batterydata/paper-abstracts huggingface dataset:
The improvement in the cycle life of a metal-hydride electrode, LaNi3.35Co0.75Mn0.4Al0.3, brought about by the addition of ZnO to the alkaline electrolyte has been investigated using measurements based upon in situ electrical resistance, corrosion, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and inductively-coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy. It was found that Zn is underpotentially deposited on and subsequently alloyed with the subject electrode upon repeated charge-and-discharge cycles. The presence of Zn extends the cycle life of the LaNi3.35Co0.75Mn0.4Al0.3 electrode by inhibiting the disintegration and lowering the corrosion rate of the alloy particles.
Human studies prior to 1990 have shown an association between respiratory cancer and exposure to some nickel compounds, but not to metallic nickel. Numerous reviews have examined the nature of the association between nickel compounds and respiratory cancer, but little has been published on metallic nickel. This paper reviews the animal and human cancer-related data on metallic nickel to determine whether the conclusions regarding metallic nickel reached a decade ago still apply. Based upon past and current human studies, metallic nickel appears to show little evidence of carcinogenicity when present at the same or higher concentrations than those seen in current workplace environments. By comparison, animal studies currently available have shown mixed results. A number of studies have shown evidence of carcinogenicity in animals exposed to nickel powders via injection, but other studies have shown no or inconsistent results in animals exposed via inhalation or intratracheal instillation. Further studies in animals via inhalation and humans would be helpful in elucidating the respiratory carcinogenic potential of metallic nickel.
The power spectral density of the output of wind turbines provides information on the character of fluctuations in turbine output. Here both 1-second and 1-hour samples are used to estimate the power spectrum of several wind farms. The measured output power is found to follow a Kolmogorov spectrum over more than four orders of magnitude, from 30s to 2.6 days. This result is in sharp contrast to the only previous study covering long time periods, published 50 years ago. The spectrum defines the character of fill-in power that must be provided to compensate for wind's fluctuations when wind is deployed at large scale. Installing enough linear ramp rate generation (such as a gas generator) to fill in fast fluctuations with amplitudes of 1% of the maximum fluctuation would oversize the fill-in generation capacity by a factor of two for slower fluctuations, greatly increasing capital costs. A wind system that incorporates batteries, fuel cells, supercapacitors, or other fast-ramp-rate energy storage systems would match fluctuations much better, and can provide an economic route for deployment of energy storage systems when renewable portfolio standards require large amounts of intermittent renewable generating sources.
Background Several studies show that bifrontal electrode placement produces relatively fewer cognitive adverse effects than bitemporal placement during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in depression. There are no reports comparing these electrode placements in schizophrenia. Objectives This study compared the clinical and cognitive effects of bifrontal and bitemporal electrode placements in schizophrenia patients referred for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Methods 122 schizophrenia patients who were prescribed ECT were randomized to receive ECT with either bifrontal (BFECT; n = 62) or bitemporal (BTECT; n = 60) placement. Their concomitant anti-psychotic medications and the number of ECT sessions were not controlled. Psychopathology was assessed using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), Bush-Francis Catatonia Rating Scale (BFCRS), and the Nurse Observation Scale for Inpatient Evaluation (NOSIE). Cognitive functions were assessed 24-h after the final ECT using a battery of tests. Clinical improvement was compared using chi-square test, repeated measures ANOVA and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Cognitive adverse effects were compared using t-test. Results At the end of 2 weeks (after 6 ECT sessions) 63% and 13.2% of BFECT and BTECT patients respectively had met the response criterion for BPRS (40% reduction in total score; OR = 20.8; 95% CI = 3.61–34.33). BFECT patients showed significantly faster clinical response on BPRS (Time × Group interaction effect: P = 0.001), BFCRS (P < 0.001) and the NOSIE total assets score (P = 0.003). ANCOVA using baseline scores as covariates and treatment-resistance status as between-subject factor showed that BFECT patients had significantly greater improvement in all measures. BFECT patients had significantly higher PGI-memory-scale total score than BTECT patients (t = 5.16; P < 0.001). They also showed superior performance in other cognitive measures. Conclusions BFECT results in superior clinical and cognitive outcomes than BTECT in schizophrenia patients referred for ECT.
