuracy. Finally, to improve reliability, a conjunction working mode between the C-BMS and the BMS in vehicles (V-BMS) is also proposed, providing as an applied case of the model. Using the battery data extracted from electric buses, the effectiveness and accuracy of the model are validated. The error of the estimated battery terminal voltage is within 2%, and the error of the estimated State of Charge (SoC) is within 3%. | battery |
Soldering has a high potential for electrically connecting single battery cells even for multicellular battery assemblies. This work evaluates soldered connections for battery cells by assessing the electrical connection resistance with a special measuring and calculation method. Due to the solder layer in between the joint partners, the current paths differ from welded connections. A resistance network and a finite element model (FEM) simulation are applied to understand these current paths. For the chosen test scenario, simulation predicts a reduction of the total connection resistance by the solder layer. Measured connection resistances and tensile strength are compared to series of measurements with resistance spot welding, ultrasonic welding, laser beam welding and press connections. Not only the connection resistances are lower for soldered brass samples but also the tensile strength is higher. For iron soldering on lithium-ion battery cells, the solder’s liquidus temperature should be below ca. 150°C. Other heating techniques, such as laser soldering, seem more promising, because the heat input is rapid and extremely localized. As a conclusion, soldering is a good option for connecting battery cells. If the right heating technique is chosen and the parameters are optimally adjusted, soldering could overtrump other connection techniques in some aspects. | battery |
Polyimide materials with several kinds of mechanical properties have a great potential to use in aviation and space technology. One of these kinds of polyimide materials is poly(imide siloxane) copolymers. By this work, we also aimed to get flexible substrates in order to use as substrates in solar energy technology. Randomly segmented Poly(imide siloxane) and poly(urethane siloxane) block copolymers were produced based on benzofenon-3,3’,4,4’-tetracarboxylic dianhydride (BTDA), 4,4’-oxydianiline (ODA) and bis(3-aminopropyl) polydimethlysiloxane (APPS). The ODA and BTDA are the hard segments, APPS and BTDA are the soft segments in the structure. Many kinds of these copolymers could be produced by adjusting the soft and hard segment lengths. Poly(imide siloxane) block copolymers were insoluable in many organic solvents. | non-battery |
The results of road tests on valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries in an idling-stop (stop and go) vehicle are reported. Idling-stop systems are simple systems to improve fuel economy of automobiles. They are expected to spread widely from an environmental perspective. Performances of a conventional flooded battery, a conventional VRLA battery, and an improved VRLA battery were compared in road tests with an idling-stop vehicle. It was found that the improved VRLA battery was suited to idling-stop applications because it had a smaller capacity loss than the conventional flooded battery during partial-state-of-charge (PSoC) operation. The positive grid was corroded in layers, unlike the usual grain boundary corrosion of SLI battery grid. It is because the corrosion proceeded mainly under PSoC conditions. The corrosion rate could be controlled by potential control of positive plates. | battery |
Composite microparticles consisting of large gold (Au) particles embedded with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), denoted as MWCNTs-Au, have been successfully prepared by a facile hydrothermal process of gold(III) chloride (AuCl3) in a MWCNT aqueous solution. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy reveal that the obtained Au particles have an average diameter of about 500 nm and some MWCNTs are inserted into the Au particles. The MWCNTs-Au composites in the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) show quite different shape of cyclic voltammograms (CVs) toward EOR when compared to the previous CV reports on the pure Au substrate.
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ABSTRACT Two new series of binuclear metal phthalocyanines and graphene/phthalocyanine composites (M2(PcTN)2C(CF3)2, M2(PcTA)2C(CF3)2, M2(PcTN)2C(CF3)2-Gr and M2(PcTA)2C(CF3)2-Gr, M=Mn(II), Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II)) were synthesized and developed for high efficient catalysts to Li/SOCl2 battery. All the catalysts were characterized by IR, LRS, SEM, XRD, TEM and TGA. The capacity of the battery containing these catalysts increases by approximately 4.651-83.72% than that of the battery without them. Especially capacity of Fe2(PcTA)2C(CF3)2-Gr could increase by 83.72%. In addition, the catalytic activities between M2(PcTN)2C(CF3)2 and M2(PcTA)2C(CF3)2, M2(PcTN)2C(CF3)2 and M2(PcTN)2C(CF3)2-Gr, M2(PcTA)2C(CF3)2 and M2(PcTA)2C(CF3)2-Gr, M2(PcTN)2C(CF3)2-Gr and M2(PcTA)2C(CF3)2-Gr were made a comparison. The results indicated that activities of the catalysts were related to both the phthalocyanines rings and the conjugative effect. According to the relevant CV results, reasonable catalytic mechanisms were confirmed to explain the catalytic process. | battery |
