bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Project Time-Cost-Quality Trade-off Problem: A Novel Approach Based on Fuzzy Decision Making
Authors: Keshavarz Esmaeil , Shoul Abbas
Published: July 2020

Trade-off problems concentrate on balancing the main parameters of a project as completion time, total cost and quality of activities. In this study, the problem of project time-cost-quality trade-off is formulated and solved from a new standpoint. For this purpose, completion time and crash cost of project are illustrated as fuzzy goals, also the dependency of implementing time of each activity and its execution-quality is described by a fuzzy number. The overall quality of the project execution is defined as the minimum execution-quality of the project activities that should be maximized. Based on some real assumptions, a three-objective programming problem associated with the time-cost-quality trade-off problem is formulated; then with the aim of identifying a fair and appropriate trade-off, the research problem is reformulated as a single objective linear programming by utilizing a fuzzy decision-making methodology. Generating a final preferred solution, rather than a set of Pareto optimal solutions, and having a reasonable interpretation are two most important advantages of the proposed approach. To explain the practical performance of the proposed models and approach, a time-cost-quality trade-off problem for a project with real data is solved and analyzed.
A Weighted-Logic Representation of C-Revising Ordinal Conditional Functions
Authors: Laaziz Safia , Zeboudj Younes , Benferhat Salem , Khellaf Faiza Haned
Published: July 2020

The problem of belief change is considered as a major issue in managing the dynamics of an information system. It consists in modifying an uncertainty distribution, representing agents’ beliefs, in the light of a new information. In this paper, we focus on the so-called multiple iterated belief revision or C-revision, proposed for conditioning or revising uncertain distributions under uncertain inputs. Uncertainty distributions are represented in terms of ordinal conditional functions. We will use prioritized or weighted knowledge bases as a compact representation of uncertainty distributions. The input information leading to a revision of an uncertainty distribution is also represented by a set of consistent weighted formulas. This paper shows that C-revision, defined at a semantic level using ordinal conditional functions, has a very natural representation using weighted knowledge bases. We propose simple syntactic methods for revising weighted knowledge bases, that are semantically meaningful in the frameworks of possibility theory and ordinal conditional functions. In particular, we show that the space complexity of the proposed syntactic C-revision is linear with respect to the size of initial weighted knowledge bases.
On the combinatorial rank of the quantum groups of type G2
Authors: Dylewski Vanusa , Pogorelsky Barbara , Renz Carolina
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we calculate the combinatorial rank of the positive part [Formula: see text] of the multiparameter version of the small Lusztig quantum group, where [Formula: see text] is a simple Lie algebra of type [Formula: see text]. Supposing that the main parameter of quantization [Formula: see text] has multiplicative order [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is finite, [Formula: see text], we prove that the combinatorial rank equals 3.
Metric thickenings and group actions
Authors: Adams Henry , Heim Mark , Peterson Chris
Published: July 2020

Let G be a group acting properly and by isometries on a metric space X; it follows that the quotient or orbit space X/G is also a metric space. We study the Vietoris–Rips and Čech complexes of X/G. Whereas (co) homology theories for metric spaces let the scale parameter of a Vietoris–Rips or Čech complex go to zero, and whereas geometric group theory requires the scale parameter to be sufficiently large, we instead consider intermediate scale parameters (neither tending to zero nor to infinity). As a particular case, we study the Vietoris–Rips and Čech thickenings of projective spaces at the first scale parameter where the homotopy type changes.
On a new family of gauss k-Lucas numbers and their polynomials
Authors: Özkan Engi̇n , Taştan Merve
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we define a new family of Gauss [Formula: see text]-Lucas numbers. We give the relationships between the family of the Gauss [Formula: see text]-Lucas numbers and the known Gauss Lucas numbers. We also define the generalized polynomials for these numbers. We obtain some interesting properties of the polynomials. We also give the relationships between the generalized Gauss [Formula: see text]-Lucas polynomials and the known Gauss Lucas polynomials. Furthermore, we find new generalizations of these families and the polynomials in matrix representation. Then we prove Cassini’s identities for the families and their polynomials.
First Principle Investigation of Structural, Electronic and Optical Properties of Quaternary BxInyGa1−x−yN Compounds
Authors: Larbi M’hamed , Bentouaf Ali , Bouazza Abdelkader , Mbarek Bouharkat , Aïssa Brahim
Published: July 2020

We report on our results obtained on the physical properties of BxInyGa[Formula: see text]N quaternary alloys in the zinc-blende phase that are thoroughly considered by the linearized augmented plane wave method, with a full potential within density functional theory, for different concentrations [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] as employed in the Wien2k code. We calculated the structural properties, including lattice constant [Formula: see text] and the bulk modulus [Formula: see text]. We computed as well the band structures, the dielectric constant and the refractive index of our quaternary alloys compounds. Finally, nonlinear dependence on the compositions [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are investigated in-depth and still expecting for experimental confirmations. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first theoretical investigation of BxInyGa[Formula: see text]N alloy conducted to date.
The Cosmic Baryon and Metal Cycles
Authors: Péroux Céline , Howk J. Christopher
Published: July 2020