Epilepsy is characterized by impaired circuit function and a propensity for spontaneous seizures, but how plastic rearrangements within the epileptic focus trigger cortical dysfunction and hyperexcitability is only partly understood. Here we have examined alterations in sensory processing and the underlying biochemical and neuroanatomical changes in tetanus neurotoxin (TeNT)-induced focal epilepsy in mouse visual cortex. We documented persistent epileptiform electrographic discharges and upregulation of GABAergic markers at the completion of TeNT effects. We also found a significant remodeling of the dendritic arbors of pyramidal neurons, with increased dendritic length and branching, and overall reduction in spine density but significant preservation of mushroom, mature spines. Functionally, spontaneous neuronal discharge was increased, visual responses were less reliable, and electrophysiological and behavioural visual acuity was consistently impaired in TeNT-injected mice. These data demonstrate robust, long-term remodeling of both inhibitory and excitatory circuitry associated with specific disturbances of network function in neocortical epilepsy.
Energy resources are an irreplaceable life resource in the current world, with the use and management of these an important indicator of development. In parallel to the developing world economy, the increase in the use of energy resources is increasingly consuming existing fossil sources and also increasing the amount of greenhouse gas released into the atmosphere. As a result of resulting material and environmental concerns, renewable energy resources have begun to be used as alternative energy resources. These resources have advantages such as sustainability and environmental friendliness, in addition to having disadvantages such as higher investment costs and also system reliability is insufficient to provide for continuous demand for energy. To resolve these disadvantages, hybrid systems have been developed involving the use of more than one type of renewable energy resource and/or use with traditional energy resources and/or integration with storage systems. The use of these systems requires finding the solution to optimization problems including one or more objectives such as sizing the system to minimize energy costs, system management to balance the uncertainty of energy produced or reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This article was prepared with the aim of investigating optimization techniques developed from past to present to solve this problem and especially to determine the efficacy of multi-objective optimization approaches.
In this paper, we consider the cooperative decision-making problem for multi-target tracking in multi-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems. The multi-UAV decision-making problem is modeled in the framework of distributed multi-agent partially observable Markov decision processes (MPOMDPs). Specifically, the state of the targets is represented by the joint multi-target probability distribution (JMTPD), which is estimated by a distributed information fusion strategy. In the information fusion process, the most accurate estimation is selected to propagate through the whole network in finite time. We propose a max-consensus protocol to guarantee the consistency of the JMTPD. It is proven that the max-consensus can be achieved in the connected communication graph after a limited number of iterations. Based on the consistent JMTPD, the distributed partially observable Markov decision algorithm is used to make tracking decisions. The proposed method uses the Fisher information to bid for targets in a distributed auction. The bid is based upon the reward value of the individual UAV’s POMDPs, thereby removing the need to optimize the global reward in the MPOMDPs. Finally, the cooperative decision-making approach is deployed in a simulation of a multi-target tracking problem. We compare our proposed algorithm with the centralized method and the greedy approach. The simulation results show that the proposed distributed method has a similar performance to the centralized method, and outperforms the greedy approach.
Odor identification deficits are well documented in patients with schizophrenia, but it remains unclear whether individuals at clinical high-risk for psychosis exhibit similar changes and whether their olfactory function is related to social/cognitive functions and symptomatology. In this study, we investigated odor detection sensitivity and identification ability in 32 individuals with at-risk mental state (ARMS), 59 schizophrenia patients, and 169 healthy controls using a T&T olfactometer. The ARMS and schizophrenia subjects were administered the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS), the Schizophrenia Cognition Rating Scale (SCoRS), and the Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale (SOFAS) to assess their cognitive and social functions, and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) for clinical symptoms. Both the ARMS and schizophrenia subjects had lower odor identification ability when compared with healthy controls, while no significant difference was found in the odor detection sensitivity. The lower odor identification ability in the ARMS group correlated with the severity of negative symptoms and weakly correlated with lower performance on the BACS verbal fluency test. The olfactory measures of schizophrenia patients did not correlate with illness duration, medication, symptom severity, and social and cognitive functions. For the ARMS and schizophrenia groups, the olfactory measures did not correlate with the SOFAS and SCoRS scores. These findings suggest that high-risk subjects for psychosis already show odor identification deficits similar to those observed in schizophrenia patients, which probably reflect a biological trait related to vulnerability to psychosis.
Metallic tin (Sn) used as anode material for lithium ion batteries has long been proposed, but its low temperature electrochemical performance has been rarely concerned. Here, a Sn/C composite with nano-Sn embedded in expanded graphite (Sn/EG) is synthesized. The nano-Sn particles (∼30nm) are uniformly distributed in the interlayers of expanded graphite forming a tightly stacked layered structure. The electrochemical performance of the Sn/EG, particularly at low temperature, is carefully investigated compared with graphite. At -20°C, the Sn/EG shows capacities of 200mAhg−1 at 0.1C and 130mAhg−1 at 0.2C, which is much superior to graphite (<10mAhg−1). EIS measurements suggest that the charge transfer impedance of the Sn/EG increases less rapidly than graphite with decreasing temperatures, which is responsible for the improved low temperature electrochemical performance. The Li-ion chemical diffusion coefficients of the Sn/EG obtained by GITT are an order of magnitude higher at room temperature than that at -20°C. Furthermore, the Sn/EG exhibits faster Li-ion intercalation kinetics than graphite in the asymmetric charge/discharge measurements, which shows great promise for the application in electric vehicles charged at low temperature.