Metal-free, heteroatom functionalized carbon-based catalysts have made remarkable progress in recent years in a wide range of applications related to energy storage and energy generation. In this study, high surface area mesoporous ordered sulphur doped carbon materials are obtained via one-pot hydrothermal synthesis of carbon/SBA-15 composite after removal of in-situ synthesized hard template SiO2. 2-thiophenecarboxy acid as sulphur source gives rise to sulphur doping level of 5.5 wt%. Comparing with pristine carbon, the sulphur doped mesoporous ordered carbon demonstrates improved electro-catalytic activity in the oxygen reduction reaction in alkaline solution. | battery |
The preparation and characterization of novel carboxyl-containing polyimide (PID) grafting sulfonated polyvinyl alcohol (SPVA) copolymer membranes applied in vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) are presented in this work. The microphase structures of the copolymer membranes are identified by TEM and XRD. Other basic properties are characterized, particularly the oxidative and water stability. The copolymer membranes exhibit better chemical stability than normal SPIs with five-numbered rings due to the covalent bonds between PI and SPVA as well as highly dispersed microphase separated structure. The physico-chemical properties of the copolymer membranes, including IEC, water uptake, swelling ratio, proton conductivity and vanadium ion permeability are evaluated and compared with Nafion 117. The PID30-g-SPVA membrane has the highest proton selectivity (1.33 × 105 S min cm−3), being much higher than that of Nafion 117 (0.41 × 105 S min cm−3). In VRFB single cell tests, the cells assembled with copolymer membranes show higher coulombic efficiency (CE), higher energy efficiency (63.3% vs 74.3% at 90 mA cm−2) and much lower self-discharge rate than with Nafion 117. In addition, the copolymer membranes retain excellent stability after 100 cycles. All the results show that the copolymer membranes have promising prospects for VRFB applications. | battery |
Passive survivability of Commercially-off-the-shelf 18650 lithium-ion cells is tested in a thermal scenario similar to lunar night. Survivability of cells in particular and battery pack in general is crucial for resumption of function of any lunar exploration rover after hibernation at every lunar night. The test is designed to include a batch of Commercial lithium-ion cells from different manufacturers, with different nameplate capacities and different States of Charge. The cell behaviour during the test is monitored in-situ using cell terminal voltage measurements. To comprehend the effect of exposure to extreme low temperatures some complementary tests like visual examination, dimensional measurements, Residual Gas Analysis to detect any leakage, electrical tests to appraise electrical performance and 3 dimensional x-ray computed tomography analysis to view cell internal features are carried out at ambient conditions on cells both prior-to and after soaking at low temperatures. Results indicate successful survivability of tested cells after extreme thermal soak without any significant physical or internal damage or electrical performance degradation. Variation in cell terminal voltage with temperature is a reversible change attributed to the reversible phenomenon of freezing of cell electrolyte which furthermore is confirmed through ex-situ measurement of freezing point of electrolyte extracted from tested cells. | battery |
Prior studies exploring the quantitative relationship between landscape structure metrics and the ecological condition of receiving waters have used a variety of sampling units (e.g., a watershed, or a buffer around a sampling station) at a variety of spatial scales to generate landscape metrics resulting in little consensus on which scales best describe land-water relationships. Additionally, the majority of these studies have focused on freshwater systems and it is not clear whether results are transferable to estuarine and marine systems. We examined how sampling unit scale controls the relationship between landscape structure and sediment metal concentrations in small estuarine systems in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. We varied the spatial extent of the contributing watersheds used to calculate landscape structure and assessed linear relationships between estuarine sediment metal concentrations and the total area of developed and agricultural lands at each scale. Area of developed lands was consistently related to sediment metals while total agricultural land was not. Developed land had strongest associations with lead and copper; weakest with arsenic and chromium; and moderate associations with cadmium, mercury, and zinc. Local (i.e., less than 15−20 km from a sampling station) land uses have a greater impact than more distant land uses on the amount of toxic metals reaching estuarine sediments.