Characterizing the relationship between stars, gas, and metals in galaxies is a critical component of understanding the cosmic baryon cycle. We compile contemporary censuses of the baryons in collapsed structures and their chemical makeup and dust content. We show the following: ▪  The [Formula: see text] mass density of the Universe is well determined to redshifts [Formula: see text] and shows minor evolution with time. New observations of molecular hydrogen reveal its evolution mirrors that of the global star-formation rate density, implying a universal cosmic molecular gas depletion timescale. The low-redshift decline of the star-formation history is thus driven by the lack of molecular gas supply due to a drop in net accretion rate related to the decreased growth of dark matter halos. ▪  The metal mass density in cold gas ([Formula: see text] K) contains virtually all the metals produced by stars for [Formula: see text]. At lower redshifts, the contributors to the total amount of metals are more diverse; at [Formula: see text], most of the observed metals are bound in stars. Overall, there is little evidence for a “missing metals problem” in modern censuses. ▪  We characterize the dust content of neutral gas over cosmic time, finding the dust-to-gas and dust-to-metals ratios fall with decreasing metallicity. We calculate the cosmological dust mass density in the neutral gas up to [Formula: see text]. There is good agreement between multiple tracers of the dust content of the Universe.
Machine Learning and Reactive Force Field Molecular Dynamics Investigation of Electrolytes for Ultra-fast Charging Li-ion Batteries
Authors: Joraleechanchai Nattanon , Duangdangchote Salatan , Sawangphruk Montree
Published: July 2020

The ultra-fast charging batteries have become a bigger demand for electric vehicles. To achieve the fast charging system, the electrolyte system should be optimized with a high balance between ionic conductivity and chemical stability. In recent research, many compounds, including organic ester, formate, and nitrile, were introduced into carbonate-based electrolytes as a co-solvent. However, the understanding of how co-solvents and effect of functional groups improve the electrolyte properties is not yet disclosed. Here we investigate the role of co-solvent that affects electrolyte properties, especially the self-diffusion coefficient by using theoretical reactive molecular dynamics (RMDs) simulations coupled with the advancement in numerical method to compute the correlation between co-solvent properties and the self-diffusion coefficient. We found that the low electron affinity co-solvent and low-density molecule are the keys to improve the Li-ion diffusion in the carbonate-based electrolyte system. Hence, this work could lead the way for developing the new co-solvent for the ultra-fast charging demand.
(Invited) Charge Transport Limitations to the Power Performance of LiNi0.5Mn0.3Co0.2O2 Composite Electrodes with Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Tambio Sacris Jeru , Besnard Nicolas , Deschamps Michaël , Lestriez Bernard
Published: July 2020

Electrode power performance is tied with electrode design that influences particularly the electronic wiring of the active mass and the speed of lithium salt diffusion in the pores. Improved capacity delivery, especially at 0 and 40°C was seen for NMC532 electrodes containing carbon nanotubes (CNT) comparatively to carbon black (CB). At low temperature CNT significantly increase the electrode conductivity as seen from the decrease of the polarization resistance. Furthermore, the analysis of the current density dependence of the discharge capacity with the Penetration Depth Model (PDM) reveal that the CNT improve the ionic transport at high temperature because they would minimize the effect of the PVdF swelling by the electrolyte and the resulting increase of the electrode tortuosity.
Application of a Holed Cathode and Anode Prepared with a Picosecond Pulsed Laser for Lithium Ion Batteries (1)~ Performance of Holed Cathodes with Solid-State Electrolytes~
Authors: Watanabe Tatsuya , Gunji Takao , Suzuki Kei , Ando Nobuo , Nakamura Susumu , Hayashi Narumi , Soma Naohiko , Matsumoto Futoshi
Published: July 2020

The design of the interface between the electrode and electrolyte is very important and should be carefully considered during the development of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) with a high rate performance; this is especially true for all-solid-state LIBs. Recently, we developed a structure with holes fabricated with a picosecond pulsed laser and showed an improvement in the rate performance of a holed cathode in liquid electrolyte-based LIBs. In this study, a holed structure was applied to solid-state electrolytes (SSEs), such as Li1+x+yAlxTi2-xSiyP3-yO12 (LATP) and poly(ethylene oxide)(PEO)/lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI). The filling of SSE particles instead of a conventional liquid electrolyte into the holes on the cathode produced a high rate performance, indicating that the advantage of a holed structure could be applied to all-solid-state LIBs.
Onion Peel Based Porous Carbons As Cathode Components for LiS Battery
Authors: Arie Arenst Andreas , Kristianto Hans , Prijadi William , Susanti Ratna Frida , Lee Joong Kee
Published: July 2020