In this article we present a low temperature method applied to modify the surface of lithium manganese oxide grains’ by using cerium dioxide. In order to determine the structure, size of particles and morphology of the pristine and surface modified LiMn2O4 powders we used several complementary methods: X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and Raman spectroscopy. The galvanostatic charge/discharge tests of the pristine and CeO2 modified LiMn2O4 cathode materials were conducted in the potential range: 3.5 to 4.5V vs. Li/Li+ at room temperature. High current rates performance has been evaluated by determination of specific discharge capacity at current rates varied from 1C to 30C. Our work demonstrates that surface modification of LiMn2O4 grains’ by using 1%wt. of cerium dioxide admixture improves cycling stability and capacity retention. Pristine LMO reveals 10% capacity loss after 100 cycles when discharged at 1C, while the sample modified with CeO2 grains reveals only ca. 2% capacity loss.
This study investigated the relationship between school performance, cognitive functions, and dietary control in a group of 26 early and continuously treated phenylketonuric patients, in comparison with 21 sex- and age-matched control subjects. The cognitive functions study included intelligence measurement, visual and auditory memory and auditory verbal learning abilities, attention, visuospatial, fine motor, language, and executive functions. Participants were asked about school performance. The indexes of dietary control for the first 6 years of life and for the 6 months before the study were calculated. The intelligence score was significantly lower in phenylketonuric patients (P < 0.0001). The percentage of patients with attention problems (P = 0.02), fine motor (P = 0.001) and executive dysfunctions (P = 0.013) was significantly higher than that for control subjects. Patients had more school problems than controls (P = 0.028). Intelligence score was also significantly lower in these patients (P = 0.046). The index of dietary control for the last 6 months was significantly higher than the index for the first 6 years of life, but only in the patients with school problems (P = 0.033). In conclusion, phenylketonuric patients presented more school problems than control subjects, probably related to the disturbed cognitive functions observed. The index of dietary control for the last 6 months yielded a close relationship with school performance.
We quantified nocturnal vocal behaviour in a North American temperate mixed-forest community using automated recording. We recorded for 2–4 nights at 32 locations and identified 18 species singing at dawn or dusk. Of those 18 species, only two sang at night (White-throated Sparrow, Zonotrichia albicollis, and Ovenbird, Seiurus aurocapilla). We show that automated recording is a useful tool for studying nocturnal vocalisations.
The reasons of capacity fading during cycling process of LiMn2O4/Li x V2O5 lithium ion cell with 5M LiNO3 aqueous solution as electrolyte were investigated. XRD and ICP results showed that the properties of the anode have more impact on the cycle life of the cell. In an attempt to improve the cycle performance of the as-assembled cell, coating with an ionic conductive polypyrrole (PPy) on the surface of the anode was proposed via in situ polymerization method. Cycling tests revealed that the stability of the lithium ion cell with surface coated anode has been greatly improved. Moreover, the capability of the cell with coated anode was also enhanced compared with the cell with bare anode.
Carbon nanofibers were prepared through electrospinning a blend solution of polyacrylonitrile and polypyrrole, followed by carbonization at 700°C. Structural features of electrospun polyacrylonitrile/polypyrrole bicomponent nanofibers and their corresponding carbon nanofibers were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimeter, thermo-gravimetric analysis, wide-angle X-ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy. It was found that intermolecular interactions are formed between two different polymers, which influence the thermal properties of electrospun bicomponent nanofibers. In addition, with the increase of polypyrrole concentration, the resultant carbon nanofibers exhibit increasing disordered structure. These carbon nanofibers were used as anodes for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries without adding any polymer binder or conductive material and they display high reversible capacity, improved cycle performance, relatively good rate capability, and clear fibrous morphology even after 50 charge/discharge cycles. The improved electrochemical performance of these carbon nanofibers can be attributed to their unusual surface properties and unique structural features, which amplify both surface area and extensive intermingling between electrode and electrolyte phases over small length scales, thereby leading to fast kinetics and short pathways for both Li ions and electrons.