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This chapter covers the period 1995–2003, but also contains relevant material from the period 1980–1994 not fully covered in COFGT (1995). Recent activity has centered around symmetrical and mixed tetrachalcogeno-ortho-carbonates, especially those suitable as starting materials for organic conductors. | non-battery |
The air-exposed Li2FeSiO4 was characterized and regenerated by calcination under argon. The original Li2FeSiO4 was prepared by a sol–gel method and was then exposed in air for a year. The impact of long-term air exposure on the structure, surface and electrochemical characteristics of Li2FeSiO4 was investigated. In comparison with the original sample, the air-exposed sample was seriously oxidized. The oxidation speed decreases with increasing air-exposure time. The oxidization of Li2FeSiO4 led to surface change and deteriorated electrochemical performance. However, the changes induced by air exposure were entirely reversible. The one year air-exposed Li2FeSiO4 was regenerated by calcination under Argon. The regeneration conditions including calcination temperature and calcination time were optimized. The sample regenerated by calcining at 700°C for 4h had similar structure, surface and electrochemical characteristics to the original sample. Based on detailed analysis, the possible regeneration mechanisms were proposed. | battery |
Publisher Summary The chapter discusses electronic devices and circuits which have applications in electronic automotive instrumentation and control systems. The chapter focuses on semiconductor devices, analog circuits, digital circuits, and the fundamentals of integrated circuits. Semiconductor devices are made from silicon or germanium purposely contaminated with impurities that change the conductivity of the material. Transistors are semiconductor devices that are used as active devices in electronic circuits. In some automotive applications, the extreme temperatures may significantly affect transistor operation. For such applications, the circuit may include components that automatically compensate for changes in transistor operation. | non-battery |
Polymer electrolytes were prepared from thermoplastic polyurethane with addition of mixture of N-ethyl(methylether)-N-methylpyrrolidinium trifluoromethanesulfonimide (PYRA12O1TFSI) ionic liquid, lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfoneimide) salt and propylene carbonate. MCM-41 mesoporous silica was added in proportions ranging from 5 to 20wt.% with respect to TPU. The electrolytes were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, linear voltammetry and impedance spectroscopy. The MCM-41 addition to the system was found to improve the electrochemical stability of the membranes and to reduce the gel electrolyte/metallic Li interfacial resistance. The filler influence on the ion transport processes was discussed according to results obtained by equivalent circuit fitting of impedance spectra. | battery |
Nanoparticles of lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) were synthesized by means of a citrate sol–gel combustion route. The particles were characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopies (SEM and TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. Near spherical nanoparticles of around 100 nm were observed in SEM and TEM micrographs. XRD data indicated that the as-prepared nanoparticles presented pure phase of LiCoO2 with R-3m symmetry. The kinetics of electrochemical intercalation of lithium into the nanoparticles were investigated by means of cyclic voltammetry (CV), chronoamperometry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) with special emphasis on the application potential as cathode material for aqueous rechargeable lithium batteries. CV studies of the nanoparticles at slow scan rate of 0.1 mV s−1 between 600 and 820 mV versus Ag/AgCl, demonstrated that the nanoparticles represented well-defined reversible peaks. The non-linear chemical diffusion of lithium into the nanoparticles was explored by EIS. In this regards, the results were discussed based on an equivalent circuit, distinguishing the kinetic properties of lithium intercalation. The kinetic parameters of lithium intercalation were obtained using the equivalent circuit, which were in good agreement with the experimental results. The changes of kinetic parameters of lithium intercalation with potential were also discussed in detail. | battery |
Introduction There is increasing recognition of the long-term sequelae of brain tumours treated in childhood. Five year survival rates now exceed 75% and assessing the quality of survival (QoS) in multiple domains is essential to any comparison of the benefits and harms of treatment regimens. Aim The aim of this position statement is to rationalise assessments and facilitate collection of a common data set across Europe. Sufficient numbers of observations can then be made to enable reliable comparisons between outcomes following different tumour types and treatments. Methods This paper represents the consensus view of the QoS working group of the Brain Tumour group of the European Society of Paediatric Oncology regarding domains of QoS to prioritise for assessment in clinical trials. This consensus between clinicians and researchers across Europe has been arrived at by discussion and collaboration over the last eight years. Results Areas of assessment discussed include core medical domains (e.g. vision, hearing, mobility, endocrine), emotion, behaviour, adaptive behaviour and cognitive functioning. Conclusions A ‘core plus’ approach is suggested in which core assessments (both direct and indirect tests) are recommended for all clinical trials. The core component is a relatively brief screening assessment that, in most countries, is a sub-component of routine clinical provision. The ‘plus’ components enable the addition of assessments which can be selected by individual countries and/or tumour-, age-, and location-specific groups. The implementation of a QoS protocol common to all European clinical studies of childhood brain tumours is also discussed | non-battery |