In recent years, lithium-sulfur (LiS) battery has emerged as promising energy storage systems to replace the conventional lithium ion battery. This battery system uses elemental sulfur as cathodes and Li metal as anodes and possess a higher specific capacity (1,675 mAh/g) compared to that of lithium ion battery. However, some technical problems such as the low conductivity of sulfur, huge volume expansion during cycling and the shuttle effect of polysulfide have prevented this kind of battery system to be commercialized. One method to solve those problems is by using carbon materials as cathode component together with sulfur to form Carbon-sulfur composite cathodes. Carbon materials could improve the electrochemical performance of LiS battery due to the electrical conductivity and highly porous structure. Biomass derived conductive carbon materials have attracted increasing attention on account of their abundance, sustainability, and easy accessibility. Here, onion peel waste has been utilized to synthesize amorphous porous carbon (OPWC) as cathode component for LiS battery. Porous carbons were prepared by using hydrothermal carbonization followed by the chemical activation process using KOH. The carbon-sulfur composites were then obtained after sulfur loading using the melt diffusion method. As obtained OPWC/S composite demonstrates stable cycle performance and a reversible specific capacity of 630 mAh/g after 100 cycles at current density of 0.1 C when used for LiS battery.
Comparing Different Thermal Runway Triggers for Automotive Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Essl Christiane , Golubkov Andrey , Thaler Alexander , Fuchs Anton
Published: July 2020

In order to understand the lithium-ion battery (LIB) failing behavior and to prevent failures and their consequences, different LIB safety tests, also called abuse tests, have been developed. This paper focuses on thermal runway (TR) triggered by overtemperature, overcharge and nail-penetration. It shows the setup and the results of the three different TR triggers on single cells in a custom-made TR reactor. The investigated cell is a state-of-the-art automotive pouch cell. The results are discussed in three main categories: thermal behavior, vent gas production and vent gas composition. The results and findings are supposed to be valuable for battery pack designer, car manufacturer and testing institutions for the development of future battery testing facilities and regulations.
High-Performance 18650 Lithium-Ion Batteries Using Ni-Rich Cathode and Silicon Nanoparticles/MCMB Composites
Authors: Amnuaymucha Nontawan , Duriyasart Farkfun , Sawangphruk Montree
Published: July 2020

Silicon nanoparticles and MCMB (MesoCarbon MicroBeads) materials as well as their composites are used as anode materials of lithium-ion batteries with Ni-rich cathode materials. The optimum particle size and loading content of silicon nanoparticles in the composite are presented. The cylindrical lithium-ion batteries (18650) were fabricated in the dry room condition with a dew point of -40 °C. The stable structure of carbonaceous materials can alleviate the expansion problem of silicon by supporting silicon nanoparticles on its excellent conductive surface and structure. Therefore, the silicon-MCMB composite is a promising material for use as anode in Li-ion batteries. In this work, the silicon nanoparticles with < 10 nm in diameter exhibit high charge-storage performance. The NCA//Silicon-MCMB shows the first cycle capacity of 2.65 Ah per cell with an energy density of > 250 Wh/kg, an initial columbic efficiency of > 90%.
Accelerated Testing of Vanadium Catholyte Stability
Authors: Buckley D. Noel , Oboroceanu Daniela , Quill Nathan , Lenihan Catherine , Lynch Robert P.
Published: July 2020

Using our standard methodology, we have examined the stability of electrolytes with compositions close to those used in actual flow batteries over a range of temperature from 70 to 30°C. Measurements at higher temperatures (45–70°C) showed excellent reproducibility but measurements at lower temperatures (30–45°C) showed some scatter. Furthermore, the measurements at higher temperatures are in good agreement with our (single-slope) model which is based on earlier data but there is some divergence from the model at lower temperatures. Arrhenius plots of the data show two linear regimes: one in the range 45–70°C and another in the range 30–45°C, the latter having a higher Arrhenius slope. Based on linear least-squares best fits in these two regimes, we have formulated an improved stability model (two-slope model). For each of the two models, we derive expressions for acceleration factors for temperature testing of catholyte stability and estimate values over a range of test and use temperatures. Acceleration factors based on the two-slope model are higher than those for the single slope model by a factor of 3–6 depending on the temperatures. Thus, predictions based on the single-slope model are more conservative.
Geometry Optimization of Porous Electrode for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Deng Changyu , Lu Wei
Published: July 2020

We report a method to optimize the topology of porous electrodes without a prior assumption of the pattern. We take a two-dimensional NMC-Li cell as an example. The domain of NMC is discretized by a 5×5 mesh and the solid volume fraction is represented by 25 nodal variables. We use a deep-learning-boosted optimization algorithm to find the optimal material distribution that gives the maximum specific energy. The method produces an electrode pattern with 18% higher specific energy than that of a uniform electrode. This generic geometry optimization approach provides a powerful tool for the design and optimization of porous electrodes.
Corrosion Mitigation by Photocatalytic Effect of TiO2 Coating on Low Carbon Steel
Authors: Kao Wei-Sheng , Yeh Tsung-Kuang , Wang Mei-Ya
Published: July 2020

In this study, the photoelectrochemical behavior of the carbon steel with TiO2 coating by sol-gel method were investigated to preventing or minimizing the atmospheric corrosion. Various oxide structure of carbon steel and the TiO2 annealing process were also investigated in this study.The crystallinity of TiO2 was analyzed with grazing incident X-ray diffraction (GIXRD) and the interfacial oxide layer composition and thickness were analyzed via the Raman spectroscopy and SEM, respectively. Potential dynamic analyses and open circuit potential (OCP) measurement were carried out under a designated solution to evaluate the corrosion mitigation of the TiO2 coated carbon steel with or without UV illumination. These results indicated that the TiO2 treatment with UV illumination would effectively reduce the carbon steel corrosion rate in atmospheric environments.
(Invited) Mechanism of Formic Acid Synthesis in Low pH During CO2 Reduction via Electrified Plasma/Liquid Interface
Authors: Mota-Lima Andressa
Published: July 2020