Publisher Summary This chapter provides a brief overview of sodium-sulphur secondary batteries. The sodium-sulphur battery is a relatively high ampere hour rechargeable battery, envisaged as a power source on electric vehicles and trains. Its operation relies on the property of β-alumina, namely that it combines very low electronic conductivity with an unusually high ionic conductivity, which is specific to sodium ions as charge carriers. The cell voltage, 2.08 V, is derived from the chemical reaction between sodium and sulphur to produce sodium polysulphide; and the theoretical energy density is about 750 W h/kg, is high compared with that of the lead-acid battery. The novelty of the properties discovered in sodium r-alumina may be estimated from the fact that, although its melting point is around 2000°C, several amps per square centimeter of current may be passed across the electrolyte at 300°C. The cell operates at about 350°C. The key to the rapid sodium ion mobility lies in the crystal structure and the low potential energy path for sodium migration that this produces.
Sodium-oxygen batteries are becoming of increasing interest in the research community as they are able to overcome some of the difficulties associated with lithium-oxygen batteries. The interpretation of the processes governing the discharge and charge of these batteries, however, has been under debate since their early development. In this work we combine different electrochemical methods to build up a model of the discharge product formation and decomposition. We initially analyze the formation and decomposition of the discharge products by means of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. After that, and for the first time, oxygen electrode processes in Na-O2 cells are analyzed by means of electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance experiments. Based on the combination of these two techniques it is possible to evidence the stabilization of the discharge products in the electrolyte prior to their precipitation. The deposition of passivating products that cannot be stripped off during charge is also demonstrated. Cyclic voltammetry experiments at different potential limits further confirm these passivation reactions. In conclusion, this work provides an accurate picture of the mechanism of the Na-O2 cell reactions by combining different electrochemical techniques.
Large epipelagic fishes (> 30 kg maximum size) are known to display a variety of patterns of vertical movement. Although advances in the affordability and sophistication of electronic tags now allows researchers to routinely document these patterns, there is no standardised approach to classify these behaviours and investigate their physical and biological drivers. This paper reviews the existing knowledge of the vertical movements of large, epipelagic fishes and the evidence for the underlying factors that structure this behaviour. The review focuses on behaviours occurring at a range of temporal scales, from seconds to years. We propose that patterns of vertical movement in gill-breathing animals of the epipelagic are best characterised by the need to move continuously in a three-dimensional environment while optimising food encounter and energy expenditure, avoiding predators, searching for mates and remaining within the limits imposed by the physical environment on their physiology (notably water temperature and oxygen). Modern biologging technologies that record both the internal (body temperature, heart rate) and external physical environment coupled with direct recording of behaviour from tri-axial sensors and animal-borne cameras offer a new approach to the analysis of drivers of vertical movement. Ultimately, this can provide insights into the evolution of the behaviour and morphology of these animals.
Using kinetic contours derived from everyday objects, we investigated how motion affects object identification. In order not to be distinguishable when static, kinetic contours were made from random dot displays consisting of two regions, inside and outside the object contour. In Experiment 1, the dots were moving in only one of two regions. The objects were identified nearly equally well as soon as the dots either in the figure or in the background started to move. RTs decreased with increasing motion coherence levels and were shorter for complex, less compact objects than for simple, more compact objects. In Experiment 2, objects could be identified when the dots were moving both in the figure and in the background with speed and direction differences between the two. A linear increase in either the speed difference or the direction difference caused a linear decrease in RT for correct identification. In addition, the combination of speed and motion differences appeared to be super-additive.
A new efficient photoelectrochemical cell (PEC) is one of the possible solutions to the energy and climate problems of our time. Such a device requires development of new semiconducting materials with tailored properties with respect to stability and light absorption. Here we perform computational screening of around 19000 oxides, oxynitrides, oxysulfides, oxyfluorides, and oxyfluoronitrides in the cubic perovskite structure with PEC applications in mind. We address three main applications: light absorbers for one- and two-photon water splitting and high-stability transparent shields to protect against corrosion. We end up with 20, 12, and 15 different combinations of oxides, oxynitrides and oxyfluorides, respectively, inviting further experimental investigation.
A new Li-ion conducting holmium based solid electrolyte by the sol–gel method was synthesized. The synthesis was carried out at low temperature compared to conventional methods by which lanthanoid silicates are synthesized. The formation temperature of the compound was found through differential thermal analysis and thermogravimetric analysis (DTA-TG). The sintered samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and ac impedance spectroscopy. The temperature dependence of conductivity was analysed. The experimental results show that the formation temperature of the lithium holmium silicate was found to be above 500 °C. Highest conductivity obtained was in the order of 10−4 S cm−1 at 750 °C.