Unknown We can expect many new fields of engineering to emerge as technology advances in the 21st century. Some of these fields are apparent today. Fields such as micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS), mechatronics (robotics), nanotechnology, synthetic biology, and smart technologies (cars, structures, buildings, etc.) are all emerging engineering fields. New engineering fields are often multidisciplinary and hold enormous opportunities for future engineers. The following chapters are devoted to three specific emerging engineering fields. Bioengineering combines the analytical and experimental methods of engineering with biology and medicine to produce a better understanding of biological phenomena and develop new therapeutic techniques and devices. Students with bioengineering degrees may work as biomedical engineers to develop new medical techniques, medical devices, and instrumentation for hospitals or individual patients. Electrochemical engineering is a combination of electrical engineering and chemical engineering. While the subject involves some mature technologies, such as the synthesis of chemicals, refining metals, the development of new batteries and fuel cells, electroplating, etching, and corrosion resistance, it also holds a central position in the development of new generations of hybrid cars as well as being important in the development of the core technology for all-electric vehicles of the future. Green energy is energy produced from sources that are environmentally more friendly (or “greener”) than fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas). Green energy includes all renewable energy sources (including solar, wind, geothermal, biofuels, and hydropower), and by definition, should also include nuclear energy (though there are many environmentalists who oppose the idea of nuclear energy as green energy because of the nuclear waste issues, accidents, and its harmful environmental effects). | non-battery |
A sulfur–polyacrylonitrile/reduced graphene oxide (SPAN/RGO) composite with unique electrochemical properties is prepared via deposition of PAN on the surface of RGO sheets followed by ball milling with sulfur and heat treatment. Infrared spectroscopy and microscopy studies indicate that the composite consists of RGO decorated by SPAN particles of 100 nm average size. The SPAN/RGO composite shows good overall electrochemical performance when used in Li–S batteries. It exhibits ∼85% retention of the initial reversible capacity of 1467 mAh g−1 over 100 cycles at a constant current rate of 0.1C and retains 1100 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles. In addition, the composite displays excellent Coulombic efficiency and rate capability, delivering up to 828 mAh g−1 reversible capacity at 2C. The improved performance stems from the composition and structure of the composite, wherein RGO renders a robust electron transport framework and PAN matrix help suppresses the shuttle effect by absorbing sulfur/polysulfides. | battery |
This article presents an experimental study demonstrating the degree to which optimal experimental design can improve lithium-ion battery parameter estimation. The article is motivated by previous literature showing that lithium-ion batteries suffer from poor parameter identifiability. This makes it difficult to estimate battery parameters quickly and accurately from input–output cycling data. Previous research shows that optimizing the shape of a battery cycle for Fisher information – an identifiability metric – can improve parameter estimation speed and accuracy significantly. However, most studies demonstrating this improvement are simulation-based, rather than experimental. In contrast, the centermost goal in this article is to provide an experimental assessment of the degree to which trajectory optimization for Fisher identifiability can improve lithium-ion battery parameter estimation. We optimize battery cycling to maximize Fisher information for a nonlinear second-order model of a commercial lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cell. We implement this optimal cycle experimentally for 3 different battery cells, and compare it with two benchmark cycles representing automotive battery use. The results of this comparison are quite compelling: when parameterized using data from the optimal cycle, the cell voltage prediction signal-to-noise ratio improves significantly over the benchmarks. Moreover, only the optimized cycle produces reasonable estimates of battery parameters over the course of a 4-hour experiment. | battery |
Prior researches have indicated that an appropriate adoption of information technology (IT) can help hospitals significantly improve services and operations. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is believed to be the next generation innovation technology for automatic data collection and asset/people tracking. Based on the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) framework, this study investigated high-level managers’ considerations for RFID adoption in hospitals. This research reviewed literature related IT adoption in business and followed the results of a preliminary survey with 37 practical experts in hospitals to theorize a model for the RFID adoption in hospitals. Through a field survey of 102 hospitals and hypotheses testing, this research identified key factors influencing RFID adoption. Follow-up in-depth interviews with three high-level managers of IS department from three case hospitals respectively also presented an insight into the decision of RFID’s adoption. Based on the research findings, cost, ubiquity, compatibility, security and privacy risk, top management support, hospital scale, financial readiness and government policy were concluded to be the key factors influencing RFID adoption in hospitals. For practitioners, this study provided a comprehensive overview of government policies able to promote the technology, while helping the RFID solution providers understand how to reduce the IT barriers in order to enhance hospitals’ willingness to adopt RFID.
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Different aging mechanisms occur in lithium-ion cells, such as calendar aging during storage, cycle aging while charging and discharging, and aging due to lithium plating caused by excessive charging currents. This work shows that the maximum permissible charging current depends on the aging type and aging degree of the lithium-ion cell and has to be considered accordingly. For this purpose, calendar aged, cycled aged and due to lithium plating aged cells were prepared and measured using the cell thickness method. Our results show that the charging current has to be reduced after calendar aging and aging due to lithium plating. For cycled aged cells it is even possible to increase the charging current. Finally, an in-situ analysis method for determining the aging type is developed, which is based on thickness and voltage change patterns that are typical for each aging type. | battery |