The current mechanism for the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) via electrified plasma/liquid interface (electrochemical discharge) does not explain the favorable formic acid synthesis in aqueous acid media, bringing imprecision on the theoretical predictions of CO2RR selectivity in acid electrolytes. For this reason, this work proposes three CO2RR mechanisms toward formic acid, one of them being a long-stand established in the radiolysis field and passes to analyze the cases employing numerical simulation of their respective chemical dynamic models. With it, it is possible to identify two routes substantially contributing to the global formic acid production, namely the disproportionation-like and radical cross-combination reactions related to the last step. Despite studied here as two separate mechanisms, these two routes combined serve to propose an assertive mechanism of CO2RR in acid media.
(Invited) The Toolbox Concept for the Synthesis of Surfactant-Free Colloidal Nanoparticles as Electrocatalysts
Authors: Quinson Jonathan , Arenz Matthias
Published: July 2020

The development of efficient electrocatalysts for fundamental research and research-and-development requires identifying, understanding and ultimately tuning key experimental parameters. This goal is achieved by performing systematic studies where only one of the multiple parameters influencing the catalytic properties is studied at a time, independently of the others. Even though a systematic investigation of catalyst properties can be tedious and time consuming, it provides deep and significant insights into catalyst design to improve catalytic activity, selectivity and/or stability. A toolbox concept developed along the years based on surfactant-free colloidal syntheses is here detailed. It is stressed how this toolbox approach leads to a better understanding of catalyst properties with the examples of platinum nanoparticles for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and iridium nanoparticles for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER).
Electrochemical Self-Assembly of CuSCN/4-Cyano-4’-(N’-methyl)Stilbazolium Hybrid Thin Films
Authors: Tsuda Yuki , Suzuki Toru , Nakamura Tensho , Uda Kyota , Okada Shuji , Yamakado Ryohei , Stadler Philipp , Yoshida Tsukasa
Published: July 2020

Electrochemical self-assembly (ESA) of CuSCN/4-cyano-4’-(N’-methyl)stilbazolium (CNS+) hybrid thin films has been performed and analyzed in comparison with CuSCN/4-(N,N-dimethylamino)-4’-(N’-methyl)stilbazolium (DAS+) hybrid system. Due to the presence of strongly electron-withdrawing -CN group, CNS+ has a much higher dipole moment than DAS+ to exhibit stronger affinity to CuSCN. CNS+ therefore gave strong impact to the crystal growth of CuSCN with its smaller concentration than DAS+, such as changing crystal orientation, creating unique nanostructure and phase transition from β- to α-CuSCN. CNS+ has been found to obey the same mechanism as DAS+ for its loading into the film. The limit for diffusion limited loading was pushed up to its bulk concentration of 200 μmol dm-3, much higher than that for DAS+ (60 μmol dm-3). Also, the efficiency of dye uptake in the surface reaction limited loading was enhanced about 3 times due to the improved stability of CuSCN/CNS surface complex.
Fabrication of Low-Cost Molds for Manufacturing of High Precise Micro Parts by Electroforming
Authors: Aghili Sayed MohammadAli , Zheng Zhaohan , Wüthrich Rolf
Published: July 2020

In recent years, a broad range of microfabrication technologies have been developed for mass production. Manufacturing industry is however more and more facing the problem of producing personalized parts, resulting in low volume production. New technologies to allow economical fabrication of low volume micro-parts become a need. In this work, to address the issue of manufacturing high precise 3D micro-metallic parts for small series, 3D printing of micro-molds followed by electroforming to produce micro 3D metallic parts is proposed. This combination of processes can highly decrease fabrication costs for low volume production and allows to produce in parallel personalized parts.
Electropolishing of Inside Surfaces of Stainless Steel Tubing
Authors: Chaghazardi Zahra , Hof Lucas , Wuthrich Rolf
Published: July 2020

This study aims to investigate the electropolishing of inside walls of stainless steel 316 tubing using internal counter-electrodes with a focus on the effect of parameters such as interelectrode-gap, length, and the outer diameter of the tubing, and the counter-electrode eccentricity on the final roughness and brightness of the surface. It was observed that under the proper combination of electropolishing voltage and duration, irrespective of the initial surface condition of the samples, they were all significantly brightened, and their surface roughness was decreased to almost similar final values. The results indicated that the interelectrode-gap had a rather low impact on the final roughness of the surface but strongly affected its final brightness. It was also concluded that during the electropolishing process, the hydrodynamic conditions inside the tube could significantly affect the surface quality.
In-situ Electrodeposition of Nickel on a Biocathode to Enhance Methane Production from Carbon Dioxide in a Microbial Electrosynthesis System
Authors: Gomez Vidales Abraham , Omanovic Sasha , Tartakovsky Boris
Published: July 2020