Hollow spheres structured materials have been intensively pursued due to their unique properties for energy storage. In this paper, hollow-in-hollow carbon spheres (HIHCS) with a multi-shelled structure were successfully synthesized using a facile hard-templating procedure. When evaluated as anode material for lithium-ion batteries, the resultant HIHCS anode exhibited superior capacity and cycling stability than HCS. It could deliver reversible capacities of 937, 481, 401, 304 and 236mAhg−1 at current densities of 0.1Ag−1, 1Ag−1, 2Ag−1, 5Ag−1 and 10Ag−1, respectively. And capacity fading is not apparent in 500 cycles at 5Ag−1. The excellent performance of the HIHCS anode is ascribed to its unique hollow-in-hollow structure and high specific surface area. | battery |
The authors regret that in the above mentioned article Figure 3 and Figure 4 are misplaced and should exchange each other's positions. Figure 3 should be placed at the position of Figure 4, and Figure 4 should be placed at the positon of Figure 3, while both captions of Figure 3 and Figure 4 should remain at the original positions. The authors would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused. | battery |
Herein, a three–dimensional (3D) Na3V2(PO4)3–based hollow nanosphere with hierarchical pores (3DHP–NVP@C) has been firstly reported. Detailed studies reveal that this novel architecture is made up from the bottom–up assembly of carbon–coating NVP nanoparticles. The hierarchically porous structure offers ample space for the intimate contact between electrode/electrolyte and eliminates the disadvantageous reducing of effective surface areas in manufacturing the electrodes, as well as stabilizes the structure upon repeated sodium ions insertion/extraction, resulting to the barrier–free sodium ion diffusions and long–term cycling life. On the other hand, the graphitic carbon shells construct into a highly–conductive framework that can ensure the ultrafast electrons transfer. Consequently, extraordinary high–rate and ultralong–cycle capabilities that are superior to any other NVP–based material are obtained: the outstanding high–rate capacity retention (over 80% of the 1C capacity is retained at 400C), ultralong life span (90.9% and 92.5% capacity retention after 10,000 cycles at 1C and 5C), and extremely high–rate stability (80% capacity retention after 30,000 cycles at 50C), demonstrating its promising application in sodium ion battery. | battery |
We explored resting-state brain activity and its potential links to clinical parameters in schizophrenic patients with tardive dyskinesia (TD) using fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (fALFF). Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data were acquired from 32 schizophrenic patients with TD (TD group), 31 without TD (NTD group), and 32 healthy controls (HC group). Clinical parameters including psychopathological symptoms, severity of TD, and cognitive function were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS), and Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status, respectively. Pearson correlation analyses were performed to determine the relationship between the regions with altered fALFF values and clinical parameters in TD patients. The TD group showed decreased fALFF in the left middle occipital gyrus (MOG) and the right calcarine sulcus (CAL) compared to the HC group, and decreased fALFF in the left cuneus compared to the NTD group. In the TD group, fALFF values in the left MOG and the right CAL were correlated separately with the delayed memory score (r = 0.44, p = 0.027; r = 0.43, p = 0.028, respectively). The AIMS total score was negatively correlated to the visuospatial/constructional score (r = −0.53, p = 0.005). Our findings suggested that resting-state brain activity changes were associated with TD in schizophrenic patients. There was an association between the decreased brain activity in the occipital lobe and the delayed memory cognition impairment in this population. | non-battery |
Tire and road wear particles (TRWP) consist of a complex mixture of rubber, and pavement released from tires during use on road surfaces. Subsequent transport of the TRWP into freshwater sediments has raised some concern about the potential adverse effects on aquatic organisms. Previous studies have shown some potential for toxicity for tread particles, however, toxicity studies of TRWP collected from a road simulator system revealed no acute toxicity to green algae, daphnids, or fathead minnows at concentrations up to 10,000 mg/kg under conditions representative of receiving water bodies. In this study, the chronic toxicity of TRWP was evaluated in four aquatic species. Test animals were exposed to whole sediment spiked with TRWP at concentrations up to 10,000 mg/kg sediment or elutriates from spiked sediment. Exposure to TRWP spiked sediment caused mild growth inhibition in Chironomus dilutus but had no adverse effect on growth or reproduction in Hyalella azteca. Exposure to TRWP elutriates resulted in slightly diminished survival in larval Pimephales promelas but had no adverse effect on growth or reproduction in Ceriodaphnia dubia. No other endpoints in these species were affected. These results, together with previous studies demonstrating no acute toxicity of TRWP, indicate that under typical exposure conditions TRWP in sediments pose a low risk of toxicity to aquatic organisms.
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Graphene-encapsulated α-Fe2O3 nanorice (GE-FN) has been facilely fabricated via a solution-mixing method at room temperature. The Fe2O3 nanorice with an average of ∼350nm was uniformly wrapped in the graphene sheets. As an anode material for rechargeable lithium batteries, this GE-FN composite exhibits enhanced cyclability and rate performance compared with free α-Fe2O3 nanorice. Even after 500 cycles, it still delivers a capacity over 1000mAhg−1. The morphology of the active materials after the cycling process was also investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and found that the bare α-Fe2O3 nanorice agglomerated severely, while the α-Fe2O3 nanorice encapsulated by the graphene sheets could keep their pristine morphology well and almost isolate from each other after 500 cycles. | battery |
Porous ZnMn2O4 nanospheres are synthesized through a facile microemulsion method. Crystal structure, morphology and electrochemical performance of the product as anode of lithium ion battery were investigated with FESEM, TEM, HRTEM, BET, XPS, XRD, CV, EIS, and charge/discharge test, with a comparison of ZnMn2O4 microparticle synthesized by sol-gel method. It is found that the microemulsion can effectively control particle size and morphology of the precursor and thus porous ZnMn2O4 nanospheres consisting of smaller primary nanoparticles can be successfully obtained, which exhibit far better rate capability and cyclic stability than ZnMn2O4 microparticles. The porous ZnMn2O4 nanospheres deliver a reversible capacity of 300 mAh g−1 at 6000 mA g−1 and yield a capacity retention of 91% after 120 cycles at 200 mA g−1, compared to the 20 mAh g−1 and 0% of ZnMn2O4 microparticles, respectively. The space in the porous structure of ZnMn2O4 nanospheres buffers the mechanical strain induced by the volume change during cycling, which causes destruction of ZnMn2O4 microparticle, resulting in the excellent cyclic stability. Moreover, the primary nanoparticles in ZnMn2O4 nanospheres reduce the path of lithium ion transportation and increase reaction sites for lithium intercalation/deintercalation, leading to the better rate capability of porous ZnMn2O4 nanospheres than ZnMn2O4 microparticles. | battery |
We report a simple and cost-effective synthesis of hierarchically porous structure composed of Birnessite-type manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanosheets on flexible carbon cloth (CC) via anodic electrodeposition technique. Petal-shaped MnO2, having sheet thickness of a few nm and typical width of 100nm, with a strong adhesion on CC is observed. This hierarchically porous MnO2–CC hybrid structure dose exhibit not only excellent capacitance properties, such as up to 425Fg−1 in specific capacitance, but also high crack resistance owing to its efficient release of bending stress, as observed by cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge measurements under different curvature of bending configurations. Furthermore, flexible supercapacitors based on this kind of MnO2 nanosheet/CC electrode showed significantly improved stability in capacitive performance over 3000 cycles under the bending test, which is highly promising for future applications in flexible energy storage device. | battery |
The production of vehicles utilizing 36V battery systems has begun with the introduction of the Toyota Crown. Other vehicles with 36V batteries are in the near horizon. These vehicles may contain single or dual battery systems. These vehicles will most likely contain valve-regulated lead–acid (VRLA) batteries. The battery systems developed to date utilize significantly more lead than conventional 12V batteries. This paper will evaluate the different proposed 36V battery systems and estimate the lead requirements for each of the competing systems. It will also project the penetration of and resultant increased lead usage of these new batteries into the future. | battery |
Poly(aniline-co-o-aminophenol) (PAN–OAP) has been synthesized by electrochemical copolymerization of aniline (AN) and o-aminophenol (OAP) on glassy carbon electrode (GCE). FT-IR, UV–vis and electrochemical characterizations indicate the formation of the PAN–OAP and it has the structure of a head-to-tail coupling of AN and OAP units. When the concentration ratio of OAP–AN is more than 1:20, the voltammetric behaviors for the copolymerization of AN and OAP are similar, while the copolymerization rate decreases with increasing of OAP concentration in the solution. The PAN–OAP can maintain its electroactivity in neutral and even in alkaline media, although the electroactivity of the copolymers decrease with increasing of the concentration ratio of OAP–AN in solution. The PAN–OAP film coated GCE exhibits excellent electrocatalytic responses towards the electro-oxidation of ascorbic acid (AA) in phosphate buffer solution of pH 6.8. The anode peak potential of AA shifts from 0.53V at bare GCE to 0.21V at PAN–OAP/GCE with greatly enhanced current response. A linear calibration graph is obtained over the AA concentration range of 5×10−4–1.65×10−2 molL−1 using cyclic voltammetry. Chronoamperometry has also been employed to investigate the electro-oxidation of AA. The PAN–OAP/GCE shows good stability and reproducibility. | battery |
Although Mg metal features high volumetric energy density and electrochemical dendrite-free deposition, Mg-storage cathode materials with desirable capacity and long-term stability have reached a bottleneck due to large diffusion barrier of Mg2+. Herein, we report for the first time Ni-Fe bimetallic diselenides microflowers (Ni0.75Fe0.25Se2, NFS) as cathode materials for rechargeable magnesium batteries. The NFS exhibits a considerable reversible capacity of 190 mAh g−1 and excellent Mg-storage cycling stability (148 mAh g−1 even after 500 cycles). Compared with unary transitional-metal diselenides (NiSe2, NS), the NFS shows more redox active sites and higher Mg2+ diffusion dynamics, contributing to superior reversible capacity and long cycle life. Furthermore, the concept of sequential reaction based on the potential discrepancy for the NFS magnesiation/demagnesiation process at steady stage was put forward and evidenced by electrochemical measurement and structural characterization. This paper paves the way for constructing advanced high-performance cathode materials of rechargeable magnesium batteries. | battery |
Currently extensive attentions on application of LiFePO4 batteries in electric vehicles are attracted to the researchers. Owing to the high cost of raw materials and burdensome preparation process, the re-synthesis of LiFePO4 from spent batteries becomes an economical and convenient way. Herein, a novel closed-loop regeneration process simultaneously from spent LiFePO4 cathode and graphite anode is proposed. Spent LiFePO4 cathode material is first successfully regenerated through Li+ compensation and structure reshaping via hydrothermal method, and then graphene oxide is recovered from spent graphite anode via Hummers method. The as-regenerated LiFePO4/reduced graphene oxide composites present spherical morphology, smaller and more uniform particles. The composite mode of LiFePO4 and graphene includes LiFePO4 distributing in the interlayer structure of graphene and the graphene evenly covering on the surface of the particles. The regenerated LiFePO4/reduced graphene oxide batteries exhibit reversible capacities of 162.6 mAhg−1 and high columbic efficiency, stable cycle performances at 0.2 and 1C and excellent rate capacity. Through comparison, the regenerated LiFePO4/reduced graphene oxide composites from hydrothermal process shows better prosperities than those of regenerated LiFePO4 from solid phase roasting method whatever electrochemical properties or economical efficiency in the booming electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles industrialization. | battery |