This study demonstrates the continuous conversion of CO2 to CH4 in a laboratory-scale Microbial Electrosynthesis System (MES). The introduction of a Ni salt at 0.2 g L-1 into the cathode influent stream improved the CO2 conversion. After the introduction of the Ni salt at an applied voltage of 2.8 V, the MES with the carbon-felt cathode reached a CH4 production of 422 ± 36 mL d-1 (0.81 L Lc
-1 d-1), which was 39 ± 12% higher than that of this system before the Ni salt was introduced. Additionally, when the dissolved Ni salt was removed from the influent solution, the MES performance remained unchanged, thus confirming the in-situ deposition of Ni on the carbon-felt cathode and its catalytic effect.
Multi-scale Analysis and Phase Segmentation of FIB and X-ray Tomographic Data of Electrolyzer Electrodes Using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Arlt Tobias , Liebert Michael , Paulisch Melanie , Lüdeking Ildiko , Bergbreiter Christian , Jörissen Ludwig , Manke Ingo
Published: July 2020

An efficient conversion of electrical energy into hydrogen could be one of the most important key issues for future green energy supply. In case of electrolyzer cells, this can be achieved by increasing the active surface of Ni-based electrodes. This is a crucial topic for the research of alkaline electrolyzer cells in terms of improving the cell performance. Typical coating processes are scalable and effective techniques that are well suited for this purpose. Variations of sintering process parameters (i.e. duration or temperature ramps) have a distinct impact on the homogeneity of the coating layer and its thickness as well as on possible media transport paths during cell operation. In this study, we analyzed the impact of the coating layers on the structure and morphology of the electrodes using laboratory X-ray computer tomography. We introduce a workflow that is based on machine learning algorithms which enable to distinguish between substrate and coating layers. More detailed information was obtained using FIB/SEM (focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy). This multi-scale approach enhances the understanding of the sintering processes and serve as a basis for CFD simulations.
Designing the Ideal Catalyst Layer in PEMFCs
Authors: Lamb James , Andrei Petru
Published: July 2020

An adjoint-space optimization technique is presented for the large-scale optimization (i.e., optimization with over 104 design variables) of PEM fuel cell microstructure. The algorithm is based on evaluation of sensitivity functions of the cell discharge voltage under specified current conditions. The sensitivity functions are found by solving sparse linear systems of equations to find the Gâtaux derivatives of the discharge voltage with respect to the design variables. The optimization technique is applied to electrolyte distribution and carbon distributions within the cathode catalyst layer, to describe a profile of carbon, electrolyte, and porosity of a PEMFC cathode catalyst layer on a point-by-point basis.
Effect of Elevated PEM Fuel Cell Operating Temperature (120°C and 140°C) and Membrane Thickness on Proton Conductivity for Combat Vehicle Use
Authors: Burye Theodore
Published: July 2020

Electrical power required to operate vehicles in the U.S. Army is increasing due to expanding mission requirements, such as silent watch, exportable power, and powerful onboard electronics. Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) provide a solution, but stack thermal-cycling, electrocatalyst and membrane degradation losses need to be reduced before integration of PEMFCs can be realized. Membrane thermal degradation is exacerbated by poor heat rejection (as ballistic grills impede airflow) which can raise stack temperatures ≥140°C. Commercial PEMFCs operate ~65°C so elevated temperatures could degrade the membrane. Nafion 115 (127 μm), 117 (183 μm) and 1110 (254 μm) membranes submerged in 16 MΩ water were heated between 65-140°C to investigate elevated temperature and membrane thickness on proton conductivity. EIS results showed sample thickness did not statistically impact conductivity overall. Conductivity, however, was impacted for temperatures >100°C with each material. Overall, these materials are not suitable when operating PEMFCs above 100°C.
Oxygen Reduction Reaction Mechanism Study Via the Mean-Field Microkinetic Modeling and Uncertainty Quantification of Model Parameters
Authors: Kurilovich Aleksandr Andreevich , Stevenson Keith J.
Published: July 2020

We describe the quantitative framework for the reaction mechanism selection based on accuracy of fitting with mean-field microkinetic models and parameters uncertainty quantification to determine how likely certain reaction steps occur if some aspects of the system are not exactly known. The latter is performed via the data collaboration approach with Tree-Structured Parzen estimator algorithm. It provides the elucidation of the reaction mechanism which can be considered based on the available experimental data and is crucial to study the reaction mechanism of ORR and other sufficiently complex reactions. We consider the ORR models developed within the rate determining steps approximation for understanding effective multi-electron transfer steps.
Biological Fuel Cells
Authors: Safari Tahereh , Safari Maryam , Naghib Seyed Morteza
Published: July 2020

A biofuel cell is a device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy through electro-biochemical reactions. In this type of cell, biocatalysts, which can be both enzymes and microorganisms or cells, are used to generate electrical energy. Biocatalysts are used in biofuel cells in two ways: 1) Biocatalysts can produce the fuel substrates required for fuel cells by biocatalytic reactions or metabolic processes. 2) Biocatalysts can participate in the electron transport chain between the fuel substrate and the electrode surface. Accordingly, biofuel cells can be divided into two groups: basic microbial cells and basic enzymatic cells. This article reviews the enzymatic fuel cell. These topics are reviewed: 1. Function of enzymatic biofuel cells. 2. Investigation of methanol / oxygen enzymatic biofuel cell. 3. Investigation of surface replacement of apoglucose oxidase on a gold electrode layered with PQQFAD. 4. Examination of samples made of biodiesel based on enzymes layered by enzymes. 5. Investigation of bioelectrocatalytic cathodes made of cyt / cox. 6. Investigation of biofuel cell implants in animals.
Templated N-Doped Carbons for Energy Storage and Conversion
Authors: Riel Donna , Jones Allison , Montiel Gonzalo , Viva Federico , Geiger Ernesto , Piro Markus , Trevani Liliana
Published: July 2020