Thermostability and structure transformations upon heating of composite systems consisting of a microporous polyethylene film and a conducting polyaniline (PANI) layer have been investigated by thermogravimetry (TG), differential thermal analysis (DTA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS). Microporous polyethylene films were prepared by melt extrusion with subsequent annealing, uniaxial extension, and thermofixation. Polyaniline layers were formed by polymerizing aniline from solution in situ or by deposition of colloidal polyaniline dispersion on the polyethylene film surface. Composite systems have been found to demonstrate a considerably lower shrinkage upon heating than microporous polyethylene substrates. It has been discovered from DTA, DSC, and WAXS data that oriented phases in the polyethylene melt are formed in composite systems at melting temperature of polyethylene support. Oriented state in polyethylene melt is maintained at heating of composite samples up to the temperatures exceeding polyethylene melting point at several tens degrees. | non-battery |
Olivine lithium iron phosphate (LFPO) assimilated with reduced grapheme oxide (rGO) was prepared via an easy and cost-effective hydrothermal synthesis, and the resultant composites were employed as active positive electrode for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The structural and morphological features were studied by XRD, Raman, SEM, TEM and surface area analysis (BET). The electrochemical properties of the LFPO/rGO composite is evaluated by CV, CP and EIS. The LFPO/rGO composite with a high specific area (94.7 m2/g) was constituted with 74% LFPO and 26% rGO. The LFPO/rGO composite as a LIB cathode displayed a superior initial discharge capacity of 163.3 mAh/g at a current density of 0.2 C and sustained a capacity of 110.6 mAh/g at a high current density of 10 C for 150 consecutive cycles. The existence of highly conductive rGO and a short transportation span for both Li-ions and electrons made LFPO/rGO composite as a promising cathode in LIBs even at high rates. | battery |
Fish is consumed as a common food by humans due to its nutritional and therapeutic benefits. However, they can accumulate toxic chemicals (such as heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants) from water and food chain. Very few studies have been investigated on heavy metal contents in fish from Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. In order to study heavy metals levels in fish from aquaculture farms and evaluate the risk that human consume fish in this area, we collected four types of aquaculture fish species (6 big-head carps, 5 grass carps, 5 carps and 5 tilapias) from fisheries around Lhasa city in this study. 9 heavy metals (Cr, As, Cd, Pb, Cu, Ba, Co, Mn and V) in different tissues of fish were determined by an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. Cr, Ba, Co, Mn and V could easily accumulate in the gill, and Cu was detected in the hearts of all the fishes. Toxic metal (As, Cd and Pb) contents were higher in the liver than those in other tissues, heavy metal levels were the lowest in the muscle among all tissues. Most of heavy metal concentrations in the tilapia tissues were higher than those in other fish tissues, especially arsenic. Arsenic content in the tilapia samples was ~2–4 times higher than the maximum levels (MLs) of contaminants in the national standard, and other metals were all lower than the MLs. Compared the estimated daily intake of heavy metals through fish consumption with tolerable daily intakes recommended by FAO, the metals daily intake of As, Cd and Pb from fish consumption might not pose serious health risk to the local inhabitants. It is therefore necessary to determine the dose level for human, which is considered to be taken daily over a lifetime without adverse effects. | non-battery |
LiFePO4/carbon nanowires with three-dimensional (3D) nano-network structure were successfully synthesized via evaporative self-assembly method induced by amylose. The morphologies and structures are investigated by X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. The co-axis one-dimensional LiFePO4/C nanowires, which are 50nm in diameter and between 400nm and 1μm in length, are tightly connected into 3D nano-network structure by the amorphous carbon from the short branched chains of amylase. They deliver high capacities of 167 and 138mAhg−1 at 0.1C and 50C respectively. After 100 cycles at 50C rate, the capacity retention of the composite can still maintain 92.8% (128mAhg−1).The unique 3D nano-network structure can effectively increase the contact between active materials and electrolyte, and improve the poor electronic and ionic conductivity. | battery |
Unknown | non-battery |
Mg–O2 batteries appear to be a promising alternative to Li-O2 system due to the high abundancy and volumetric energy density of Mg. Although much effort has been put into research on Li-O2 batteries, little is known about the oxygen reduction and evolution in Mg2+-containing aprotic electrolytes. In this paper, we present a detailed analysis of the ORR in Mg2+-containing DMSO using RRDE and DEMS-techniques and derive a more general reaction mechanism of ORR in aprotic electrolytes using the results for Li+, Na+ and K+-containing DMSO. O2 first reacts via an initial adsorption step to superoxide which, in the presence of Mg2+, is subsequently reduced to peroxide as the main reaction product. However, this product undergoes further reactions leading to a deactivation of the electrode. Regarding the reversibility, unfortunately no OER was observed and reactivation of the electrode proved difficult. | battery |
The ecological catastrophe produced by the Prestige oil spill (November 2002) caused severe damage in both North Spanish and French coastal communities. Wild mussel populations of Mytilus galloprovincialis in a zone with marginal introgression of Mytilus edulis were affected at all levels, from high DNA damage to increased polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon content in tissues. In this article, we describe cytological and population genetic changes of wild mussel populations from the northwestern Iberian coast following the catastrophe. The micronucleus test was employed as an indicator of cytological damage, and the Barcoding mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) and the nuclear Glu-5′ genes were analyzed for determining the species and assessing population genetic diversity. Immediate increase of micronuclei counts after the oil spill was found, with a further decrease in consecutive months although the counts did not recover pre-Prestige levels. Reduced variation at mitochondrial sequences in the most exposed areas and reduction of M. edulis traces in the regional genetic pool also suggest long-term impact that may result in evolutionary changes. These results highlight the need of adopting more strict measures in order to prevent this type of accidents and avoid long-term effects on wild populations.