Sustainable energy sources, energy storage and conversion devices are required to satisfy the global increase in energy demand and to minimize the environmental problems associated with the use of fossil fuels. Carbon materials are extensively used in supercapacitors, batteries, and fuel cells. For this reason, methods aimed at the development of new carbon materials, with high surface areas and tailorable surface chemistry has been an area of interest for the last couple of decades. More recently, heteroatom-doped carbons have obtained more attention due to the possibility of enhancing the catalytic activity of Pt as well as replacing Pt by non-noble metals, particularly N-doped carbons. In this study, mesoporous carbon (MC) materials were produced by carbonization of nitrogen-rich, melamine-formaldehyde (MF) polymer gels in the presence of SiO2 nanoparticles as a hard-template. Carbon products (MF-NC) with up to 8 N-atom% and surface areas up to 440 m2/g were obtained depending on the SiO2 content (20 nm) and annealing conditions (950°C or 1500°C). Pt/MF-NC were prepared by an impregnation method to evaluate the electrochemical performance of these modified carbon materials as catalyst supports. The incorporation of Fe was also considered to replace Pt as the catalyst, and preliminary stability and catalytic activity toward the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) will be discussed in this paper.
(Invited) Pt/Metal Oxide/Ti and Pt/Metal Oxide/Carbon Composite Films for Ethanol Oxidation
Authors: Pickup Peter G , Hang Hui
Published: July 2020

Metal oxides prepared by thermal decomposition of metal acetylacetonate (acac) complexes have a significant support effect on platinum catalyzed oxidation of ethanol. Ru and Sn oxides and mixed Ru-Sn oxides deposited onto Ti foils and high surface area carbon support materials were drop coated with preformed Pt nanoparticles. Cyclic voltammetry in H2SO4(aq) and polarization experiments in proton exchange membrane cells have demonstrated great versatility for screening the co-catalytic effects of oxide layers and scale-up to fuel cell testing. A strong synergistic effect has been observed between Ru and Sn oxide in both environments, with a 2:1 ratio of Ru(acac)3 to Sn(acac)2 ratio in the oxide precursor solution producing the most active catalyst. Electrodes prepared by using Pb(acac)2, In(acac)3 and MoO2(acac)2 also provided substantially enhanced activities for ethanol oxidation.
Morphology Control of Cu Added Electrodeposited Bi-Sb-Te Thick Films for Micro-Thermoelectric Devices
Authors: Chen Chuyi , Saito Mikiko , Homma Takayuki
Published: July 2020

In this research, bismuth and tellurium based thermoelectric materials are studied and electrodeposition method was adapted to fabricate the devices. To improve the thermoelectric performance, the thickness of the patterned films was attempted to be increased up to 30 µm. Film properties, such as morphology, composition, resistivity and thermoelectric output, of p-type Cu-added Bi-Sb-Te films were investigated. It was found that the thermoelectric properties were improved with an increase in the film thickness. An annealed buffer layer was created as substrate to control the morphology of Bi-Sb-Te films to be more compact and denser. Finally, 30 µm thick p-type Bi-Sb-Te patterned-films were successfully fabricated, indicating the applicability to micro-thermoelectric devices.
Probing Heterogeneity in Li-Ion Batteries with Coupled Multiscale Models of Electrochemistry and Thermal Transport using Tomographic Domains
Authors: Tranter T. G. , Timms R. , Heenan T. M. M. , Marquis S. G. , Sulzer V. , Jnawali A. , Kok M. D. R. , Please C. P. , Chapman S. J. , Shearing P. R. , Brett D. J. L.
Published: July 2020

This work presents a methodology for coupling two open-source modelling frameworks in a highly parallel fashion across multiple length scales to solve an electrical current and heat transport problem for commercial cylindrical lithium-ion batteries. The global current and heat transfer problems are formulated as resistor networks and solved using a finite difference method on a network extracted from an X-ray tomogram of an MJ1 18650 battery. The electrochemistry governing the heat generation is solved at the local level using a physically parameterized model. Electrochemical models are solved for different regions of a spirally wound cylindrical cell in parallel, coupled via charge conservation at the current collectors in a “battery of batteries” fashion, similar to the concept of modelling a pack. Thermal connections between layers in the spiral winding are established and heat transport is solved globally in a two-dimensional fashion, allowing for the subsequent extension to three dimensions. Great heterogeneity in local current density is predicted by the model which is also found to have some temperature dependence with ramifications for battery degradation.
Periodic Solution for a Max-Type Fuzzy Difference Equation
Authors: Wang Changyou , Li Jiahui
Published: July 2020