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Rice husk is produced in a massive amount worldwide as a byproduct of rice cultivation. Rice husk contains approximately 20 wt% of mesoporous SiO2. We produce mesoporous silicon (Si) by reducing the rice husk-originating SiO2 using a magnesio-milling process. Taking advantage of meso-porosity and large available quantity, we apply rice husk-originating Si to lithium ion battery anodes in a composite form with commercial graphite. By varying the mass ratio between these two components, trade-off relation between specific capacity and cycle life was observed. A controllable pre-lithiation scheme was adopted to increase the initial Coulombic efficiency and energy density. The series of electrochemical results suggest that rice husk-originating Si–graphite composites are promising candidates for high capacity lithium ion battery anodes, with the prominent advantages in battery performance and scalability.
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In traditional folk medicine, Xanthoxylum plants are referred to as 'toothache trees' because their anesthetic or counter-irritant properties render them useful in the treatment of pain. Psychophysical studies have identified hydroxy-α-sanshool as the compound most responsible for the unique tingling and buzzing sensations produced by Szechuan peppercorns or other Xanthoxylum preparations. Although it is generally agreed that sanshool elicits its effects by activating somatosensory neurons, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms remain a matter of debate. Here we show that hydroxy-α-sanshool excites two types of sensory neurons, including small-diameter unmyelinated cells that respond to capsaicin (but not mustard oil) as well as large-diameter myelinated neurons that express the neurotrophin receptor TrkC. We found that hydroxy-α-sanshool excites neurons through a unique mechanism involving inhibition of pH- and anesthetic-sensitive two-pore potassium channels (KCNK3, KCNK9 and KCNK18), providing a framework for understanding the unique and complex psychophysical sensations associated with the Szechuan pepper experience.
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Understanding how cytokines interact with multimeric cell receptors to generate signals governing cell behavioral responses is crucial for the development of these promising pharmacological agents. A powerful quantitative approach is reported that was used to analyze the complicated case of binding of the GDNF family member artemin to the heteromeric GFRα3-Ret receptor.
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Graphene has a unique atom-thick two-dimensional (2D) structure, high conductivity and charge mobility, huge specific surface area, excellent mechanical, thermal and electrical properties. Thus, it has been regarded as an important component for functional materials, especially for developing a variety of catalysts. In this review, we summarize the recent advancements in synthesizing graphene based new catalysts, and their applications in organic synthesis, sensors, environmental protection and energy related systems.
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γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, responding to GABA positive allosteric modulators, are present in the freshwater polyp Hydra vulgaris (Cnidaria, Hydrozoa), one of the most primitive metazoans to develop a nervous system. We examined the occurrence and distribution of GABAA receptor subunits in Hydra tissues by western blot and immunohistochemistry. Antibodies against different GABAA receptor subunits were used in Hydra membrane preparations. Unique protein bands, inhibited by the specific peptide, appeared at 35, 60, ∼50 and ∼52 kDa in membranes incubated with α3, β1, γ3 or δ antibodies, respectively. Immunohistochemical screening of whole mount Hydra preparations revealed diffuse immunoreactivity to α3, β1 or γ3 antibodies in tentacles, hypostome, and upper part of the gastric region; immunoreactive fibers were also present in the lower peduncle. By contrast, δ antibodies revealed a strong labeling in the lower gastric region and peduncle, as well as in tentacles. Double labeling showed colocalization of α3/β1, α3/γ3 and α3/δ immunoreactivity in granules or cells in tentacles and gastric region. In the peduncle, colocalization of both α3/β1 and α3/γ3 immunoreactivity was found in fibers running horizontally above the foot. These data indicate that specific GABAA receptor subunits are present and differentially distributed in Hydra body regions. Subunit colocalization suggests that Hydra GABA receptors are heterologous multimers, possibly sub-serving different physiological activities. | non-battery |
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