The paper is concerned with the dynamics behavior of positive solutions for the following max-type fuzzy difference equation system: xn+1=maxA/xn, A/xn−1, xn−2, n=0,1,2,…, where xn is a sequence of positive fuzzy numbers, and the parameter A and the initial conditions x−2, x−1, x0 are also positive fuzzy numbers. Firstly, the fuzzy set theory is used to transform the fuzzy difference equation into the corresponding ordinary difference equations with parameters. Then, the expression for the periodic solution of the max-type ordinary difference equations is obtained by the iteration, the inequality technique, and the mathematical induction. Moreover, we can obtain the expression for the periodic solution of the max-type fuzzy difference equation. In addition, the boundedness and persistence of solutions for the fuzzy difference equation is proved. Finally, the results of this paper are simulated and verified by using MATLAB 2016 software package.
Crack Resistance and Mechanical Properties of Polyvinyl Alcohol Fiber‐Reinforced Cement‐Stabilized Macadam Base
Authors: Zhao Yi , Yang Xuan , Zhang Qingyu , Liang Naixing , Xiang Yangkai , Qin Min
Published: July 2020

A series of tests were carried out to evaluate crack resistance and mechanical properties of polyvinyl alcohol fiber‐reinforced cement‐stabilized macadam, which is widely used as pavement base or subbase composite material. Three series of cement‐stabilized macadam mixtures with cement content of 3.2%, 3.6%, and 4.0% were prepared by incorporating four various contents (0, 0.6, 0.9, and 1.2 kg/m3) and lengths (12, 18, 24, and 30 mm) of polyvinyl alcohol fiber. The optimum polyvinyl alcohol fiber content, fiber length, and cement content were determined based on the mechanical properties of cement‐stabilized macadam mixtures. Then, unconfined compressive strength test, compressive resilience modulus test, splitting strength test, flexural tensile strength test, drying shrinkage test, and temperature shrinkage test were carried out in this study. The results show that polyvinyl alcohol fiber‐reinforced cement‐stabilized prepared by optimum proportions (cement 3.6%, fiber content 0.9 kg/m3, and fiber length 24 mm) has good crack resistance. The incorporation of polyvinyl alcohol fiber can effectively improve compressive strength and splitting strength, while its effect on CRM of cement‐stabilized macadam is not remarkable. The anti‐dry‐shrinkage property and anti‐temperature‐shrinkage property of the specimens are also drastically improved due to the reinforcement effect of polyvinyl alcohol fiber. Moreover, the crack resistance index is proposed to evaluate the crack resistance of materials. The crack resistance of PVA fiber‐reinforced cement‐stabilized macadam prepared by optimum proportions is improved by 44.4%. Consequently, the mechanical properties and crack resistance of cement‐stabilized macadam are obviously improved by adding polyvinyl alcohol fiber.
Effects of Kaluza-Klein Theory and Potential on a Generalized Klein-Gordon Oscillator in the Cosmic String Space-Time
Authors: Ahmed Faizuddin
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we solve a generalized Klein-Gordon oscillator in the cosmic string space-time with a scalar potential of Cornell-type within the Kaluza-Klein theory and obtain the relativistic energy eigenvalues and eigenfunctions. We extend this analysis by replacing the Cornell-type with Coulomb-type potential in the magnetic cosmic string space-time and analyze a relativistic analogue of the Aharonov-Bohm effect for bound states.
Clinical Features of Children with Retinoblastoma and Neuroblastoma
Authors: Fang Xiaolian , Wang Huanmin , Ma Xiaoli , Guo Yongli , Yang Wei , Hu Shoulong , Qiu Yue , Zhao Junyang , Ni Xin
Published: July 2020

Purpose. Retinoblastoma and neuroblastoma are the most common malignant extracranial solid tumors in children. This study aimed to summarize the clinical features, especially the delayed diagnosis in children with retinoblastoma and neuroblastoma. Methods. In a single hospital-based case-control study, a retrospective cohort of 175 children with retinoblastoma and neuroblastoma diagnosed from January 2016 to January 2018 were reviewed. The state of enucleation in retinoblastomas and pathological prognosis in neuroblastomas were outcome indicators. Hereby, the patients were divided into two groups, and clinical features including age at presentation and delayed diagnosis were compared. Results. A total of 112 patients with retinoblastoma and 63 with neuroblastoma were included. In the retinoblastoma cohort, the median age at presentation was 17.2 months (0.3–110 months). The mean delay of diagnosis was 1.6 ± 2.3 months, and the rate of enucleation was 61.6%. Unilateral disease, the International Classification of Intraocular Retinoblastoma (IIRC) stage E, and delay of diagnosis over 2.5 months were independent risk factors of ocular outcomes. Notably, the risk of enucleation was increased by 474% when the delay was longer than 2.5 months. In the neuroblastoma cohort, the delay of diagnosis of the unfavorable histology (UH) group was longer than that of the favorable histology (FH) group (1.9 months vs. 1.4 months, P=.487). The levels of serum ferritin and neuron-specific enolase were higher in the UH group than in the FH group (P<.05). Conclusions. This study summarized the clinical features and diagnosis biomarkers of retinoblastoma and neuroblastoma patients in China. These results might help to focus on early detection and treatment in children with retinoblastoma and neuroblastoma.
Matching Hom-Setting of Rota-Baxter Algebras, Dendriform Algebras, and Pre-Lie Algebras
Authors: Chen Dan , Peng Xiao-Song , Zargeh Chia , Zhang Yi
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we introduce the Hom-algebra setting of the notions of matching Rota-Baxter algebras, matching (tri)dendriform algebras, and matching pre-Lie algebras. Moreover, we study the properties and relationships between categories of these matching Hom-algebraic structures.
Disabled Homolog 2 Controls Prometastatic Activity of Tumor-Associated Macrophages
Authors: Marigo Ilaria , Trovato Rosalinda , Hofer Francesca , Ingangi Vincenzo , Desantis Giacomo , Leone Kevin , De Sanctis Francesco , Ugel Stefano , Canè Stefania , Simonelli Anna , Lamolinara Alessia , Iezzi Manuela , Fassan Matteo , Rugge Massimo , Boschi Federico , Borile Giulia , Eisenhaure Thomas , Sarkizova Siranush , Lieb David , Hacohen Nir , Azzolin Luca , Piccolo Stefano , Lawlor Rita , Scarpa Aldo , Carbognin Luisa , Bria Emilio , Bicciato Silvio , Murray Peter J. , Bronte Vincenzo
Published: July 2020

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) are regulators of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and metastatic progression, the main cause of cancer-associated death. We found that disabled homolog 2 mitogen-responsive phosphoprotein (DAB2) is highly expressed in tumor-infiltrating TAMs and that its genetic ablation significantly impairs lung metastasis formation. DAB2-expressing TAMs, mainly localized along the tumor-invasive front, participate in integrin recycling, ECM remodeling, and directional migration in a tridimensional matrix. DAB2+ macrophages escort the invasive dissemination of cancer cells by a mechanosensing pathway requiring the transcription factor YAP. In human lobular breast and gastric carcinomas, DAB2+ TAMs correlated with a poor clinical outcome, identifying DAB2 as potential prognostic biomarker for stratification of patients with cancer. DAB2 is therefore central for the prometastatic activity of TAMs.

Significance:

DAB2 expression in macrophages is essential for metastasis formation but not primary tumor growth. Mechanosensing cues, activating the complex YAP–TAZ, regulate DAB2 in macrophages, which in turn controls integrin recycling and ECM remodeling in 3-D tissue matrix. The presence of DAB2+ TAMs in patients with cancer correlates with worse prognosis.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1611
Systematic Review of Quality of Life Assessments after Cochlear Implantation in Older Adults
Authors: Andries Ellen , Gilles Annick , Topsakal Vedat , Vanderveken Olivier M. , Van de Heyning Paul , Van Rompaey Vincent , Mertens Griet
Published: July 2020

Cochlear implants (CI) have increasingly been adopted in older adults with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss as a result of the growing and aging world population. Consequently, researchers have recently shown great interest in the cost-effectiveness of cochlear implantation and its effect on quality of life (QoL) in older CI users. Therefore, a systematic review and critical evaluation of the available literature on QoL in older adult CI users was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were selected by searching MEDLINE (PubMed) and the Cochrane Library and by checking the reference lists of relevant articles. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) the study sample were adults aged 50 years and older with postlingual onset of bilateral severe to profound hearing loss, (2) all subjects received a multi-electrode CI, and (3) QoL was assessed before and after implantation. Out of 1,093 records, 18 articles were accepted for review. Several studies demonstrated significant positive effects of cochlear implantation on QoL in older adults, but high-level evidence-based medicine is lacking. An improvement of QoL was generally reported when using disease-specific instruments, which are designed to detect treatment-specific changes, whereas the outcomes of generic QoL questionnaires, assessing general health states, were rather ambiguous. However, only generic questionnaires would be able to provide calculations of the cost-effectiveness of CI and comparisons across patient populations, diseases, or interventions. Hence, generic and disease-specific QoL instruments are complementary rather than contradictory. In general, older CI users’ QoL was assessed using a variety of methods and instruments, which complicated comparisons between studies. There is a need for a standardized, multidimensional, and comprehensive QoL study protocol including all relevant generic and disease-specific instruments to measure and compare QoL, utility, and/or daily life performance in CI users.
Two Novel Variants in the Protein S Gene PROS1 Are Associated with Protein S Deficiency and Thrombophilia
Authors: Juhl David , Kuta Piotr , Shneyder Maria , Wünsche Falko , Nowak-Göttl Ulrike
Published: July 2020

Protein S (PS) is an important anticoagulant. Its main function is to act as a non-enzymatical cofactor of activated protein C. PS deficiency is defined as low plasma levels of PS and/or loss of function associated with variable risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). We report 2 novel variants in the PS gene (PROS1) which are associated with PS deficiency and severe thrombophilic diathesis in 2 patients. Patient 1 suffered from 3 VTE events, including a spontaneous VTE at the age of 19. Patient 2 suffered from 2 provoked VTE events. In both patients decreased plasma levels of PS antigen as well as decreased PS activity were found. Gene sequencing results showed a heterozygous deletion of 8 base pairs (c.938_945delTAAAATTT, p.Leu313Serfs13*) in exon 9 of the PROS1 gene in patient 1 and a missense variant (c.1613C>T, p.Ser538Phe) in patient 2. Due to the clinically proven history of recurrent VTE events in both patients, genetic testing of first-degree relatives is discussed.